The RBC Avion Visa Infinite card remains one of Canada’s most sought-after travel credit cards, known for its welcome bonuses and travel perks. However, with many options available, is this card truly worth the investment? In 2025, we’ll take a closer look at the RBC Avion Visa Infinite card, its offerings, whether it meets expectations, and how it stacks against other popular travel credit cards in Canada.

Overview of the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card

The RBC Avion Visa Infinite card is designed for travelers who wish to maximize their rewards. Key features of the card include:

• Welcome Bonus: 35,000 Avion points upon approval, with no spending threshold.
• Travel Rewards: You earn 1.25 Avion points on travel-related purchases and 1 point on all other purchases.
• Luxury Perks: Access to the Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Collection, exclusive dining and wine events, and ski passes through the Friday Friend Pass.
• Fuel Discounts: Save 3 cents per liter at Petro Canada.

What Can You Do with 35,000 Avion Points?

Understanding the potential value of Avion points helps gauge the card’s utility:

• Flights in North America: The 35,000 points can be redeemed for a roundtrip flight anywhere in Canada or the US (Note: Alaska and Hawaii have higher point requirements).
• Transferring Points: Points can be transferred to several airline partners, boosting value: 1 Avion point = 1 British Airways Avios or Cathay Pacific Asia Miles e 1 Avion point = 1 WestJet dollar
• Transfer Bonuses: RBC often provides bonuses between 30% to 50%, increasing your Avion point values from 1 to 2 cents.

These aspects contribute to a clearer understanding of the card’s value proposition.

Benefits of the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card

The RBC Avion Visa Infinite card boasts a range of travel benefits:

Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Collection: Access to complimentary room upgrades, late checkouts, and breakfast at high-end hotels worldwide, enhancing your stay.

Dining and Wine Benefits: Enjoy exclusive dining events and rewards with the Visa Infinite Wine Country program, perfect for culinary enthusiasts.

Outdoor Activities Discount: If you enjoy skiing, the Friday Friend Pass allows for two-for-one lift tickets at select ski resorts across Canada.

Weaknesses of the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card

Despite its appealing benefits, the RBC Avion Visa Infinite card does have notable shortcomings:

• Low Earning Rate: The earn rate of 1.25 points for travel purchases and 1 point for other expenses is quite low compared to other Canadian credit cards.
• Annual Fee: The $120 fee lacks a waiver for the first year, making it essential to utilize the card smartly from the start to justify the cost.
• Comparison with Competitors: Some cards offer better earn rates for groceries and dining, which are essential categories for everyday spending.

Comparing the RBC Avion Visa Infinite to Other Cards

If the RBC Avion Visa Infinite card doesn’t seem to fit your needs, you might want to look at three standout alternatives that are worth considering:

1. American Express Cobalt Card

• Annual Fee: $12.99 per month.
• Welcome Bonus: Up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points in the first year.
• Earning Rate: 5 points on dining and groceries, 3 points on streaming, and 2 points on transit and travel.
• Insuranced Benefits: Comprehensive travel insurance package.

2. American Express Gold Rewards Card

• Annual Fee: $250.
• Welcome Bonus: Up to 60,000 Membership Rewards points.
• Earning Rate: 2 points on certain categories, including travel and gas.
• Travel Credits: A $100 annual travel credit and lounge access in specific airports.

3. American Express Platinum Card

• Annual Fee: $799.
• Welcome Bonus: Up to 100,000 Membership Rewards points.
• Earning Rate: 2 points on dining and travel, unlimited airport lounge access.
• Travel Benefits: Extensive benefits including hotel perks, concierge services, and significant travel credits.

Conclusion

While the RBC Avion Visa Infinite card has added benefits, it may not always be the best option for every traveler. The earn rates are not as competitive as those offered by other cards, and consumers may leave rewards on the table by not selecting cards that align more closely with their spending habits.