Aeroplan eStore vs WestJet Rewards: Where Should You Start If You Shop Online?
Aeroplan eStore vs WestJet Rewards: Where Should You Start If You Shop Online?
If you want travel rewards from online shopping, Aeroplan and WestJet Rewards are not equal starting points. Aeroplan has a dedicated shopping portal through the Aeroplan eStore. WestJet Rewards is more closely tied to WestJet travel, eligible partners, and WestJet RBC credit card spending.
That does not mean one program is always better. It means your first step before checkout should depend on what kind of purchase you are making.
Start with Aeroplan for retailer shopping
For general online retail, Aeroplan is usually the first place to check. The Aeroplan eStore lists participating retailers and current earn rates. If your retailer is included, you can click through and potentially earn points on your purchase.
This is useful for categories like:
- Electronics.
- Beauty.
- Apparel.
- Home goods.
- Travel accessories.
- Department stores.
Rates and exclusions can change, so read the offer carefully. Some categories, gift cards, coupon codes, or third-party products may not qualify.
Start with WestJet for WestJet travel goals
WestJet Rewards makes the most sense when the purchase connects to WestJet travel or your WestJet RBC card strategy. If you are booking a WestJet flight, vacation package, or using a WestJet credit card for everyday spend, WestJet Rewards can be the right program to prioritize.
It is less likely to be your first stop for a random online retail purchase unless there is a specific offer involved.
Compare the full stack
Before choosing a program, compare the full stack:
- Portal or partner earning.
- Credit card rewards.
- Promo multipliers.
- Statement credits or issuer offers.
- Redemption usefulness.
Aeroplan might win on portal availability. WestJet might win if you are earning toward a near-term WestJet trip and using a WestJet card with useful benefits.
Tracking matters more with Aeroplan
Because Aeroplan eStore earning depends on click-through tracking, your shopping path matters. Start at the eStore, click to the retailer, and complete the order in the same session. Avoid coupon sites or browser extensions that can overwrite tracking.
With WestJet card earning, the payment transaction is usually the key. That can feel simpler, but it may offer fewer retail-specific bonuses.
Which should online shoppers use first?
For most Canadian online shoppers, the answer is:
- Check Aeroplan eStore first for retail purchases.
- Check WestJet Rewards and WestJet RBC offers first for WestJet travel purchases.
- Compare your credit card earn rate before final checkout.
If Aeroplan has no retailer offer or the rate is weak, then cashback or another rewards card may be better.
Bottom line
Aeroplan eStore is usually the better starting point for online shopping. WestJet Rewards is usually better when your spending connects directly to WestJet travel or a WestJet RBC card. The smartest shoppers compare both against cashback before they buy.