Expert Level: Which Credit Card(s) Should You Get?

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Marie-Ève Leclerc
Marie-Ève Leclerc Marie-Ève Leclerc
Marie-Ève, Web Director at Milesopedia, is an expert in budget travel and a slow travel enthusiast. Specializing in Aeroplan, Scene+, and Marriott Bonvoy programs, she spends nearly six months a year abroad, making travel her way of life. Constantly seeking the best waves to surf, excellent coffee, and strategies to extend her travels, she is often found in coworking spaces with fellow digital nomads or by the sea, watching the sunset.
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Expert Level: Which Credit Card(s) Should You Get? - Expert Level
To the point Here is a quick summary of our recommendations for the best credit cards for people who are very comfortable and experienced.

This article is the last in the series of articles for:

Our reminders regarding points and rewards accumulation are as follows:

  • It’s a marathon, not a sprint!
  • At first, it’s best to apply for 1 or 2 credit cards every 6 months.
  • When experience builds up, you can apply for 2 cards every 4 months.

This list for future experts has been compiled based on our analyses, our personal experiences, and those of Milesopedia readers.

We assume you already hold a few cards from the Beginner Level and Intermediate Level articles, such as the:

These best Expert level credit cards are for people who are used to juggling multiple credit cards according to their needs or who travel frequently. They were chosen for:

  • Multiple exclusive and distinctive benefits;
  • Obtaining prestigious experiences and invitations;
  • Their ability to obtain higher-level rewards that match a certain elevated travel lifestyle.

In summary, here are our selections for the best credit cards for this ultimate stage:

CardWhy
American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve CardIts advantages for getting ahead of everyone else on Air Canada flights and simplifying your travel life.
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Credit CardFor VIPs, thanks to the advantages of Visa Infinite Privilège and superior insurance.
Business Platinum Card® from American ExpressFor its various annual credits and large, luxurious benefits.

The annual fees for these cards are high, but this comes with even greater benefits!

American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card

Why hold the American Express Aeroplan®* Reserve Card? Here are its benefits:

  • Welcome bonus in Aeroplan points;
  • Priority check-in, priority boarding (zone 2), and priority baggage handling;
  • No minimum income required;
  • Access to Maple Leaf Lounges in North America;
  • The highest Aeroplan points accumulation thanks to its 3 points/$1 on eligible purchases with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations;
  • First checked bag free for you and up to 8 people traveling on the same reservation when the trip begins with an Air Canada flight;
  • $100 CAD credit for NEXUS membership fees;
  • Receive an Annual Buddy Pass – Worldwide each year when there are more than $25,000 in purchases charged to the card;
  • Rollover of unused Status Qualifying Miles and eUpgrade credits to the following year;
  • VIP experience at Toronto Pearson International Airport;
  • Outstanding American Express customer service;
  • Preferred rates and lower prices when booking a flight with Aeroplan points;
  • And for the pleasure of having a metal card in your wallet!

Frequent travelers with Air Canada and its partners are particularly targeted and valued with this card.

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Credit Card

Why apply for the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card? Here are its benefits:

  • Welcome bonus in Aeroplan points;
  • Access to Maple Leaf Lounges in North America;
  • 6 additional complimentary annual lounge access passes through the Visa Airport Companion program and DragonPass;
  • Priority check-in, priority boarding (zone 2), and priority baggage handling;
  • Fast track through international and domestic security checkpoints (Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal-Trudeau)
  • $100 CAD credit for NEXUS membership fees;
  • Receive an Annual Buddy Pass – Worldwide each year when there are more than $25,000 in purchases charged to the card;
  • Rollover of unused Status Qualifying Miles and eUpgrade credits to the following year;
  • Various promotions with Aeroplan, the eStore, and Starbucks;
  • Automatic Avis President’s Club status;
  • Excellent travel insurance;
  • Preferred rates and lower prices when booking a flight with Aeroplan points;
  • Exclusive benefits and experiences with Visa Infinite Privilege (exclusive discounts for luxury hotels, culinary experiences, concierge, and travel);
  • And for the pleasure of having a metal card in your wallet!

This will allow you to arrive at the airport, check your bag for free, pass through security very quickly thanks to the NEXUS card, eat and drink for free at the Maple Leaf Lounge before departure, and be among the first people to board the plane.

At first glance, the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card and the American Express Aeroplan®* Reserve Card seem similar.

See the comparison between the two to find out which is best for you and your needs.

Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Treat yourself with the Business Platinum Card® from American Express. Move to the next level as a traveler and become a VIP wherever you go.

  • Does not require minimum income;
  • Excellent welcome bonus (the best in a long time);
  • Complimentary unlimited access for you and one additional traveler to more than 1,400 airport lounges in over 130 countries;
  • Access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program;
  • Gold status with Hilton and Marriott Bonvoy hotels;
  • $100 credit for NEXUS;
  • Annual travel credit of $200;
  • Annual credit of up to $120 for wireless services;
  • Transfer points to airline and hotel partners;
  • Exclusive experiences, access to reserved events (such as the Amex House during the Montreal Grand Prix or MTL à TABLE), and gifts for cardholders;
  • Very advantageous travel insurance;
  • Excellent customer service;
  • And for the pleasure of having a metal card in your wallet!

You can be an individual (self-employed) or owner of an SME who needs a credit card. See our article in more detail on How to Apply for an American Express Business Card?.

Bottom Line

With these cards, you will be covered in all situations according to your objective, insurance, and desired special benefits.

But above all, whatever you choose, it is very important to pay your credit card balances in full every month! Otherwise, all your profits will be wiped out by interest charges.

Also, don’t forget to carefully read all the credit card terms and conditions.

To Go Further with American Express Membership Rewards Points

To maximize your Membership Rewards points accumulation, consult our complete guide to the American Express Membership Rewards program as well as our ranking of the best American Express Membership Rewards credit cards, updated monthly by the Milesopedia team.

Come to discuss that topic in our Facebook Group!
Jean-Maximilien Voisine
Jean-Maximilien Voisine
Jean-Maximilien Voisine is the President and Founder of Milesopedia and a leading expert in rewards programs, credit cards, and travel across Canada, France, and the U.S.A. Now 40 years old and a father of two, he has explored more than 100 countries—many of them alongside his wife Audrey and their children. Specializing in loyalty programs such as Aeroplan, Flying Blue, American Express Membership Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy, Jean-Maximilien helps travellers unlock the full potential of their points and benefits. His mission: empower others to travel better and smarter across North America and Europe.
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