Did you know 90% of Canadians have at least one loyalty card in their wallet? Actually, on average, Canadians carry four loyalty cards. The thing is, we may be members of these rewards programs, but we’re not making the most of them. This is not just a Canadian issue though. For example, did you know that Qantas offers a variety of credit cards that allow individuals and businesses to earn loyalty points that can be put towards flights, hotels, and much more? You can learn more about Qantas credit cards by checking out their website. That being said, for those of you who are looking to get more from your cards, here are my top tips on how to take advantage of some of the best rewards programs Canada has to offer.
AIR MILES
I’ve always loved to travel. As soon as I was of age, I signed up for my AIR MILES card and started collecting points. I’m certainly not the only fan of the rewards program-there are card holders abound in Canada. According to AIR MILES, it is in two-thirds of all Canadian households. But subscribers to the rewards program may not realize that miles can be used for both cash rewards and dream rewards. As part of dream rewards, AIR MILES offers exclusive access to hot ticket events across the country.
Earlier this year, a friend and I were lucky enough to attend the #AIRMILESEvents with Chef Massimo Capra at Sopra Upper Lounge in Toronto. As VIP collectors, we were able to join Chef Capra for an intimate cooking lesson before feasting on a delicious four-course meal with Inniskillin wine pairings.
Jealous? Don’t be. There are lots of upcoming exclusive events! Click here to find out what’s happening near you.
SCENE
Looking to fill the TIFF void? If so, it’s time to dust off your SCENE card. For frequent movie goers, racking up points with Cineplex’s movie rewards program is easy: you earn 100 points for a General Admission movie ticket-more for Premium and VIP Cinemas movie tickets. Accumulate 1,000 points and you can redeem them for a free movie ticket.
You can also earn points by shopping at Sport Chek. Every $1 you spend there will earn you 1 SCENE point. With fall among us and the holiday shopping season just around the corner, check out what your nearest Sport Chek has to offer-you’ll be going to a free movie in no time. And don’t forget to treat yourself at one of SCENE’s 8 restaurant partners including Swiss Chalet (that gravy!) and Milestones. You’ll earn 1 point for every $3 spent there, too.
Shoppers Optimum
You likely already have a Shoppers Optimum card-Shoppers Drug Mart’s loyalty program is one of the most popular in Canada. But you may have missed the 2015 launch of Shoppers’ digital platform “My Optimum. My Rewards” that includes an enhanced Shoppers app and a digital Optimum card. My favourite feature of the platform is the load-to-card weekly offers it delivers, which are tailored to my shopping preferences, so I’m saving more and earning rewards faster.
What are you waiting for? Download the app now-and get a new toiletry bag while you’re at it. I have a feeling you’re going to need it…
If I’ve whet your money saving appetite, make sure to visit RedFlagDeals.com. You’ll be overwhelmed by all the sales, coupons, promotions and freebies from hundreds of stores (including Cineplex and Shoppers) in one place. Click here for RedFlagDeals.com’s Optimum Points 101 to help you further master Shoppers’ rewards program so you can maximize your savings. And of course make sure to follow them on Instagram by clicking here!
Don’t forget to join in on the social media conversation around travel & travel must haves while planning your vacation by following @RedFlagDeals on Twitter & Instagram. For more behind the scenes of this and other amazing brands we are working with around the world, make sure to follow along with the #DoTheDaniel Instagram account. We would love to have you join on our adventures! AND yes. we’re on Snapchat too! – click here to follow us!
Photos: RedFlagDeals.com
Cheers!
*Please note that this is a sponsored post – our disclosure can be found at all times by clicking here.