Understanding Avion Points and How They Work

The Basic Framework of the Avion Reward Program

Just like other reward programs, the RBC Avion Reward Program runs on a point-based system. As a cardholder, every time you make an eligible purchase using your Avion card, you earn Avion points. Specific cards may offer varying points per dollar spent. For example, the RBC Avion Visa Infinite card offers one point for every dollar spent on qualifying purchases and extra points for purchases made at certain establishments like gas stations, grocery stores, and drugstores. The Avion Reward Program distinguishes itself with its flexibility and variety of redemption options, offering an impressive range of flights, hotel stays, merchandise, gift cards, and more, all available for exchange with points.

Computing the Value of Avion Points

Understanding the value of Avion points can be a bit complex, considering that it fluctuates depending on your redemption choice. But to get an idea, in general, 100 Avion points are equal to $1 or 1% when redeemed for travel. However, when redeeming for retail merchandise or gift cards, the value may differ.

Expiry and Limitations of Avion Points

One great advantage of the RBC Avion Reward Program is that your points won’t expire as long as you are a cardholder. This should eliminate the stress often associated with use-it-or-lose-it policy. But it’s wise to remember, if you close your account, your points are voided instantly, so it’s best to utilize them while you are still an active member. There are no blackout dates or seat restrictions when booking flights with Avion points, which offers a level of flexibility that makes it a popular choice amongst consumers.

Navigating Your Flight Redemption with Avion Points

How Many Avion Points for a Flight

The number of Avion points required for a flight depends on the travel zone and the cost of the flight. RBC Avion uses an Air Travel Redemption Schedule that slots countries into zones to estimate point costs. Short-haul flights within Canada or to the U.S. require 15,000-35,000 points, whereas long-haul flights to North America or select parts of Central America need 35,000-55,000 points. Also, transatlantic flights will cost about 65,000-100,000 points.

Maximizing the Value of Your Avion Points

If you want to get the most out of your points, the first rule is to focus on travel-related redemptions. As mentioned earlier, you generally get more value for your points when booking flights or travel packages. However, you would need to do a bit of research per booking as prices, and therefore, point value can fluctuate depending on market conditions and season.

How to Redeem Avion Points for Flights

Redeeming your points for a flight is easy and done through the RBC Rewards travel portal. Once you are in there, you can search for flights just like on any travel booking site, pick your seats, and then pay with your points. If you don’t have enough points to pay for the whole trip, you can cover the balance with your Avion card.

Best Practices to Earn More Avion Points

Boosting Your Avion Points Through Everyday Spending

If you want to accumulate Avion points quickly, consider using your Avion card for all your daily expenses. Also, take advantage of bonus point offers whenever possible. For instance, RBC sometimes offers double or triple points for purchases at certain types of businesses, like gas stations or grocery stores. While the standard rate for earning points is usually one point per dollar, these promotions allow you to earn more points per dollar, hence, increasing your overall points faster.

Strategic Use of Different RBC Products

RBC offers a number of different products that earn Avion points, and using more than one can be a smart way to maximize your points. For example, if you have an RBC Avion Visa Infinite card for your everyday spending and also use an RBC bank account or mortgage, you can earn points much faster.

Implementing Strategic Planning and Timing

Timing your large purchases to line up with bonus point offers can also significantly increase your points. This requires a bit of strategic planning, but for frequent shoppers who are looking to make the most of their points, it can be very lucrative. Pay attention to any promotional events or special offers from RBC or its partners; these are opportunities to earn more points.