Originally Posted by
quick_dry
depending on how many miles I have stored up, I tend to use them as a buffer against flights that are very expensive due to short notice booking, or to access flights at times I want to fly but only have reward seats available.
This. I earn plenty of miles but burn them just as quickly on close in domestic short hauls. Generally booked < 3 days before travel to a secondary city, so 10,000-15,000 miles is a good deal compared to a $400+ o/w ticket. Have never redeemed miles for international premium travel but I've bought more than a few