When it comes to travel rewards credit cards, TD Bank offers two standout options: the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card and the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card. These credit cards cater to frequent travelers and differ significantly in terms of rewards structure, benefits, and redemption flexibility. In this in-depth comparison, we’ll analyze each card’s features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you decide which suits your travel needs best.
Overview of Both Cards
TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card
The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card is a tremendous option for travelers who want flexibility in redeeming travel rewards. It offers generous points on everyday spending, which can be redeemed through Expedia for TD.
Key Features:
- Welcome Bonus: Up to 100,000 TD Rewards Points for new cardholders (conditions apply).
- Earn Rate:
- 8X TD Rewards Points per $1 spent on Expedia for TD.
- 6X TD Rewards Points on groceries and restaurants.
- 2X TD Rewards Points on all other purchases.
- Annual Fee: $139 (often waived for the first year).
- Travel Insurance: Includes emergency medical, trip cancellation, and lost baggage protection.
- Other Benefits include access to Visa Infinite, such as concierge service, hotel upgrades, and special dining experiences.
TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card
The TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card is a must-have for frequent Air Canada flyers. It provides Aeroplan points that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel-related perks.
Key Features:
- Welcome Bonus: Up to 50,000 Aeroplan Points for new cardholders (conditions apply).
- Earn Rate:
- 1.5X Aeroplan Points per $1 spent on groceries, gas, and Air Canada purchases.
- 1X Aeroplan Point per $1 on all other purchases.
- Annual Fee: $139 (often waived for the first year).
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage, including medical emergency, trip interruption, and car rental insurance.
- Other Benefits:
- Free first checked bag on Air Canada flights.
- Preferred pricing on Aeroplan flight rewards.
- Access to Visa Infinite privileges.
Comparing the Two Cards
Rewards Program
- TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card: Earns TD Rewards Points, which are redeemable for travel bookings through Expedia for TD. This provides flexibility in choosing airlines, hotels, and vacation packages.
- TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card: This card earns Aeroplan Points, which can be used for flights and upgrades. The points are best suited for Air Canada loyalists, as they can offer significant value for flight redemptions.
Redemption Flexibility
- TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card: This card allows points redemption for a wide range of travel expenses, offering more flexibility for travelers who don’t want to be tied to a specific airline.
- TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card: This card offers points for Air Canada and Star Alliance flights, providing excellent value for airfare but limited flexibility compared to the TD First Class Travel card.
Travel Benefits and Insurance
- Both cards offer comprehensive travel insurance, including trip cancellation, emergency medical coverage, and rental car insurance.
- TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card has the additional benefit of free checked baggage on Air Canada flights, making it ideal for frequent Air Canada travelers.
- TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card provides more general travel perks, such as hotel bookings and travel packages discounts.
Annual Fee and Welcome Bonuses
- Both cards have a $139 annual fee, which is often waived for the first year as a promotional offer.
- The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card typically offers a more significant welcome bonus in TD Rewards Points. At the same time, the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card provides a substantial Aeroplan Points bonus.
Which Card is Right for You?
Choose the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card If:
- You want flexibility in redeeming travel rewards.
- You don’t always fly with Air Canada and want the option to book through Expedia for TD.
- You spend a lot on restaurants, groceries, and travel expenses.
- You want a higher earning rate for everyday purchases.
Choose the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card If:
- You frequently fly with Air Canada and want Aeroplan rewards.
- You want free checked baggage on Air Canada flights.
- You prefer redeeming points for flights and upgrades rather than general travel expenses.
- You value preferred pricing on Aeroplan flight redemptions.
Conclusion
Both the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card and the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card are excellent choices for travelers, but the right choice depends on your travel habits. If you prioritize flexibility in travel bookings and a higher earn rate on daily spending, the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card is the better option. However, if you are an Air Canada frequent flyer and want to maximize Aeroplan rewards, the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card will provide more value.
Before deciding, consider your travel preferences and spending habits to ensure you choose the card that best aligns with your needs.
