Originally Posted by roknroll

60,000 miles over 2.5 years is a fairly light amount of travel. Until about 2 years ago, I traveled annually about the same amount, maybe 20k-25k miles per year. When I traveled that much, the elite perks were insignificant. In addition, entry level status on most airlines is also moderately beneficial, and many of those perks can be had just by having the airline CC.

But once you start flying 50k+ per year, ESPECIALLY on shorter domestic trips, the elite status is a big benefit. For international trips it means lounge access, priority seating, better customer service, possible upgrades, ect. Domestic travel usually means more frquent trips so having priority securitty lines and check in really saves time and sanity. Upgrades are ususally much more frequent.

Finally the 2x bonus miles earned through elite status help with the family life. My wife hates my constant travel, but when we can go on a trip anywhere in the world in business class each year using miles, she is much more tolerant of my travel.

So I would agree that in your situation, elite status isn't that desireable. Flying 25k-30k miles a year is where you start to appreciate it, but it's still not that great. Personally I didn't really appreciate it until I was in the 50k+ miles a year.