Comparing 2 Air Miles Travel Credit Cards

AMEX AIR MILES Reserve Credit Card VS BMO Air Miles Mastercard

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American Express AIR MILES Reserve vs. BMO AIR MILES Mastercard

When comparing the American Express AIR MILES Reserve and the BMO AIR MILES Mastercard, both cards are tailored for those who want to maximize their AIR MILES earnings. However, they cater to different needs and budgets, with one focused on premium benefits and the other on accessibility.

1. Rewards Program

• Amex AIR MILES Reserve
  • Pros:
    • 1 Mile per $10 spent at AIR MILES Partners and select retailers.
    • Complimentary companion flight on one short-haul round-trip flight.
  • Cons:
    • Annual fee of $299.
• BMO AIR MILES Mastercard
  • Pros:
    • Earn 3 Miles per $25 spent at AIR MILES Partners, and double the miles on select grocery purchases.
    • No annual fee.
  • Cons:
    • Lower earning rate for non-partner purchases.
• Winner: BMO AIR MILES Mastercard for higher rewards in key categories and no annual fee.

2. Welcome Offer

• Amex AIR MILES Reserve
  • Pros:
    • Up to 2,400 bonus miles (value of over $250).
  • Cons:
    • Requires significant spending within the first three months to unlock the full bonus.
• BMO AIR MILES Mastercard
  • Pros:
    • 800 bonus AIR MILES, plus 0.99% interest on balance transfers for nine months.
  • Cons:
    • Smaller bonus compared to Amex.
• Winner: Amex AIR MILES Reserve for its larger bonus, though it’s harder to achieve.

3. Benefits & Insurance

• Amex AIR MILES Reserve
  • Pros:
    • Comprehensive travel insurance, including emergency medical, trip interruption, and car rental theft insurance.
    • Priority check-in and boarding with WestJet.
  • Cons:
    • High annual fee.
• BMO AIR MILES Mastercard
  • Pros:
    • Extended warranty and purchase protection.
    • Discounts on car rentals and Cirque du Soleil tickets.
  • Cons:
    • Limited travel insurance.
• Winner: Amex AIR MILES Reserve for premium travel benefits and insurance coverage.

4. Accessibility

• Amex AIR MILES Reserve
  • Pros:
    • High-income earners or frequent travelers would benefit most.
  • Cons:
    • Limited acceptance compared to Mastercard.
• BMO AIR MILES Mastercard
  • Pros:
    • No annual fee makes it accessible to a broader audience.
    • Widely accepted globally.
  • Cons:
    • Fewer premium perks.
• Winner: BMO AIR MILES Mastercard for wider accessibility and no annual fee.

Overall Verdict

The BMO AIR MILES Mastercard is the better choice for those looking for a no-fee card with solid rewards on everyday spending. It’s ideal for casual AIR MILES collectors who want to avoid an annual fee while still earning rewards. The Amex AIR MILES Reserve is better suited for frequent travelers who can take advantage of its extensive travel perks and higher earning potential, despite the hefty annual fee.

• Amex AIR MILES Reserve Score: 8/10
• BMO AIR MILES Mastercard Score: 9/10