I don't think miles are worth 1.5 cents, given the way the programs have changed in the last couple of years. I use 1 per mile these days, and wonder if that's overstating it. The miles do have value, but I tend to think that Dovster's approach is generally the way to go. There are exceptions, one of which is status. If you get status, then, depending on the airline, you get benefits that matter to me, including potentially bonus miles. Still, I think it's too easy to let the tail wag the dog in the chase for miles. tls