WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard Assessment

Are you considering a review of the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard? In short, this card is ideal for regular WestJet travelers. Even if you anticipate flying with WestJet just once, the appealing welcome bonus and the benefit of a complimentary first checked bag make it a valuable option. Continue reading for an in-depth exploration of the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard.

Welcome Bonus and Earning Rate

The welcome bonus for the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard typically ranges between 25,000 and 45,000 WestJet Points, translating to a value of approximately $250 to $450.

As for the earnings, cardholders receive 2% back in WestJet dollars for WestJet flights and WestJet Vacations bookings, while all other purchases yield 1.5% back. This rate for routine spending is superior to many competing travel credit cards. I personally find it advantageous to use this card at Costco, as it provides a higher earn rate compared to several top Costco credit cards available in Canada.

Features and Advantages

Applicants of the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard are generally drawn to its numerous benefits. Fortunately, this card offers a variety of attractive perks.

First Checked Bag Free

When flying with WestJet, the primary cardholder and up to 8 other travelers on the same booking can check their first bag for free (up to 9 bags total). This is a substantial benefit since checked baggage fees start at CA$30 each way, allowing a couple to save $120 on a single trip—equivalent to the card’s annual fee. Ensure that the entire flight cost is charged to your WestJet card for insurance coverage to be valid.

Companion Voucher

As a cardholder, you will receive a WestJet companion voucher each year, including during your first year. This voucher enables your travel companion to enjoy a reduced base fare on economy and premium economy travel. Both travelers must be on the same itinerary. Here’s the cost for the companion voucher:

• Round-trip within Canada and the continental U.S. for a base fare of $119 CAD
• Round-trip for the remainder of the WestJet network for a base fare of $399 CAD

After your first year, to qualify for the companion voucher, you need to spend $5,000 on the card.

Boingo Wi-Fi

While many travelers have mobile data access, the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard also provides a complimentary Boingo wireless account. This allows internet access at selected airports and in-flight, with Boingo claiming over one million locations globally—ideal for some travelers.

Airport Lounge Access

This card offers access to airport lounges through the Mastercard Travel Pass Program via DragonPass, granting entry to more than 1,000 lounges worldwide. However, note that while membership is included, visits still incur a typical cost of US$32 each.

Petro-Canada Gas Savings

When your WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard is linked to Petro-Points at Petro-Canada, you will save 3 cents per liter on fuel and earn 20% more Petro-Points.

Be Well Points at Rexall

If linked, you’ll earn 50 Be Well points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases at Rexall, alongside any current promotions and offers.

Travel Insurance

• Travel medical – Unlimited for 15 days (3 days if aged 65+)
• Trip interruption – Up to $5,000 per person / $25,000 total
• Flight/trip delay – Up to $250 after 4 hours / total of $500
• Lost and delayed baggage – Up to $500 after 4 hours / total of $2,500
• Auto rental damage protection – 48 days / up to $65,000
• Hotel/motel theft coverage – $2,500
• Travel accident insurance – Up to $500,000

A standout feature of this Mastercard is its unlimited travel medical insurance, a rarity among credit cards. To activate this coverage, the full travel expense must be charged on your card; any use of WestJet dollars alongside must clear with your WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard for insurance validity.

Purchase Protection

• Purchase protection for 90 days
• Extended warranty – An additional year on top of the manufacturer’s warranty

This protection ensures that items fully charged to your WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard are safeguarded against theft, loss, and damage for 90 days. Moreover, any extended warranty offered by the manufacturer is doubled for an additional year.

Understanding WestJet Rewards

WestJet transformed its loyalty program from a dollar-based system to points in 2025, with points typically valued at 100 points = $1 off a flight. The value decreases slightly when redeeming points for extras like seat selection and taxes.

This uniform valuation may not favor luxury business class redemptions compared to programs like Aeroplan.

Overall, WestJet Rewards may appeal more to those residing in Alberta, where WestJet offers a dense flight network. However, if you seek high-value travel redemptions, Aeroplan points could be more beneficial.

Eligibility for WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard

To be eligible for the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

• Must be a Canadian citizen
• Must be of legal age in your province or territory
• Must have either an individual income of $80,000 or a household income of $150,000

While RBC doesn’t specify an exact credit score for approval, a score of around 660 is advisable for a strong application.

Comparing the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard

Now, let’s review how this card measures up against similar options. If you’re evaluating the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard, you likely have plans to travel with WestJet, whether frequently or occasionally. This is certainly the best choice for WestJet patrons but let’s look at some alternatives.

WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard vs. TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card

The TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card is another premium travel card. As Aeroplan is associated with Air Canada, it offers benefits related to that airline, like a free first checked bag. While it does not typically come with a companion voucher, it offers a generous welcome bonus of about 50,000 Aeroplan points, potentially valued at $1,000—this is notably higher than the benefits offered by WestJet. Additionally, the TD card includes superior travel insurance and mobile device protection.

WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard vs. WestJet RBC Mastercard

If avoiding annual fees is a priority, consider the WestJet RBC Mastercard, which is a lower-tier option. However, it has a less favorable earning rate and does not offer the first checked bag free. Although it provides a companion voucher, associated costs are higher than those with the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard.

WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard vs. American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card

For those seeking top-tier airline benefits, the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card may be appealing. It provides you and a guest with unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges in North America, along with benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding, and expedited check-in. While these conveniences come at an annual fee of $599, many will find the benefits worth it.

Conclusion

This review of the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard is largely positive. It serves as a well-rounded card for individuals in various circumstances:

• Frequent flyers with WestJet – The convenience of a complimentary first checked bag is notable for regular WestJet travelers.
• Those looking to save on travel – The annual companion voucher helps you save on future travel tickets, perfect for couples or families.
• Individuals with upcoming WestJet journeys – The initial welcome offer can be triggered by making just one purchase.

As a co-branded travel card, it stands out for avid WestJet frequenters. However, even infrequent flyers or those with just one upcoming trip could find it beneficial, given the free checked bag and the opportunity to earn WestJet dollars.