WestJet is making changes to its Mastercard credit cards starting Nov. 5.Jeff McIntosh/The Canadian Press
WestJet RBC Mastercards are getting an upgrade, and the news is mostly positive for cardholders, who will soon benefit from higher earning rates on everyday purchases, more flexibility with companion vouchers and additional perks.
These card changes, in conjunction with the recent enhancements to WestJet Rewards, give travellers a clearer picture of how all the major Canadian airline loyalty programs and credit cards compare.
Earning rate increases for both cards
Starting Nov. 5, WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard holders will see these changes. In addition to the two WestJet points they currently receive for every $1 spent on WestJet flights and vacations, as well as the 1.5 points on all other purchases, cardholders will also earn two WestJet points per $1 spent on Sunwing vacations, groceries, gas, EV charging, public transit and rideshares.
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The entry-level WestJet RBC Mastercard is getting a boost, too. Alongside its existing 1.5 WestJet points per $1 spent on WestJet flights and vacations and one point per $1 spent on other purchases, it will now offer 1.5 WestJet points per $1 spent on Sunwing vacations, restaurants, food delivery and digital subscriptions.
These expanded earning categories give WestJet’s cards more multipliers than comparable Aeroplan and VIPorter products in the same tier. While the “best” card still depends on a traveller’s personal spending and travel habits, the updates make WestJet’s lineup far more competitive.
The World Elite card’s annual fee will increase by $20 to $139, aligning with the TD and CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite cards. The WestJet RBC Mastercard’s fee remains unchanged at $39.
Companion voucher becomes more flexible
One major complaint of the companion voucher that came with both cards is that it has limited value to solo travellers. That’s about to change. Soon, World Elite cardholders will be able to swap their voucher for one of three options:
30 per cent off the base fare for a solo economy ticket;a $200 credit toward WestJet or Sunwing vacations;two lounge passes (previously four).
For those holding the entry-level card, the exchange options are the following:
25 per cent off the base fare for a solo economy ticket;5,000 WestJet points (worth as much as $50).
There’s still no minimum spend requirement to get the voucher in the first year. However, starting in the second year, you’ll need to meet new annual spending thresholds of $5,000 for the World Elite card and $2,500 for the entry‑level card. These amounts remain well below the requirements for comparable Aeroplan and VIPorter cards.
Additional perks added
The World Elite card is introducing trip cancellation insurance, enhancing its suite of extended travel protection. Both cards will also now include mobile device insurance, offering extra peace of mind for your tech.
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One notable change affects the first checked bag free benefit. To receive complimentary baggage for yourself and as many as eight guests on the same itinerary, you’ll now need to pay the full cost of your WestJet flight with your World Elite card. Previously, just holding the card was enough to qualify. This requirement is unique among co-branded airline credit cards but is not a deal-breaker.
Redemptions still need to be considered
Although the recent changes are mostly positive, it’s important to note that WestJet Rewards operates more like a cash-back program than a traditional points system. With a fixed redemption rate of 100 WestJet points giving you $1 off your flight, the amount of value you can get is limited.
By contrast, programs such as Aeroplan and VIPorter use dynamic pricing, where redemption costs fluctuate based on supply and demand, creating opportunities to get higher value from your points.
Network reach is another differentiator. Air Canada’s extensive global network and VIPorter’s partnerships with Air Transat and Alaska Airlines provide both programs with much wider coverage than what WestJet currently offers.
Why these changes are happening
These updates are a direct response to growing competition. Aeroplan and VIPorter have both launched new cards with wide‑ranging earn categories and strong travel insurance.
By introducing trip cancellation coverage, mobile device insurance and additional accelerated earn rates, WestJet is closing the gap while delivering benefits its customers truly value.
Although the World Elite card’s annual fee will increase by $20, the improved benefits and increased voucher flexibility more than make up for it. For frequent WestJet flyers, these changes are likely to feel like a valuable upgrade rather than a cost increase.
Barry Choi is a personal finance and travel expert. He was previously affiliated with WestJet, RBC and Air Canada but currently has no relationship with any of the brands mentioned.