Explore the best travel credit cards in Canada for 2025. Discover cards with great rewards, no foreign transaction fees, airport lounge access, and travel insurance to make your trips better.
As international travel rebounds in 2025, Canadians are seeking credit cards that offer the best travel rewards, flexible redemption options, and importantly, minimal fees—including no foreign transaction fees. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, occasional traveler, or planning big vacations, choosing the right travel credit card can significantly boost your travel budget and elevate your experiences.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the best travel credit cards in Canada for 2025, highlighting their top features, rewards rates, fees, eligibility, and how to maximize benefits on your next adventure.
Why Choose a Travel Credit Card?
Travel credit cards provide rewards points, miles, or cash back on travel-related purchases. Benefits often include:
- No foreign transaction fees—saving up to 2.5% per purchase abroad
- Airport lounge access and priority boarding
- Travel insurance including medical, trip cancellation, and baggage protection
- Flexible points redemption for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more
- Concierge services and travel-related perks
Top Travel Credit Cards for Canadians in 2025
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Rewards Earn Rate | Notable Benefits | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite | $150 | 2x points on grocery, dining, entertainment | No foreign transaction fees, airport lounges, comprehensive travel insurance | Good credit |
| American Express Cobalt Card | $12.99/mo | 5x points on food/dining | Flexible points, insurance benefits | Fair credit |
| TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite | $139 | 3x points on travel & dining | Visa Infinite concierge, travel insurance | Good credit |
| RBC Avion Visa Infinite | $120 | 1.25x points on all purchases | Flexible flights redemption, travel insurance | Good credit |
| BMO World Elite Mastercard | $150 | 3x points on travel, dining | Lounge access, travel price protection | Good credit |
| Tangerine Money-Back Mastercard | $0 | 2% cashback in 3 categories | No foreign exchange fees | Fair credit |
| Canadian Tire Options Mastercard | $0 | 4% cashback at Canadian Tire | Gas, groceries, merchandise rewards | Fair credit |
How to Maximize Travel Credit Card Benefits
- Concentrate travel and dining spends on your travel card to accumulate points faster
- Use sign-up bonuses—many cards offer welcome points equivalent to hundreds of dollars
- Redeem points strategically for flights during off-peak periods and partner airlines to increase value
- Pay your balance in full monthly to avoid high-interest charges
- Utilize travel insurance and concierge benefits instead of purchasing separately
Comparing Foreign Transaction Fees
Many Canadian credit cards charge a 2.5% foreign transaction fee on purchases outside Canada. The top travel cards listed waive this fee, a significant saving especially for frequent travelers.
Eligibility and Application Tips
- Review your credit score—most top travel cards require good to excellent credit (700+)
- Prepare documents proving income and residence
- Apply online for faster approval and access to introductory offers
- Consider cards aligned with your travel preferences (airline partners, hotel loyalty programs)
Real-Life Canadian Experience
Emily from Vancouver uses the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite card for all foreign transactions during her frequent Europe trips. She appreciates the waived foreign exchange fees, lounge access, and travel insurance—saving significant money and gaining peace of mind.
FAQs About Travel Credit Cards
Q: Can I use travel credit cards for everyday purchases?
A: Yes, but maximize points by focusing on bonus categories like travel and dining.
Q: Are rewards points transferable to airline partners?
A: Many cards allow transferring points to multiple airline programs for flexibility.
Q: How do I avoid annual fees?
A: Some cards waive the fee for the first year; others, like Tangerine, have no fee at all.
Conclusion
Choosing the best travel credit card in Canada for 2025 depends on your travel frequency, spending habits, and desired perks. Prioritize cards with no foreign transaction fees, generous points earning, and valuable travel protections. Start your travel year smart by comparing offers, meeting eligibility, and applying early.
Call to Action:
Explore detailed reviews and personalized recommendations on the best travel credit cards at cad.savewithrupee.com—empowering Canadian travelers to make smarter, more rewarding financial choices in 2025.
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