Well, Starry Eyed Reformer....

A youre right there is a lot to picking one airline, hotel chain, etc. I am currently on 3 airlines partially because I cant make up my mind and partially because my flying patterns and the airlines routings have changed. I will likely drop to two carriers this year. I travel a fair amount on business so one carrier doesnt give me much flexibility as to destination. Ive been with two for years, and this past year added a third but cant keep that up indefinately. It depends a lot on where you live and where you travel. Fortunately, I am within an hour (give or take depending on traffic) of 3 major airports and one mimor airport so I have a lot of options. Many dont. If for instance you lived in Cincinnati you would be much more limited although not without some choice. So keep reading, look not only at FF program rules but airlines routes and prices. And keep asking questions.