Author: Matt

Matt has been an avid points collector since 1992 (an elementary school student), when his dad signed up for the new (at the time) Air Miles program. Since then, Matt took a keen interest in learning how the miles and points world works. He quickly found out that there is a lot of value in leveraging miles and points to fund his passion for travelling.
| | | | |

Current 10% Cash Back Portfolio for January 2021

ByMatt

It seems like cash back credit cards have really come into their own in Canada and there are lots of cash to be had. So today, we are going to give a try to a new monthly post idea, regarding credit cards that offer at least 10% cash back.

We were will be listing the 10% or more cash back offers on a monthly basis by splitting them into 2 categories, permanent and temporary offers.

Update on Canadian Travel Restrictions

ByMatt

We continue to add to our collection of posts related to the current travel restrictions. Our last post was back in November 2020, but there have been several significant updates since then. This post will build on that post, rather than simply repeating the information found there.

The Canadian Government continually updates their website with the latest travel rules and this post breaks down some of the key highlights along with a commentary.

Who can leave Canada?

| |

Top Cash Back Credit Card Offers for January 2021

ByMatt

A new year, but not yet a new list. The list has really trimmed down over time. The first one up for expiry is the Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card. The other 3 promotions are going to hang around a while longer.

Keep in mind that this monthly post focuses on temporary offers. We have a more complete list of ongoing offers in the Top Cash Back Credit Cards page.

|

[PROMOTIONS] Marriott Bonvoy 2021 Updates

ByMatt

Marriott Bonvoy made some new announcements regarding certain promotions, and we also mentioned a reminder of things that carried over from the year before.

Seems like the first part of 2021 is going to be a tough time to travel. Keep in mind that at Pointshogger, we do not endorse any sort of unnecessary travel. However, if you do have an essential trip, do watch out for these promotions to help boost your accounts.

|

Air Canada Teams up with Virgin Australia

ByMatt

Air Canada is already a member of Star Alliance. However, on the side, they have been adding other code-share partners. Just in 2020, they launched 4 new partnerships: Etihad, Azul, Vistara, and Air Serbia. 

Now in 2021, they are continuing this momentum. On January 19, 2021, they will start the year by adding Virgin Australia (VA) to the roster of partners (outside of Star Alliance). VA operates a loyalty program called Velocity. You will already see Air Canada listed as partner on VA’s website. 

| | |

Top Credit Card Higher than Normal Sign Up Bonuses for January 2021

ByMatt

It’s already a new year! For now, most offers are still running from the year before. Only the RBC WestJet is coming off this month’s list so hopefully we will be seeing new offerings coming this year. 

Top Higher than Normal Sign Up Bonuses for January 2021

The credit cards are ranked by the price of the annual fees (lowest to highest):

|

[READER QUESTION] Thoughts on Airline Cash Refunds (Props to Flair Airlines)

ByMatt

Today’s post was inspired by one of our readers who suggested that we write more posts regarding the following idea: “Let’s get a bit bold and post articles making airlines accountable for their actions”. This seems like an interesting idea, thanks for your suggestion Ismail! 

No Refunds, Credits Only?

Happy New Year! 2021 Wish List

ByMatt

Happy New Year Everyone!!

A new year means a new wish list. Note that we generally provide a mid-term report on Canada Day (July 1) and a final report on New Year’s Eve. To be fair, all wishes need to be a win/win/win scenario for everyone involved in the transaction. The 3 wins includes the loyalty company, credit card company and customer. Furthermore, most items on the wish list are long shots, which means that it is not easy to get a high grade. But that is what makes it so much fun for me!