Look at this.
LAX-MIA-LHR-MIA-LAX
Lots of miles for not too much money.
If you want an extra 1,000 miles leave from SBA or SNA - go to LAX then trip.
Since there is a 500 mile/Q point minimum it add 1,000 Q points for almost the same money.
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TANSTAAFL - but if you work it right, FF miles comes pretty close.