The Canadian Travel Credit Card Portfolio

Building the perfect travel credit card portfolio in Canada requires a mix of cards that maximize rewards while covering key spending categories. Here's the best combination of cards to help you earn and redeem travel rewards efficiently.

1. Everyday Spending & Dining

American Express Cobalt Card

• 5x points on dining, groceries, and food delivery
• 2x points on transit and gas
• Transfer 1:1 to Aeroplan and other airline programs
• Flexible redemption for travel and statement credits

Why get it? This is a must-have card. No real alternative provides the same level of high multipliers and transfer flexibility.

2. Premium Travel & Lounge Access

American Express Platinum Card

• Unlimited airport lounge access (including Amex Centurion Lounges)
• $200 annual travel credit for bookings via Amex Travel
• $200 annual dining credit at select restaurants in Canada
• 2x points on travel and dining

Why get it? Perfect for frequent travelers who want VIP perks and premium lounge access.

3. Aeroplan Loyalty & Premium Travel

American Express Aeroplan Reserve

• 1.25x Aeroplan points per $1 spent on all purchases
• Priority boarding & lounge access with Air Canada
• Free first checked bag on Air Canada flights
• Exclusive Aeroplan preferred pricing on redemptions

Alternatives: The CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege and TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege offer the same 1.25x base rate with lower multipliers for Air Canada and dining, but they are Visa — making them more widely accepted.

4. WestJet Travel & Costco Shopping

WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard

• Earn WestJet Points for flights and travel
• Free first checked bag for you and up to 8 people
• Annual companion voucher starting at $119
• One of the best Mastercards for Costco shoppers

Why get it? A great alternative for those who fly with WestJet and need a Mastercard for Costco.

Conclusion

The ultimate travel credit card portfolio consists of cards that complement each other, covering dining, general travel redemptions, and airline-specific perks. With these cards, you maximize rewards, enjoy premium travel perks, and ensure wide acceptance across different merchants.