Best American Express Network Credit Card
Sara Skodak
Author5 min read
A list of the best American Express network credit cards is bound to be extensive, that’s because this network is home to plenty of the best credit cards on the Canadian market.
Whether you’re a frequent traveller, a budget-conscious spender, a cashback enthusiast, or a business person – there’s an American Express network credit card with you in mind.
To browse each category of the top American Express network credit cards in Canada, keep reading.
Best Overall American Express Network Credit Card
American Express Cobalt® Card
5
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 15,000 points
Annual Fee*
$155.8
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
This card was voted the Best Credit Card in Canada by FinlyWealth. The rewards earned on this card for a person with average spending exceed those of other credit cards in Canada by a huge margin! In addition, this card has a good benefits coverage, a flexible points redemption program (1:1 transfer to Aeroplan® or Avios), making it the best candidate to become the main credit card for the majority of people.
Pros
- Points can be transferred to Air Canada Aeroplan® at a 1:1 ratio, making this card a solid Aeroplan® points earner as an alternative to Aeroplan® branded credit cards
- Generous welcome bonus of up to 15,000 points
- 4+ different ways of redeeming your points for great value
- 10 different types of insurance, including travel
- Often referred to as the Best Credit Card in Canada
Cons
- Less acceptance of American Express at different merchants across Canada
- Not all types of travel insurance are covered, especially trip cancellation and interruption insurance
Rewards*
- 5x points per $1 spent on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery (up to 12,500 points per month)
- 3x points per $1 spent on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
- 2x points per $1 spent on eligible gas, transit & ride share in Canada
- 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
15 days
Flight Delay
$500
Baggage Delay
$500
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500
Travel Accident
$250,000
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Car Rental Damage & Theft
yes
Mobile Device Insurance
$1,000
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
Up to 1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Amex Experiences™
Access Front Of The Line® Amex Presale & Reserved Tickets to some of your favourite concerts and theatre performances and special offers and events curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
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Travel Credit
Book two or more consecutive nights at participating properties through The Hotel Collection with American Express Travel to receive a $100 credit for amenities or a complimentary room upgrade, if available.
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
The American Express Cobalt Card is hard to beat in general, even when comparing it to other cards within its network.
This contender allows cardholders to earn plenty of points on dining, groceries, and food delivery, plus solid specialized points on eligible streaming, gas, and transit. After these lucrative points are collected, they are most valuable when redeemed towards travel, they can even be transferred to Aeroplan at a 1:1 ratio.
The coverage on this card is also respectable, with inclusions like mobile device insurance, hotel burglary insurance, and flight and baggage delay coverage.
On top of Amex Experiences (a standard feature on Amex credit cards), members also receive a travel bonuses (redeemable towards amenities and room upgrades) through the Hotel Collection with American Express Travel, all you have to do is book two or more consecutive nights at partnered properties.
Overall, the American Express Cobalt Card is the most well-balanced credit card offered by the American Express network when it comes to everyday spending optimization and travel perks. Basically, when you apply for this card, you get a little bit of everything.
Best No-Fee American Express Network Credit Cards
While cards like the American Express Cobalt Card are definitely boast-worthy, they tend to come with annual fees.
If you’re looking for something that’s a little more budget-friendly on your finances, consider one of the following American Express network no-fee credit cards.
American Express® Green Card
3.9
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 10,000 points ($210 value)
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
The American Express® Green Card is a great option for those looking for a no-frills card that earns rewards on all purchases without any annual fee or minimum income requirement. It's an accessible card with no cap on rewards, making it ideal for those who want to earn points without the higher costs and complexities of premium cards. However, it does come with lower rewards earnings across most categories and a modest welcome bonus.
Pros
- No Spending Limits: Earn unlimited rewards with no caps.
- Flexible Redemption: Transfer points to other loyalty programs for maximum value.
- VIP Perks: Access a variety of exclusive benefits through Amex Experiences™.
- Eco-Friendly: The card is made from 99% recycled plastic.
Cons
- Lower Reward Rates: Earn rates are lower compared to other no-fee cards.
- Limited Travel Perks: Lacks some of the travel benefits and insurance options provided by other cards.
Rewards*
- 1x point per $1 spent on all purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
Up to a year
Benefits*
Details*
Amex Experiences™
With Amex Experiences™ and Front Of The Line® Amex Presale Tickets, American Express Cardmembers get access to amazing events in Canada
Extra points
2 points on Amex Travel Online purchases
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
For one of the top-rated, uncomplicated, no-fee credit cards within the American Express network, check out the American Express Green Card.
Its simple rewards program earns you an American Express Rewards point on every dollar spent on all purchases – talk about straight-forward optimization!
To keep you covered, you’ll also have standard purchase protection and extended warranty insurance. Plus, benefits like the classic Amex Experiences and extra points on Amex Travel Online purchases.
Ultimately, this no-fee option is perfect for those who want to avoid the cost and complexities of other Amex credit cards.
SimplyCash® Card from American Express
3.8
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to $100 in Statement Credits
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates*
21.99 / 21.99
The SimplyCash® Card from American Express stands out for its no annual fee and strong cash-back earning potential, offering up to $100 in statement credits within the first 10 months. What makes it even more appealing are the unique perks, such as early access to concert tickets and extra layers of security for online shopping. These extra benefits, along with the affordability, make it a strong contender for those looking for a reliable cash-back card with no annual fee. It's an excellent choice for everyday spending while still enjoying exclusive Amex advantages.
Pros
- No annual fee: The card does not charge an annual fee, making it accessible and cost-effective.
- Attractive cash-back rates: Offers a solid structure for earning cash-back on eligible purchases.
- Exclusive Amex perks: Provides benefits such as access to concert tickets and enhanced security for online shopping.
Cons
- Annual cash-back cap: Limits the total amount of cash-back you can earn within a year.
- Limited travel and shopping insurance: The card lacks comprehensive travel and shopping coverage compared to other premium cards.
- American Express acceptance: Amex is not accepted as widely as Visa or Mastercard.
Rewards*
- 2% cash back on eligible gas and grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 cash back annually)
- 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Travel Accident
Up to $100,000
Purchase Protection
90 days or theft up to $1,000 per occurrence
Extended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Amex Experiences™
Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
Next up in this category is the SimplyCash Card from American Express, which could be your no-fee cashback alternative to our previous contender.
Instead of offering a flat-rate point system on all purchases (like the American Express Green Card), the SimplyCash Card from American Express provides optimized cashback on eligible gas and grocery purchases in Canada, then a higher-than-average base rate on all other eligible purchases.
As for perks, while the American Express Green Card grants cardholders Amex Experiences and extra points on Amex Travel Online purchases, the SimplyCash Card from American Express only offers standard Amex Experiences. That said, to even things out, the SimplyCash Card from American Express adds travel accident coverage to its insurance categories.
So, if you prefer cashback over points and want a no-fee American Express network option with optimized everyday spend categories and base rates, plus some travel insurance, check out the SimplyCash Card from American Express. Otherwise, if you’re into points, flat-rates, and extra rewards on Amex Travel Online purchases, stick with the American Express Green Card.
Scotiabank American Express® Card
3.2
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 5,000 Scene+ points ($50 value)
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates*
19.99% / 22.99%
If you're looking to earn travel rewards without an annual fee, the Scotiabank American Express® Card is a great choice. It offers flexible Scene+ points on everyday purchases, allowing you to redeem rewards for travel, entertainment, and more—all while enjoying plenty of perks at no extra cost.
Pros
- Strong Rewards: Earn flexible Scene+ points on all everyday purchases.
- Mobile Device Insurance: Comes with coverage for your mobile devices.
- Exclusive Perks: Access special offers, experiences, and more through American Express Invites.
- No Annual Fee: Enjoy all these benefits without paying an annual fee.
Cons
- Limited Insurance Coverage: Insurance is confined to mobile devices and purchase security & extended warranty protection.
- Lower Acceptance: Due to being an American Express network card, less merchants may accept it.
Rewards*
- Earn 3x Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco and more
- Earn 2x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on restaurants, fast food, drinking establishments and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
- Earn 2x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
- Earn 2x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
- Earn 2x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services
- Plus earn 1 Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
Insurance*
Coverage*
Mobile Device Insurance
$500
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
Up to a year
Benefits*
Details*
American Express® Experiences
Car Rental Discount
25% off base rate of Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
$12,000 personal
If you’re interested in collecting Scene+ points instead of American Express Membership Rewards points or cashback, then consider the Scotiabank American Express Card as your no-fee option.
This card optimizes plenty of categories, everything from Scene+ points for every dollar spend at partnered grocers to dining to accommodations booked through Scene+ Travel by Expedia.
In addition to standard extended warranty and price protection insurance, the card also comes with mobile device insurance.
Like its previous two counterparts, the Scotiabank American Express Card is automatically equipped with American Express Experiences, but it also provides car rental discounts at Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car.
Keep in mind, however, that this contender calls for a small personal income requirement (unlike its competitors).
All in all, if you want to earn Scene+ points on tons of everyday categories, take advantage of valuable mobile device insurance, and save money when renting a car on your next road trip, consider the Scotiabank American Express Card as your top no-fee contender.
Best Cashback American Express Network Credit Cards
We briefly mentioned cashback in the previous section, but here’s a category completely devoted to the best cashback American Express network credit cards in Canada.
Go ahead and take a look!
SimplyCash™ Preferred Card from American Express
4.6
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to $250 ($200 in first year)
Annual Fee*
$119.88
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
The Simply Cash Preferred is one of the best cashback credit cards in Canada. The base cashback rate of 2% is great for all purchases, but the 4% on groceries and gas, which are two of the highest expenses for most people is the cherry on top of their great cashback program.
Pros
- Highest cashback rate on groceries and gas in Canada
- Great base cashback rate for all purchases
- 10 different insurance types included
Cons
- Cash back is only paid out to you once a year
- American Express has a lower merchant acceptance compared to Visa or Mastercard
Rewards*
- 4% cash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada
- 4% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $1,200 cash back annually)
- 2% cash back on all other eligible purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
$5M/insured Person
Flight Delay
$500
Baggage Delay
$500
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500
Travel Accident
$100,000
Car Rental Damage & Theft
$85K up to 48 days
Mobile Device Insurance
$1,000
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Amex Experiences™
Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
Often considered the upgraded version of the SimplyCash Card from American Express, the Simply Cash Preferred Card from American Express comes with a lot more perks, but also an annual fee.
With this card, you can collect even more cashback (some of the highest in fact) on eligible gas and groceries, plus an impressive base rate on everything else (even more impressive than the one offered by the SimplyCash Card from American Express).
The SimplyCash Preferred card also has preferable insurance – adding valuable travel coverages like hotel burglary, flight and baggage delay, and car rental damage and theft insurance.
Still, like the SimplyCash Card from American Express, the SimplyCash Preferred Card only features American Express Experiences as a benefit.
So, if you want higher cashback rates – some of the highest in Canada on gas and groceries – and better travel insurance, the best credit card from the American Express network is the SimplyCash Preferred Card – if you can support the annual cost.
SimplyCash® Card from American Express
3.8
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to $100 in Statement Credits
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates*
21.99 / 21.99
The SimplyCash® Card from American Express stands out for its no annual fee and strong cash-back earning potential, offering up to $100 in statement credits within the first 10 months. What makes it even more appealing are the unique perks, such as early access to concert tickets and extra layers of security for online shopping. These extra benefits, along with the affordability, make it a strong contender for those looking for a reliable cash-back card with no annual fee. It's an excellent choice for everyday spending while still enjoying exclusive Amex advantages.
Pros
- No annual fee: The card does not charge an annual fee, making it accessible and cost-effective.
- Attractive cash-back rates: Offers a solid structure for earning cash-back on eligible purchases.
- Exclusive Amex perks: Provides benefits such as access to concert tickets and enhanced security for online shopping.
Cons
- Annual cash-back cap: Limits the total amount of cash-back you can earn within a year.
- Limited travel and shopping insurance: The card lacks comprehensive travel and shopping coverage compared to other premium cards.
- American Express acceptance: Amex is not accepted as widely as Visa or Mastercard.
Rewards*
- 2% cash back on eligible gas and grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 cash back annually)
- 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Travel Accident
Up to $100,000
Purchase Protection
90 days or theft up to $1,000 per occurrence
Extended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Amex Experiences™
Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
If you can’t afford the SimplyCash Preferred Card’s annual cost, of course, there’s always the SimplyCash Card from American Express.
Save a high yearly expense, and you’ll still receive solid cashback on gas and groceries – plus a slightly optimized base rate.
The coverage is limited by comparison to the SimplyCash Preferred Card, but that’s to be expected with a no-annual-fee alternative.
In summary, if you’re more budget-conscious but still looking for cashback from the American Express network, the SimplyCash Card from American Express is the optimal choice. Only unless you have more money to spend, need more insurance, and prefer higher cashback should you splurge on the SimplyCash Preferred Card.
Best Travel American Express Network Credit Cards
Get ready, because this category is quite crowded.
The American Express network features some of the best travel credit cards you can find.
To help you browse these contenders, we’ve broken up this category into subcategories for specific travel perks and associations. Here’s what you can expect to find:
- The best Amex network cards with no foreign transactions fees
- The best Amex network cards for Air Canada Aeroplan
- The best Amex network cards for lounge access
- The best Amex network cards for Marriott Bonvoy
See? We weren’t kidding!
Best American Express Network Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees
What makes no foreign transaction fees so appealing?
Well, perhaps it’s the fact that you’ll pay no transaction fees on international purchases made abroad or online when using an eligible card. That’s right, when paying with a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card, you’ll only need to cover any conversion rates. That means, you’ll avoid that 2.5% transaction rate altogether.
Now that you know the significance of this valuable perk, check out which American Express network cards offer it.
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card
4.9
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 40,000 Scene+ points ($400 value)
Annual Fee*
$120
Interest Rates*
20.99% / 22.99%
The Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card is one of our favorite cards. It has a very solid rewards program, earning one of the highest rewards among all credit cards in Canada. In addition, it offers comprehensive travel benefits, including the rare and valuable no foreign transaction fee benefit, making it a great and balanced credit card in terms of both rewards and benefits. The first-year annual fee waiver is the cherry on top, providing even greater value to cardholders.
Pros
- No foreign transaction fee saves you 2.5% on all non-CAD purchases.
- Rewards cover all high-spending categories, including food, groceries, entertainment, and gas.
- Comprehensive coverage of all travel insurance.
Cons
- The card network is American Express, which might not be widely accepted in some countries, making it a bit harder to use the no foreign transaction fee benefit.
- Having a lounge pass would have made this card even more perfect, but there is access to a discount code for lounge access pass purchases.
Rewards*
- Earn 6x Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
- Earn 5x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
- Earn 5x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
- Earn 3x Scene+ points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
- Earn 3x Scene+ points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
- Plus earn 1 Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
$1M, Up to 25 days
Emergency Medical Over 65
$1M, Up to 3 days
Trip Cancellation
$1500/person, $10000/trip
Trip Interruption
$1500/person, $10,000/trip
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500/person, $1000/trip
Baggage Delay
$500/person, $1,000/trip After 4 hours
Flight Delay
$500/person
Travel Accident
$500K/person, $1M/occurrence
Car Rental Damage & Theft
$65K up to 48 days
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1000/occurrence
Mobile Device Insurance
$1,000
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
Up to 1 year
Benefits*
Details*
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Avoid the 2.5% foreign transaction fees incurred when spending in non $CAD
American Express® Experiences
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Concierge Services
Discount
Discount on PriorityPass Membership
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
$12,000 personal or $12,000 household
For a reasonable annual fee and some small annual income requirements, you can get your hands on the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card – a card that we actually consider to be the best overall travel credit card.
The rewards program on this contender is extensive. When you tap your Scotiabank Gold American Express Card, you can earn Scene+ points on everything from purchases at partnered grocers to dining to entertainment or accommodations booked through Scene+ Travel by Expedia.
Notably, that last bonus earn category lets you optimize your travel purchases made through Scene+ Travel, but every category’s points are actually highly valuable when used towards travel.
If travel coverage is a concern of yours, you’ll also be pleased to know that this card is absolutely stacked with trip protections, everything from trip interruption and cancellation insurance to emergency medical coverages to hotel burglary insurance.
Now for the benefits, indulge in American Express Experiences, concierge services, a discount on a PriorityPass membership, and last but certainly not least, that sweet no foreign transaction fees perk.
In conclusion, the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card is a top-tier travel option on account of its impressive rewards program – both with some bonus specialized travel categories and travel redemption opportunities overall, its comprehensive travel coverage, and it’s valuable travel perks like no foreign transaction fees.
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card
3.8
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 80,000 Scene+ points ($800 value)
Annual Fee*
$399
Interest Rates*
9.99% / 9.99%
The Scotiabank Platinum American Express is the perfect choice for those seeking a super premium credit card without steep income requirements. With a high flat rate of rewards on all purchases, extensive insurance coverage, and flexible travel redemption options, it offers full-featured perks that cater to frequent travelers and savvy spenders alike.
Pros
- Low Interest Rate: Offers a competitive interest rate of 9.99%.
- Strong Rewards: Earn 2x Scene+ points on all purchases.
- Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy 10 complimentary lounge visits, including Plaza Premium Lounges, through Priority Pass (membership required).
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Includes extensive coverage for travel-related needs.
- Flexible Travel Rewards: Points can be redeemed for travel bookings with any provider.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Shop internationally without extra charges.
Cons
- High Annual Fee: The annual fee is steep compared to similar cards offering similar perks.
- Limited Premium Perks: Lacks top-tier travel benefits like free checked baggage and priority boarding.
Rewards*
- Earn 2x Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
$2M, Up to 31 days
Emergency Medical Over 65
$2M, Up to 10 days
Trip Cancellation
$2500/person, $10000/trip
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500/person, $1000/trip
Trip Interruption
$5000/person, $25000/trip
Baggage Delay
$1000 After 4 hours
Flight Delay
$1000/person
Travel Accident
$500K/person, $1M/occurrence
Car Rental Damage & Theft
$65K up to 48 days
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1000/occurrence
Mobile Device Insurance
$1000
Purchase Protection
120 days
Extended Warranty
Up to a year
Benefits*
Details*
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Airport Lounge - Plaza Premium
10 visits, 4 visits for secondary card (combined with the Priority pass)
Airport Lounge - Priority Pass
10 visits, 4 visits for secondary card (combined with the Plaza Premium)
American Express® Experiences
Concierge Services
Discount
Discount on PriorityPass Membership
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Status lift
Hertz #1 Club Gold Member
Extra points
Extra 4 Scene+ points per Canadian dollar spent on hotel and car rental bookings made through Scene+ Travel using your Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
$12,000 personal or $12,000 household
If you don’t mind paying a premium for perks like no foreign transaction fees, you can trade your Scotiabank Gold American Express Card for the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card.
The rewards program on this card is much simpler, offering a flat rate of Scene+ points for every dollar spent on all eligible purchases, plus bonus points available on every dollar spent on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel.
Additionally, the coverage on this card by comparison is more comprehensive, with higher coverages in certain insurance categories like trip interruption and trip cancellation, emergency medical over 65, and flight and baggage delay.
The same goes for benefits, the two Scotiabank-affiliated cards come with American Express Experiences, concierge services, a PriorityPass membership discount, and no foreign transaction fees, but the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card also adds a Hertz #1 Club Gold Member status lift, and some complimentary airport lounge visits with Priority Pass and Plaza Premium lounges.
At the end of the day, the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card is the superior choice if you don’t mind spending more annually for better coverage and more perks. Otherwise, if your focus is more so on a comprehensive loyalty program, then the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card is a great option for an American Express network no-foreign-exchange-fee card.
Best American Express Network Cards for Aeroplan
To support those who frequently travel with Air Canada, the American Express network has a couple of cards that earn cardholders Aeroplan points – redeemable towards Air Canada purchases.
Take a look at those two cards now.
American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card
4.1
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 85,000 Aeroplan® points (60,000 in 1st year)
Rewards Rate*
1.25x - 3x Aeroplan® points
Annual Fee*
$599
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
If you are a frequent Air Canada traveler, having an Aeroplan card for perks like free checked bags and priority service can be very beneficial. Many financial institutions offer Aeroplan cards, but I don't believe the American Express version is the best one. Opting for another option might be better. However, the Amex card does have a very large sign-up bonus, making it a great choice for those specifically seeking that.
Pros
- Generous rewards rate with up to 3 Aeroplan points per $1 spent on purchases, particularly beneficial for frequent flyers.
- Enjoy free checked bags when flying with Air Canada, reducing travel costs.
- Access to preferred pricing on Aeroplan flight awards, maximizing the value of your points.
- Unlimited access to Maple Leaf lounges when flying with Air Canada, providing a more comfortable travel experience.
- Extensive insurance coverage, including 11 types of insurance, offering peace of mind during your travels.
Cons
- As an American Express card, it may have limited acceptance compared to other credit cards, potentially limiting its use in some places.
- The most valuable rewards are generally tied to Air Canada flights, which may not appeal to travelers who fly with other airlines.
- The card comes with a high annual fee of $599, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious users.
- The unlimited lounge access is limited to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafe lounges which don't have a great worldwide coverage.
Rewards*
- 3x Aeroplan® points per $1 spent on eligible Air Canada® and Air Canada Vacations® purchases
- 2x Aeroplan® points per $1 spent on eligible dining & food delivery purchases
- 1.25x Aeroplan® points per $1 spent on all other purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
$5M/insured up to 15 days
Trip Cancellation
$1.5K/person, $3K/trip
Trip Interruption
$1.5K/person, $6K/trip
Flight Delay
$1,000/person after 4 hours
Baggage Delay
$1K/person after 6 hours
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$1K
Travel Accident
$500,000
Car Rental Damage & Theft
$85K Up to 48 consecutive rental days
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1000
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
1 years
Benefits*
Details*
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Free first checked bag
First checked bag is free for primary cardholder on WestJet flight and up to 8 guests
Nexus Program Rebate
$100 every 4 years
Amex Experiences™
Amex Experiences™ opens doors for you to access a number of special events, including special dining experiences, VIP parties, advance film screenings and more
Extra points
Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and over 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore
Status lift
Reach Aeroplan Elite™ Status sooner by earning 1,000 Status Qualifying Miles and one (1) Status Qualifying Segment for every $5,000 of net purchases
Status lift
Complimentary upgrade to Avis® President's Club
Status lift
Primary Cardholders who also hold Aeroplan Elite Status can roll over up to 200,000 Status Qualifying Miles (SQM) beyond the status level for which they’ve qualified, from the prior qualification year to qualify for status the next year.
Status lift
Primary Cardholders who also hold Aeroplan Elite Status will benefit from an extra 12 months to use eUpgrade credits, for a total of 24 months from issuance.
Priority Travel
At Toronto Pearson airport get benefits such as Priority Security lane, Complimentary valet, premium parking spots, priorioty taxi and limo lane and discount for parking and car care.
Priority Travel
Get Priority Check-in, Priority Boarding and Priority Baggage Handling, Priority Airport Standby & Priority Airport Upgrades for you, your authorized users and up to 8 companions on the same flight (Only AirCanada)
Airport Lounge - Priority Pass
Pass only. No Complimentary visits!
Airport Lounge - Maple Leaf and AirCanada Cafes
Unlimited Access for you and one guest
Companion Voucher
Annual Worldwide Companion Pass from $99 to a max of $599 After spending $25,000 on your card
Free Extra Night at Hotels
Cardmembers can now get an extra night free for every 3 hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points. Enjoy even more at over 300,000 hotel properties worldwide
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card earns you Aeroplan points on every dollar spent on eligible Air Canada Vacation purchases, dining, and food delivery purchases. It even comes with a higher base rate on all other eligible purchases.
To support your Air Canada vacations, the card also has good insurance coverage, including categories like trip interruption and trip cancellation insurance, hotel burglary insurance, and flight and baggage delay coverage.
But the real treat about this option is that it has some extensive benefits lined up. To simplify things, we’ll break some of those benefits down here:
- Enjoy free first checked bags for you and 8 guests on the same WestJet flight
- Take advantage of a Nexus Program rebate every few years
- Earn double the Aeroplan points at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and more than 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore
- Reach Aeroplan Elite Status sooner by collecting extra Status Qualifying Miles and a Status Qualifying Segment each time you meet a specific spending requirement
- Get upgraded to Avis’ President’s Club for free
- Indulge in Priority Travel perks like Priority Security Lane, complimentary valet, premium parking, Priority Check-in and more
- Receive a Priority Pass membership
- Enjoy unlimited access for you and one guest to Maple Leaf and Air Canada Cafes
- Get a companion voucher offer annually when you meet specific spending requirements
- Earn a free extra night at partnered hotels when you book 3 nights with Aeroplan points
As you can imagine, all of these extras come with a cost, and a steep one at that. However, if you plan on using all of these perks to their full advantage, you’ll certainly offset some of that yearly expense.
All in all, the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card is a premium Aeroplan option for high-spending frequent Air Canada travellers.
American Express® Aeroplan®* Card
3.4
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 40,000 Aeroplan® Points (30,000 in 1st year)
Annual Fee*
$120
Interest Rates*
30% Annual / 30% Annual
This card comes with the free checked bag benefit, which can save hundreds on a single trip for you and your family, more than making up for the annual fee of the card. In addition, the card helps you reach the next Aeroplan Status faster with spending on the card. However, if you don't have a specific use for these two benefits, there are many better cards in terms of benefits and rewards.
Pros
- Free checked bag benefit: Every checked bag might cost you $60 - $100 per person on a round trip. The amount you can save in a year if you travel a few times or travel with a few companions can easily be much higher than the annual fee of the card.
- If you are interested in a higher Aeroplan Status, the card helps you get there faster.
Cons
- The main reward category is only for Air Canada purchases. Unless you are a frequent Air Canada traveler, this reward category is not useful to most people.
- The only other rewards category offered is for food, and it doesn't offer that high of a reward rate either.
- In terms of insurance benefits, the types and coverage amounts provided are lower compared to other cards with a similar annual fee.
Rewards*
- 2x Aeroplan® points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®* and Air Canada vacations®*
- 1.5x Aeroplan® points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada
- 1x Aeroplan® point on everything else
Insurance*
Coverage*
Flight Delay
$500 (Aggregated with Baggage Delay)
Baggage Delay
$500 (Aggregated with Flight Delay)
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500
Travel Accident
$500,000
Car Rental Damage & Theft
$85K, up to 48 days
Purchase Protection
90 days, $1,000 per occurrence
Extended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Free first checked bag
Enjoy your first checked bag free (up to 23kg/50lb) for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada®* flights
Status lift
Reach Aeroplan Elite™ Status sooner by earning Status Qualifying Miles and Status Qualifying Segments with purchases made on your account
Free Extra Night at Hotels
Receive an extra night free for every 3 hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points
Amex Experiences™
Amex Experiences™: From music and movies, to specially curated dining and online shopping opportunities, stay connected with all that we have to offer from the comfort of your own home
Extra points
Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
If you can’t afford the annual fee associated with the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card, opt for the American Express Aeroplan Card instead for a fraction of the cost.
As to be expected, this means that you’ll receive slightly fewer Aeroplan points on categories like Air Canada purchases, as well as eligible dining and food delivery purchases. You’ll also pocket less insurance coverage and some shared categories with lower coverage like flight delay, hotel burglary, and baggage delay insurance. Similarly, you’ll have fewer benefits, but you’ll still get free first checked bags, an expedited chance at earning Aeroplan Elite Status, extra Aeroplan points at partnered brands, and free extra nights at hotels.
So, if you want some Aeroplan perks without the hefty price tag of the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card, apply for the American Express Aeroplan Card instead.
Best American Express Network Aeroplan-Point-Transferable Cards
There are also a couple of non-Aeroplan-affiliated credit cards that have points from different loyalty programs that can be transferred to Aeroplan.
American Express Cobalt® Card
5
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 15,000 points
Annual Fee*
$155.8
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
This card was voted the Best Credit Card in Canada by FinlyWealth. The rewards earned on this card for a person with average spending exceed those of other credit cards in Canada by a huge margin! In addition, this card has a good benefits coverage, a flexible points redemption program (1:1 transfer to Aeroplan® or Avios), making it the best candidate to become the main credit card for the majority of people.
Pros
- Points can be transferred to Air Canada Aeroplan® at a 1:1 ratio, making this card a solid Aeroplan® points earner as an alternative to Aeroplan® branded credit cards
- Generous welcome bonus of up to 15,000 points
- 4+ different ways of redeeming your points for great value
- 10 different types of insurance, including travel
- Often referred to as the Best Credit Card in Canada
Cons
- Less acceptance of American Express at different merchants across Canada
- Not all types of travel insurance are covered, especially trip cancellation and interruption insurance
Rewards*
- 5x points per $1 spent on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery (up to 12,500 points per month)
- 3x points per $1 spent on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
- 2x points per $1 spent on eligible gas, transit & ride share in Canada
- 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
15 days
Flight Delay
$500
Baggage Delay
$500
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500
Travel Accident
$250,000
Car Rental Damage & Theft
yes
Mobile Device Insurance
$1,000
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
Up to 1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Amex Experiences™
Access Front Of The Line® Amex Presale & Reserved Tickets to some of your favourite concerts and theatre performances and special offers and events curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
Travel Credit
Book two or more consecutive nights at participating properties through The Hotel Collection with American Express Travel to receive a $100 credit for amenities or a complimentary room upgrade, if available.
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
Starting with our “best overall” American Express network credit card, the American Express Cobalt Card has a 1:1 point transfer ratio to Aeroplan. That means that every American Express Membership Rewards point you earn through your Cobalt Card can be converted to an Aeroplan point.
This allows you to collect tons of Aeroplan-convertable points on popular everyday purchases – specifically dining, groceries, gas, streaming, and transit.
Thus, if you want some of the best rewards rates to apply to your next Air Canada vacation, you might want to skip an Aeroplan-affiliated credit card altogether, and go for the American Express Cobalt Card instead.
American Express Gold Rewards Card®
4.2
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 60,000 points
Annual Fee*
$250
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
The American Express® Gold Rewards Card is an excellent choice for travelers seeking an entry-level card that offers a strong balance of generous travel benefits without excessive costs. With a relatively low annual fee, this card provides flexibility and a range of perks that make it stand out among other options. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their travel rewards without being tied to a specific airline or compromising on the benefits offered.
Pros
- Flexible Rewards: Enjoy flexible Membership Rewards point conversion with up to 2 points per $1 spent.
- Travel Perks: Includes $100 annual travel credit and 4 free passes to Plaza Premium lounges in Canada.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Comes with 11 types of insurance coverage.
- Multiple Redemption Options: Offers 4 ways to redeem points for maximum value.
Cons
- High Annual Fee: The card comes with a $250 annual fee.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: A 2.5% fee applies to foreign transactions.
- Limited Travel Insurance for Seniors: No travel medical insurance coverage for those over 65.
- Lower Acceptance: As an American Express card, it may have lower acceptance compared to Visa or Mastercard.
Rewards*
- 2x points per $1 spent on gas, groceries and drugstore purchases
- 2x points per $1 spent on travel (eligible flights, hotels, tours and more)
- 1x point per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
15 days
Trip Cancellation
$1,500 per person, $3,000 combined
Trip Interruption
$1,500 per person, $6,000 combined
Flight Delay
$500
Baggage Delay
$500
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500
Travel Accident
$500,000
Car Rental Damage & Theft
yes
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
Up to 1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Travel Credit
$100
Nexus Program Rebate
$50 statement credit every 4 years
Airport Lounge - Priority Pass
Pass only. No Complimentary visits!
Airport Lounge - Plaza Premium
4 Free complimentary visits
Complimentary Hotel Benefits
Hotels booked American Express Travel
Status lift
Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® loyalty program
American Express® Experiences
Extra points
Earn 2 points on Amex Travel Online purchases and extra points on American Express offers
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
Like the American Express Cobalt Card, the American Express Gold Rewards Card can transfer its American Express Membership Rewards points at a 1:1 ratio with Aeroplan. This in turn, allows you to earn tons of points on gas, groceries, and drugstore purchases, plus points per dollar spent on travel. By comparison, the Cobalt Card doesn’t have a specialized category for travel or drugstore purchases, but it offers plenty of points on dining, groceries and food delivery, plus solid points on streaming subscriptions, and similar points on gas with the addition of a transit category.
When comparing these two Aeroplan-point-transferrable cards’ coverage, the American Express Gold Rewards Card has more sought-after categories like trip interruption and trip cancellation insurance, plus some shared categories with more value, particularly travel accident insurance.
The two cards feature American Express Experiences and an annual travel credit, but the American Express Gold Rewards Card adds status lifts, a Nexus Program rebate, complimentary hotel benefits, and an airport lounge Priority pass with complimentary visits to Plaza Premium lounges.
If cost is a determining factor for you, note that understandably the American Express Gold Rewards Card is more expensive annually than the American Express Cobalt Card.
So, if you’re looking for more coverage and benefits on an Aeroplan-point-transferable Amex card, consider the American Express Gold Rewards Card – for a higher annual cost of course. Otherwise, the Cobalt Card might be the better contender for optimizing points in multiple categories at a reasonable price-point.
American Express® Green Card
3.9
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 10,000 points ($210 value)
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
The American Express® Green Card is a great option for those looking for a no-frills card that earns rewards on all purchases without any annual fee or minimum income requirement. It's an accessible card with no cap on rewards, making it ideal for those who want to earn points without the higher costs and complexities of premium cards. However, it does come with lower rewards earnings across most categories and a modest welcome bonus.
Pros
- No Spending Limits: Earn unlimited rewards with no caps.
- Flexible Redemption: Transfer points to other loyalty programs for maximum value.
- VIP Perks: Access a variety of exclusive benefits through Amex Experiences™.
- Eco-Friendly: The card is made from 99% recycled plastic.
Cons
- Lower Reward Rates: Earn rates are lower compared to other no-fee cards.
- Limited Travel Perks: Lacks some of the travel benefits and insurance options provided by other cards.
Rewards*
- 1x point per $1 spent on all purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
Up to a year
Benefits*
Details*
Amex Experiences™
With Amex Experiences™ and Front Of The Line® Amex Presale Tickets, American Express Cardmembers get access to amazing events in Canada
Extra points
2 points on Amex Travel Online purchases
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
Let’s say you want an American Express network Aeroplan card without an annual fee.
At first glance, this might seem impossible given that there isn’t a no-fee Aeroplan-affiliated card in this network, but that’s before you’ve considered the option of transferring American Express Membership Rewards points to Aeroplan.
When you do consider this loophole, you’ll realize that the American Express Green Card is your ticket to a no-fee American Express network Aeroplan card.
With this card, collect an Aeroplan-transferable American Express Membership Rewards point on all eligible purchases. Like the previous two cards, the American Express Green Card’s American Express Membership Rewards points are transferable to Aeroplan at a 1:1 ratio.
Pair these points with standard insurance like extended warranty coverage and purchase protection insurance, plus extra points on Amex Travel Online purchases and Amex Experiences.
Overall, using the American Express Green Card is a great way to earn Aeroplan points for no-annual fee, plus some coverage and perks along the way.
Best American Express Network Cards for Lounge Access
So far, we’ve seen some American Express network cards that offer lounge access, but let's go ahead and compile all those contenders into this next category.
American Express Platinum Card®
4.5
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points (70,000 in 1st year)
Rewards Rate*
1x - 2x Points
Annual Fee*
$799
Interest Rates*
21.99% - 30% / 21.99% - 30%
If you're a frequent traveler, the Platinum card is an excellent choice. It's highly recommended for its extensive travel benefits, including unlimited lounge access for you and a guest at the American Express Lounge collection, making it the best card for lounge access in Canada. The card also offers unique perks not commonly found with other Canadian cards, such as status upgrades at Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton, dining and travel credits, concierge service, airport benefits, Nexus application reimbursement, and more. These benefits can more than offset the annual fee. However, if you don't travel often or are mainly looking for a card that maximizes rewards, this card may not be the best option for you.
Pros
- Offers more perks than any other credit card in Canada, catering to premium users who value extensive benefits.
- Enjoy $400 in annual travel and dining credits, which can offset some of the card's cost.
- Gain unlimited access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, enhancing your travel experience.
- Multiple options for redeeming points for high value, giving you flexibility in how you use your rewards.
- Includes 11 types of insurance coverage, offering comprehensive protection for cardholders.
Cons
- As with other American Express cards, it may have lower acceptance in some locations compared to other networks.
- The high annual fee of $799 may be a barrier for some users, especially those who do not fully utilize the card's benefits.
- Some benefits are limited to specific airports and hotels.
Rewards*
- 2x points per $1 spent on eligible dining & food delivery purchases (restaurant, fast food, coffee shop, food delivery)
- 2x points per $1 spent on eligible travel purchases (flights, hotels, tours and more)
- 1x point per $1 spent for all other purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
15 days
Trip Cancellation
$2,500
Trip Interruption
$2,500
Flight Delay
$1,000
Baggage Delay
$1,000
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1000
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$1,000
Travel Accident
$500,000
Car Rental Damage & Theft
Yes
Purchase Protection
120 days
Extended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Airport Lounge - American Express Global Lounge
Take full advantage of The American Express Global Lounge Collection™ which unlocks access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience.
Travel Credit
$200
Dining Credit
$200 at Select Restaurants
Nexus Program Rebate
$100 statement credit every 4 years
Complimentary Hotel Benefits
Hotels booked American Express Travel
Status lift
Upgrade to Hilton Honors Gold Status
Status lift
Upgrade to Marriott BonvoyTM Gold Elite status
Priority Travel
At Toronto Pearson Airport get Priority Security lane, Complimentary valet and 15% discount at the Express Park and daily park
Concierge Services
Trip and legal Assistance
American Express® Experiences
Extra points
Earn 2 points on Amex Travel Online purchases and extra points on American Express offers
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
Starting off strong with the American Express Platinum Card, earn unlimited complimentary access to lounges within the American Express Global Lounge Collection that includes over 1,400 partnered airport lounges at over 500 airports in about 140 countries.
Here are the exact lounges you can expect to find featured in this collection and how many guests can accompany you as you visit them (subject to availability):
- The Centurion Lounge: with up to two additional guests permitted at no cost.
- Plaza Premium Lounges: with up to one guest allowed at no fee.
- Delta Sky Club: guests with same-day corresponding Delta departures may enter the lounge with the cardholder for an additional fee.
- Airspace Lounges: cardholders may be accompanied by up to two guests per visit, both at no additional cost.
- Escape Lounges - The Centurion Studio Partner: up to two complimentary companions are permitted.
- Priority Pass (which you will need to enrol for, call Platinum Card Service for assistance): available for the cardholder and up to one guest free of charge.
- Executive Lounges by Swissport: here, the cardmember's spouse, and up to two children under the age of 21, or one travel companion, may access the lounge for free.
All things considered, this card has one of the highest annual fees you’ll come across in your credit card search – but that’s because it has the most credit card perks in Canada. Indulge in benefits like generous annual travel and dining credits, hotel status lifts, a Nexus Program rebate, and Priority Travel advantages.
While the rewards program isn’t the focus of this card, it still earns you nice points on every dollar spent on dining and travel purchases.
Ultimately, it’s true that there are a few other cards that come with complimentary airport lounge access, but none of them have a network with as many airport lounge partners or quite as many perks.
American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card
4.1
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 85,000 Aeroplan® points (60,000 in 1st year)
Rewards Rate*
1.25x - 3x Aeroplan® points
Annual Fee*
$599
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
If you are a frequent Air Canada traveler, having an Aeroplan card for perks like free checked bags and priority service can be very beneficial. Many financial institutions offer Aeroplan cards, but I don't believe the American Express version is the best one. Opting for another option might be better. However, the Amex card does have a very large sign-up bonus, making it a great choice for those specifically seeking that.
Pros
- Generous rewards rate with up to 3 Aeroplan points per $1 spent on purchases, particularly beneficial for frequent flyers.
- Enjoy free checked bags when flying with Air Canada, reducing travel costs.
- Access to preferred pricing on Aeroplan flight awards, maximizing the value of your points.
- Unlimited access to Maple Leaf lounges when flying with Air Canada, providing a more comfortable travel experience.
- Extensive insurance coverage, including 11 types of insurance, offering peace of mind during your travels.
Cons
- As an American Express card, it may have limited acceptance compared to other credit cards, potentially limiting its use in some places.
- The most valuable rewards are generally tied to Air Canada flights, which may not appeal to travelers who fly with other airlines.
- The card comes with a high annual fee of $599, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious users.
- The unlimited lounge access is limited to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafe lounges which don't have a great worldwide coverage.
Rewards*
- 3x Aeroplan® points per $1 spent on eligible Air Canada® and Air Canada Vacations® purchases
- 2x Aeroplan® points per $1 spent on eligible dining & food delivery purchases
- 1.25x Aeroplan® points per $1 spent on all other purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
$5M/insured up to 15 days
Trip Cancellation
$1.5K/person, $3K/trip
Trip Interruption
$1.5K/person, $6K/trip
Flight Delay
$1,000/person after 4 hours
Baggage Delay
$1K/person after 6 hours
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$1K
Travel Accident
$500,000
Car Rental Damage & Theft
$85K Up to 48 consecutive rental days
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1000
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
1 years
Benefits*
Details*
Free first checked bag
First checked bag is free for primary cardholder on WestJet flight and up to 8 guests
Nexus Program Rebate
$100 every 4 years
Amex Experiences™
Amex Experiences™ opens doors for you to access a number of special events, including special dining experiences, VIP parties, advance film screenings and more
Extra points
Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and over 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore
Status lift
Reach Aeroplan Elite™ Status sooner by earning 1,000 Status Qualifying Miles and one (1) Status Qualifying Segment for every $5,000 of net purchases
Status lift
Complimentary upgrade to Avis® President's Club
Status lift
Primary Cardholders who also hold Aeroplan Elite Status can roll over up to 200,000 Status Qualifying Miles (SQM) beyond the status level for which they’ve qualified, from the prior qualification year to qualify for status the next year.
Status lift
Primary Cardholders who also hold Aeroplan Elite Status will benefit from an extra 12 months to use eUpgrade credits, for a total of 24 months from issuance.
Priority Travel
At Toronto Pearson airport get benefits such as Priority Security lane, Complimentary valet, premium parking spots, priorioty taxi and limo lane and discount for parking and car care.
Priority Travel
Get Priority Check-in, Priority Boarding and Priority Baggage Handling, Priority Airport Standby & Priority Airport Upgrades for you, your authorized users and up to 8 companions on the same flight (Only AirCanada)
Airport Lounge - Priority Pass
Pass only. No Complimentary visits!
Airport Lounge - Maple Leaf and AirCanada Cafes
Unlimited Access for you and one guest
Companion Voucher
Annual Worldwide Companion Pass from $99 to a max of $599 After spending $25,000 on your card
Free Extra Night at Hotels
Cardmembers can now get an extra night free for every 3 hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points. Enjoy even more at over 300,000 hotel properties worldwide
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
Another American Express network card that offers unlimited airport lounge access is the familiar American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card. That said, this card only grants the cardholder and an accompanying guest unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafes – not an entire network of varying lounges like the American Express Platinum Card.
Really, you’d likely select the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card over the American Express Platinum Card in terms of lounge access if you were only interested in accessing Maple Leaf Lounges while traveling with Air Canada. If you want a card with unlimited access to more airport lounges, then of course keep considering the American Express Platinum Card.
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card
3.8
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 80,000 Scene+ points ($800 value)
Annual Fee*
$399
Interest Rates*
9.99% / 9.99%
The Scotiabank Platinum American Express is the perfect choice for those seeking a super premium credit card without steep income requirements. With a high flat rate of rewards on all purchases, extensive insurance coverage, and flexible travel redemption options, it offers full-featured perks that cater to frequent travelers and savvy spenders alike.
Pros
- Low Interest Rate: Offers a competitive interest rate of 9.99%.
- Strong Rewards: Earn 2x Scene+ points on all purchases.
- Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy 10 complimentary lounge visits, including Plaza Premium Lounges, through Priority Pass (membership required).
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Includes extensive coverage for travel-related needs.
- Flexible Travel Rewards: Points can be redeemed for travel bookings with any provider.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Shop internationally without extra charges.
Cons
- High Annual Fee: The annual fee is steep compared to similar cards offering similar perks.
- Limited Premium Perks: Lacks top-tier travel benefits like free checked baggage and priority boarding.
Rewards*
- Earn 2x Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
$2M, Up to 31 days
Emergency Medical Over 65
$2M, Up to 10 days
Trip Cancellation
$2500/person, $10000/trip
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500/person, $1000/trip
Trip Interruption
$5000/person, $25000/trip
Baggage Delay
$1000 After 4 hours
Flight Delay
$1000/person
Travel Accident
$500K/person, $1M/occurrence
Car Rental Damage & Theft
$65K up to 48 days
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1000/occurrence
Mobile Device Insurance
$1000
Purchase Protection
120 days
Extended Warranty
Up to a year
Benefits*
Details*
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Airport Lounge - Plaza Premium
10 visits, 4 visits for secondary card (combined with the Priority pass)
Airport Lounge - Priority Pass
10 visits, 4 visits for secondary card (combined with the Plaza Premium)
American Express® Experiences
Concierge Services
Discount
Discount on PriorityPass Membership
Status lift
Hertz #1 Club Gold Member
Extra points
Extra 4 Scene+ points per Canadian dollar spent on hotel and car rental bookings made through Scene+ Travel using your Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
$12,000 personal or $12,000 household
With the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card, you can gain 10 complimentary visits annually to Plaza Premium lounges through the Priority Pass. While the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card does offer a Priority Pass, that Priority Pass doesn’t come with any complimentary visits.
This card is also a cheaper alternative to the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card with more insurance but fewer benefits (although it of course includes the valuable no foreign transaction fees perk).
Overall, the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card is only superior to the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card if you prefer Plaza Premium lounges over Maple Leaf Lounges, and don’t mind not having unlimited access to an airport lounge partner.
American Express Gold Rewards Card®
4.2
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 60,000 points
Annual Fee*
$250
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
The American Express® Gold Rewards Card is an excellent choice for travelers seeking an entry-level card that offers a strong balance of generous travel benefits without excessive costs. With a relatively low annual fee, this card provides flexibility and a range of perks that make it stand out among other options. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their travel rewards without being tied to a specific airline or compromising on the benefits offered.
Pros
- Flexible Rewards: Enjoy flexible Membership Rewards point conversion with up to 2 points per $1 spent.
- Travel Perks: Includes $100 annual travel credit and 4 free passes to Plaza Premium lounges in Canada.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Comes with 11 types of insurance coverage.
- Multiple Redemption Options: Offers 4 ways to redeem points for maximum value.
Cons
- High Annual Fee: The card comes with a $250 annual fee.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: A 2.5% fee applies to foreign transactions.
- Limited Travel Insurance for Seniors: No travel medical insurance coverage for those over 65.
- Lower Acceptance: As an American Express card, it may have lower acceptance compared to Visa or Mastercard.
Rewards*
- 2x points per $1 spent on gas, groceries and drugstore purchases
- 2x points per $1 spent on travel (eligible flights, hotels, tours and more)
- 1x point per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
15 days
Trip Cancellation
$1,500 per person, $3,000 combined
Trip Interruption
$1,500 per person, $6,000 combined
Flight Delay
$500
Baggage Delay
$500
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500
Travel Accident
$500,000
Car Rental Damage & Theft
yes
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
Up to 1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Travel Credit
$100
Nexus Program Rebate
$50 statement credit every 4 years
Airport Lounge - Priority Pass
Pass only. No Complimentary visits!
Airport Lounge - Plaza Premium
4 Free complimentary visits
Complimentary Hotel Benefits
Hotels booked American Express Travel
Status lift
Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® loyalty program
American Express® Experiences
Extra points
Earn 2 points on Amex Travel Online purchases and extra points on American Express offers
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
This time, we’re highlighting the American Express Gold Rewards Card’s 4 complimentary visits to plaza premium lounges under the Priority Pass. This is a similar deal as the one featured on the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card, except you receive significantly less complimentary visits.
You’ll likely opt for this card over the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card if you prefer to spend less annually on your travel credit card, even if that means forgoing some free airport lounge visits.
Best American Express Network Card for Marriott Bonvoy
Next, make way for a card that caters specifically to Marriott Bonvoy – a loyalty program for Marriott Hotels.
Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card
4
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points
Annual Fee*
$120
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
The Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card is a standout for frequent travelers who value luxury and flexibility in their rewards. With access to over 7,000 participating hotels, cardholders can earn generous points on both Marriott Bonvoy bookings and everyday purchases. The card's annual free night award and complimentary Silver Elite status make it even more appealing, offering service upgrades and extra points on eligible stays. For those who frequently stay at Marriott properties and want to maximize their travel perks, this card is a top choice.
Pros
- Earns high rewards on Marriott Bonvoy hotel stays, with competitive points on other purchases.
- Includes an annual free night certificate, adding significant value to frequent travelers.
- Automatic Silver Elite status provides enhanced benefits during stays, like late checkout and additional points.
- Generous welcome bonus, offering a substantial boost to your rewards balance early on.
Cons
- As an American Express card, it may not be as widely accepted as other credit cards, limiting its usability in some locations.
- Travel insurance coverage is comprehensive but may not match the levels offered by other premium cards in the market.
Rewards*
- 5 points per $1 on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
- 2 points per $1 on all other purchases (i.e. dining, groceries, online shopping, etc.)
Insurance*
Coverage*
Travel Accident
$500,000
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500
Baggage Delay
$500
Flight Delay
$500
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
1 year
Car Rental Damage & Theft
yes
Benefits*
Details*
Free Extra Night at Hotels
Enjoy an Annual Free Night Award after your Card anniversary each year
Free Extra Night at Hotels
Enjoy 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year to use towards attaining the next level of Elite status with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card
Status lift
Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite Status
Status lift
Upgrade to Gold Elite status when you combine 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your card
American Express® Experiences
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
As the name suggests, the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card earns you Marriott Bonvoy points on eligible purchases made at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, plus higher-than-average base-rate points on all other purchases.
To complement this rewards program, the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card also has some solid travel insurance, including flight and baggage delay, hotel burglary, and travel accident insurance. Cardholders will also receive free extra nights at Marriott hotels on their card anniversary each year, free extra night credits each calendar year to use towards achieving the next level of Elite status, complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite Status, and the chance to upgrade to Gold Elite Status when combining qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the free extra night credits received on the card.
At the end of the day, this card is perfect for frequent travellers who tend to stay at Marriott Bonvoy properties.
Best Business American Express Network Credit Cards
Now, let’s get down to business – literally.
In this category we’re going to put the spotlight on three cards that cater to business owners and business travellers.
American Express Business Platinum Card®
4.2
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 120,000 Membership Rewards® points (80,000 in 1st year)
Rewards Rate*
1.25x points
Annual Fee*
$799
Interest Rates*
21.99% - 30% / 21.99% - 30%
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is ideal for frequent business travelers who can take full advantage of the premium perks and extensive insurance coverage. Despite the high annual fee, the generous rewards and travel benefits may offset the cost for those who maximize the card's offerings.
Pros
- Generous Earn Rate: 1.25 points per $1 spent on all purchases.
- Premium Travel Perks: Includes a $200 annual travel credit, access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, and hotel benefits like Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Extensive travel and purchase insurance, including mobile device coverage and trip interruption protection.
- Interest Grace Period: Up to 55 interest-free days
Cons
- High Annual Fee: The card comes with a hefty $799 annual fee, which may not be justifiable for all users.
- Limited Acceptance: As an American Express card, it has lower acceptance compared to Visa or Mastercard.
Rewards*
- 1.25x points per $1 spent on all purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Travel Accident
$500,000
Emergency Out of province Medical
15 days
Flight Delay
$1,000
Baggage Delay
$1,000
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$1,000
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1,000
Trip Cancellation
$1,500
Trip Interruption
$1,500
Mobile Device Insurance
$1,500
Car Rental Damage & Theft
Yes
Extended Warranty
1 year
Purchase Protection
90 days
Benefits*
Details*
Airport Lounge - American Express Global Lounge
Take full advantage of the American Express Global Lounge Collection™ which unlocks access to over 1400 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience.
Status lift
Earn Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status by spending $30,000 or staying 10 nights combined with 15 Elite Night Credits. Status retention depends on Marriott Bonvoy terms.
Free Extra Night at Hotels
Each year, 8-10 weeks after your anniversary, receive a Free Night Award for a Marriott Bonvoy room up to 35,000 points, valid for 1 year. Resort fees excluded.
Interest on Balance
Up to 55 interest-free days
Nexus Program Rebate
Access a $100 credit for NEXUS with your Cardmembership
Concierge Services
Personalized concierge at your service
Discount
Your Business Platinum Card gets you savings on the seats you really want and lower fares on premium tickets with participating airlines
American Express® Experiences
Access Front Of The Line® Presale & Reserved Tickets to some of your favourite concerts, theatre shows, and special offers with American Express® Experiences
Priority Travel
At Toronto Pearson Airport get Priority Security lane, Complimentary valet and 15% discount at the Express Park and daily park
Travel Credit
Access a $200 Annual Travel Credit each year of your Cardmembership
Wireless Credit
Up to $120 in statement credits each year. Spend $10 each month with eligible wireless providers month and get a $10 credit.
Business Statement Credits
Up to $500 in business statement credits. Enroll and earn statement credits on eligible purchases with $200 Dell statement credit, $300 Indeed statement credit.
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
Similar to the American Express Platinum Card, is the American Express Business Platinum Card.
Straight to the point, this card earns cardholders a flat rate of points per dollar spent on all purchases.
Like the original Platinum Card, the insurance coverage is both extensive and comprehensive as are the benefits which include some interest-free days, plus plenty of opportunities for business statement credits.
So, if you like the perks associated with the American Express Platinum Card and you tend to travel particularly for business, the American Express Business Platinum Card seamlessly blends business and travel into one impressive – although pricey – premium card.
American Express® Business Gold Rewards Card
4.1
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 40,000 points
Rewards Rate*
1x point
Annual Fee*
$199
Interest Rates*
21.99% - 30% / N/A
The American Express® Business Gold Rewards Card is an excellent choice for business owners who also travel seeking an entry-level card that offers a strong balance of generous travel benefits without excessive costs. With a relatively low annual fee, this card provides flexibility and a range of perks that make it stand out among other options.
Pros
- Flexible Rewards: Enjoy flexible Membership Rewards point conversion with up to 2.1 cents per point in average value.
- Travel Perks: Includes $100 annual travel credit when you spend at least 2 nights through booking with the Hotel Collection with American Express Travel
Cons
- Foreign Transaction Fees: A 2.5% fee applies to foreign transactions.
- Limited Travel Insurance: No travel medical insurance, trip cancellation or interruption coverage.
- Lower Acceptance: As an American Express card, it may have lower acceptance compared to Visa or Mastercard.
Rewards*
- 1x point per $1 spent on all purchases
- 10,000 points each quarter when you charge $20,000 in net purchases to your card
Insurance*
Coverage*
Mobile Device Insurance
$1,000
Flight Delay
$500
Baggage Delay
$500
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500
Travel Accident
$100,000
Car Rental Damage & Theft
yes
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Amex Experiences™
Access Front Of The Line® Amex Presale & Reserved Tickets to some of your favourite concerts and theatre performances and special offers and events curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
Travel Credit
Book two or more consecutive nights at participating properties through The Hotel Collection with American Express Travel to receive a $100 credit for amenities or a complimentary room upgrade, if available.
Extra points
10,000 points each quarter when you charge $20,000 in net purchases to your card
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
You can trade platinum for gold with the American Express Business Gold Rewards Card – at a fraction of the annual cost.
Similar to the American Express Business Platinum Card, the American Express Business Gold Rewards Card offers a flat rate rewards system.
As the lower cost would suggest, the insurance coverage on this business card isn’t as impressive as it is on the American Express Business Platinum Card – which adds emergency out of province medical and trip interruption and trip cancellation insurance to its roster. Certain categories that are shared between the two cards are also worth more on the American Express Business Platinum Card – like hotel burglary insurance, flight delay insurance, mobile device insurance and more.
Regarding benefits, the American Express Business Gold Rewards Card doesn’t offer as many as the American Express Business Platinum Card, but it still includes a travel credit through consecutive booking made through participating hotel partners, and tons of extra points each quarter when you charge a specific amount in net purchases to the card.
Overall, if you don’t want to spend a lot of money annually on an American Express network credit card, but you still want decent travel coverage, benefits, and uncomplicated rewards, then the American Express Business Gold Rewards Card could be a good alternative to the American Express Business Platinum Card.
Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express® Card
4
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points
Rewards Rate*
2x - 5x points
Annual Fee*
$150
Interest Rates*
21.99% / 21.99%
The Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express® Card offers strong rewards, especially for frequent travelers who stay at Marriott properties, with the ability to earn 5 points per $1 spent and a generous welcome bonus. Additionally, the annual free night certificate and automatic Silver Elite status add value for business owners. However, the $150 annual fee and the lower acceptance rate of American Express might be drawbacks for some users, particularly those who don't travel frequently or prefer more widely accepted cards.
Pros
- High Welcome Bonus: Earn up to 60,000 points, which can be highly valuable when redeemed for hotel stays or transferred to airline partners.
- Strong Rewards at Marriott Properties: Earn 5 points per $1 spent at Marriott properties, and 3 points per $1 on gas, dining, and travel.
- Annual Free Night Certificate: Receive a certificate worth 35,000 points annually.
- Automatic Silver Elite Status: Enjoy perks like late checkout and room upgrades at Marriott hotels.
Cons
- Lower Acceptance: As an American Express card, it has lower acceptance compared to Visa or Mastercard.
- Annual Fee: $150 annual fee, which may be a consideration if you don't use the card's benefits frequently.
Rewards*
- 5x points per $1 on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
- 3x points per $1 on eligible gas, dining and travel purchases
- 2x points per $1 on all other purchases (everyday business expenses and more)
Insurance*
Coverage*
Travel Accident
$500,000
Flight Delay
$500
Baggage Delay
$500
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500
Mobile Device Insurance
$1,000
Car Rental Damage & Theft
Yes
Extended Warranty
1 year
Purchase Protection
90 days
Benefits*
Details*
Status lift
Earn Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status by spending $30,000 or staying 10 nights combined with 15 Elite Night Credits. Status retention depends on Marriott Bonvoy terms.
Free Extra Night at Hotels
Each year, 8-10 weeks after your anniversary, receive a Free Night Award for a Marriott Bonvoy room up to 35,000 points, valid for 1 year. Resort fees excluded.
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
If you tend to stay at Marriott properties when attending business trips, then the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card might be the solution for you.
Unlike its business counterparts, this card offers specialized categories to earn points rather than a flat-rate program. These specialized categories include points per dollar spent on eligible purchases made at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, points per dollar spent on gas, dining and travel purchases, plus a higher-than-average base rate on all other purchases.
The insurance coverage on this card matches that of the American Express Business Gold Rewards Card, and while there are fewer benefits on the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card – you still get valuable perks like the chance to earn Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status when you meet certain spending requirements and combine your Elite Night Credits, plus free extra nights at Marriott hotels annually.
All in all, this business card is ideal for those who want to spend the least on an American Express network business card, and those who stay at Marriott Bonvoy hotels each time they travel for work.
Best Low-Interest American Express Network Credit Cards
The last crucial category from this network includes low-interest credit cards.
If you tend to carry a balance, you might want to apply for one of these cards from the American Express network.
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card
3.8
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 80,000 Scene+ points ($800 value)
Annual Fee*
$399
Interest Rates*
9.99% / 9.99%
The Scotiabank Platinum American Express is the perfect choice for those seeking a super premium credit card without steep income requirements. With a high flat rate of rewards on all purchases, extensive insurance coverage, and flexible travel redemption options, it offers full-featured perks that cater to frequent travelers and savvy spenders alike.
Pros
- Low Interest Rate: Offers a competitive interest rate of 9.99%.
- Strong Rewards: Earn 2x Scene+ points on all purchases.
- Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy 10 complimentary lounge visits, including Plaza Premium Lounges, through Priority Pass (membership required).
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Includes extensive coverage for travel-related needs.
- Flexible Travel Rewards: Points can be redeemed for travel bookings with any provider.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Shop internationally without extra charges.
Cons
- High Annual Fee: The annual fee is steep compared to similar cards offering similar perks.
- Limited Premium Perks: Lacks top-tier travel benefits like free checked baggage and priority boarding.
Rewards*
- Earn 2x Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
$2M, Up to 31 days
Emergency Medical Over 65
$2M, Up to 10 days
Trip Cancellation
$2500/person, $10000/trip
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500/person, $1000/trip
Trip Interruption
$5000/person, $25000/trip
Baggage Delay
$1000 After 4 hours
Flight Delay
$1000/person
Travel Accident
$500K/person, $1M/occurrence
Car Rental Damage & Theft
$65K up to 48 days
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1000/occurrence
Mobile Device Insurance
$1000
Purchase Protection
120 days
Extended Warranty
Up to a year
Benefits*
Details*
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Airport Lounge - Plaza Premium
10 visits, 4 visits for secondary card (combined with the Priority pass)
Airport Lounge - Priority Pass
10 visits, 4 visits for secondary card (combined with the Plaza Premium)
American Express® Experiences
Concierge Services
Discount
Discount on PriorityPass Membership
Status lift
Hertz #1 Club Gold Member
Extra points
Extra 4 Scene+ points per Canadian dollar spent on hotel and car rental bookings made through Scene+ Travel using your Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
$12,000 personal or $12,000 household
As we’ve seen, the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card is ideal for travel (both in terms of no foreign transaction fees and lounge access). But that’s not all this card should be credited for.
The Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card is also renowned for its low-interest rates – specifically one of the lowest interest rates in both cash advance and purchase categories.
So, if you want an American Express network card that earns you tons of travel perks and supports you in the event that you happen to carry a balance, then submit your application for the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card – just mind the high annual fee.
American Express Essential
3
Finly Rating
Welcome Bonus*
N/A
Rewards Rate*
No Rewards
Annual Fee*
$25
Interest Rates*
12.99% / 12.99%
A low-interest credit card to gain access to American Express experiences. While this card offers decent low-interest rates, there may be better alternatives if you're not particularly interested in the American Express experience benefits.
Pros
- Lower interest rates
- Access to American Express experiences
Cons
- No rewards
- American Express cards are not as widely as accepted as Visa and Mastercard
- Small annual fee
Rewards*
No rewards earned on purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Travel Accident
$100,000
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Amex Experiences™
Access virtual events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
Eligibility*
Credit Score
Good
Annual Income
N/A
If you’re looking for low interest and a low annual fee, then you might want to opt into the American Express Essential card instead.
Unlike the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card, this card doesn’t come with any substantial perks, just Amex Experiences and coverage like travel accident, purchase protection, and extended warranty insurance.
Unfortunately, the American Express Essential Card’s interest rates aren’t quite as low as the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card’s rates, but the card is much more accessible to budget-conscious card holders – which is kind of the point for many of those who carry a balance.
Overall, the American Express Essential Card is the best American Express network low-interest card for those who just need help with the debt they carry and those who don’t care about any over-the-top add-ons.
What's on this Page
- Best Overall American Express Network Credit Card
- Best No-Fee American Express Network Credit Cards
- Best Cashback American Express Network Credit Cards
- Best Travel American Express Network Credit Cards
- Best Business American Express Network Credit Cards
- Best Low-Interest American Express Network Credit Cards