CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card Review – Is It Still Worth It?

My experience using CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card

If you’re a Canadian looking to dip your toes into travel rewards without paying annual fees, the CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Card is one of the most accessible ways to do it. As the only no-annual-fee Aeroplan-branded credit card in Canada, it deserves a serious look from students, first-time cardholders, and anyone chasing free travel rewards.

In this review, I’ll break down how the card works, who it’s best for, what perks to expect, and whether it’s worth keeping long-term — all from a practical, personal-use perspective.

🌍 What Is the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card?

The CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card is a co-branded travel rewards credit card offered by CIBC in partnership with Air Canada’s Aeroplan program. It allows users to earn Aeroplan points on everyday purchases like groceries, gas, and Air Canada travel — all without paying an annual fee.

This card sits at the entry-level tier of Aeroplan credit cards, which range from no-fee to high-fee premium options with lounge access and elite travel perks. While it lacks luxury travel benefits, it packs a punch for what it offers for free.

🚀 How Does It Work?

The CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card is straightforward:

• No annual fee

• 10,000 Aeroplan points as a welcome bonus after your first purchase

• 1 Aeroplan point per $1 spent on eligible gas, groceries, and Air Canada purchases

• 1 Aeroplan point per $1.50 spent on all other purchases

🧮 What Are Aeroplan Points Worth?

On average, Aeroplan points are valued at around 2.23¢ each (source: NerdWallet). That means:

• 10,000 points = approximately $223 worth of travel, depending on how you redeem.

That’s an outstanding return for a no-fee credit card — essentially free money for spending as little as $1 on your first purchase.

🎁 Key Features & Benefits

Let’s break down the most notable benefits of the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card:

✅ 1. Welcome Bonus – 10,000 Points

This is where the card really shines. Just make one purchase, and you’ll receive 10,000 Aeroplan points. That’s $200+ in free travel credit, no strings attached. Unlike many no-fee cards that require minimum spends or timed milestones, this is instant gratification.

✅ 2. Everyday Earning

• 1 point per $1 on:

  • Groceries

  • Gas

  • Air Canada purchases

• 1 point per $1.50 on all other spending

These earn rates are decent — though not groundbreaking. Compared to cash-back cards or premium points cards, the rates are modest but acceptable for a no-fee option.

✅ 3. Travel Insurance Coverage

Surprisingly, the card includes:

• Auto Rental Collision/Loss Damage Insurance (when you pay for the rental with your card)

That’s a nice perk for occasional renters, especially since most entry-level cards skip on travel protections.

🧑‍💻 Personal Experience & User Insights

As someone who recently picked up this card, I was initially drawn by the low commitment and high sign-up bonus. I used it for a single grocery run and unlocked 10,000 points — easy!

I’m planning a vacation this year and have been slowly learning how to maximize Aeroplan redemptions. The program is powerful but complex, with dynamic pricing, partner airlines, and sweet spots that reward research. If you’re someone who enjoys optimizing, this card can lead to serious value.

Some users, especially students or low spenders, are using this as a stepping stone into travel rewards. Others combine it with premium cards like the Amex Cobalt to stack earnings and benefits.

⚖️ CIBC Aeroplan Visa vs. Other Cards

Verdict: While the Amex Cobalt is the undisputed leader for Aeroplan earning potential (especially with 5x at grocery stores and restaurants), the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card is the best no-fee way to get started.

🔍 Who Should Get This Card?

This card is perfect for:

• Students or first-time credit card users

• Travel lovers who want free flights without paying an annual fee

• Anyone building their Aeroplan points balance

• People not planning on applying for a loan in the next 6 months

Pro Tip: If you already bank with CIBC and hold a Smart Chequing Account with $6,000 minimum balance, you can get some Aeroplan premium cards with waived annual fees, unlocking better perks at no cost.

❗️Things to Keep in Mind

• Credit Score Impact: Applying for a new credit card will cause a temporary dip in your credit score. Don’t apply if you plan to get a mortgage or major loan within 3–6 months.

• Aeroplan Program Complexity: Aeroplan is not beginner-friendly — but if you learn the rules, you can maximize the value far beyond the average flyer.

• No FX Waiver: The card does not waive foreign transaction fees (2.5%), which is common with most Canadian credit cards.

💡 Should You Keep It Long-Term?

If you already have premium cards like Amex Cobalt or TD Aeroplan Infinite, this card won’t be your main driver. However, it’s 100% worth getting for the sign-up bonus alone.

Even if you never use it again, keeping it open can help your credit score long-term by boosting your available credit and lengthening your credit history.

So the best strategy?

1. Apply

2. Make your first purchase

3. Get the 10,000 points

4. Use the points for travel

5. Keep the card open for credit score benefits

🛫 Final Thoughts: Is the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Worth It in 2025?

Absolutely — especially if you’re just starting out. It’s one of the best no-fee travel cards in Canada, and the 10,000-point welcome bonus is simply too good to ignore. While it’s not ideal for big spenders or long-term point maximizers, it’s a great entry card, a perfect backup, and a tool to build your Aeroplan balance.

And hey, if you’re a broke student or someone who just wants a free flight someday — this one’s for you.

🔄 TL;DR – CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card Review

• ✅ No annual fee

• 🎁 10,000 points sign-up bonus (worth ~$223 travel)

• 🛒 1 point per $1 on gas, groceries, Air Canada

• 💳 Free auto rental insurance

• ❌ Not the best for daily spending

• 🧠 Best used as a sign-up bonus card and credit builder

Have any questions about the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card or Aeroplan redemptions? Drop them in the comments below — I respond to every one.
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Happy travels! ✈️