Mileage runs are well-documented on this board. The best ones are those that pay for themselves, i.e., generate miles and/or certificates whose value is arguably higher than the total fare paid.

Is there any equivalent with hotels or car rentals? Normally, the tangible benefits of reward programs in these industries fall far short of those found in airline programs. But occassionally, juicy promotions pop up to change the equation drastically. I'm sure some of you have some inspiring tales of free beds.

Has anyone ever pulled off a "Triple Crown" -- a trip with airline, hotel, and car rentals that paid for themselves through reward benefits earned on the same trip?

Note: Any benefits earned previously, or outside the trip, are not really "free" and don't count. Examples: comped casino rooms, previously earned hotel points, etc