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

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.

Southwest Matches American’s Elite Mile Promotion

Between December 22, 2011, and January 31, 2012, Rapid Rewards members will earn double elite-qualifying points for all Southwest flights.

That makes Southwest the second airline to offer double elite points. Next?

Carlson Offers a Bonus for Award Stays

Through January 31, 2012, Club Carlson members can earn 9,000 points for award stays at participating Radisson, Country Inns & Suites, Park Inn, and Park Plaza hotels.

That’s right—earn bonus points for free stays.

Changes Coming to US Airways’ Dividend Miles Program

Coming soon to US Airways’ Dividend Miles program: more cash co-pays for upgrades, more quick-ticketing fees, and one fewer elite perk.

Choice Hotels Doubles the Points for Winter Stays

Through February 29, 2012, Choice Privileges members can choose to earn double points or points plus airline miles for every qualifying stay at Choice hotels.

Double points are a solid if unspectacular bonus, but the rest of the promotion’s terms are eminently consumer-friendly.

Southwest Will Be Chase Ultimate Rewards Partner

In early 2012, holders of the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card will be able to exchange their Ultimate Rewards points for Southwest Rapid Rewards points.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card is already one of the most robust of the multipurpose rewards cards. The addition of Southwest as a transfer partner further solidifies its position atop the category.