Hi all, just wanted to first say thanks in advance for the help and so far this forum has been extremely helpful, which is what prompted me to join. I'm looking to get some advice on where to begin collecting miles and which CC to start off with. Specifically, I'm looking to start focusing on either United or US Airways, and additionally open one or two new CC(s). Background info goes:

1. I'm not a frequent traveler. Maybe once every month or two between SFO/LAX to JFK/CLT for work. Historically I've just flown whichever is the cheapest and fits my time (Virgin/US/UA). I do travel within CA couple times a month, but that's more for leisure and I exclusively only take WN. The flexibility to cancel on WN is necessary for my job when traveling for leisure, so that's not likely to change. My travel pattern will probably be pretty similar the next two years. It may ramp up to regular once a month travel, but it definitely won't be a weekly type of thing.

2. I tend to stay in SPG hotels, mostly the Westin. Not really for any specific reason besides the Westins I've stayed at is close to the various offices I work in and they're within my company budget. I have Gold Status, so I'll likely stay within SPG hotels as much as possible.

3. I monthly spend is around $2K to $3K. However, starting this month, I'll have two or three $20K payments (first one coming up in mid-Aug) a year. I'd like to capitalize on these large payments in exchange for points/miles.

4. I have a 4 or 5 CC, most of which I opened several years ago. I currently only have two CC in rotation for use, a AMEX Costco card and recently Chase Sapphire Preferred. I intend on applying for Soutwest's cards, Personal & Business, at the beginning of 2013 to take advantage of the companion pass. I don't want to apply this year because I'll have more time for leisure travel in 2013 & 2014. Plus given my current situation, there isn't a consistent companion that would be traveling whenever I am this year. My credit score is good (750+), so I think I should able to open at least one or two more CC to take advantage of any good promotions going on right now.

5. I have a slight preference for miles. The biggest reason why I'd try to collect status for airlines (US or UA) is to bypass the security line and early boarding. Upgrading to better seats, while nice, doesn't seem very likely given my travel route. The other reason would be to fly family members when they want to visit.

Given my situation and habits, what do you guys think my strategy should be? I'm thinking of focusing on status for UA, potentially opening a SPG card, and maybe one other CC this year. Thoughts? Thanks a lot!