WestJet RBC Mastercard

The WestJet RBC MasterCard is one of those credit cards that is built for a very specific kind of traveler: people who regularly fly WestJet and want perks that directly reduce the cost of trips. The headline benefits are straightforward, especially the annual round-trip companion voucher and free first checked bag for the primary cardholder.

This review breaks down how the rewards work, what the big travel perks are, and where the card may fall short depending on how you actually spend and fly.

At-a-glance: What the card is best for

• Frequent WestJet travelers who can use the companion voucher every year
• Families or groups who often pay for checked bags
• People who fuel at Petro-Canada and want a little extra value there

Rewards structure: how you earn WestJet dollars

The WestJet RBC MasterCard uses a simple earn model measured in WestJet dollars:

• 1.5% back in WestJet dollars on WestJet flights and vacation packages
• 1% back on all other purchases

In practical terms, that means higher value on spending that is directly tied to WestJet. For non-WestJet spending, the earn rate is solid, but not particularly standout compared to more general travel cards that offer stronger everyday rewards.

Companion voucher: the standout annual benefit

One of the most valuable features on this card is the annual round-trip companion voucher.

What it lets you do

The voucher allows the cardholder to bring a companion on a qualifying round-trip flight. It applies to travel:

• Within Canada, or
• To the continental US for a base fare starting from $199 (plus taxes and fees)

Key limitations to know

It is not a blanket discount on every itinerary. The voucher is:

• Only applicable to flights marketed and operated by WestJet
• Subject to fare class restrictions, which may exclude some fares

If the voucher fits your travel patterns, it can create significant savings, especially for couples, families, and anyone who frequently books travel for two.

Checked bag perk: real savings for families

Another major benefit is baggage savings. The card provides:

• Free first checked bag for the primary cardholder
• Up to 8 guests on the same reservation

Checked bag fees can add up quickly. This is particularly useful when multiple people are traveling together and every trip includes at least one checked suitcase.

Fuel and Petro-Canada savings

If Petro-Canada is part of the routine, this card adds extra value:

• 3 cents per liter off at Petro-Canada
• 20% bonus on PetroPoints when linked to the card

These are not the main reasons to choose the card, but they can make the overall experience feel more rewarding for day-to-day spending, especially for drivers.

Where this card may fall short

For all its travel-focused perks, the WestJet RBC MasterCard is not the best fit for everyone. The limitations matter, particularly if WestJet is not your primary airline.

1) Non-WestJet rewards are lower

Outside of WestJet flights and vacation packages, the earn rate drops to 1% on everything else. That can feel underpowered if you normally rely on your credit card for everyday purchases and want high rewards across categories.

2) WestJet dollar redemption restrictions

WestJet dollars can be applied toward travel, but with important limits:

• WestJet dollars can be used toward the base fare of flights or vacation packages
• They do not cover taxes, fees, and other charges

So while you may reduce the cost of a ticket, you should expect to still pay additional expenses out of pocket.

3) Annual fee is another cost

The card has an annual fee. Even if it is relatively modest, the benefit side must still outweigh that yearly cost based on how often the companion voucher and baggage perks are used.

4) Insurance coverage is helpful, but not necessarily premium

Coverage includes:

• Travel accident insurance
• Auto rental collision and loss damage
• Extended warranty
• Purchase protection

These benefits are valuable, but they may not match the depth of coverage you get from higher-end travel credit cards, particularly if someone is looking for more robust insurance protections.

Who should get the WestJet RBC MasterCard?

This card is a strong choice if most of the following statements are true:

• You regularly book WestJet flights or WestJet vacation packages.
• You will realistically use the annual companion voucher each year.
• You often travel with someone else and want that second traveler savings.
• You pay for checked bags frequently, especially for more than one person on a reservation.
• You fuel at Petro-Canada often enough for the extra savings to matter.

Who should skip it?

It may not be the best fit if:

• You do not fly WestJet often enough for the 1.5% earn rate to justify the annual fee.
• You want a card that rewards everyday spending at a higher rate across the board.
• You dislike redemption restrictions, especially when rewards only apply to base fares.

Overall recommendation

The WestJet RBC MasterCard shines when used exactly as intended: frequent WestJet travel with real passenger savings from the companion voucher and free checked bags. If those perks match your life, the card can feel surprisingly efficient.

But if WestJet is not your main airline or you mainly want strong rewards on everyday purchases, the card’s lower non-WestJet earn rate and redemption limitations may make it less compelling compared to other travel cards.

Bottom line: Choose this card for the WestJet travel ecosystem. If you are already a WestJet regular, the perks can be worth more than the annual cost. If you are not, consider whether a more general travel rewards card would fit better.