Lena Hayes
The RBC Visa Platinum Avion is a classic Canadian travel card built around flexible Avion points and no-fuss earning. You get 35,000 Avion points as a welcome bonus, 1 point per dollar on all eligible purchases, access to the Avion Air Travel Redemption Schedule, and the freedom to book almost any flight with no blackout dates. It’s a straightforward, mid-tier travel card that appeals to frequent and occasional travellers alike who value simplicity and flexibility over complicated category bonuses.
Quick highlights
- 🎁 Welcome bonus: 35,000 Avion points for new cardholders (typically awarded on approval under the current public offer).
- 💳 1 Avion point per $1 on all eligible purchases, including travel and everyday spending.
- ✈️ Redeem points via the Avion Air Travel Redemption Schedule or for travel at a fixed rate, with no blackout dates on flights.
- 🌎 Points can be used for flights, hotels, car rentals, vacation packages, and more, plus transfers to select airline partners.
- 🛡️ Solid basic travel insurance benefits including trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage.
- ⛽ Extra perks when linking with partners like gas stations and pharmacies for more savings and bonus points.
Why we like the RBC Visa Platinum Avion
The RBC Visa Platinum Avion is built around flexibility: you earn the same rate on everything and redeem in multiple ways, from the Avion flight chart to pay-with-points travel and more. That simplicity is the main appeal — you don’t have to remember rotating categories or merchant codes to squeeze value from the card.
The 35,000-point welcome bonus can be a meaningful boost toward flights, especially when used with the Air Travel Redemption Schedule. Avion points are also relatively flexible: you can redeem for flights with no blackout dates, use them for a wide range of travel, or convert them to selected airline programs to chase specific redemptions. For a mid-tier annual fee, that flexibility is the core value proposition.
Stand-out features
- ✅ 35,000 Avion points welcome bonus for new cardholders, typically granted on approval.
- ✅ 1 Avion point per $1 spent on all eligible purchases — simple, predictable earning.
- ✅ Book any airline, any time with no blackout dates when redeeming in the Avion system.
- ✅ Access to the Air Travel Redemption Schedule, which can offer outsized value on certain routes.
- ✅ Basic travel insurance package, including trip cancellation, trip interruption, flight delay and baggage coverage.
- ✅ Ability to convert Avion points to various airline loyalty programs to chase specific award flights.
Good to know
- ⚠️ The card earns 1x across the board — simple, but not the highest earn rate compared with some category-based cards.
- ⚠️ The welcome bonus amount and structure can change over time, so always confirm the current offer when you apply.
- ⚠️ While the card has solid travel insurance, it does not typically include out-of-province emergency medical coverage; you may want separate medical insurance.
- ⚠️ Avion points usually offer the best value on flights and travel; gift cards and merchandise often give a lower return per point.
Pros
- Simple earn structure: 1 Avion point per dollar on everything, including travel.
- Flexible redemption options, including the Air Travel Redemption Schedule and book-any-flight capability.
- Welcome bonus of 35,000 Avion points for new cardholders under the current offer.
- Useful partner perks and boosted rewards when you link with select retailers.
- Travel-friendly features like trip cancellation, trip interruption and baggage coverage.
- Lower barrier to entry than premium cards while still offering airline transfer options and solid travel value.
Cons
- Annual fee of $120 with no premium perks like lounge access or hotel status.
- Earn rate is flat and relatively modest compared to high-earning category cards.
- No built-in out-of-country emergency medical insurance, which many travel cards include.
- Points value can feel confusing at first, especially when comparing the airfare chart, fixed-rate and other redemption paths.
- Not ideal for users who prefer straightforward cash back rather than points-based systems.
Rewards program
The RBC Visa Platinum Avion earns Avion points, a flexible travel rewards currency that can be used for flights, hotels, car rentals, vacation packages, and more. The earn rates are simple, and the card’s main strengths are in how you can redeem points rather than complex multipliers.
- 1 Avion point per $1 spent on travel-related purchases charged in Canadian dollars.
- 1 Avion point per $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases.
- Welcome bonus: 35,000 Avion points for new cardholders, typically awarded on approval when you meet eligibility criteria.
How to maximize rewards
-
Leverage the 35,000-point welcome bonus.
Since the bonus is usually awarded on approval, it’s a great way to jump-start your Avion balance. Consider aligning the timing of your application with upcoming travel so you can redeem those points quickly. -
Make this your default “everything” card where it makes sense.
The 1x earn on all purchases is simple. You may choose to use other cards for high-earning categories like groceries or gas, but the Avion card can be a reliable backup for merchants where you don’t earn bonuses elsewhere. -
Explore the Air Travel Redemption Schedule.
The schedule can offer strong value on certain flights, especially economy trips within Canada and the U.S. Check the chart before booking, and compare the point cost to the cash price to decide whether it’s a good deal. -
Use “book any flight” when the chart doesn’t fit.
If a flight is not a good fit for the chart (or the flight you want is outside those bands), you can simply redeem points at a fixed value through RBC’s travel options. This flexibility means your points never feel “trapped” in one system. -
Take advantage of partner links.
Link your card with partner programs for extra savings and bonus points at gas stations, pharmacies and food delivery apps. These bonuses can add up over time with no extra effort on your part once they’re set up. -
Consider airline transfers for aspirational trips.
If you’re comfortable navigating airline loyalty programs, converting Avion points to partner programs can unlock premium cabins or long-haul flights that might otherwise be out of reach.
Insurance & benefits
Included coverage
- Travel accident insurance when you charge eligible transportation costs to your card.
- Auto rental collision/loss damage waiver when you pay for the rental with your card and decline the agency’s coverage.
- Trip cancellation insurance for eligible trips paid with the card when you have to cancel for a covered reason.
- Trip interruption insurance if your trip is disrupted mid-way due to covered events.
- Flight delay insurance to help cover meals and accommodations during long delays.
- Delayed baggage insurance when your checked luggage arrives significantly later than you do.
- Hotel/motel burglary insurance for eligible personal items stolen from your room during a covered stay.
- Purchase security for eligible new items against theft or damage for a limited time after purchase.
- Extended warranty protection that can extend the manufacturer’s warranty on eligible purchases up to a set maximum.
Limitations & other perks
- ⚠️ The coverage does not typically include out-of-province/out-of-country emergency medical insurance, so separate medical coverage may still be necessary when travelling.
- ⚠️ All insurance benefits have specific eligibility requirements, claim processes, limits and exclusions. You should review the insurance certificates to know exactly what’s covered.
- ⚠️ In many cases, you must charge at least a portion (often the full amount) of the trip or purchase to your RBC Visa Platinum Avion for coverage to apply.
- Avion Rewards membership: Your card gives you access to the Avion Rewards platform, with extra offers and shopping opportunities that earn additional points.
- Fraud protection and digital tools: RBC’s mobile app, alerts and fraud protection features help you monitor your account and stay on top of your spending.
Rates & fees
| Annual fee | $120 for the primary cardholder. |
|---|---|
| Additional cards | Typically $50 per additional card. |
| Purchase APR | 20.99% on purchases. |
| Cash advance APR | 22.99% on cash advances and cash-like transactions (may differ for Quebec residents). |
| Balance transfer APR | 22.99% unless a promotional balance transfer rate is offered. |
| Foreign transaction fee | Typically around 2.5% on purchases in currencies other than Canadian dollars. |
| Grace period | At least 21 days on new purchases when you pay your statement balance in full by the due date. |
| Minimum income | No specific public minimum income requirement is listed, but approval depends on your credit profile and overall finances. |
| Minimum credit limit | Designed as a mid-tier travel card; approved limits will vary based on your application. |
Best for
- ✈️ Travellers who value flexibility in how they book flights and redeem points.
- 💼 Cardholders who want a travel-focused card but don’t need the extras and high fees of ultra-premium products.
- 🧭 People who prefer a simple earn rate and dislike tracking multiple accelerated categories.
- 🛍️ Those who appreciate the option to convert points to airline partners or redeem for a wide variety of travel and merchandise.
Where it falls short
- Flat 1x earn rate is unexciting compared with cards that offer higher multipliers on everyday categories.
- No lounge access, premium travel credits, or hotel status — it’s a solid, but not luxury, travel card.
- Does not typically include out-of-country emergency medical insurance, which many travel-focused cards offer.
- Annual fee may be hard to justify if you don’t travel often or prefer cash back over points.
- Avion system has a learning curve if you want to squeeze maximum value from the Air Travel Redemption Schedule and partner transfers.
Customer reviews
Positive feedback
“I like that I earn the same points on everything and can book any airline without worrying about blackout dates. It keeps my travel planning straightforward.”
“The 35,000-point bonus gave me a great head start. I used it for a short-haul flight that would have been more expensive in cash.”
Critiques
“The earn rate is a bit low compared to other cards I’ve seen that offer more on groceries or dining. I use this one mainly for travel redemptions.”
“I wish it included emergency medical insurance. I ended up buying a separate travel medical policy for peace of mind.”
Community insights
In Canadian points communities, the RBC Visa Platinum Avion is often viewed as a flexible “workhorse” card. Many cardholders appreciate that they can earn one type of currency and then decide later whether to use the Avion chart, book cash flights with points, or convert to airline programs. It’s rarely the flashiest earn-rate card in someone’s wallet, but it often plays the role of a reliable backbone in a broader rewards strategy.
AI review (straight talk)
If you want a travel credit card that stays out of your way, the RBC Visa Platinum Avion is a solid choice. You don’t have to memorize bonus categories or chase promotions; you just earn the same rate everywhere and decide how to redeem later. The welcome bonus is a nice bump, and the travel insurance is good enough for many standard trips.
On the flip side, if you’re obsessed with maximizing every dollar, you may find the 1x earn rate underwhelming compared to more aggressive cards. And if you need emergency medical coverage built into your card, you’ll need something more comprehensive. Overall, this card hits a sweet spot for people who like flexibility and simplicity, and who value the Avion ecosystem.
Alternatives & comparison
| Card | Annual Fee | Top Earning | Other Purchases | Key Perks | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RBC Visa Platinum Avion | $120 | 1x Avion on travel & all purchases | 1x | 35,000-point bonus, flexible flight redemptions, basic travel insurance | Travel flexibility with simple earning |
| RBC Avion Visa Infinite | $120 | 1x Avion on all purchases (with extra benefits and insurance) | 1x | Additional travel perks and enhanced coverage, income requirement applies | Travellers eligible for premium-tier benefits |
| RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege | Higher than $120 | Elevated Avion earn rate | Higher base earn | Premium travel benefits, lounge access, premium insurance | High-income travellers wanting a luxury experience |
| Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite* | Mid-tier fee | Bonus Scene+ on travel & groceries | Base earn on everything else | No foreign transaction fees, lounge passes | Frequent international travellers avoiding FX fees |
| BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard* | Mid-tier fee | Bonus on travel, dining, entertainment | Lower earn on other purchases | Lounge access and strong travel insurance | Travellers who like bonus categories and airport comfort |
FAQ
What is the annual fee for the RBC Visa Platinum Avion?
The annual fee is $120 for the primary cardholder. Additional cards typically cost $50 each per year.
What is the current welcome bonus?
The RBC Visa Platinum Avion currently offers a welcome bonus of 35,000 Avion points for new cardholders, usually awarded upon approval, subject to eligibility and the offer in place at the time you apply.
How does the card earn Avion points?
You earn 1 Avion point for every $1 spent on eligible travel-related purchases and 1 Avion point per $1 on all other eligible everyday purchases. There are no rotating categories to track.
How can I redeem Avion points?
You can redeem Avion points in several ways: through the Air Travel Redemption Schedule for fixed-point flights, by booking travel with a fixed points-per-dollar value, by converting points to partner airline programs, or by redeeming for gift cards, merchandise, statement credits and other rewards. Travel redemptions usually provide the best value.
Does the card include travel insurance?
Yes. The card typically includes travel accident insurance, trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage, flight delay and delayed baggage insurance, hotel/motel burglary coverage, auto rental collision/loss damage waiver, and purchase security and extended warranty. Coverage is subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the insurance documents.
Does the RBC Visa Platinum Avion have emergency medical insurance?
It generally does not include out-of-province or out-of-country emergency medical insurance. If you need medical coverage while travelling, you may want to purchase a separate travel medical policy.
What are the interest rates on this card?
The purchase interest rate is 20.99%, and the cash advance and cash-like transaction interest rate is 22.99%. Balance transfers also typically accrue interest at 22.99%, unless a promotional rate applies.
Who should consider the RBC Visa Platinum Avion?
This card is best suited to travellers who want flexible flight redemptions and value the Avion ecosystem, but who don’t necessarily need the extra perks and higher annual fees of more premium cards. It works well for users who prefer simple earning and are comfortable with a points-based travel program.
Final verdict & ratings
Our take The RBC Visa Platinum Avion is a dependable, flexible travel card that has earned its place as a long-standing option in Canada. It doesn’t try to win on flashy earn rates or luxury perks; instead, it leans on the strength of the Avion program, a solid welcome bonus and multiple redemption paths that make your points feel genuinely useful.
If you want simple earning, flexible travel redemptions and a reasonable annual fee, this card is a strong contender. If you prefer aggressive category multipliers, premium lounge access or built-in emergency medical coverage, you might be better served by a more specialized or higher-tier product. As a balanced, middle-of-the-road travel workhorse, though, the RBC Visa Platinum Avion does its job well.
| Overall | ★★★★☆ 4.2 / 5 |
|---|---|
| Rewards value | 4.0 / 5 — flexible but flat 1x earn, with good potential via the redemption schedule and transfers. |
| Benefits & protections | 4.0 / 5 — solid set of travel protections, but no emergency medical coverage. |
| Fees & costs | 4.1 / 5 — reasonable $120 annual fee given the welcome bonus and travel benefits. |
| Ease of approval | 4.2 / 5 — positioned below premium income thresholds, though approval still depends on your credit profile. |
