National Bank World Elite Mastercard
The National Bank World Elite Mastercard is one of Canada’s best travel credit cards, offering strong rewards, industry-leading insurance coverage, and exclusive travel perks — all with flexible point redemptions and lifestyle benefits. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveller, this card offers top-tier protection and high-value rewards without complicated restrictions.
Understanding the Point Value
One of the key features of the National Bank World Elite Mastercard is its point system, known as the “I like card rewards.” Points can be redeemed for various options including gift cards, merchandise, travel, or investments, with the value differing based on the redemption method.
Generally, travel or National Bank services like mortgages or investments offer the best value, averaging 0.83 cents per point. This is competitive when compared to other cards like BMO, which offers 0.67 cents per point for travel redemptions.
Rewards Breakdown
The rewards structure is another highlight of this card, offering substantial returns in specific categories. Cardholders earn five points per dollar on groceries and restaurants, equating to a 4.15% return based on the point value.
This makes it a strong contender for those categories, outperforming some other popular cards. However, the card offers two points per dollar on gas, electric vehicle charging, recurring bills, and travel through a la carte rewards, which is less appealing, especially when considering transaction fees that might negate potential savings.
Travel Benefits and Perks
For travel enthusiasts, the National Bank World Elite Mastercard provides several enticing benefits. Notably, it offers unlimited access to the National Bank lounge at the Montreal airport, a significant perk for frequent Montreal travelers.
Additionally, the card includes a $150 annual refund credit applicable to almost any airport-related expense, offering flexibility in how users can offset travel costs. This includes parking fees, seat upgrades, or lounge access at discounted rates through the Mastercard Travel Pass membership.
Comprehensive Travel and Medical Insurance
Beyond airport perks, this card offers industry-leading travel insurance, including:
- Emergency medical coverage up to $5 million, even for travelers aged 65+ (up to 15 days);
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance;
- Flight delay, baggage delay, and lost luggage protection;
- Rental car collision/damage insurance.
These coverages are ideal for Canadians who travel frequently — domestically or abroad — and want to avoid purchasing separate insurance.
Purchase Protection and Extended Warranty
Cardholders also benefit from:
- Purchase protection: Covers eligible items against theft or damage for up to 90 days after purchase.
- Extended warranty: Doubles the manufacturer’s warranty up to one additional year, helping you get more value from your electronics, appliances, and other purchases.
These perks offer added peace of mind for everyday spending.
How It Compares to Other Premium Travel Cards
When evaluating travel credit cards, it’s important to compare how the National Bank World Elite Mastercard stacks up against similar options. Here’s a side-by-side look:
| Feature / Card | National Bank World Elite | BMO World Elite Mastercard | Scotiabank Gold Amex |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $150 | $150 | $120 |
| Points on Groceries & Restaurants | 5 pts/$ (≈4.15% back) | 3 pts/$ (≈2.1% back) | 5 pts/$ (≈5% back) |
| Travel Insurance | Up to $5M medical, wide range | Strong coverage | Good, but limited medical days |
| Airport Lounge Access | Unlimited Montreal lounge | Mastercard LoungeKey (4/year) | None |
| Mobile Device Insurance | ✔ Up to $1,000 | ✘ | ✔ Up to $1,000 |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 2.5% | 2.5% | 0% |
| Annual Travel Credit / Refund | $150 | ✘ | ✘ |
| Extended Warranty & Purchase Protection | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Why Choose the National Bank World Elite Mastercard?
If you’re looking for a travel credit card that combines strong earn rates, exceptional travel and medical insurance, and valuable perks like lounge access and mobile protection, the National Bank World Elite Mastercard offers high-value benefits without the complexity of airline loyalty programs.
Final Thoughts
With strong earn rates, premium travel perks, and one of the most comprehensive insurance packages in Canada, the National Bank World Elite Mastercard is a smart choice for frequent travelers and high spenders looking for simplicity, flexibility, and real value.
