I am planning a trip to Churchill, Manitoba in late October, beginning the trip by flying from Tucson to Winnipeg. I will be traveling with my 7 year old. Saver economy awards have been available on dates I was interested in the whole first part of the year. Of course, as soon as I was able to solidify the date of the main reason I am going (polar bears...they did not open the tour schedule until last week), the award seats disappeared.

I am somewhat open on my exact travel dates to and from Winnipeg. I need to be in Winnipeg by the October 22 and return October 28 or 29. October 29 has saver economy awards available. Should I book one way return tickets, Winnipeg to Tucson on October 29 to lock in the saver award and wait to see if seats open later for the trip from Tucson to Winnipeg? Or is there a better airline option for the award travel? I have 110k UR, but would like to stretch them as far as I can. I am new to flying on awards and would appreciate any input. Thank you.