Breaking: Earn Airline Points for Airbnb Stays

In the first such tie up between an airline and Airbnb, members of Virgin America’s Elevate program can now earn frequent-flyer points for booking stays at Airbnb properties or for becoming an Airbnb host.

Here’s how the bonusing works:

• First-time Airbnb bookers will earn a 1,500-point bonus and a $20 credit
• Current Airbnb customers earn 1 Elevate point per $1 spent
• New Airbnb hosts earn a 20,000-point bonus

All the above points-earning offers will remain in effect through November 1, 2017, suggesting that the relationship is in a trial phase. Assuming it turns out to be a win-win for Virgin America and Airbnb, as is likely, that end date would presumably be extended or dropped completely.

Airbnb also has a marketing relationship with American Express, which allows Membership Rewards members to redeem their points for Airbnb gift cards, and to earn a $50 rebate for Airbnb stays of $100 or more charged to an eligible card through December 31.

So, for an especially good deal, charge your first Airbnb stay to an American Express card to earn a $50 rebate from American Express, plus Membership Rewards points, plus Virgin America points and a $20 credit. It adds up!

Reader Reality Check

Have you stayed at Airbnb homes on recent trips?

More From Smartertravel:

• The Definitive Guide for Airbnb Newbies
• Airbnb Wants to Plan Your Whole Trip
• How Airbnb and Uber Are Changing Travel

This article originally appeared on FrequentFlier.com.