Recap: The Week’s Biggest Stories and Best Deals

Following is our regular summary of the latest travel news and 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.

Delta Discounts CLEAR Memberships for SkyMiles Members

Delta is now offering discounted and free annual CLEAR memberships to members of its SkyMiles program.

Free PreCheck for JetBlue Elites

JetBlue is giving TrueBlue elite members the gift of time and peace of mind: free enrollment in the TSA’s PreCheck trusted-traveler program.

75,000 Points – Best-Ever Bonus for This Hilton Credit Card

For a limited time, the sign-up bonus for the no-fee Hilton Visa card is 75,000 bonus points, enough for 15 free nights.

Hilton Raises, Lowers HHonors Award Prices

Hilton this week posted upcoming changes to HHonors award prices. The good news: It could have been worse. Much worse.

Bad News: Alaska Air’s New Earning Rates for American Flights

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Planning to earn more miles for American flights by crediting them to Alaska Air’s program? Nice idea, but it’s not happening.

Keyless Entry Now Offered at 160 Starwood Hotels

Keyless entry is unquestionably a neat technology, that Starwood deserves credit for spearheading. Now, if they could just get more hotels on board, faster …

Coming to a Chipotle Near You: Free Burritos

Chipotle’s new frequent-diner program isn’t for everyone. Only certified burrito bingers need apply.

Independence Day Travel Forecast: Crowds, Crowds, and More Crowds

Want to avoid the holiday crowds? Then stay close to home this Independence Day weekend, because record numbers of Americans will be on the road.

Win a 7-Night Trip for 2 to New Zealand

Enter this sweepstakes for a chance to win the grand prize: a seven-night trip for two to New Zealand, including air to and within New Zealand and hotels.

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

More from SmarterTravel:

• $35,000 for Unlimited Biz-Class Flights to London, Paris. Deal?
• Save 25% on United Award Flights to Europe
• Alaska Air Might Keep Virgin America Brand, Operations. Really?

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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