The WestJet RBC Mastercard is an excellent option for individuals seeking to minimize their annual fee while benefiting from discounts on future WestJet flights or vacation packages. While it offers limited benefits compared to other cards, the rewards earning potential is still commendable.
This card is particularly accessible due to its minimal personal income requirement of $12,000, making it suitable for those who may not qualify for the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard, which demands a higher income. Check out my comprehensive review of the WestJet RBC Mastercard for detailed insights.
WestJet RBC Mastercard
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- Annual fee of $39
- Receive 5,000 WestJet points after your initial purchase
- Earn an extra 10,000 WestJet dollars after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months
- 1.5% back in WestJet dollars on WestJet flights or vacation packages
- 1% back in WestJet dollars on all other purchases
- Annual companion voucher
Welcome bonus and earning rates
With the WestJet RBC Mastercard, new cardholders are typically welcomed with a bonus of up to 10,000 WestJet points. Right after your first purchase, you will earn 5,000 points and an additional 5,000 points if you spend $1,000 within the first three months of being a cardholder.
When it comes to earning rewards, cardholders receive 1.5% in WestJet dollars on flights and vacation packages with WestJet, while all other purchases yield 1% back in WestJet dollars. Although the earning percentages might appear modest, the rewards are quite reasonable given the card’s $39 annual fee.
Features and advantages
As an entry-level card, the WestJet RBC Mastercard offers a limited array of benefits. Nevertheless, it includes an exceptional perk that can be very appealing.
Annual round-trip companion voucher
A standout feature of the RBC WestJet Mastercard is the annual companion voucher. This allows the primary cardholder to add a companion on the same round-trip itinerary for just $199 plus taxes and fees. This benefit applies to travels within Canada and the continental U.S. (excluding Hawaii) and can lead to significant savings depending on your route.
Fuel discounts at Petro-Canada
Linking your WestJet RBC Mastercard grants you an immediate savings of three cents per litre when refueling at Petro-Canada gas stations, alongside earning an extra 20% in Petro-Points.
Be Well points at Rexall
If you frequently shop at Rexall, your linked WestJet RBC Mastercard will earn 50 Be Well points for every dollar spent on eligible transactions. These bonus points are in addition to any personal or in-store Be Well promotions available.
No delivery fees with DoorDash for three months
The RBC WestJet Mastercard includes a benefit of zero delivery fees for three months on DoorDash orders, typically valued at $10 monthly. To take advantage of this, simply place orders of at least $15 using your WestJet RBC Mastercard.
Travel insurance coverage
- Travel accident coverage up to $500,000
- Hotel/motel theft coverage up to $2,500
- Delayed baggage insurance up to $500 after a 4-hour delay
- Car rental collision/loss damage waiver insurance, up to $65,000 for 48 days
Readers might be surprised by the comprehensive travel insurance included, despite the lack of trip cancellation or medical insurance. The amount of travel insurance provided is commendable for a card of this class.
Purchase protection
- Purchase security for 90 days
- Extended warranty coverage up to one additional year
Though purchase protection isn’t frequently utilized, having it can be a lifesaver in the event of loss, theft, or damage. When you place purchases on your WestJet RBC Mastercard, they are covered for 90 days through purchase security, and warranties are extended for a year.
Understanding WestJet Rewards
The WestJet Rewards program is straightforward, offering 100 WestJet points redeemable for $1 off base fares. Points can also be applied towards seat selection and taxes, albeit at a lower redemption value.
Many users appreciate WestJet Rewards for its accessible benefits and the straightforward route to achieve higher status tiers. The program consists of four levels: teal, silver, gold, and platinum, with status determined by qualifying flight and vacation spending. Higher tiers grant additional advantages.
If WestJet is your primary airline, accumulating WestJet points and utilizing a co-branded credit card can enhance your savings on upcoming flights and vacation packages.
Eligibility for the WestJet RBC Mastercard
- Must be a Canadian citizen
- Must meet the age of majority in your province or territory
- Minimum personal income of $12,000
While RBC does not specify an required credit score for approval, aiming for a score of at least 660 is advisable to improve your chances of being accepted.
Comparing the WestJet RBC Mastercard
Comparisons of the WestJet RBC Mastercard with other cards can be challenging due to its unique offerings. However, it can be effectively compared to another WestJet card in the lineup.
WestJet RBC Mastercard vs. WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard
The WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard is a step up from the basic card. This card grants 2% in WestJet dollars on both flights and packages booked with WestJet, with other purchases earning 1.5%. Moreover, it provides enhanced benefits, including superior companion vouchers, additional travel insurance, and complimentary first checked luggage for the primary cardholder along with up to eight guests on the same reservation. Despite the added perks, this card incurs a higher annual fee of $119 and requires a personal income of $80,000.
WestJet RBC Mastercard vs. CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card
The CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card grants users 1 Aeroplan point per dollar on gas, groceries, and Air Canada purchases, with all other expenditures yielding 1 Aeroplan point per $1.50 spent. While the earning rates may appear low, Aeroplan points can be valued between 1.5 to 2 cents each, rendering them valuable. Nevertheless, the Aeroplan program is tied to Air Canada, making the WestJet card a more suitable choice for those who primarily travel with WestJet. Importantly, the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card has no annual fee.
WestJet RBC Mastercard vs. American Express Green Card
The American Express Green Card presents another option for comparison, featuring no annual fee and offering 1 American Express Membership Rewards point for every dollar spent. These rewards can be redeemed with a value of $10 for every 1,000 points, meaning you can utilize them for comprehensive WestJet purchases, including related taxes and fees.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my review of the WestJet RBC Mastercard is favorable. This card is particularly suited for the following types of users:
- Regular WestJet fliers – Capture WestJet points on all eligible purchases, alongside a free annual companion voucher.
- Those looking to avoid high annual fees – The $39 fee is reasonable based on the benefits offered.
- Individuals with lower incomes – A low minimum income requirement of $12,000 is attractive for many users.
If you frequently fly with WestJet and are in the market for a travel reward card, this card might be a perfect match for your needs. The annual companion voucher allowing round-trip travel within Canada for just $199 plus taxes and fees is an exceptional benefit worth considering when applying for this card.