The Avion Rewards program, launched by the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), is a loyalty initiative designed with Canadians in mind, simplifying the process of accumulating and utilizing points. As a member, you have the opportunity to accrue points on everyday expenses and enjoy various redemption options, including travel, products, and financial rewards.
By understanding the program’s mechanics and making well-informed decisions, you can optimize your point potential, thereby enhancing your banking experiences.
Value of Avion Rewards Points
The worth of Avion Rewards points varies based on your redemption choice. Typically, travel redemptions yield the best value, averaging 1 cent per point when converting 1,000 points into $10 toward travel. However, by utilizing the Air Travel Redemption Schedule, you can achieve values up to 2.33 cents per point, an attractive option for those aiming to enhance their rewards.
The specific value of your points is influenced by the type of RBC card you possess. Points generally hold more value when earned through RBC Avion cards, including the RBC Avion Visa Platinum and RBC Avion Visa Infinite options, as opposed to other RBC cards where the value drops significantly, such as using the RBC ION Visa card, which results in just about 0.71 cents per point for travel redemptions.
For a concise view of redemption values, refer to the table below:
| Redemption Category | Value per Point |
|---|---|
| Travel | 1 cent |
| Air Travel Redemption Schedule | Up to 2.33 cents |
| Gift Cards | 0.71 – 1 cent |
| Financial Rewards | 0.83 cents |
| Merchandise | 0.60 – 0.75 cents |
| Statement Credit | 0.58 cents |
Travel-related redemptions often provide the highest return on points, particularly for flights. Other alternatives like merchandise, financial rewards, and statement credits offer comparatively lower values. To stay updated on your points balance and redemption choices, visit the Avion Rewards page.
It’s important to understand that while RBC Rewards and RBC Avion may seem similar, they offer different benefits. The standard RBC Rewards points may not grant the same travel options and perks that come with the RBC Avion credit cards.
To maximize Avion points, it is advisable to have one of the following RBC Avion cards:
- RBC Avion Visa Platinum
- RBC Avion Visa Infinite
- RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege
Redeeming RBC Avion Points for Travel
To redeem Avion points for travel, log into the Avion Rewards portal or use the mobile app. Points can be used for booking flights, accommodations, cruises, vacation packages, and vehicle rentals. A notable perk is the absence of blackout dates or seating limitations on flights, allowing points to cover not just the ticket price but also taxes and fees.
If your points fall short for a full redemption, you can settle the difference with your RBC Rewards credit card—no minimum redemption is necessary. Please note, reservations must be made through the RBC travel portal or by contacting the travel service, with a booking fee applying for phone reservations.
You can redeem points for any available flight and are not restricted by blackout periods or seating limitations. Enjoy the flexibility of paying with as few points as you like, and your remaining balance may simply be charged to your RBC Rewards card. However, it is worth noting that points cannot be utilized for self-booked travel.
Understanding the RBC Avion Air Travel Redemption Schedule
This schedule allows you to trade in your Avion points for economy or business class flights according to specific point requirements. The provided chart lays out the points needed for various destinations and defines maximum base fare limits for each redemption. Be mindful that only full redemptions are permitted; partial redemptions are not an option.
The following table summarizes the points required and corresponding maximum ticket prices:
| Points Required | Destination | Max. Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|
| 15,000 | Within Canada or to an adjacent U.S. state | $350 |
| 35,000 | Anywhere in Canada/U.S. excluding Hawaii and Alaska | $750 |
| 45,000 | Western Canada/U.S. to Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Bermuda, Central America, Caribbean | $900 |
| 55,000 | Eastern Canada/U.S. to similar destinations as above | $1,100 |
| 65,000 | North America to Europe | $1,300 |
| 100,000 | Major gateways in Canada/U.S. to Asia, Australia, New Zealand, etc. | $2,000 |
When using this schedule, your flight’s base fare can be covered up to the maximum ticket price, but you will be responsible for any taxes, fees, and extra surcharges beyond the covered limit. Should your total fare exceed the threshold for redemption, you will need to pay the excess in cash.
This schedule can yield values of 2 to 2.33 cents per point, especially when booking expensive routes, like last-minute flights to popular destinations. For instance, booking a flight from Canada to Europe might cost 65,000 Avion points plus taxes and fees, provided your base fare does not exceed $1,300. Otherwise, you must cover the difference.
The absence of blackout dates ensures you have maximum flexibility, giving you access to all available seats across all carriers, allowing travel without restrictions.
When contemplating how to redeem your points, assess the value you receive here against alternative options like transferring points to different programs. Often, the predictable value and flexibility offered by the RBC Avion Air Travel Redemption Schedule make it a desirable choice, especially for high-cost or last-minute travel.
This schedule, along with the option to convert your RBC Rewards points to other loyalty programs, underscores why RBC Rewards ranks highly among Canada’s travel rewards programs.
Avion Rewards Points for Gift Cards Redemption
Your Avion Rewards points can also be exchanged for gift cards from numerous retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, Air Canada, and Fairmont Hotels. The point requirements and the value offered will differ by merchant.
| Merchant | Points Required | Gift Card Value |
| Amazon | 1,400 | $10 |
| Bath & Body Works | 3,500 | $25 |
| The Beer Store | 3,500 | $25 |
| Best Buy | 7,000 | $50 |
| Air Canada | 10,000 | $100 |
| Fairmont Hotels | 10,000 | $100 |
| Food Basics | 14,000 | $100 |
| Golf Town | 35,000 | $250 |
The value per point fluctuates between merchants. For example, redeeming 14,000 points for a $100 gift card from Food Basics translates to around 0.71 cents per point. Gift cards connected to travel services, like Air Canada, typically offer better value, around 1 cent per point.
To redeem points, log into your account at avionrewards.com or via the app. After logging in, navigate to the gift card section, select the retailer, and complete your purchase.
Occasionally, Avion Rewards runs promotions that boost the value of select gift cards by 10% to 30%, enhancing the appeal of some offers. It’s advisable to check for ongoing promotions before redeeming your points.
Financial Rewards Redemption using Avion Points
Utilize your points towards financial perks to aid savings or debt repayment. Access your RBC Rewards account and select the RBC Financial Rewards option from the “Shop & Redeem” menu, applicable if you have qualifying RBC financial products.
A minimum of 12,000 points is needed to claim $100 towards these financial avenues:
- Enhance your investments (e.g., RRSP, TFSA)
- Mortgage contributions
- Pay off your line of credit
| Financial Option | Minimum Points | Value |
| RRSP, TFSA, FHSA | 12,000 | $100 |
| Mortgage Payment | 12,000 | $100 |
| Line of Credit Payment | 12,000 | $100 |
Redeeming points for financial rewards could save you on interest, as they can assist with early loan payments or line of credit settlements. Contributing to investments through RRSPs may also provide tax benefits, while using a TFSA allows for tax-free growth on savings.
Other Redemption Options: Merchandise, Statement Credits, and Charitable Donations
Your RBC Rewards points can be exchanged for merchandise, statement credits, or charitable donations. The merchandise catalog features various items, yet generally requires a higher number of points, rendering this option less valuable except during promotional periods.
For statement credits, redeeming 17,200 points provides a $100 credit, translating to just 0.58 cents per point, one of the least favorable uses of points compared to travel or gift card redemptions. While cash back is not available, statement credits can effectively lower your account balance.
Additionally, you can support various charitable causes with your points through donations.
| Redemption Type | Points Needed | Value |
| Merchandise | Varies (often high) | Low |
| Statement Credit | 17,200 = $100 | 0.58 cents per point |
| Charitable Donation | Varies | Variable |
RBC Avion Points Transfer Partners
RBC Avion points can be flexibly transferred to a range of travel and retail loyalty programs, allowing you to get the best value based on your specific travel or shopping needs. Below is a list of the primary transfer partners and their respective ratios.
| Airline Partner | Transfer Ratio |
| WestJet (WestJet Rewards) | 1,000 RBC points = 1,000 WestJet Points |
| American Airlines (AAdvantage) | 10,000 RBC points = 7,000 miles |
| Cathay Pacific (Asia Miles) | 10,000 RBC points = 10,000 miles |
| British Airways (Avios) | 10,000 RBC points = 10,000 Avios |
While it’s challenging to quantify the exact worth of airline miles due to various influencing factors, a typical baseline is approximately 1.5¢ per mile for economy tickets. In premium classes, the value could significantly increase. Conversely, WestJet Rewards points are generally worth about 1 cent each.
Transfers to both Cathay Pacific Asia Miles and British Airways Avios are at a 1:1 ratio, which works well for international travel. Although American Airlines AAdvantage has a different transfer ratio, it can still yield substantial value, especially if award seats are available.
Key Benefits and Tips
- Bonuses & Promotions: RBC Rewards periodically features transfer bonuses for selected partners, enhancing conversion values by up to 30%. Sometimes, these offers apply to airlines such as WestJet and British Airways. Check your RBC Rewards account frequently to seize these opportunities.
- RBC WestJet Product Integration: Holding both an RBC Avion card and the RBC WestJet World Elite Mastercard allows you to stack welcome bonuses, leading to rapid accumulation of WestJet points. The transfer of Avion points to WestJet occurs at a clear fixed rate.
- Redemption Value: The worth of airline miles oscillates based on route, class, and availability. In general, expect to achieve at least 1.5¢ per mile and potentially much higher for premium cabin bookings.
Expiration of RBC Avion Points
Your RBC Avion Rewards points are valid indefinitely as long as you have an active credit card account with eligible RBC products. Should you decide to close your credit card, a 90-day period will be allotted for redeeming any remaining points prior to their expiration.
- Points remain valid while your account is active and in good standing.
- After account closure, utilize points within 90 days.
For any inquiries regarding your points, contacting RBC customer service is recommended for precise information and assistance.
Comparative Analysis of RBC Avion with Other Programs
RBC Avion Rewards distinguishes itself within the Canadian loyalty program landscape due to its varied redemption options, flexibility, and absence of blackout dates or minimum point requirements. The program additionally features fixed-point flight options along with frequent promotions, boosting overall value.
| Program | Highlights |
| RBC Avion | Flexible redemptions, fixed-point flight options, various transfer partners |
| American Express MR | Broader travel bookings, multiple partner transfers, competitive credit cards |
| CIBC Rewards | Flexible travel options, lack of transfer partners |
| BMO Rewards | Wide-ranging travel bookings, solid transfer partners, strong credit card offerings |
| TD Rewards | Utilizes Expedia for TD, which typically doesn’t showcase the most favorable prices. |
| Scene+ | Fixed-point flights, various transfer partners, flexible redemptions including financial options. |
However, a noticeable limitation compared to American Express Membership Rewards is the requirement to book travel solely through the RBC portal, coupled with the absence of Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy as transfer partners. Furthermore, RBC Avion’s earning rates may not compete as strongly against those of other banks. For additional insights, check out the links: CIBC Rewards, BMO Rewards, TD Rewards, Scene+, and American Express Membership Rewards.
Accumulating RBC Avion Rewards
Earning Avion points can be easily done via eligible RBC Avion credit cards, which reward you for everyday spending. Accumulate points through various expenses, including groceries, gas, bills, or travel purchases. The lineup features six personal and two business credit card options, such as the RBC Visa Infinite Avion Card.
RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card
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- $120 annual fee
- 35,000 Avion points upon approval
- 20,000 Avion points by spending $5,000 within the first six months
- 15,000 Avion points maintained until month 16
- Earn 1.25 Avion points for every $1 spent on travel
- Earn 1 Avion point per dollar spent on all other purchases
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Mobile device insurance up to $1,500
New cardholders can generally expect a sign-up bonus ranging between 35,000 to 55,000 points, comparable to the top travel credit cards available in Canada.
The earning rate of 1.25 points per $1 spent on travel is commendable, while 1 point per dollar on all other transactions aligns with industry standards. Additionally, the RBC Visa Infinite Avion Card offers robust travel insurance coverage when traveling outside Canada, encompassing medical, trip cancellations/interruption, baggage delays, and theft, although specific exclusions apply—review the insurance certificate for detailed terms.
Retail Partners for Avion Rewards
Points can also be earned through purchases made with select retail partners affiliated with the Avion Rewards program. This includes shopping online, in-store, or via the Avion Rewards app.
Strategies to Maximize Earnings with Retail Partners:
- Utilize the Avion Rewards portal or app for exclusive promotions and enhanced earning potential.
- Keep an eye out for limited-time offers providing extra points on specific categories such as electronics or fashion.
- Leverage program tools like the rewards app and RBC online banking to track partner offerings and transaction history.
- Combine points earned through card spending with bonuses from retail partner promotions for faster accumulation.
Concluding Thoughts
Avion Rewards stands out as one of the premier bank travel rewards programs. While the RBC Visa Infinite Avion card may not offer the highest initial bonus or the most competitive earning rate, the ease of redeeming points is notable. With no blackout dates and no minimum points for redemption, using your points is simple and hassle-free. If you’re an RBC customer, consider checking out my review on RBC InvestEase to learn how to minimize your investment management expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I book travel using my Avion Rewards points?
To book travel, log into the Avion Rewards Travel portal. Once logged in, navigate through the options to book flights, hotels, car rentals, and more using your points.
Where can I access my Avion Rewards account?
Access your account by visiting the Avion Rewards website and clicking on “Sign In,” or you may also do so through RBC Online Banking if linked to your account.
Are there special rewards available for concerts, like those featuring Taylor Swift?
At times, Avion Rewards has exclusive access or pre-sale opportunities for select concerts and events, including performances by popular artists. These limited-time offers will be communicated via the Avion Rewards platform so that members can stay informed.
Where can I view the Avion Rewards catalog for redeeming points?
The Avion Rewards catalog can be found online on their website. Browse through various redemption categories, including products, gift cards, and experiences, although you must be logged in to redeem your points.
What is the contact number for Avion Rewards customer service?
For assistance, Avion Rewards customer service can be reached at 1-800-769-2512. For additional help, you can also use the “Help” feature available within your online account or the travel portal.