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If you’re considering travel credit cards in Canada, you’ve probably come across the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite card. This card is part of TD’s Visa Infinite tier, which typically includes cards with annual fees ranging from $100 to $150 and offers some of the best rewards available. But how does the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite stack up against its competitors? Let’s dive into the details, including the sign-up bonus, rewards structure, insurance offerings, and more.

Overview of the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card

The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite card is designed for travelers who want to earn rewards on their purchases, especially when booking through Expedia for TD. Unlike the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite, which partners with Air Canada, this card focuses on Expedia, making it essential to utilize their platform for maximum benefits. However, this requirement can be a turnoff for many potential users.

Sign-Up Bonus: What You Can Expect

The sign-up bonus for the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite card claims to offer $700 in value, which includes 75,000 TD points and a waiver of the annual fee for the first year if you apply by September 3, 2024. But let’s break this down further.

• 75,000 TD Points: This amount is worth approximately $375 if redeemed through Expedia for TD. However, to earn these points, you need to make an eligible first purchase and spend $5,000 within the first six months.
• First-Year Rebate: The $189 rebate for both the primary and supplementary cardholder accounts for part of the sign-up bonus.
• Travel Credit: You receive a $100 TD travel credit for your first eligible travel purchase of $500 or more through Expedia for TD. However, this perk is more of an annual benefit rather than a true sign-up bonus.
• Birthday Bonus: An additional $50 birthday bonus adds a nice touch, but again, it’s not a one-time sign-up perk.

When you add all these elements together, the maximum calculated value can reach around $664, but attaining this value isn’t straightforward. Many competitors offer more enticing bonuses, which raises the question: is it worth it?

Rewards Structure: How Much Can You Earn?

As a travel credit card, the rewards structure is crucial. However, the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite card doesn’t shine in this area.

• 8 Points per Dollar: You earn 8 points per dollar spent on travel bookings through Expedia for TD. This translates to a 4% return when redeemed through the same platform.
• 6 Points per Dollar: For groceries and restaurants, you earn 6 points per dollar, equating to a 3% return.
• 4 Points per Dollar: For recurring bills, you earn 4 points, which is around a 2% return.
• 2 Points per Dollar: On all other purchases, you earn 2 points, yielding about a 1% return.

While the 8 points per dollar for travel is enticing, the other categories are underwhelming. This card does include a 10% birthday bonus annually, which could add up to 10,000 points or about $50. Yet, the overall rewards structure feels slightly below average for a travel card.

Insurance Coverage: A Highlight of the Card

One of the redeeming features of the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite card is its comprehensive insurance package. This card offers twelve different types of insurance, predominantly focused on travel. Here are some key coverages:

• Emergency Medical Coverage: Up to $1 million for 21 days (4 days for cardholders over 65).
• Mobile Device Insurance: Coverage of up to $1,000, which is increasingly essential in today’s tech-driven world.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance: Coverage of up to $1,500 per insured person.
• Delayed or Lost Baggage Insurance: Up to $1,000 per person.

This robust insurance package is a significant advantage, making it a solid option for those who prioritize travel safety and peace of mind.

Perks of Using the Card

Besides rewards and insurance, the card offers various perks:

• Travel Credit: The $100 travel credit for eligible purchases exceeding $500 is a nice touch, but the effectiveness is questionable given the pricing strategies of Expedia for TD.
• Birthday Bonus: The 10% bonus on points accumulated during the year is a unique feature that rewards loyalty.
• Car Rental Discounts: Savings on rentals with Avis or Budget are also part of the offer.

However, the card does not include some expected travel perks like free checked bags or lounge access, which could enhance the overall travel experience.

Comparative Analysis: How Does It Stack Up?

When comparing the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite with other travel credit cards in Canada, several competitors offer more attractive features. For instance, the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite card provides a more straightforward rewards structure with better partnerships for earning points.

Moreover, cards like the Scotiabank Gold American Express offer superior rewards on everyday spending, making them more versatile for users who want to maximize their benefits outside of travel bookings.

Pros and Cons of the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite card is essential for making an informed decision.

Pros:

• Strong insurance coverage for travelers.
• Decent sign-up bonus if maximized.
• 10% birthday bonus on points.

Cons:

• Requires booking through Expedia for TD for maximum rewards.
• Rewards structure is below average compared to competitors.
• No waiver of foreign transaction fees, which is a drawback for travelers.