Record Bonuses Signal a Strong Start to Travel Season (Image Credits: Pexels)
Travel enthusiasts across Canada face rising costs for flights and hotels this spring. April 2026 delivers some of the year’s strongest welcome bonuses on rewards cards tailored for trips. These offers turn everyday spending into free getaways, with points redeemable flexibly for airlines, accommodations, and more.
Record Bonuses Signal a Strong Start to Travel Season
Issuers rolled out enhanced promotions entering April, with several exceeding 60,000 points in value.[1] Cardholders reported securing round-trip flights from major bonuses alone. Such deals often require targeted spending but deliver outsized returns for frequent travelers.
Experts highlighted cards combining high initial rewards with ongoing perks like lounge access and insurance.[2] Minimum spends typically range from $2,000 to $10,000 within three to six months. Many waived first-year fees or rebated them, easing entry for newcomers.
Standouts for Flexible Rewards
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card led rankings with up to 60,000 Scene+ points, valued at $600 or more in travel.[1] Holders earned three points per dollar at select grocers and two on dining or transit. No foreign transaction fees proved ideal for international trips.
American Express Cobalt followed closely, offering 15,000 Membership Rewards points through monthly milestones.[3] Its five points per dollar on eats and drinks fueled rapid accumulation. Points transferred seamlessly to Aeroplan or other programs.
- Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite: 60,000 Scene+ points; $150 annual fee; six lounge visits annually.
- Amex Cobalt: 15,000 MR points; $12 monthly fee; up to five times points on food/groceries.
- TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite: 165,000 TD Rewards points; $139 fee (first year rebated); eight points per dollar on Expedia bookings.[1]
- RBC Avion Visa Infinite: 55,000 Avion points; $120 fee; redeem for any flight without blackouts.[3]
- Scotiabank Gold American Express: 45,000 Scene+ points; $120 fee; no FX fees and strong multipliers on groceries.[4]
Premium Options for Frequent Flyers
High-end cards catered to avid travelers with elite benefits. The American Express Platinum Card promised up to 100,000 Membership Rewards points after substantial spending.[2] Unlimited lounge access across 1,400 locations added luxury. Annual credits for travel and dining offset the $799 fee.
Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Privilege targeted top spenders with 100,000 Scene+ points, ending April 30.[4] Ten lounge passes and a $250 travel credit enhanced appeal. Comprehensive insurance covered emergencies up to $2 million.
These cards suited those logging thousands of miles yearly. Perks like priority boarding and hotel upgrades maximized value beyond points.
Entry-Level Choices Without Fees
No-fee options drew budget-conscious users. Tangerine Money-Back World Mastercard offered up to $120 cash back on travel categories.[1] Users selected multipliers for groceries or gas.
MBNA Rewards Platinum Plus provided 10,000 points quickly, ideal for starters.[5] Four points per dollar hit restaurants and utilities initially. Such cards built habits without commitment.
| Card Name | Welcome Bonus Value | Annual Fee | Key Travel Perk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite | Up to $600 | $150 | 6 lounge visits |
| Amex Cobalt | Up to $150 | $192/year | Points transfers |
| TD First Class Travel VI | Up to $825 | $139 (1st yr free) | $100 travel credit |
| RBC Avion VI | Up to $1,100 | $120 | Any airline flights |
| Amex Platinum | Up to $1,000 | $799 | Unlimited lounges |
Key Takeaways
- Match cards to spending: Food lovers favor Amex Cobalt; grocers pick Scotiabank options.
- Check expiry: Act by April 30 for premium bonuses like Passport Privilege.
- Review insurance: Most cover medical, delays, and baggage for peace of mind.
April 2026 bonuses position travelers to save significantly on summer plans. Savvy choices align perks with personal habits for sustained rewards. What card fits your next adventure? Share in the comments.