Best Ways To Book Air Canada Business Class With Points [Step-by-Step]

Over the years, Air Canada has invested millions of dollars into elevating its premium cabin experience, ranging from its amazing airport lounges to its onboard offerings. As such, it’s built up a positive reputation among travelers for providing a high-quality experience for passengers — especially when flying in a premium cabin.

In this guide, we’re going to show you all the best strategies for booking a ticket in Air Canada’s business with points and miles so it’ll cost just a fraction of what the experience typically would.

We’ll focus most of our attention on the premium U.S. to Canada routes offering lie-flat seats, though we will also outline how to book Air Canada business class on long-haul routes departing from Canada.

Let’s get started!

A Look Inside Air Canada Business Class

Air Canada’s long-haul and premium transcontinental business class experience is collectively referred to as Signature Class.

If you’re flying out of a Canadian airport, you’ll have access to a series of Maple Leaf Lounges that are operated by Air Canada. And if you’ve booked an eligible award ticket, you may be able to access Air Canada’s ultra-exclusive Signature Suite Lounges. And, of course, you’ll receive other benefits like priority boarding and an enhanced baggage allowance with your ticket.

Once you step onto the plane, you’ll find a sleek business class cabin lined with posh reverse-herringbone seats in a 1-2-1 configuration. Every seat reclines to the fully flat position, has direct aisle access, and boasts plenty of storage.

You’ll enjoy high-quality bedding (including mattress pads), as well as amenity kits, extensive dining menus, great inflight entertainment, and great service.

If you’re traveling solo, we’d highly recommend a window seat for maximum privacy and views. Traveling duos should opt for a pair of seats in the middle.

How To Fly Air Canada Business Class Using Points

Air Canada’s premium business class routes are fairly difficult to book using points. If you’re planning to travel anywhere from a week to 3 months before departure, your chances of getting a business class award seat are slim.

That said, Air Canada makes a healthy amount of international business class award seats available very far in advance, particularly from Montréal (YUL).

You may also encounter last-minute availability (1 to 2 days before departure) from time to time, especially on premium U.S. to Canada routes.

Air Canada does not levy fuel surcharges for U.S. to Canada flights, and flights to Asia have a minimal amount of fuel surcharges. On the other hand, South American and European flights come with around $350 and $450 in fuel surcharges, respectively.

Here are most of Air Canada’s routes to and from the U.S. that offer lie-flat business class seats:

• Honolulu (HNL) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Honolulu (HNL) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Kahului (OGG) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Newark (EWR) – Vancouver (YVR)
• San Francisco (SFO) – Toronto (YYZ)

In addition, 2 transcontinental routes within Canada regularly offer lie-flat business class seats:

• Vancouver (YVR) – Montréal (YUL)
• Vancouver (YVR) – Toronto (YYZ)

Air Canada offers nonstop long-haul flights from Calgary (YYC) to the following destinations:

• Frankfurt (FRA)
• London (LHR)

Air Canada offers nonstop long-haul flights from Montréal (YUL) to the following destinations:

Air Canada offers nonstop long-haul flights from Toronto (YYZ) to the following destinations:

Air Canada offers nonstop long-haul flights from Vancouver (YVR) to the following destinations:

Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles

Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles, without a doubt, offers the most attractive one-way award prices for flights between the U.S. and Canada. It’s a Star Alliance frequent flyer program, meaning you can book Air Canada flights using Turkish Airlines miles.

And while Turkish Airlines miles are slightly harder to earn without Amex and Chase as transfer partners, getting your hands on an award ticket is still doable.

You can book a one-way flight for great prices, and you won’t have to worry about fuel surcharges because even though any fuel surcharges are passed on to the traveler, Air Canada doesn’t levy fuel surcharges on U.S. to Canada flights to begin with.

Here’s the award chart for one-way Air Canada flights between the U.S. and Canada:

Being able to book a one-way business class ticket that retails for more than $1,000 in each direction with just 15,000 miles offers incredible value — around 8 cents per point, which is unheard of for regional flights.

Turkish Airlines’ online search engine is very clunky. Unless you’re booking a Turkish Airlines flight, we recommend calling to book an award ticket. You can also book via email, but this can be excruciatingly frustrating to do.

Follow these steps to book your Air Canada business class ticket:

1. Go to United’s website and find Saver availability for an Air Canada business class flight.
2. Call Turkish Airlines at 800-874-8875 and select option 1.
3. Enter your Miles&Smiles number. Select the prompt to book a new reservation.
4. Provide the customer service agent your flight information, and confirm the ticket using your Turkish Airlines miles and a credit card for taxes and fees.

Earning Turkish Airlines Miles

Currently, you can earn Turkish Airlines miles through 4 transfer partners: Bilt Rewards, Capital One Miles, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.

Bilt transfers almost instantly, Capital One transfers in up to 24 hours, and Citi transfers in 1 to 2 days, all at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy transfers at a 3:1 ratio with a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 points transferred.

Recommended Citi ThankYou Rewards Cards

Citi Premier^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

*The information regarding the Citi Premier card has expired, and the card is no longer open to applicants.

Citi Premier^® Card

*The information regarding the Citi Premier card has expired, and the card is no longer open to applicants.

Welcome Offer

No offer available

No offer available

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$0

Annual Fee

$95

APR

21.24% - 29.24% variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Citi Premier^® Card is an excellent option for anyone looking for an all-around travel rewards credit card. The card helps you earn points fast with great 3x bonus categories such as restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotels. Plus, it offers access to airline and hotel transfer partners, doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, and has a reasonable annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotel purchases
• Access to Citi transfer partners
• Annual hotel credit

Cons

• $95 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• No welcome offer available
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
• 60,000 ThankYou^® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.24% - 29.24% variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Citi ThankYou Rewards

Bottom Line: With Turkish Airlines, it’s possible to book a premium transcontinental business class flight for fewer miles than it would cost other travelers to book a short-haul coach flight! 

Air Canada Aeroplan

Air Canada’s loyalty program, Aeroplan, has a relatively complicated system for pricing award flights. It uses a hybrid dynamic award pricing system for its own flights, while it uses a hybrid distance-based award pricing system for partner flights.

That’s why in the following table, you’ll see that each distance bracket comes with a range of possible prices for one-way flights:

Something to be aware of while you’re searching for award availability: a Saver award that you find on a partner website like United may not be priced at the lowest possible price in a particular distance bracket.

For example, most Saver awards in business class on Air Canada’s route between Los Angeles (LAX) and Toronto (YYZ) cost 28,000 Aeroplan points, which is not quite the bottom of the 25,000-to-60,000-point range in Aeroplan’s award chart. For reference, the flight distance between Los Angeles and Toronto is approximately 2,175 miles.

Another unique benefit of using Air Canada Aeroplan is that you’ll have much greater access to award availability, meaning you won’t have to search for Saver availability — though you may end up redeeming more points for these flights.

Your total out-of-pocket bill will be around ~$32 in taxes and fees one-way.

Hot Tip: If you’re booking a Business Class Flexible Reward ticket using Aeroplan points, you have the incredible privilege of accessing the Air Canada Signature Suite Lounge. That’s right, there is a way to get into the Signature Suite with points.

Follow these instructions to book your ticket using Aeroplan points:

1. Make your way to Air Canada’s homepage.
2. In the top-right corner, click Sign in by hovering over the button that says Sign in.
3. Log in using your Aeroplan number and password.
4. On the homepage’s search box, remember to toggle the slider that says Points.
5. Select Round-trip or One-way for the trip, fill in the search box, and click Find.
6. Find a suitable flight, redeem your Aeroplan points, and use a credit card to book your Air Canada flight.

Earning Air Canada Aeroplan Points

Aeroplan is transfer partners with Amex Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Capital One Miles, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.

Amex, Bilt, Capital One, and Chase all transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio, while Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio within 5 business days. You’ll also get a bonus of 5,000 Aeroplan points for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points transferred.

Recommended Chase Ultimate Rewards Cards (Personal)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 bonus points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$550

APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Excellent (740-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025

Cons

• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

INTRO OFFER

Chase Freedom Unlimited^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Freedom Unlimited^®

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!

Welcome Offer

Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

Up to $300 cash-back

Annual Fee

$0

APR

0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74%.

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Freedom Unlimited^® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.

When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74%.
• 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
• 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases

Cons

• 3% foreign transaction fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited^® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74%.
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Freedom Flex^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Freedom Flex card is an excellent no-annual-fee card that still earns big with 5% cash-back on travel and other bonus categories.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Freedom Flex^®

The Freedom Flex card is an excellent no-annual-fee card that still earns big with 5% cash-back on travel and other bonus categories.

Welcome Offer

Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74%

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ sure does pack quite a punch — especially for a no-annual-fee card.

The Freedom Flex card is an incredible option for those looking for a well-rounded cash-back card, or a powerful point-earner when paired with a premium card in the Ultimate Rewards family.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74%.
• Powerful cash-back earner: 5% back on quarterly categories and travel purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% back on all other purchases
• No annual fee

Cons

• 3% foreign transaction fees in U.S. dollars

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
• 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
• 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
• 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99%-28.74%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex^® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health - Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74%
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Business Owner? Read our article on the best Chase business cards that earn Ultimate Rewards.

ANA Mileage Club

ANA Mileage Club offers attractive business class pricing, though using this program isn’t quite as attractive for U.S. to Canada flights as it usually is for flights to Africa, Asia, and Europe.

ANA requires round-trip or open-jaw award bookings; no one-way bookings are permitted.

Here’s how much it costs to book a round-trip Air Canada business class ticket between the U.S. and Canada:

Here are the instructions you should be following to book Air Canada business class flights using ANA miles:

1. Instead of using ANA’s website to search for award availability, do so on United’s search engine. Look for Saver award tickets.
2. Note down all the flight information.
3. Visit ANA’s website, click ANA Mileage Club in the top-right corner, and log into your ANA Mileage Club account.
4. You’ll be taken to a search page. Enter all of the same information from step 2.
5. Perform your search and reconfirm availability.
6. Book the flights using ANA miles and a credit card for taxes and fees.

This is what a successful award search looks like with ANA:

Earning ANA Mileage Club Miles

ANA partners with Amex Membership Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy. Points can be transferred from Membership Rewards at a 1:1 ratio in about 3 business days. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio in about 4 business days. When you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to ANA, you’ll earn a bonus of 5,000 additional miles.

Recommended American Express Cards (Personal)

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

80,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,760

Annual Fee

$695

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card^® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card^® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card^® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card^®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card^® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
• $199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck^® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card^®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card^®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.¤
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Gold Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

American Express^® Gold Card

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$325

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The American Express^® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $325 annual fee (rates and fees)
• No lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1X Membership Rewards^® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
• $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations.
• $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
• Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Eligible charges vary by property.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $325.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Business Owner? Check out our article on the best Amex business cards that earn Membership Rewards.

Bottom Line: One of the underrated benefits of ANA Mileage Club is the fact that it allows award cancellations for just 3,000 miles per ticket. This is in stark contrast with other frequent flyer programs that may charge up to $200 per ticket! 

Avianca LifeMiles

Avianca LifeMiles offers excellent redemptions rates. In fact, on paper, the rates are better than ANA’s.

LifeMiles are generally easier to earn than ANA miles, and you can often even purchase LifeMiles at a phenomenal rate if you don’t have enough points.

But in practice, using LifeMiles for Air Canada business class tickets is incredibly frustrating — award availability often doesn’t match what’s viewable on United’s website. That, coupled with the steep change fee of $150 per ticket and cancellation fee of $200 per ticket, makes us reconsider whether it’s really the best option to book Air Canada business class.

Here’s how much a one-way Air Canada business class ticket between the U.S. and Canada would cost with LifeMiles:

Here are the steps to book your Air Canada business class flight using LifeMiles. Remember, just because you see availability on a partner’s website like United or Aeroplan doesn’t mean you’ll see the same availability on LifeMiles.

1. Do not transfer points to LifeMiles until you’ve confirmed award availability.
2. First, start by searching for award availability on United.com. Write down any matching flight details.
3. Visit LifeMiles’ homepage.
4. Change the site language to English by clicking the circular flag button in the top-right corner and clicking English.
5. In the top-right corner, sign in using your LifeMiles Number and Password.
6. On the new homepage’s top banner, click Fly.
7. Near the top-left of the page, toggle the drop-down menu that says Smart Search and change it to Air Canada.
8. Fill out the search box, choose one-way or round-trip, and click Find Flights.
9. Select the travel dates.
10. Attempt to verify that the flights you see are the same flights from the United.com search.
11. After verifying all the flight information matches what you found on United, transfer your points to LifeMiles and book the reservation.

Earning Avianca LifeMiles

The good news is that LifeMiles are easy to earn, thanks to transfer partnerships with American Express, Brex Rewards, Capital One, Citi, and Marriott Bonvoy.

Amex, Brex, Capital One, and Citi all transfer at a 1:1 ratio almost instantly. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio in approximately 1 business day with a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points transferred.

Amex, Citi, and Brex also often offer transfer bonuses, which could reduce your award flight cost by an additional 20% to 30%!

Recommended Capital One Miles Cards

TOP PICK

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Learn More(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

19.99% - 29.74% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Excellent (740-840)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $395 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 29.74% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Learn More(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Welcome Offer

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.99% - 29.74% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent Credit (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• Up to a $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

Cons

• $95 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Limited elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 29.74% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Learn More(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Welcome Offer

Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel.

20,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$360

Annual Fee

$0

APR

19.74% - 29.74% (Variable),0% intro on purchases for 15 months

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

Interested in a travel rewards credit card without one of those pesky annual fees? Then say hello to the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card.

In addition to no annual fee, the Capital One VentureOne card offers no foreign transaction fees.

But is this card worth its salt, or is it merely a shell of the more popular Capital One Venture card?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No annual fee (rates & fees)
• No foreign transaction fees (rates & fees)
• Ability to use transfer partners

Cons

• Weak earn rate at 1.25x miles per $1 spent on all purchases
• No luxury travel or elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.74% - 29.74% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.74% - 29.74% (Variable),0% intro on purchases for 15 months
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Bottom Line: Avianca LifeMiles is the best option for Capital One enthusiasts, thanks to the enhanced 1:1 transfer ratio. Just be mindful that LifeMiles doesn’t always have access to the same availability that other partners like United do. Also, remember that LifeMiles has a harsh change fee of $150 and a brutal cancellation fee of $200 per ticket!

United MileagePlus

The last method we’ll talk about is United MileagePlus, a very popular program in the U.S. MileagePlus will waste very little of your time, thanks to a simplistic booking process and powerful search engine.

The mileage prices are more or less in line with the average Star Alliance frequent flyer program, but the convenience of MileagePlus is very valuable.

Here’s how much it will cost to book an Air Canada business class flight between the U.S. and Canada using United miles:

There are no fuel surcharges you’ll be liable for, and redemption prices are reasonable.

Here are the steps you can take to reserve your Air Canada flights using United miles:

1. Go to United’s website.
2. Check off the box that says Book with Miles in the homepage’s search box.
3. Fill in the flight information and click Find flights.
4. Scroll through each date in the calendar and confirm your ticket when you find a suitable option.

Earning United MileagePlus Miles

United MileagePlus is transfer partners with Bilt Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy.

Chase Ultimate Rewards and Bilt Rewards points transfer almost instantly at a 1:1 ratio and Marriott Bonvoy points transfer in 3 business days at a 3:1 ratio. You’ll get a 10,000-mile bonus when you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Also, Chase issues a handful of co-branded United credit cards that earn United miles directly.

Recommended United Cards

LIMITED TIME OFFER

United℠ Explorer Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

United℠ Explorer Card

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

60,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$720

Annual Fee

$95

APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

You travel United all the time, but you have heard that there could be ways to make your travel experiences even better, including priority boarding, free bags, and more miles.

You should consider the United℠ Explorer Card, because this card does all that and more!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x miles per $1 on United purchases, dining purchases (including delivery services), and hotel stays
• 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
• First checked bag free for you and up to 1 traveling companion

Cons

• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Limited-time Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus miles
• $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• 2x miles on United^® purchases, dining, and hotel stays
• Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
• Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
• Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck^® or NEXUS fee credit
• 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

United MileagePlus Frequent Flyer Program

LIMITED TIME OFFER

United Club℠ Infinite Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

United Club℠ Infinite Card

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

Welcome Offer

Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

90,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,080

Annual Fee

$525

APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Excellent (740-850)

Why We Like This Card

The United Club℠ Infinite Card is a premium card designed for the most dedicated of United frequent flyers who are looking for a card that provides the opportunity to earn extra United MileagePlus miles and receive lounge access via a yearly United Club membership.

United frequent flyers will find that the United Club Infinite card provides an enhanced experience on their United flights thanks to the money saved on each flight and the conveniences it provides.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 on travel and dining purchases
• Complimentary United Club membership (up to $650 value per year)

Cons

• $525 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Limited-time Offer: Earn 90,000 bonus miles
• 4x miles on United^® purchases
• 2x miles on all other travel and dining
• 1x mile on all other purchases
• United Club℠ membership - up to $650 value per year
• Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and Premier Access^® travel services
• Earn up to 10,000 Premier qualifying points per calendar year (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

LIMITED TIME OFFER

United Quest℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

United Quest℠ Card

The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.

Welcome Offer

Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

70,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$840

Annual Fee

$250

APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The newest addition to United’s lineup of cards is the United Quest℠ Card. With it, you can bolster your United MileagePlus miles, thanks to the bonus categories, while enjoying the card’s many perks designed to help save you money on each United flight.

With an annual fee that falls between the United℠ Explorer Card and United Club℠ Infinite Card, the United Quest card makes for a fantastic card option for United frequent flyers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 spent on travel, dining, and select streaming services
• $125 annual United credit

Cons

• Does not earn transferable rewards
• Does not offer airport lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Limited-time Offer: Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP
• 3x miles on United^® purchases
• 2x miles on all other travel, dining, and select streaming services
• 1x mile on all other purchases
• Up to a $125 United^® purchase credit and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year (terms apply)
• Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and priority boarding
• Earn up to 6,000 Premier qualifying points per calendar year (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

LIMITED TIME OFFER

United Gateway℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The United Gateway card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without paying an annual fee.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

United Gateway℠ Card

The United Gateway card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without paying an annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 30,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. Learn more.

30,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$360

Annual Fee

$0

APR

0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months; after that, 21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The United Gateway℠ Card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without wanting to pay a credit card annual fee. Plus, the card offers other solid benefits like a 25% back on United inflight purchases, purchase protection, and rental car insurance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 at gas stations and on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services, taxicabs, train tickets, tolls, and mass transit
• 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• If you are a frequent United flyer, other cards offer more perks
• It does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Limited-time Offer: Earn 30,000 bonus miles
• No annual fee
• 2x miles on United^® purchases
• 2x miles at gas stations
• 2x miles on local transit and commuting
• 1x mile on all other purchases
• 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months; after that, 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

United Club℠ Business Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.

United Club℠ Business Card

The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.

Welcome Offer

Earn 50,000 bonus miles + 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

50,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$600

Annual Fee

$450

APR

21.99%–28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The United Club℠ Business Card is a premium card option for dedicated United loyalists seeking a card that offers complimentary United Club access, helps them earn and retain status, and doesn’t skip on the benefits.

From free checked bags to upgrades on award tickets and the ability to earn Premier qualifying points, there is plenty to the United Club Business card that United flyers are sure to love.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x miles per $1 spent on United purchases
• 1.5x miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Complimentary United Club membership

Cons

• $450 annual fee
• Earning rate for United purchases is poor compared to other United cards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 50,000 bonus miles + 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open
• Earn 2x miles on United purchases
• Earn 1.5x miles on all other purchases
• Employee cards at no additional cost
• United Club membership — up to a $650 value per year. Relax in comfort while waiting for your flight with complimentary beverages, snacks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and more
• Free first and second checked bags for you and a companion, save up to $320 per round-trip
• 25% back on United inflight purchases
• No foreign transaction fees

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.99%–28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

Other Great Options for Booking Air Canada

There are plenty of other ways to book Air Canada business class flights, including EVA Air Infinity MileageLands, Asiana Club, and Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer.

Some of these frequent flyer programs have hard-to-earn miles, while others have unattractive award rates. And a few of them have unintuitive booking processes that require phone calls.

Remember, we focused on flights between the U.S. and Canada. For flights between Canada and the rest of the world, there are undoubtedly going to be different programs that have competitive redemption prices!

Great Air Canada Business Class Redemptions

In total, we covered options for booking Air Canada business class tickets between the U.S. and Canada. Here are our findings (note that the Air Canada prices refer to the Saver-level awards):

As you can tell, Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles wins by a long shot. Offering one-way business class tickets for a jaw-dropping 15,000 miles, it’s easy to see why this is our undisputed winner. Turkish Airlines miles can be transferred from Bilt, Capital One, or Citi at a 1:1 ratio and Marriott Bonvoy at a 3:1 ratio.

After that, we’re big fans of Air Canada Aeroplan for its enhanced award availability, as well as offering the only way to get Signature Suite lounge access on an award ticket when booking a Business Class Flexible Reward ticket. Aeroplan is transfer partners with Amex, Capital One, and Chase at a 1:1 ratio and Marriott Bonvoy at a 3:1 ratio.

ANA is great because if you find round-trip award availability, you can book with peace of mind, knowing that the cancellation fee is just 3,000 miles per ticket. Miles can be transferred from Amex 1:1 or Marriott Bonvoy 3:1.

LifeMiles is the best deal for those amassing Capital One miles due to the 1:1 transfer ratio, but be wary of the inconsistent award availability and the severe change/cancellation fees! Other partners include Amex, Brex, and Citi at a 1:1 ratio and Marriott Bonvoy at a 3:1 ratio.

United MileagePlus is a solid choice because its online interface is second-to-none; you can take care of your award booking completely online with ease. Transfers can be made 1:1 from Bilt Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards, or 3:1 from Marriott Bonvoy with a 10,000-point bonus when transferring 60,000 points.

Here are some awesome award redemptions you can make with Air Canada:

• Los Angeles (LAX) – Toronto (YYZ) round-trip in Air Canada business class for 30,000 Turkish Airlines miles
• Newark (EWR) – Vancouver (YVR) one-way in Air Canada business class for 25,000 LifeMiles
• San Francisco (SFO) – Toronto (YYZ) round-trip in Air Canada business class for 58,500 Aeroplan points (includes a Flexible Reward ticket booked on the returning flight with Signature Suite access)
• Vancouver (YVR) – Montréal (YUL) one-way in Air Canada business class for 27,500 United miles
• Vancouver (YVR) – Toronto (YYZ) round-trip in Air Canada business class for 55,000 ANA miles

How To Earn Enough Miles for Air Canada Business Class

There are numerous methods for booking Air Canada business class. Since Air Canada is a Star Alliance airline, you can redeem points from any transferable currency to book business class flights!

Here is the list of transferable currencies and which of the top 5 frequent flyer programs they can transfer to:

• American Express Membership Rewards points transfer at a 1:1 ratio to Air Canada Aeroplan almost instantly, ANA Mileage Club within 3 business days, and Avianca LifeMiles almost instantly.
• Bilt Rewards points transfer at a 1:1 ratio almost instantly to Air Canada Aeroplan, Turkish Miles&Smiles, and United.
• Brex Rewards points transfer at a 1:1 ratio almost instantly to Avianca LifeMiles.
• Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer at a 1:1 ratio instantly to Air Canada Aeroplan and United MileagePlus.
• Citi ThankYou Rewards Points transfer at a 1:1 ratio to Avianca LifeMiles almost instantly and to Turkish Airlines in 1 to 2 business days.
• Capital One miles transfer at a 1:1 ratio to Air Canada Aeroplan at a 1:1 ratio almost instantly, to Avianca LifeMiles almost instantly, and to Turkish Airlines at a 1:1 ratio in around 1 business day.
• Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio to Air Canada Aeroplan within 5 business days, ANA Mileage Club within 4 business days, Avianca LifeMiles within 1 business day, and Turkish Miles&Smiles. They also transfer to United at a 3:1 ratio within 3 business days with a 10,000-point bonus when transferring 60,000 points.

You should also note that transfer bonuses to LifeMiles of 15% to 30% are offered often, whereas Aeroplan occasionally has transfer bonuses of 15% to 25% and Turkish Airlines has transfer bonuses very rarely. Typically, the transfer bonuses are from Amex, Citi, and Brex (on occasion). A Capital One transfer bonus is very rare, and ANA and United have never had transfer bonuses.

When Should You Search for Award Space

This is highly dependent on the route you’re flying. For example, if you’re booking an international route from Montréal, it shouldn’t be difficult to find availability far in advance, and you’ll need to start searching at least 2 months in advance of departure if you want to book premium transcontinental flights from Los Angeles or San Francisco to Toronto.

But, you may also find extremely last-minute availability (same-day or a day before departure). The general rule of thumb is to search far in advance for Air Canada business class flights.

We recommend using United to search for award space. If you plan on adhering to a strict flight schedule and are fine with redeeming double or triple the points, give the Air Canada website a shot.

What Makes Air Canada a Great Business Class Redemption

Air Canada is an airline that never blows anyone away, but it provides a good enough impression to make people happy to fly on it again. According to our rankings, it’s also one of the best international business class airlines in the world.

Let’s take a look at the major highlights:

Solid Seats

Air Canada’s hard product is industry-leading. Whether you’re flying on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner or the 777, you’ll find comfortable lie-flat business class seats in a reverse-herringbone layout.

Each of these seats is wide, spacious, comfortable, technologically advanced, and provides plenty of privacy.

All-around Quality

Beyond the hard product, everything else about the Air Canada business class experience receives high marks.

Whether you’re looking at the expansive wine list, the attention to detail in its catering, the friendly Canadian service, or the comfortable bedding, Air Canada business class is an all-around high-quality product.

Even on regional flights, you might find a mattress pad, complete with a full set of bedding and a wellness amenity kit.

Incredible Business Class Lounge Access on Select Award Tickets

Air Canada’s Signature Suite has made a big splash. These ultra-exclusive spaces are the best lounges in North America, competing on level footing with international first class lounges!

Amenities include plenty of space to relax, à la carte dining service with top-tier food offerings, top-shelf alcohol, and much more.

And if you redeem Air Canada Aeroplan points for a Business Class Flexible Reward ticket, you’re entitled to Signature Suite lounge access!

Check out the price difference between a Saver Reward and a Flexible Reward ticket:

If anything, you can think of the difference in rates as your way to purchase access to the exclusive airport hangout.

Final Thoughts

Air Canada receives high marks all around. Booking a business class ticket, particularly on premium U.S. to Canada routes is especially challenging due to a drought of award availability.

But if you’re willing to book your trip to Canada a bit further in advance than everybody else, you’ll be rewarded with superb redemption value.

With some luck and plenty of advanced planning, you’ll find yourself sitting comfortably in an Air Canada business class seat in no time!