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Which Airline Credit Card Reigns Supreme?
In the competitive landscape of airline credit cards in Canada, two options consistently grab the spotlight: the TD Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* and the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡. Both offer enticing benefits catered to frequent travelers, but each card brings unique advantages. Picking the right one largely depends on your travel preferences and spending habits.
Welcome Bonuses: Are Points Really Everything?
The initial offering plays a significant role in any credit card's appeal. The TD Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card boasts an impressive up to 45,000 Aeroplan points, with a hefty first-year annual fee rebate, positioning itself as a strong contender for those looking to maximize their mileage potential. Conversely, the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡ offers a whopping 70,000 WestJet points, thanks to a low threshold for earning the bonus. While the latter seems more enticing on paper, it’s crucial to assess the value of these points.
What sets Aeroplan points apart is their versatility. Valued at approximately 2.1 cents each, Aeroplan points can yield significant returns compared to WestJet points, typically valued at only 1 cent. Hence, the TD card's bonus may translate to around $945 (CAD), while the WestJet card's points are pegged at approximately $700 (CAD). This highlights an essential consideration—it's not just about the number of points, but their actual worth.
Annual Fees: What to Expect?
Both cards carry an annual fee of $139. However, the TD card sweetens the deal with a first-year fee waiver, making it especially appealing for new users keen to avoid upfront costs. This not only provides the first year of a waivable fee but also allows for potential savings on point redemption as cardholders become accustomed to earning great rewards.
Earning Potential: Let the Numbers Speak
When diving into the specifics, both credit cards offer elevated points earning across various categories. The TD Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* allows users to rack up 1.5 Aeroplan points per dollar on eligible grocery and gas purchases, alongside Air Canada bookings. WestJet's revamped offering grants 1.5 WestJet points for most transactions and 2 points for WestJet flight purchases. The math can get complex, but when considering point value, TD earns a slight edge due to Aeroplan's higher redemption worth.
Making the Right Choice
Deciding between these two cards hinges on what you value in an airline rewards program. If you’re keen on flexibility, premium cabin booking, and maximizing returns on travel-related spending, the TD Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* card may be your best bet. However, if you prefer simplicity—where every point has a defined cash value and familiar benefits—the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡ shines through. Both cards serve particular travel styles, ensuring there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
Final Thoughts on Your Travel Journey
Choosing between the TD Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card and the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡ is less about the cards themselves and more about the individual user’s travel tendencies and goals. Whether you’re a meticulous planner seeking out premium rewards or someone looking to simplify their earning strategy, both options stand strong within Canada’s travel credit landscape.
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