Maximizing Aeroplan Points: Best Cards & Travel Hacks
Aeroplan is Canada’s leading airline loyalty program, allowing travelers to earn and redeem points for flights, upgrades, and travel perks. With a vast network of airline partners and unique redemption options, savvy travelers can extract maximum value from their Aeroplan points by choosing the right credit cards and applying smart travel hacks.
Best Credit Cards for Earning Aeroplan Points
Best Premium Travel Credit Card
Note: You can also use the American Express Cobalt Card for 5x points on dining and groceries, which can be transferred 1:1 to Aeroplan, making it an excellent supplement to these Aeroplan co-branded cards.
- 3x Aeroplan points on Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations purchases
- 2x Aeroplan points on dining and food delivery
- 1.25x Aeroplan points on all other purchases
❓ Why Get It?
- Preferred pricing on Aeroplan redemptions (book flights for fewer points)
- Complimentary Maple Leaf Lounge and Air Canada Priority benefits
- Comprehensive travel insurance
Note: The CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege and TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilegealso offer a 1.25x base earn rate, but with lower multipliers for Air Canada and dining. However, since these areVisa cards, they are accepted at more locations compared to Amex, which could be a deciding factor for some users.
Best Visa Aeroplan Credit Card
- 1.5x Aeroplan points on gas, groceries, and Air Canada purchases
- 1x Aeroplan point on everything else
❓ Why Get It?
- First checked bag free on Air Canada flights (for cardholder + 8 companions)
- Preferred pricing on Aeroplan redemptions
- Extensive travel insurance
Best No-Fee Aeroplan Credit Card
- 1 Aeroplan point per $1 spent on gas, groceries, and Air Canada
- 1 Aeroplan point per $1.50 spent on all other purchases
❓ Why Get It?
- No annual fee
- Preferred pricing on Aeroplan flight redemptions
- Great entry-level Aeroplan card
How to Maximize Earning
- Use the Right Card for the Right Purchase:- Book Air Canada flights with an Aeroplan co-branded card for 3x points - Use Amex Aeroplan Reserve for dining & food delivery (2x points) - Stack grocery purchases with TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite for 1.5x points
- Shop via the Aeroplan eStore: Earn bonus Aeroplan points by shopping online through the Aeroplan eStore (Apple, Amazon, Sephora, etc.)
- Take Advantage of Promotions & Special Offers: Transfer bonuses, hotel & car rental multipliers, and Marriott Bonvoy transfers
Best Ways to Redeem Aeroplan Points
- Aeroplan Sweet Spots:- North America to Japan (55,000 points one-way in Business Class) - Europe to the Middle East (45,000 points one-way in Business Class) - Hawaii from Canada (12,500 points one-way in Economy)
- Use Stopovers for Just 5,000 Points: Add a stopover in another city (e.g., Toronto → Zurich → Istanbul) for just 5,000 extra Aeroplan points.
- Avoid High Fuel Surcharges: Choose partner airlines like United, Turkish, and Singapore Airlines for lower fees.
Advanced Travel Hacks
- Leverage the Aeroplan Family Sharing Program: Pool points with up to 8 family members to unlock faster redemptions.
- Book Long-Haul Business Class Flights for Maximum Value: Aim for 6-10 cents per point value by booking premium cabin flights.
- Use Aeroplan Status Perks: Earn Priority Rewards, which reduce Aeroplan redemption rates by 50% on certain routes.
Conclusion & Next Steps
By using Aeroplan credit cards strategically, leveraging partner deals, and booking smart redemptions, you can maximize your Aeroplan points for the best possible travel experience.
🚀 Next Steps:
- Apply for an Aeroplan credit card that fits your travel style.
- Check the Aeroplan eStore for upcoming promotions.
- Plan your next redemption with Aeroplan’s flight reward chart.
This guide provides practical strategies to make the most of your Aeroplan points. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just getting started, these tips will help you travel more for less! ✈️