Miles & Points: The Week's Best Frequent Flyer Deals

After 20 years working in the travel industry, and 15 years writing about it, Tim Winship knows a thing or two about travel. Follow him on Twitter @twinship.

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Following is our regular summary of the best frequent traveler promotions reviewed during the past week.

If it was a good deal—or a notably bad deal—from an airline, hotel, or car rental loyalty program, you can read all about it here, and plan your travel accordingly.

Virgin America Ups Credit Card Bonus

Through August 31, new customers for the Virgin America Visa Signature credit card will receive 20,000 bonus points after the first charge, twice the normal bonus for this card.

Delta Will Award Fewer Miles for Some Fares

Effective September 1, Delta SkyMiles members will earn fewer award and elite-qualifying miles for some tickets.

National Is New Southwest Rapid Rewards Partner

To promote National’s inclusion in Southwest’s Rapid Rewards program, members can earn 1,800 points and save up to 25 percent on rentals of three days or more through November 15.

Hilton Launches New Shop-to-Earn Mall

This week, Hilton rolled out its new Shop-to-Earn Mall, a network of more than 1,500 online retailers that award HHonors points for purchases.

Earn a Free Day After Two National Car Rentals

Through January 31, 2013, members of National Car Rental’s Emerald Club will earn a free rental day after every two rentals of two or more days of a mid-sized or larger car. This is a promotion that does everything right.

Win a Trip, Including Business Class Air

Enter Carlson’s “Global Giveaway” sweepstakes by September 24 for a chance to win one of five trips for two, including five nights’ hotel, business-class air, and $5,000 cash.

Somebody has to win, right? Might as well be you.

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