Although cross-border travel is currently in limbo, the ability for aspiring beach bums and backpackers to earn travel rewards has not waivered. Joining the right program and earning loyalty points or rewards on everyday purchases can help members get one step closer to their next trip when restrictions ease.
Of the many travel rewards programs available in Canada, Aeroplan is a popular choice for vacationers and frequent flyers. Members can redeem their rewards for flights, vacation packages, car rentals, hotels, experiences and merchandise. To earn points (previously miles), members simply have to shop with Aeroplan retailers or travel partners.
Here are five easy ways to start earning more Aeroplan points and boost your rewards balance.
1. Double-dip on rewards
Shoppers can earn more when using an Aeroplan-affiliated credit card in conjunction with an Aeroplan membership card.
Cardholders can earn Aeroplan points on everyday purchases with their Aeroplan credit card and double-dip on rewards at Aeroplan Partners.
Not only that, but prospective cardholders may also earn more with an excellent welcome bonus or promotional offer and benefit from exclusive credit card perks. Many Aeroplan credit cards feature travel benefits through Air Canada, like lounge access or priority boarding.
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2. Shop online through the eStore
Aeroplan members can earn more points when they shop online through the Aeroplan eStore at over 170 brands.
Some popular retailers include:
- Apple
- Disney+
- Amazon.ca
- Sephora
- Etsy
Search for the retailer you wish to shop with and earn at least one point for every $1 you spend. Aeroplan Partners vary; however, members can earn points on technology, clothing, sports equipment and gear, music and streaming services, home furnishings, and more.
Taking the extra step to search the eStore can help you earn points with your favourite brands for purchases you already plan to buy. Read the offer details to see which products are eligible for Aeroplan points. Some exclusions do apply.
3. Take advantage of promotions
Often, Aeroplan will feature additional promotions via its website. Currently, members can cash in on the Valentine’s Event and earn up to seven times the rewards at participating retailers. The Valentine’s Event ends February 14, 2021.
Check for promotions regularly to ensure you never miss a bonus offer.
4. Convert points from other loyalty programs
Many travel rewards programs offer point conversions, which can be an excellent way for travellers to merge their points and build a larger balance for one particular program.
Some programs offer a one-to-one point conversion; however, each partner will have unique conversion increments and requirements.
Here are some top travel program conversion rates:
- American Express Membership Rewards: 1,000 Membership Rewards points = 1,000 Aeroplan points
- Best Western Rewards: 5 Best Western Rewards points = 1 Aeroplan point
- Marriott Bonvoy: 3 Marriott Bonvoy points = 1 Aeroplan point
Plus, some programs offer bonus points when you convert a specific amount of rewards. For example, members can get an extra 5,000 Aeroplan points for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points they convert.
5. Pool your points
Aeroplan recently revamped its entire program, and with it comes Aeroplan Family Sharing. Combine Aeroplan points with up to eight family members and earn rewards as a group. Pool existing points and share the balance.
Related read: New Aeroplan Credit Cards Arriving November 2020
Not only will you earn points faster, but if one member of your family makes Elite Status, the entire group gets to enjoy preferred pricing.
Redeeming rewards
Aeroplan points are great for more than just flights. Enjoy hotels and other little luxuries now, or start to build your rewards balance and save for your dream vacation.
Rates, product information, and reward estimates are subject to change at any time and do not constitute financial advice. This post was not sponsored. The views and opinions expressed in this review are purely those of RATESDOTCA. Information in this article is accurate as of the date of this posting, February 3, 2021. Read our full disclaimer.
This article has been updated.
