Best hotel credit cards in Canada
Updated: December 04, 2024
Airbnbs aren’t for everyone. Some travellers prefer daily housekeeping visits, turn-down service and all the travel-sized toiletries they can stuff in their suitcase. For these people, we have some good news, some bad news, and some more good news. When it comes to hotels and the best credit cards Canada list, there's good and bad news. The good news: Canada does have a hotel credit card. The bad news: There’s only one—the American Express Marriott Bonvoy—that lets you earn and redeem points with Marriott hotels. The good news again: we’ve got a tonne of credit cards where you can build points by staying at hotels and that offer hotel perks.
Opting for a hotel credit card means unlocking exclusive perks typically reserved for frequent travelers, like free nights and room upgrades, ensuring every trip is more rewarding. Let’s take a closer look at the best hotel credit cards in Canada so that you can start travel tripping in style.
Best hotel credit cards in Canada
Hotel credit card | Travel and hotel perk | More information |
---|---|---|
American Express Marriott Bonvoy |
● Annual fee: $120
● Only hotel credit card in Canada ● Annual free night on your card anniversary ● Complimentary Silver Elite status |
Apply now |
Platinum Card from American Express |
● Annual fee: $799
● Elite travel card with all the perks ● Supplementary Platinum Cards: $250 each ● Unlimited access to Airport lounges ● Transfer to Bonvoy Points ● Get 4th night free for every 3 hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points ● $100 NEXUS◊ statement credit ● Priority airport benefits ● Annual worldwide companion voucher |
Apply now |
American Express Aeroplan Reserve |
● Annual fee: $599
● $100 NEXUS◊ Card Statement Credit ● Earn up to 85,000 Welcome Bonus Aeroplan®* points |
Apply now |
TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite |
● Annual fee: $139
● High earn rate on everyday spending |
Apply now |
RBC Avion Visa Infinite |
● Annual fee: 120
● $50 for each additional card ● Get up to 55,000 Avion points* (a value of up to $1,100†), that’s enough to fly anywhere in North America or the Caribbean! |
Apply now |
Scotiabank Gold American Express |
● 120
● Earn up to $950* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points and first year annual fee waived. |
Apply now |
CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege |
● Annual fee: $499
● $100 in NEXUS◊ application rebate every 4 years ● 6 ● Best credit card for hotel insurance |
Apply now |
BMO AIR MILES®† World Elite®* MasterCard®* |
● Annual fee: $120
● Limited time offer: Get 3,000 AIR MILES Bonus Miles! * That's enough for $310 towards purchases with AIR MILES Cash!* Plus, get the $120 annual fee waived for your first anniversary |
Apply now |
Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more.
*See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
Best hotel credit card in Canada
Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®*
4.3
50k pts
Welcome offerGood
Suggested credit scoreEarn 50,000 Welcome Bonus Marriott Bonvoy® points
Pros
-
Annual free night award — Receive an Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points†
-
Earn points with every eligible card purchase
-
Complimentary upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status
-
Flexibility to transfer to other frequent flyer programs
-
Includes travel accident insurance†
-
Generous welcome bonus
Cons
-
Annual fee—$120
-
Travel medical insurance not included
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
$0
5x
points for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
2x
points for every $1 in all other Card purchases
1
Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide every year after your first anniversary
1
Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership
15
Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card.
points for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
5x
points for every $1 in all other Card purchases
2x
Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide every year after your first anniversary
1
Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership
1
Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card.
15
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$120
Annual Fee No annual fee on supplementary cards
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
Annual free night award — Receive an Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points†
-
Earn points with every eligible card purchase
-
Complimentary upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status
-
Flexibility to transfer to other frequent flyer programs
-
Includes travel accident insurance†
-
Generous welcome bonus
Cons
-
Annual fee—$120
-
Travel medical insurance not included
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
$0
5x
points for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
2x
points for every $1 in all other Card purchases
1
Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide every year after your first anniversary
1
Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership
15
Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card.
points for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
5x
points for every $1 in all other Card purchases
2x
Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide every year after your first anniversary
1
Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership
1
Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card.
15
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$120
Annual Fee No annual fee on supplementary cards
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
The American Express Marriott Bonvoy Card stands out as the premiere choice for Canadians seeking a hotel credit card thanks to its close partnership with the Marriott hotels—the only true hotel card in Canada. And it also helps that it’s the only hotel-dedicated credit card in Canada.
The Marriott Bonvoy program offers an annual free night award after each account anniversary, redeemable at a wide range of Marriott properties. In most cases, this perk surpasses the card’s annual fee when used at higher-tier properties where room rates can be steep.
You’ll also be granted complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status, unlocking a suite of perks designed to elevate your travel experience. We’re talkin’ about late checkout times and bonus points on stays, which helps you earn points faster.
And the more you use it, the more attractive perks, such as room upgrades and welcome gifts—making you feel like a VIP every stay.
No matter where you are in the world, you’ll find accommodations that perfectly match your travel style and needs, tastes and preferences. This is thanks to the brand’s broad spectrum of brands in its hotel umbrella, from luxurious to budget-friendly options. The Marriott portfolio includes:
- Luxury offerings (e.g., Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, St. Regis)
- Premium (e.g., Marriott Hotels, Sheraton)
- Select (e.g., Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inn)
- and longer stays (e.g., Residence Inn, TownePlace Suites)
These hotels span the globe across countries in North America, Europe, Asia and more. For the most current and detailed list, see all of Marriott’s brands.
Flexibility in redemption options further enhances the card's value. It allows points to be used not just for hotel stays, but also for experiences and flights through airline transfer partners like Aeroplan, Cathay Pacific, Delta and others (where most Marriott points transfer 3:1 for airline miles).
Finally, the Marriott Bonvoy card includes travel insurance and purchase protections. It’s important to have peace of mind with coverage like travel accident insurance and baggage delay insurance.
Calculating your free nights with Marriott Bonvoy
With the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card, your annual free night award received every year after your first anniversary (valid for 12 months and includes taxes but not any eligible resort fee) lets you stay in any category 1 to 5 hotel up to a value of 35,000 points. It’s worth noting that the annual certificate is only good for a single night; you can’t, for example, break it down into 5,000-point amounts and use it for multiple stays.
Generally speaking, it can be hard to calculate an exact dollar value of any hotel point program, as they can vary so much based on location, time of year and intangible elements like a hotel’s exclusivity. Overall, Marriott Bonvoy points are valued at approximately $0.01 each; so a category 5 hotel stay could be worth $350 or more.
Maximizing your free night
To get the most value from your bonus, you’ll want to stay at the highest category of hotel (hence the highest monetary value) possible.
Marriott introduced peak and off-peak redemption rates so you’ll also need to consider what time of year to redeem your annual stay—a category 5 hotel will actually be 40,000 points during peak season, outside the 35,000-point value cap of your annual free night.
If all this talk of categories and point value leaves you with a bit of a headache, you can always check the up-to-date, real-world value of your points by comparing what it would cost you to pay for a hotel night in cash versus redeeming points for the exact same stay. So, for example, if you did a search for a Marriott property and found a great sale that got you a category 5 hotel room for say $250 (instead of $350), it would be better to pay cash and save your annual free night certificate.
Other key benefits of the Marriott Bonvoy credit card
In addition to its annual free night award, the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card has a number of other attractive features, despite a lack of competition from other hotel credit cards in Canada. Here are its main offerings:
- Points can be redeemed and earned at upwards of 7,000 of the world’s most desired hotels around the world with no blackout dates.
Earn 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points* after you spend $1,500 on your Card within your first 3 months as a new Cardmember.*
*Current or former Cardmembers with this Card are not eligible for these offers. Other terms apply.
- Earn 5 Marriott Bonvoy points per $1 spent on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
- Earn 2 Marriott Bonvoy points on everything else
- Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership
- Each year, when you reach $30,000 in purchases, you’ll get an automatic upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status (Gold Elite has attractive benefits like 25% extra points at Marriott properties, late checkout, eligibility for room upgrades and more)
- Receive 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® Card. These can be used towards attaining an automatic upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status (25 required)
- Points can be transferred (most at a 3:1 transfer ratio) to more than 40 airline partners
- Includes a range of insurance coverage, like travel accident, car rental, flight delay, baggage delay/theft and hotel/motel burglary insurance. (Note: it has travel emergency assistance but no actual travel emergency medical insurance)
To sum it all up, the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Card's hotel-focused rewards, coupled with its broad travel benefits, position it as the best pick for Canadians keen on maximizing their travel experiences—providing value that extends well beyond hotel bookings.
Contact American Express for the most up-to-date referral bonus figures.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Best American Express hotel credit card
The Platinum Card®
3.6
up to 140k pts
Welcome offerExcellent
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to 140,000 Membership Rewards® points* – that’s up to $1,400 in value.
Pros
-
Access to a wide range of luxury perks, including premium concierge service
-
Complimentary lounge membership providing access to over 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide
-
Annual statement credits: $200 annual travel credit, $200 annual dining credit
-
Special insurance coverages like trip cancellation/interruption, flight delay, lost or stolen baggage and rental car theft & damage.
-
Provides extended warranty (2 years) and purchase protection (120 days).
Cons
-
High annual fee of $799, one of the heftiest among Canadian cards
-
The rewards system can be complicated, especially for users not familiar with maximizing credit card points
-
Requires good to excellent credit for eligibility
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
1x
point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
1
additional point on Amex Travel Online for eligible hotel or car rental bookings
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
2x
point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
1x
additional point on Amex Travel Online for eligible hotel or car rental bookings
1
21.99% - 28.99%
Variable APR Applies to your Flexible Payment Option balance. This charge card has both Due in Full and Flexible Payment Option balances.
$799
Annual Fee Supplementary Platinum Cards: $250 each
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Variable APR
21.99% - 28.99%
Annual Fee
$799
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
Access to a wide range of luxury perks, including premium concierge service
-
Complimentary lounge membership providing access to over 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide
-
Annual statement credits: $200 annual travel credit, $200 annual dining credit
-
Special insurance coverages like trip cancellation/interruption, flight delay, lost or stolen baggage and rental car theft & damage.
-
Provides extended warranty (2 years) and purchase protection (120 days).
Cons
-
High annual fee of $799, one of the heftiest among Canadian cards
-
The rewards system can be complicated, especially for users not familiar with maximizing credit card points
-
Requires good to excellent credit for eligibility
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
1x
point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
1
additional point on Amex Travel Online for eligible hotel or car rental bookings
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
2x
point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
1x
additional point on Amex Travel Online for eligible hotel or car rental bookings
1
21.99% - 28.99%
Variable APR Applies to your Flexible Payment Option balance. This charge card has both Due in Full and Flexible Payment Option balances.
$799
Annual Fee Supplementary Platinum Cards: $250 each
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Variable APR
21.99% - 28.99%
Annual Fee
$799
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Best hotel credit card with Aeroplan
American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card
5.0
up to 85k pts
Welcome offerGood
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to 85,000 Welcome Bonus Aeroplan®* points
Pros
-
Generous signup bonus where you can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points
-
High earn rates on Air Canada, dining, and food delivery
-
Extensive travel perks like priority check-in, boarding, and free first eligible checked bag on Air Canada flights
-
Complimentary access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges within North America
-
Toronto Pearson Airport benefits including priority security, complimentary valet parking, and discounts on parking and car care services
-
Annual worldwide companion pass at a fixed base fare between $99 and $599 CAD (plus taxes and fees)
-
$100 NEXUS statement credit every 4 years
-
Robust insurance coverage including emergency medical
-
Access to Amex Experiences such as movie premieres
-
No minimum income requirement
Cons
-
High annual fee of $599
-
Lower acceptance when compared to Visa and Mastercard
-
High spending to unlock signup bonus
-
Limited high-earning categories
-
2.5% foreign transaction fee
-
Priority perks limited to Air Canada flights
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
$0
3X
the points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®* and Air Canada Vacations®*
2X
the points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada
1.25X
the points on everything else
the points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®* and Air Canada Vacations®*
3X
the points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada
2X
the points on everything else
1.25X
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR on funds advances
$599
Annual Fee $199 for each additional card
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$599
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
Generous signup bonus where you can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points
-
High earn rates on Air Canada, dining, and food delivery
-
Extensive travel perks like priority check-in, boarding, and free first eligible checked bag on Air Canada flights
-
Complimentary access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges within North America
-
Toronto Pearson Airport benefits including priority security, complimentary valet parking, and discounts on parking and car care services
-
Annual worldwide companion pass at a fixed base fare between $99 and $599 CAD (plus taxes and fees)
-
$100 NEXUS statement credit every 4 years
-
Robust insurance coverage including emergency medical
-
Access to Amex Experiences such as movie premieres
-
No minimum income requirement
Cons
-
High annual fee of $599
-
Lower acceptance when compared to Visa and Mastercard
-
High spending to unlock signup bonus
-
Limited high-earning categories
-
2.5% foreign transaction fee
-
Priority perks limited to Air Canada flights
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
$0
3X
the points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®* and Air Canada Vacations®*
2X
the points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada
1.25X
the points on everything else
the points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®* and Air Canada Vacations®*
3X
the points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada
2X
the points on everything else
1.25X
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR on funds advances
$599
Annual Fee $199 for each additional card
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$599
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Other awesome Aeroplan cards for hotels
CIBC Aeroplan® Visa* Card
Earn up to 10,000 Aeroplan points (up to $200 in value). This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
$0 Annual Fee
Fair Recommended Credit Score
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card
Earn up to $1,300 in value† including up to 40,000 Aeroplan points† and no Annual Fee for the first year†. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by January 6, 2025.
$139 Annual Fee
Excellent Recommended Credit Score
$60,000 Required Annual Personal Income
American Express® Aeroplan®* Card
Earn up to 40,000 Welcome Bonus Aeroplan®* points
$120 Annual Fee
Good Recommended Credit Score
$0 Required Annual Personal Income
- †Terms and Conditions Apply. This offer it not available to the residents of Quebec.
- The information for the CIBC Aeroplan® Visa* Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best hotel credit card with TDRewards
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card
3.8
Good
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to $1,000 in value†, including up to 135,000 TD Rewards Points† and no Annual Fee for the first year†. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by January 6, 2025.
Expires
Jan 6, 2025
Pros
-
Major combined value for the welcome bonus (up to $1,000 in value)†
-
Good base earn rate on all purchases
-
Huge earn rate when you book travel through Expedia® For TD†
-
Very flexible redemption options
-
$100 TD Travel Credit†
-
Visa Infinite Benefits
-
Great savings on annual fees for accountholders of TD’s All-Inclusive Banking Plan
Cons
-
Does not provide free lounge access
-
Charges foreign transaction fees
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$60,000
Required Annual Household Income
$100,000
8 Points
Earn 8 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend through ExpediaForTD†
6 Points
Earn 6 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on groceries and restaurants.†
4 Points
Earn 4 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on recurring bill payments.†
2 Points
Earn 2 TD Rewards points for every $1 you spend using your card.†
10% Bonus Points
Earn a Birthday Bonus of 10% of the TD Rewards Points you have earned over the past year, up to a maximum of 10,000 TD Rewards points†.
$100
Get an annual TD Travel Credit when you book at Expedia For TD†
Earn 8 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend through ExpediaForTD†
8 Points
Earn 6 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on groceries and restaurants.†
6 Points
Earn 4 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on recurring bill payments.†
4 Points
Earn 2 TD Rewards points for every $1 you spend using your card.†
2 Points
Earn a Birthday Bonus of 10% of the TD Rewards Points you have earned over the past year, up to a maximum of 10,000 TD Rewards points†.
10% Bonus Points
Get an annual TD Travel Credit when you book at Expedia For TD†
$100
20.99%
Purchase APR APR for purchases 20.99%†
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate APR for balance transfers 22.99%†
22.99%
Cash Advance APR APR for cash advances 22.99%†
$139
Annual Fee Additional cardholder† $50; First year Annual Fee Rebate†
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CND
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$139
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
Major combined value for the welcome bonus (up to $1,000 in value)†
-
Good base earn rate on all purchases
-
Huge earn rate when you book travel through Expedia® For TD†
-
Very flexible redemption options
-
$100 TD Travel Credit†
-
Visa Infinite Benefits
-
Great savings on annual fees for accountholders of TD’s All-Inclusive Banking Plan
Cons
-
Does not provide free lounge access
-
Charges foreign transaction fees
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$60,000
Required Annual Household Income
$100,000
8 Points
Earn 8 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend through ExpediaForTD†
6 Points
Earn 6 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on groceries and restaurants.†
4 Points
Earn 4 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on recurring bill payments.†
2 Points
Earn 2 TD Rewards points for every $1 you spend using your card.†
10% Bonus Points
Earn a Birthday Bonus of 10% of the TD Rewards Points you have earned over the past year, up to a maximum of 10,000 TD Rewards points†.
$100
Get an annual TD Travel Credit when you book at Expedia For TD†
Earn 8 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend through ExpediaForTD†
8 Points
Earn 6 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on groceries and restaurants.†
6 Points
Earn 4 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on recurring bill payments.†
4 Points
Earn 2 TD Rewards points for every $1 you spend using your card.†
2 Points
Earn a Birthday Bonus of 10% of the TD Rewards Points you have earned over the past year, up to a maximum of 10,000 TD Rewards points†.
10% Bonus Points
Get an annual TD Travel Credit when you book at Expedia For TD†
$100
20.99%
Purchase APR APR for purchases 20.99%†
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate APR for balance transfers 22.99%†
22.99%
Cash Advance APR APR for cash advances 22.99%†
$139
Annual Fee Additional cardholder† $50; First year Annual Fee Rebate†
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CND
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$139
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Best hotel credit card with RBC Avion
RBC Avion Visa Infinite
3.9
55,000 pts
Welcome offerVery Good
Suggested credit scoreto receive the latest news, tips and offers by email
Pros
-
Rewards program is highly flexible, transferable, and includes a slew of non-travel-related reward options
-
Partnerships with other retailers like HBC and Petro-Canada
-
Provides excellent travel insurance
-
New cardholders earn 55,000 welcome Avion points on approval*
-
Solid option for looking for a travel-centric points program
Cons
-
The points-to-dollars ratio is only average and there are few opportunities for accelerated earning.
-
The $120 annual fee isn’t cheap
-
High annual income requirement: Personal: $60,000 or Household: $100,000
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$60,000
1.25
Earn 1.25 Avion point for every dollar you spend*.
25%
extra Avion points on eligible travel purchases
$1,500
mobile device insurance
3¢/L
savings on fuel at Petro-Canada and always earn 20% more Avion points
50
Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall
20%
off at Hertz and earn 3x the Avion points
$0
delivery fees for 12 months from DoorDash
Earn 1.25 Avion point for every dollar you spend*.
1.25
extra Avion points on eligible travel purchases
25%
mobile device insurance
$1,500
savings on fuel at Petro-Canada and always earn 20% more Avion points
3¢/L
Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall
50
off at Hertz and earn 3x the Avion points
20%
delivery fees for 12 months from DoorDash
$0
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$120
Annual Fee $50 for each additional card
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
Rewards program is highly flexible, transferable, and includes a slew of non-travel-related reward options
-
Partnerships with other retailers like HBC and Petro-Canada
-
Provides excellent travel insurance
-
New cardholders earn 55,000 welcome Avion points on approval*
-
Solid option for looking for a travel-centric points program
Cons
-
The points-to-dollars ratio is only average and there are few opportunities for accelerated earning.
-
The $120 annual fee isn’t cheap
-
High annual income requirement: Personal: $60,000 or Household: $100,000
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$60,000
1.25
Earn 1.25 Avion point for every dollar you spend*.
25%
extra Avion points on eligible travel purchases
$1,500
mobile device insurance
3¢/L
savings on fuel at Petro-Canada and always earn 20% more Avion points
50
Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall
20%
off at Hertz and earn 3x the Avion points
$0
delivery fees for 12 months from DoorDash
Earn 1.25 Avion point for every dollar you spend*.
1.25
extra Avion points on eligible travel purchases
25%
mobile device insurance
$1,500
savings on fuel at Petro-Canada and always earn 20% more Avion points
3¢/L
Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall
50
off at Hertz and earn 3x the Avion points
20%
delivery fees for 12 months from DoorDash
$0
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$120
Annual Fee $50 for each additional card
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Best hotel credit card with Scotiabank and Scene+
If you’re loyal to Scotiabank and its Scene+ points program, there are four options for your hotel aspirations.
Scene+ Rewards can be used for flights and hotels at equivalent rates, with the flexibility of booking through the Scene+ travel service or by using the “apply points to travel” option on its website.
However, booking through Scene+ travel allows you to pay any points shortage with your credit card, whereas you must cover the entire cost in points if you don’t use the portal. The downside of the portal is it doesn't offer price matching, so be sure to check pricing elsewhere before booking.
You earn three points for every $1 spent on hotel stays and car rental when booked through Scene+ travel.
You can earn one Scene+ point for every $5 spent with a Scotia Rewards Passport debit card (it’s not great, but at least you’re earning).
Then there are three credit cards we recommend to book your hotel accommodation where the annual fee equates to better earn rates.
Scotiabank Gold American Express®
4.8
up to 45K pts
Welcome offerVery Good
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to $950* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points and first year annual fee waived.
Expires
Jan 3, 2025
Pros
-
Lots of daily spend options to earn multiplied point bonuses
-
Swanky Amex perks like Front of the Line presale concert tickets
-
Save on foreign transaction fees when abroad
-
Fantastic insurance coverage, especially for travel
Cons
-
Relatively low-value welcome bonus
-
$120 annual fee that chews into your point value substantially
-
Scene points redeem poorly for travel
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
6x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
6x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
3x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$120
Annual Fee $29 for each supplementary card
0%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Foreign Transaction Fee
0%
Pros
-
Lots of daily spend options to earn multiplied point bonuses
-
Swanky Amex perks like Front of the Line presale concert tickets
-
Save on foreign transaction fees when abroad
-
Fantastic insurance coverage, especially for travel
Cons
-
Relatively low-value welcome bonus
-
$120 annual fee that chews into your point value substantially
-
Scene points redeem poorly for travel
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
6x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
6x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
3x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$120
Annual Fee $29 for each supplementary card
0%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Foreign Transaction Fee
0%
Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more.
*See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card
4.3
up to 35K pts
Welcome offerExcellent
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to $1,100* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 35,000 bonus Scene+ points
Expires
Jan 3, 2025
Pros
-
No FX fees means the card saves you significant expenses on foreign transaction fees
-
Earn up to 3x Scene+ points per $1 spent on eligible purchases
-
Flexible and straightforward redemption program
-
Visa acceptance globally compared to American Express, especially outside major cities.
-
Enjoy six annual visits to airport lounges
-
Robust insurance offerings, including extended travel emergency medical coverage
-
Access to Visa Infinite Program benefits, with added advantages like a free supplementary card
Cons
-
High annual fee
-
Limited rewards categories for earning reward max rate on purchases
-
Primarily best for travel within Canada
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
Required Annual Personal Income
$60,000
Required Annual Household Income
$100,000
3x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland and participating Co-ops and more
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on other eligible grocery stores, dining, eligible entertainment purchases and eligible daily transit options (including ride shares, buses, subways, taxis and more)
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland and participating Co-ops and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on other eligible grocery stores, dining, eligible entertainment purchases and eligible daily transit options (including ride shares, buses, subways, taxis and more)
2x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$150
Annual Fee First supplementary Card is $0/year ($50/year on each additional Card)
0%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$150
Foreign Transaction Fee
0%
Pros
-
No FX fees means the card saves you significant expenses on foreign transaction fees
-
Earn up to 3x Scene+ points per $1 spent on eligible purchases
-
Flexible and straightforward redemption program
-
Visa acceptance globally compared to American Express, especially outside major cities.
-
Enjoy six annual visits to airport lounges
-
Robust insurance offerings, including extended travel emergency medical coverage
-
Access to Visa Infinite Program benefits, with added advantages like a free supplementary card
Cons
-
High annual fee
-
Limited rewards categories for earning reward max rate on purchases
-
Primarily best for travel within Canada
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
Required Annual Personal Income
$60,000
Required Annual Household Income
$100,000
3x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland and participating Co-ops and more
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on other eligible grocery stores, dining, eligible entertainment purchases and eligible daily transit options (including ride shares, buses, subways, taxis and more)
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland and participating Co-ops and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on other eligible grocery stores, dining, eligible entertainment purchases and eligible daily transit options (including ride shares, buses, subways, taxis and more)
2x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$150
Annual Fee First supplementary Card is $0/year ($50/year on each additional Card)
0%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$150
Foreign Transaction Fee
0%
- *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
Scotiabank American Express®
3.8
up to 5K pts
Welcome offerGood
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to 5,000 bonus Scene+ points within your first 3 months (that’s up to $50 towards travel).
Expires
Jul 2, 2025
Pros
-
Earn 5,000 welcome bonus rewards points.
-
Earn up to three Scene+ points on everyday spending.
-
Earn points across five different categories, including food, travel, entertainment and streaming.
-
No annual fee.
Cons
-
The welcome bonus is lower compared to other rewards cards.
-
American Express isn’t accepted everywhere.
-
Limited insurance coverage.
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Good
3x
Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshcoand more
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on restaurants, fast food, drinking establishments and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes ride shares, buses, subway, taxis and more
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshcoand more
3x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on restaurants, fast food, drinking establishments and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes ride shares, buses, subway, taxis and more
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services
2x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
19.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$0
Annual Fee Additional cards are $0
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
19.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
Earn 5,000 welcome bonus rewards points.
-
Earn up to three Scene+ points on everyday spending.
-
Earn points across five different categories, including food, travel, entertainment and streaming.
-
No annual fee.
Cons
-
The welcome bonus is lower compared to other rewards cards.
-
American Express isn’t accepted everywhere.
-
Limited insurance coverage.
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Good
3x
Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshcoand more
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on restaurants, fast food, drinking establishments and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes ride shares, buses, subway, taxis and more
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshcoand more
3x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on restaurants, fast food, drinking establishments and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes ride shares, buses, subway, taxis and more
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services
2x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
19.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$0
Annual Fee Additional cards are $0
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
19.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank American Express® Card to learn more. *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
Best hotel credit card with CIBC Aventura
CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
4.8
up to 80K pts
Welcome offerVery Good
Suggested credit scoreGet a total of up to 80,000 Aventura Points† (up to $1,600 in travel value) during your first year.
Pros
-
A welcome bonus of up to 80,000 Aventura Points†
-
Up to three points per dollar spent (two points for the most popular spending categories, though)
-
Six complimentary visits at over 1,200+ lounges per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program
-
$200 annual travel credit
-
Two NEXUS application fee rebates
-
Robust travel insurance, including emergency medical, trip cancellation, flight and baggage delay, auto rental collision and loss and more
Cons
-
Only available to those who make $150,000 per year as an individual or $200,000 as a household
-
High interest rates: 20.99% for purchases and 22.99% for cash advances
-
High fee of $499 per year
-
Despite this being a luxury travel card, you’ll have to pay foreign exchange fees
-
Have to spend $6,000 on the card within the first four months to unlock the maximum welcome bonus
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
$150,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$200,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
$200,000
3 points
for every $1 spent on travel purchased through CIBC Rewards Centre
2 points
for every $1 spent on eligible dining, entertainment, transportation, gas, electric vehicle charging, and groceries
1.25 points
for every $1 spent on all other purchases
6
complimentary visits at 1,200+ lounges globally through Visa Airport Companion Program
$200
annual Travel Credit
2
NEXUS Application Fee rebates
for every $1 spent on travel purchased through CIBC Rewards Centre
3 points
for every $1 spent on eligible dining, entertainment, transportation, gas, electric vehicle charging, and groceries
2 points
for every $1 spent on all other purchases
1.25 points
complimentary visits at 1,200+ lounges globally through Visa Airport Companion Program
6
annual Travel Credit
$200
NEXUS Application Fee rebates
2
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate non-Quebec residents†
22.99%
Cash Advance APR non-Quebec residents†
$499
Annual Fee $99 for each additional card (up to 9)
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$499
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
A welcome bonus of up to 80,000 Aventura Points†
-
Up to three points per dollar spent (two points for the most popular spending categories, though)
-
Six complimentary visits at over 1,200+ lounges per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program
-
$200 annual travel credit
-
Two NEXUS application fee rebates
-
Robust travel insurance, including emergency medical, trip cancellation, flight and baggage delay, auto rental collision and loss and more
Cons
-
Only available to those who make $150,000 per year as an individual or $200,000 as a household
-
High interest rates: 20.99% for purchases and 22.99% for cash advances
-
High fee of $499 per year
-
Despite this being a luxury travel card, you’ll have to pay foreign exchange fees
-
Have to spend $6,000 on the card within the first four months to unlock the maximum welcome bonus
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
$150,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$200,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
$200,000
3 points
for every $1 spent on travel purchased through CIBC Rewards Centre
2 points
for every $1 spent on eligible dining, entertainment, transportation, gas, electric vehicle charging, and groceries
1.25 points
for every $1 spent on all other purchases
6
complimentary visits at 1,200+ lounges globally through Visa Airport Companion Program
$200
annual Travel Credit
2
NEXUS Application Fee rebates
for every $1 spent on travel purchased through CIBC Rewards Centre
3 points
for every $1 spent on eligible dining, entertainment, transportation, gas, electric vehicle charging, and groceries
2 points
for every $1 spent on all other purchases
1.25 points
complimentary visits at 1,200+ lounges globally through Visa Airport Companion Program
6
annual Travel Credit
$200
NEXUS Application Fee rebates
2
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate non-Quebec residents†
22.99%
Cash Advance APR non-Quebec residents†
$499
Annual Fee $99 for each additional card (up to 9)
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$499
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Best hotel credit card with AIR MILES
BMO AIR MILES®† World Elite®* MasterCard®*
3.2
3,000 miles
Welcome offerExcellent
Suggested credit scoreto receive the latest news, tips and offers by email
Pros
-
Offers the largest Air Miles sign-up bonus on the market with a waived annual fee for the first anniversary*
-
High earn rates of up to 3x the Miles on eligible purchases
-
Exclusive travel discounts like 25% off one worldwide AIR MILES flight redemption annually
-
Airport lounge access through complimentary Mastercard Travel Pass membership
-
Comprehensive insurance package which covers medical, trip, flight delay, lost luggage and more
-
Additional Perks include BMO Concierge, digital subscriptions, and cash back promotions
Cons
-
An $80,000 personal/$150,000 household income is needed to qualify
-
Ideal for AIR MILES loyalists, may not suit those with a casual approach
-
The fixed redemption value for flights may not appeal to everyone
-
Optimal value only when frequently shopping at AIR MILES partners
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
Required Annual Personal Income
$80,000
Required Annual Household Income
$150,000
3x
Cardholders earn an accelerated 3x the Miles per $12 spent at participating AIR MILES partners*
2x
the Miles for every $12 spent at any eligible grocery store*
1x
Earn 1 Mile for every $12 in credit card purchases, everywhere you spend*
25%
Get a 25% discount on one worldwide AIR MILES flight redemption during the calendar year*
Cardholders earn an accelerated 3x the Miles per $12 spent at participating AIR MILES partners*
3x
the Miles for every $12 spent at any eligible grocery store*
2x
Earn 1 Mile for every $12 in credit card purchases, everywhere you spend*
1x
Get a 25% discount on one worldwide AIR MILES flight redemption during the calendar year*
25%
20.99%
Purchase APR
23.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
23.99%
Cash Advance APR 21.99% for Quebec residents
$120
Annual Fee $50 for a supplementary card
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
23.99%
Cash Advance APR
23.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Pros
-
Offers the largest Air Miles sign-up bonus on the market with a waived annual fee for the first anniversary*
-
High earn rates of up to 3x the Miles on eligible purchases
-
Exclusive travel discounts like 25% off one worldwide AIR MILES flight redemption annually
-
Airport lounge access through complimentary Mastercard Travel Pass membership
-
Comprehensive insurance package which covers medical, trip, flight delay, lost luggage and more
-
Additional Perks include BMO Concierge, digital subscriptions, and cash back promotions
Cons
-
An $80,000 personal/$150,000 household income is needed to qualify
-
Ideal for AIR MILES loyalists, may not suit those with a casual approach
-
The fixed redemption value for flights may not appeal to everyone
-
Optimal value only when frequently shopping at AIR MILES partners
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
Required Annual Personal Income
$80,000
Required Annual Household Income
$150,000
3x
Cardholders earn an accelerated 3x the Miles per $12 spent at participating AIR MILES partners*
2x
the Miles for every $12 spent at any eligible grocery store*
1x
Earn 1 Mile for every $12 in credit card purchases, everywhere you spend*
25%
Get a 25% discount on one worldwide AIR MILES flight redemption during the calendar year*
Cardholders earn an accelerated 3x the Miles per $12 spent at participating AIR MILES partners*
3x
the Miles for every $12 spent at any eligible grocery store*
2x
Earn 1 Mile for every $12 in credit card purchases, everywhere you spend*
1x
Get a 25% discount on one worldwide AIR MILES flight redemption during the calendar year*
25%
20.99%
Purchase APR
23.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
23.99%
Cash Advance APR 21.99% for Quebec residents
$120
Annual Fee $50 for a supplementary card
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
23.99%
Cash Advance APR
23.99%
Annual Fee
$120
What are hotel rewards? Why get a hotel credit card?
Hotel rewards are incentives offered by hotel loyalty programs to encourage repeat business. These rewards accumulate as points through stays, services, or spending on affiliated credit cards. Points can then be redeemed for various benefits, enhancing the overall travel experience. Key aspects include:
- Earning points: For every dollar spent on stays, dining, or other services at the hotel.
- Redemption options: Free nights, room upgrades, late checkouts, dining, and spa services.
- Additional perks: Free cancellations, Complimentary Wi-Fi, exclusive member rates, no resort fees, and special offers like fifth night free.
Hotel rewards programs aim to build customer loyalty by rewarding frequent stays with valuable perks and services.
Free night vs. annual free night
Let’s look at what many cardholders would say is a hotel credit card’s most important benefit: a free stay. In Canada, there are three main ways credit cards offer free hotel nights:
- An annual complimentary night just for being a cardholder (Bonvoy);
- A one-time-only sign-up point bonus that allows for one free night or multiple free nights (Bonvoy again);
- Accumulating enough points through regular spending to redeem for free nights (Bonvoy for the win).
The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® Card is presently the only card in Canada that offers an automatic annual free night.
How to pick the right hotel credit card: Things to consider
- 1.
Determine where your loyalty lies. We love the Homewood Suites for our family. Homewood Suites is part of the Hilton Chain, so even if we were to travel as a couple or individually, we could book at a Waldorf Astoria Hotel for its unforgettable experiences, at Conrad Hotels & Resorts for smart luxury travel, at a Signia Hotel for business meetings and events, or a DoubleTree if we’re more budget conscious. It makes sense for us to get any American Express credit card because Amex’s Membership Rewards points transfer to hotel partners, including Hilton Honors.
- 2.
The sign up bonus. Whatever you want to call it—the promotional offer or welcome bonus—these point windfalls upon approval can lead to free nights right away, just like you can use a travel card to fly somewhere immediately with points. The other important factor is the earn rate.
- 3.
The earn rate. How quickly can you accumulate new points? Where can you earn? Typically, with hotel cards, you earn more when you spend with the hotel chain. However, if you’re using an Amex and transferring points, the Amex Cobalt has one of the best earn rates in a variety of places from gas and groceries to restaurants and streaming services.
- 4.
Status and VIP experiences. An Aeroplan card gives you the 4th night free. The Amex Cobalt doesn’t give you lounge access, but the Scotiabank Platinum Amex gives you 10 passes a year. Consider insurance—emergency medical, hotel burglary coverage and rental car insurance. The best credit cards for rental car insurance give you more coverage (access to vehicles up to $85,000), longer days of coverage and have discounts to a loyalty program with Hertz, Avis or Budget. Also look for cards that give you the VIP treatment at the airport with NEXUS fee rebates, free checked bags and priority boarding.
- 5.
Specific hotel rewards. Look for bonus points on spending at the hotel chain of choice, annual free night certificates, annual credits at different properties, how easy it is to qualify for elite status (and how many free nights you get once you become elite).
Should you get a hotel credit card?
If you’re not loyal to a hotel chain and prefer browsing by price or meeting specific criteria, you may want to stick with one of the best travel rewards cards and use them to book your accommodation. For example, the Avion Rewards program allows you to book any hotel or TD Rewards you can book any hotel using Expedia. An American Express cardholder may benefit by booking through their American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts, a Visa Infinite cardholder may benefit from booking through the Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel collection.
We hope you enjoy your stay!
Contact American Express for the most up-to-date referral bonus figures.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
FAQs
Sandra MacGregor has been writing about finance and travel for nearly a decade. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications like the New York Times, the UK Telegraph, the Washington Post, Forbes.com and the Toronto Star.
Amy Tokic is an SEO content editor for Money.ca. She holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Windsor. Amy is an award-winning author and has been writing professionally for 15 years, publishing articles in the lifestyle and health sectors. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).
Best travel credit cards
Best credit card guides
Disclaimer
The content provided on Money.ca is information to help users become financially literate. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter. Advertisers are not responsible for the content of this site, including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any advertiser product, please visit their website.
†Terms and Conditions apply.