Top RBC Credit Cards for Everyday Rewards and Benefits

When maximizing the benefits of your everyday spending, the right credit card can make a difference. RBC (Royal Bank of Canada) offers diverse credit cards tailored to spending habits and financial goals. These cards help you earn valuable rewards, earn cash back, and enjoy exclusive perks that align with your lifestyle.

RBC credit cards offer various rewards categories, so whether you're looking to save on groceries and gas, earn travel points, or maximize cash back on daily purchases, there’s a card for you. From premium travel rewards cards like the RBC Avion Visa Infinite, which offers travel flexibility and bonus points, to the RBC Cash Back Mastercard, which provides high cash back rates on everyday purchases, RBC’s cards help you get the most out of your spending.

In this guide, we look at top RBC credit cards with exceptional rewards and benefits. We'll cover the different types of rewards programs, key perks, and how these cards can enhance your day-to-day spending. By choosing the right RBC credit card, you can turn your everyday purchases into valuable rewards, cash back, and exclusive benefits, making your money work harder.

Choosing the Right RBC Credit Card

Weighing the pros and cons of credit cards and selecting the right one is an important decision that can impact your financial health and lifestyle. RBC offers a diverse lineup of credit cards, each tailored to meet different needs and spending habits. Whether you're looking to earn rewards, enjoy travel perks, or manage your finances more effectively, an RBC credit card is just right for you.

Types of RBC Credit Cards

RBC offers a variety of credit cards, each designed to serve different purposes and have different perks.

1. Cash Back Credit Cards: These cards allow you to earn cash savings on everyday purchases, such as groceries, gas, and recurring bills. They are ideal for those who prefer simple, straightforward rewards.

2. Rewards Credit Cards: These cards offer points or miles you redeem for travel, merchandise, gift cards, or even statement credits. RBC’s rewards cards are perfect for those who want to maximize spending with flexible redemption options.

3. Travel Credit Cards: Designed for frequent travellers, these cards offer travel-related perks such as points on travel purchases, access to airport lounges, and travel insurance. They are a great choice for those who love to explore the world.

4. Low-Interest Credit Cards: These cards come with lower interest rates, making them a good option for those who may carry a balance from month to month and want to minimize interest charges.

5. Student Credit Cards: Specifically designed for students, these cards typically have no annual fee and offer rewards or cash back on everyday student expenses, helping young adults build their credit history responsibly.

How to Choose the Best RBC Credit Card for You

Choosing the best RBC credit card depends on your spending habits, financial goals, and lifestyle.

1. Assess Your Spending Habits: Identify where you spend the most money. If you spend heavily on groceries and gas, a cash-back card might be the best fit. If travel is a priority, a travel rewards card may offer the most value.

2. Consider Your Financial Goals: Your financial goals should guide your choice of credit card. For instance, a low-interest card might be the right option if you want to save on interest.

3. Evaluate the Card Benefits: Look at the benefits offered by each card, such as insurance coverage, purchase protection, or exclusive access to events. Make sure the card's perks align with your needs.

4. Check the Fees and Interest Rates: Be mindful of annual fees, interest rates, and any other charges associated with the card. Make sure the rewards or benefits outweigh the costs.

5. Think Long-Term: Consider how the card will fit into your long-term financial plan. A card that meets your needs today should also align with your future goals.

Top RBC Credit Cards for Everyday Rewards

RBC offers several credit cards that provide excellent rewards for your everyday spending. Whether you’re interested in earning travel points, cash back, or other perks, RBC has a card that can maximize your rewards on routine purchases. Here, we’ll highlight two top choices particularly suited for everyday rewards: the RBC Avion Visa Infinite and RBC Cash Back Credit Cards.

RBC Avion Visa Infinite

The RBC Avion Visa Infinite is one of the most popular credit cards, particularly among those who value flexibility and premium travel rewards. This card is ideal for individuals who want to earn points on their daily purchases for travel, merchandise, gift cards, and more.

Key Features

• Avion Points: Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on eligible purchases. These points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, car rentals, and other travel-related expenses without blackout dates or seat restrictions.

• Travel Benefits: Enjoy premium travel insurance, including trip cancellation, emergency medical, and car rental insurance. The card also offers access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide through the Visa Infinite Airport Companion program.

• Exclusive Offers: Avion cardholders often receive special offers and discounts on dining, entertainment, and shopping.

• Flexibility: Points can be transferred to airline loyalty programs, giving you more options to maximize your rewards.

The RBC Avion Visa Infinite is perfect for those who travel frequently and want a card that provides everyday rewards and premium travel benefits.

RBC Cash Back Credit Cards

RBC Cash Back Credit Cards are an excellent choice for individuals who prefer to earn straightforward cash back on their everyday spending. They are also ideal as a first credit card for many people because you can redeem the cash in multiple ways while slowly building your credit. These cards allow you to earn cash back on groceries, gas, and other recurring expenses, making them ideal for those who want immediate savings.

Key Features

• Cash Back on Every Purchase: Earn up to 2% cash back on groceries and 1% on all other purchases. Some RBC Cash Back cards may offer accelerated cash back on specific categories, such as gas and recurring bill payments.

• No Annual Fee Options: RBC offers cash-back credit cards with no annual fee, making them a cost-effective option for earning rewards.

• Flexible Redemption: Cashback can be redeemed as a statement credit or deposited directly into your RBC account, giving you flexibility for your rewards.

• Additional Perks: Depending on the specific RBC Cash Back card, you may also enjoy additional benefits such as purchase protection, extended warranty coverage, and discounts on RBC services.

RBC Credit Cards for Business Owners

Running a business requires effective financial management, and choosing the right credit card can be crucial in managing expenses, earning rewards, and optimizing cash flow. RBC offers a range of business credit cards designed specifically to meet the needs of business owners, providing tailored benefits that help you manage day-to-day operations and grow your business.

RBC Business Credit Cards

RBC Business Credit Cards are designed to help business owners streamline their expenses, earn rewards, and take advantage of valuable business-related perks. These cards offer a variety of features that can benefit businesses of all sizes, from small startups to larger enterprises.

Key Features

• Reward Programs: Depending on the card, you can earn RBC Rewards points, Avion points, or cash back on business purchases. These rewards can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, gift cards, or even to reinvest in your business.

• Expense Management: RBC Business Credit Cards offer tools to help you manage expenses efficiently, such as detailed transaction reporting, spending controls for employee cards, and integration with accounting software.

• Travel Benefits: Many RBC Business Credit Cards include travel-related perks, such as travel insurance, rental car insurance, and access to airport lounges, making business travel more comfortable and cost-effective.

• Purchase Protection: Enjoy extended warranty coverage and purchase protection, which can safeguard your business investments.

RBC Business Cash

RBC Business Cash is a credit card specifically designed for business owners who prefer cash-back rewards on their business spending. This card offers straightforward rewards, making it easy to reinvest savings into your business.

Key Features

• Cash Back on Business Purchases: Earn a percentage of cash back on every business purchase, including office supplies, equipment, and utilities. The more you spend, the more cash back you earn, making it a valuable tool for reducing business expenses.

• No Annual Fee Option: Some RBC Business Cash cards come with no annual fee, offering a cost-effective solution for business owners who want to earn rewards without additional costs.

• Flexible Cash Back Redemption: The cash back earned can be easily redeemed as a statement credit, reducing overall business expenses. Alternatively, it can be deposited into your RBC business account.

• Expense Tracking: Like other RBC business credit cards, RBC Business Cash offers robust expense management tools, helping you track and categorize spending across different business areas.

Cross-Border Banking and Travel

Managing finances can be challenging for Canadians who travel frequently or do business across the border. RBC offers a range of cross-border banking solutions that simplify your financial life, whether you’re spending time in the U.S., making cross-border payments, or simply enjoying travel benefits.

With tailored products and services, RBC makes it easier to access your money, earn rewards, and stay protected during your travels.

Cross-Border Banking Benefits

RBC’s cross-border banking services are designed to provide seamless financial management for individuals and businesses operating on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border.

Access to U.S. Bank Accounts

RBC offers easy access to U.S. dollar accounts, allowing you to hold and manage U.S. funds without worrying about currency exchange rates. It is particularly useful for Canadians who spend lots of time in the U.S. or need to make regular payments in U.S. dollars.

Seamless Fund Transfers

With cross-border banking, you can transfer money between your Canadian and U.S. accounts instantly and for free, making it easy to move funds as needed without incurring fees or delays.

Credit Card Options

RBC provides credit cards specifically designed for cross-border use. These cards allow you to make purchases in U.S. dollars without foreign transaction fees, saving you money on every transaction. Additionally, these cards often come with travel-related rewards and benefits, making them ideal for frequent travellers.

Mortgage and Loan Services

RBC also offers cross-border mortgage and loan services, making it easier for Canadians to purchase property or finance large purchases in the U.S. with competitive rates and flexible terms.

Cross-Border Advice and Support

RBC provides personalized advice from experts who understand the unique challenges of cross-border banking. Whether you need help with tax planning, estate management, or day-to-day banking, RBC’s cross-border specialists can assist.

Travel Benefits and Insurance

Many RBC credit cards offer comprehensive travel insurance, covering potential issues like trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical coverage, and lost or delayed baggage. This insurance ensures that you’re protected against unexpected travel-related expenses.

Travel Assistance Services

RBC credit cards typically include access to 24/7 travel assistance services. Whether you need help finding a doctor abroad, replacing a lost passport, or arranging emergency transportation, these services provide valuable support when you need it most.

Airport Lounge Access

Certain RBC credit cards, particularly those in the Visa Infinite line, offer complimentary access to airport lounges globally. This perk can make your travel experience more comfortable and relaxing, especially during long layovers.

No Foreign Transaction Fees

Some RBC credit cards come with no foreign transaction fees, allowing you to make purchases in other currencies without incurring additional costs. This benefit is especially useful for those who frequently travel internationally or shop online from U.S. retailers.

Rental Car Insurance

RBC credit cards often include rental car insurance, covering damages or theft of a rental vehicle. It can save you from buying costly insurance from the rental agency, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.

Applying for an RBC Credit Card

Applying for an RBC credit card is straightforward, whether you’re looking for rewards, cash back, or business benefits. RBC offers a wide range of credit cards to suit various financial needs and lifestyles, and the application process can be completed online, in person, or over the phone.

Steps to Apply for an RBC Credit Card

• Evaluate Your Credit Card Options: Before applying, review RBC’s available credit cards to find one that aligns with your financial goals, spending habits, and desired rewards. For example, the WestJet RBC World Elite credit card is a good option for people who frequently fly with WestJet Airlines. Consider annual fees, interest rates, rewards programs, and additional benefits like travel insurance or purchase protection.

• Check Your Eligibility: Each RBC credit card has specific eligibility criteria, such as a minimum income requirement or credit score. Review the card’s terms to ensure you meet these requirements before applying. If you’re unsure about your credit score, you can check it through RBC’s credit score tool or other services.

• Prepare Required Information: To apply for an RBC credit card, you’ll need to provide personal and financial information, including:

  • Full name, date of birth, and contact information.

  • Employment details and annual income.

  • Social Insurance Number (optional, but can help expedite the process).

  • Details of any existing debts or loans.

• Apply Online, In-Person, or By Phone:

  • Online Application: The easiest and fastest way to apply is through RBC’s website. Select the credit card you want, click "Apply Now," and fill out the required information.

  • In-Person Application: You can visit an RBC branch and apply for a credit card with the help of a banking advisor who can provide personalized recommendations and guidance.

  • Phone Application: RBC allows you to apply by phone by calling their customer service line. This option may be convenient if you have questions during the process.

• Receive Approval and Card Delivery: RBC will review your credit history and financial information. If approved, you will typically receive your new credit card within 5-10 business days. RBC may also offer immediate conditional approval, allowing you to use your card’s digital version for online purchases while waiting for the physical card.

• Activate Your RBC Credit Card: After receiving your card, you can activate it. This can be done by calling the number on the card, through RBC's online banking platform, or via the RBC mobile app.

Tips for a Successful Credit Card Application

• Maintain a Good Credit Score: A strong credit score can increase your chances of approval and may even qualify you for premium RBC cards with higher rewards and benefits.

• Ensure Stable Income: Demonstrating a stable income and responsible financial history can improve your eligibility for a wider range of cards.

• Minimize Existing Debts: Managing your current debts and keeping your credit utilization low will improve your creditworthiness, making it easier to get approved.

Applying for an RBC Credit Card with Bad Credit

While there are credit cards for people with bad credit, it can be more challenging to get approved, and your options are limited. RBC offers solutions for individuals with less-than-perfect credit, helping you rebuild your credit history while enjoying some benefits of a credit card.

Options for RBC Credit Cards with Bad Credit

While most premium credit cards require a good credit score, RBC provides alternatives for those working to rebuild their credit.

RBC Secured Credit Card

A secured credit card is often the best choice for individuals with bad credit. With a secured card, you’ll need to provide a security deposit, which typically matches your credit limit. This deposit acts as collateral, minimizing the risk to the bank. RBC’s secured credit card allows you to build or rebuild your credit responsibly while still offering the flexibility of a regular credit card. Your credit activity will be reported to credit bureaus, helping you improve your credit score over time.

Low-fee or No-fee Credit Cards

If you don’t qualify for RBC’s premium credit cards, you might still be eligible for a basic, no-fee card. These cards have lower credit limits and fewer benefits but can still be used to build a better credit history if managed responsibly.

Steps to Apply for an RBC Credit Card with Bad Credit

1. Check Your Credit Score: Before applying, check your credit score to understand your current standing. RBC and other services offer free credit score checks, which can help you know where you stand and identify areas for improvement.

2. Consider a Secured Credit Card: If your credit score is low, applying for a secured credit card is a good first step. With a deposit, you can still access credit while working on rebuilding your score.

3. Prepare Financial Documentation: When applying for a credit card with bad credit, it’s important to provide proof of income and other financial details that demonstrate your ability to make timely payments. This may include your employment information, income, and any existing debts.

4. Submit Your Application: Once you’ve selected the right card, you can apply online, in person, or by phone. RBC’s application process for secured and basic credit cards is similar to traditional cards, but your approval may be subject to additional scrutiny due to your credit history.

5. Improve Your Chances of Approval: Paying down existing debt, applying for a lower credit limit, and avoiding multiple applications are easy ways to increase approval odds. These steps reduce your risk as a borrower and show responsible credit usage.

Rebuilding Credit with Your RBC Credit Card

Once you’ve been approved for a card, the key to rebuilding your credit is using it responsibly. Here are some tips to help improve your credit score:

• Make On-Time Payments: Always pay your credit card bill on or before the due date. Even one late payment can significantly damage your credit score.

• Keep Balances Low: Avoid maxing out your card. Try to keep your balance below 30% of your available credit limit to show responsible usage.

• Monitor Your Credit Report: Regularly check your credit report for errors and track your progress as your score improves.

RBC Credit Card Fees

When choosing an RBC credit card, it’s essential to understand the associated fees to manage your credit card effectively and avoid unnecessary charges. RBC offers a variety of cards with different fee structures, including annual fees, interest rates, and other charges. Below, we break down the common fees associated with RBC credit cards and provide tips on minimizing them.

Annual Fees

Premium RBC cards, like Avion Visa Infinite or RBC World Elite MasterCard, charge annual fees, while basic cards often have no fees. Consider no-fee cards like RBC Cash Back Mastercard to avoid this cost.

Interest Rates (APR)

RBC cards typically charge 19.99% for purchases and 22.99% for cash advances. Avoid interest by paying your balance in full each month or choose low-interest cards like RBC RateAdvantage Visa.

Foreign Transaction Fees

RBC charges 2.5% on foreign currency purchases. Use no foreign transaction fee cards like the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa to avoid this charge.

Cash Advance Fees

The cash advance rate costs $5–$7.50 plus higher interest. Avoid using your credit card for cash advances to minimize fees.

Balance Transfer Fees

RBC charges up to 3% for balance transfers. Look for promotional offers to reduce these fees when transferring balances to lower interest rates.

Late Payment Fees

Missing a payment incurs a $25–$30 fee. Set up automatic payments or reminders to avoid this.

Over-Limit Fees

Going over your credit limit results in a $29 fee. Monitor your spending to stay within your limit.

Returned Payment Fees

A $45 fee applies if a payment is returned due to insufficient funds. Ensure enough funds are available or set up overdraft protection.

Improving Your Credit Score

A healthy credit score is essential for accessing financial products like loans, credit cards, and mortgages with favorable terms. Your credit score consists of:

• Payment History (35%): Your credit history reflects whether you've paid past credit obligations on time.

• Credit Utilization (30%): Credit utilization measures how much of your available credit you're using.

• Length of Credit History (15%): Credit history considers how long you've had credit accounts.

• Credit Mix (10%): Your credit mix refers to the variety of credit accounts you have, such as credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, and lines of credit.

• New Credit (10%): New credit inquiries reflect the hard inquiries placed on your credit report when you apply for new credit.

Your payment history is the most significant factor in your credit score. Ensuring you pay your credit card balance on or before the due date is crucial for maintaining and improving your score. Consider setting up automatic payments or reminders to avoid missing due dates.

Credit utilization—the amount of credit you're using compared to your credit limit—should be kept below 30% to boost your credit score. Paying down outstanding balances and avoiding maxing out your credit cards can have a significant positive impact. Limiting new credit applications and diversifying your credit mix can also help improve your credit score.

It’s important to review your credit report at least once a year to ensure its accuracy. Errors in your report, such as incorrect account balances or false information, can negatively affect your score. You can request a free credit report from bureaus like Equifax or TransUnion to spot and dispute any discrepancies.

Improving your credit score is a gradual process. Consistent financial habits such as timely payments and responsible credit usage will lead to long-term improvement. Avoid services that claim quick fixes, as building or repairing credit requires time and discipline.

How Your Credit Card Contributes to Your Financial Success

When used wisely, a credit card can be a powerful tool for enhancing your financial success. By helping you manage spending, build credit, earn rewards, and access financial flexibility, a credit card plays a key role in achieving short- and long-term financial goals.

One of the primary ways a credit card contributes to financial success is by helping you build and maintain a strong credit score. Responsible use, such as making timely payments and keeping your credit utilization low (using less than 30% of your available credit), can boost your credit rating significantly. A good credit score opens doors to better loan terms, lower interest rates, and greater financial opportunities in the future.

Credit cards also provide an opportunity to earn rewards and cashback on everyday purchases. Many cards offer valuable rewards programs, allowing you to accumulate points for travel, dining, groceries, and more. Maximizing these benefits can lead to considerable financial savings, helping you stretch your budget or fund larger purchases.

Another important advantage of a credit card is access to credit during emergencies. Whether it’s unexpected medical expenses, car repairs, or other urgent costs, having a credit card ensures you have the financial flexibility to cover expenses without resorting to high-interest loans or dipping into savings. This can provide peace of mind and stability when unexpected financial challenges arise.

In addition, many credit cards come with tools that allow you to track and manage your spending. By monitoring your transactions and setting spending limits, you can develop better budgeting strategies and gain insights into your financial habits. This helps you stay on top of your finances, avoid overspending, and set realistic savings goals—all key factors in achieving long-term financial success.

Credit cards also offer important protections, such as fraud alerts and zero-liability policies for unauthorized transactions. Many cards include purchase protection, extended warranties, and insurance on large purchases, giving you additional security for your investments. These features help safeguard your finances and reduce potential losses.

By utilizing these advantages, a credit card can serve as more than just a tool for spending—it can be a key contributor to your financial success. From improving your credit score and earning rewards to providing financial security during emergencies, strategically using a credit card can lead to better financial health and growth opportunities.

Top RBC Credit Card FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about RBC credit cards to help you better understand their features, fees, and usage.

What Credit Cards Does RBC Offer?

RBC offers a variety of credit cards, including rewards, cash back, travel, and business cards. Popular options include the RBC Avion Visa Infinite, RBC Cash Back Mastercard, and RBC Business Credit Cards.

How Do I Apply for an RBC Credit Card?

You can apply for an RBC credit card online, by phone, or at any RBC branch. The application requires personal and financial information, and approval depends on factors like income and credit score.

What Credit Score is Needed for an RBC Credit Card?

The average credit score in Canada is around 680. Most RBC credit cards require a good credit score, generally above 650. Secured or basic cards may have more lenient requirements for those rebuilding credit.

How Can I Avoid Credit Card Interest Charges?

To avoid interest charges, pay your balance in full by the due date each month. If you need to carry a balance, consider low-interest RBC cards like the RateAdvantage Visa.

What are RBC Credit Card Annual Fees?

Annual fees vary by card, ranging from no fees on basic cards to $120+ for premium cards like the RBC Avion Visa Infinite. Check each card's fee structure before applying. Weigh the benefits of the credit card against the costs to determine whether the credit card annual fee is worth it.

How Can I Earn Rewards with RBC Credit Cards?

RBC credit cards offer points or cash back on everyday purchases. Cards like RBC Avion Visa Infinite earn travel points, while RBC Cash Back Mastercard offers a percentage of purchases back as cash. Check for welcome offers that let you earn bonus points for extra cash savings and rewards. You can also check for bonus points on other qualifying purchases beyond the standard rewards to help you save money.

Can I Use my RBC Credit Card Abroad?

Yes, but most RBC cards charge a 2.5% foreign transaction fee. The RBC U.S. Dollar Visa card can help avoid currency conversion fees when spending in U.S. dollars.

How Do I Increase My Credit Limit?

You can request a credit limit increase through RBC Online Banking or by calling customer service. Approval depends on your credit history and financial situation.

KOHO Takes Care of Your Various Financial Needs

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Whether you're working on building credit with a virtual credit card, setting aside money for future goals in a high-interest savings account, or tracking your day-to-day expenses, KOHO’s tools help simplify these processes. The no-fee prepaid Visa card ensures you can spend with confidence, while cash-back rewards and interest on savings accounts help you maximize your financial potential. KOHO’s credit-building program is particularly beneficial for those looking to improve their credit score over time, offering an accessible and affordable way to strengthen their credit profile.

By offering flexible financial plans and features, KOHO makes it easy to save, spend, and manage money in a way that suits your lifestyle, putting you on the path to long-term financial success.