If you’re looking for an entry point into the world of travel rewards without breaking the bank, the TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Card might just be your ticket. Designed for those who want to earn Aeroplan points and enjoy travel perks but don’t meet the income requirements for Visa Infinite cards, this card offers a balanced mix of rewards and benefits.
Highlights
- Generous Welcome Offer: Earn up to $500 in value†, including up to 20,000 Aeroplan points† and a first-year annual fee rebate. Conditions apply. Account must be approved by January 6, 2025.
- 10,000 Aeroplan Points: Earned on your first purchase†.
- Additional 10,000 Aeroplan Points: Spend $1,000 within the first 90 days†.
- First-Year Annual Fee Rebate: Activate your card and make your first purchase within three months, and add additional cardholders by January 6, 2025, to receive the rebate†.
- Note: This offer is not available to residents of Quebec.
Quick Facts
- Annual Fee: $89 (rebated for the first year)
- Welcome Bonus: Up to $500 in value†, including up to 20,000 Aeroplan points†
- Earn Rates:
- 1 Aeroplan Point per $1 spent on gas, groceries, and Air Canada purchases (including Air Canada Vacations)
- 1 Aeroplan Point per $1.50 spent on all other purchases
Rewards Program
Earning Points
Maximize your earning potential with the following:
- Bonus Categories: Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on:
- Gas
- Groceries
- Air Canada purchases (including Air Canada Vacations)
- Everyday Purchases: Earn 1 point for every $1.50 spent on all other purchases.
- Starbucks Partnership: Link your card with your Starbucks Rewards account to earn 50% more Aeroplan points at Starbucks.
- Double Dip Opportunities: Earn points twice when you pay with your card and provide your Aeroplan number at over 150 partner brands and the Aeroplan eStore.
Redeeming Points
Redeem your Aeroplan points effortlessly through your Aeroplan account on Air Canada’s website for:
- Flights: With Air Canada or Star Alliance partners.
- Upgrades: Elevate your travel experience.
- Car Rentals and Hotels: Access over 11,000 car rental locations and numerous hotels worldwide.
- Vacation Packages: Book through Air Canada Vacations.
- Merchandise and Gift Cards: Choose from a wide selection.
Maximizing Rewards
While the earn rate is modest compared to premium cards, strategic use can still yield significant rewards:
- Leverage Bonus Categories: Focus spending on gas, groceries, and Air Canada purchases.
- Utilize Partnerships: Shop through the Aeroplan eStore and partner brands.
- Take Advantage of the Welcome Bonus: Meet the initial spending requirement to unlock extra points.
Card Benefits
Travel Insurance Coverage
- Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance: Up to $500,000.
- Flight/Trip Delay Insurance: Up to $500 per insured person.
- Delayed and Lost Baggage Insurance: Up to $1,000 per insured person.
- Hotel/Motel Burglary Insurance: Up to $2,500 per occurrence.
- Auto Rental Collision/Loss Damage Insurance: Coverage for up to 48 consecutive days.
- Emergency Travel Assistance: 24/7 toll-free access in case of emergencies abroad.
Consumer Protection Benefits
- Mobile Device Insurance: Up to $1,000 for loss, theft, damage, or breakdown.
- Purchase Security: Protection against loss, theft, or damage for 90 days from purchase.
- Extended Warranty: Double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional 12 months.
Additional Perks
- Car Rental Discounts: Save a minimum of 10% in Canada and the U.S., and at least 5% internationally at participating Avis and Budget locations.
- Starbucks Rewards Boost: Earn 50% more points when linked to your Starbucks Rewards account.
Important Details
Interest Rates
- Purchases: 20.99% APR
- Cash Advances: 22.99% APR
Fees
- Annual Fee: $89 (rebated for the first year if conditions are met)†
- Additional Cardholders: $35 each (must be added by January 6, 2025)
- Cash Advance Fee: 1% of the amount (minimum $3.50, maximum $10)
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.5%
Comparisons with other similar cards
TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum vs. TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite
While both cards earn Aeroplan points, the Visa Infinite version offers:
- Higher Earn Rates: 1.5 points per $1 on gas, groceries, and Air Canada purchases.
- Enhanced Travel Benefits: Includes travel medical insurance, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, and a NEXUS fee rebate.
- First Checked Bag Free: For the cardholder and up to eight companions.
- Income Requirement: Minimum annual income of $60,000.
- Annual Fee: $139 (higher than the Platinum version).
Verdict: If you meet the income criteria and can afford the higher annual fee, the Visa Infinite card offers more value.
TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum vs. HSBC World Elite Mastercard
The HSBC World Elite Mastercard offers:
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Save on purchases made abroad.
- Annual Travel Credit: $100 to use toward travel expenses.
- Earn Rates:
- 6 Points per $1 on travel purchases (3% return).
- 4 Points per $1 on gas, groceries, and drugstores (2% return).
- 2 Points per $1 on everything else (1% return).
- Redemption Flexibility: Points can be used for travel, gift cards, merchandise, or financial rewards.
Verdict: If you prefer a card with no foreign transaction fees and higher earn rates in various categories, the HSBC card is a strong contender.
TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum vs. BMO eclipse Visa Infinite
The BMO eclipse Visa Infinite focuses on lifestyle rewards:
- Earn Rates:
- 5 Points per $1 on groceries, dining, gas, transit, and ride shares.
- 1 Point per $1 on all other purchases.
- Rewards Program: BMO Rewards, which can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or to pay down your bill.
Verdict: Ideal for those who spend heavily in lifestyle categories and prefer flexibility outside of the Aeroplan program.
Is This Card Right for You?
The TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Card is a solid choice if:
- You Want to Earn Aeroplan Points: Great for those loyal to Air Canada and its partners.
- You Prefer a Lower Annual Fee: Especially with the first-year rebate.
- You Don’t Meet Visa Infinite Requirements: Accessible to those with an income below $60,000.
However, if you can afford a higher annual fee and meet the income requirements, exploring premium cards like the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite might offer more substantial benefits and faster rewards accumulation.