Just got back last month from a trip to BKK via United Vacations, a subcontractor, not really a part of United.

The total cost (air, 4 nights hotel) was significantly less than the cheapest air alone.

The hotel wasn't much, but you don't have to go to the cheapest, or even go to it, if you just want the cheaper fare.

UA vacations said that upgradeable fares were available, at $350 more (MSY...BKK).

It takes multiple tries to actually book something on UA vacations, but it may be worth it...

happy travels