I made 1K this year and last year by segments and miles. If I needed extra segments, I would price out flights on US and then fly them. I have been able to pick up 2-3 segments per trip to ensure I hit it. I have been lucky and not have had to do that this year since I hit the threshold with miles first this time around. Also, the ITA software really helps, I have booked flights to SFO via 3 connections each way for $400 RT.