I was in a similar boat this year. Do I redeem points for several trips to save money or keep them paid to hit S+ for next year? I chose not to go for it. My reasons:

-The extra 25% points would really only net me about 3,500 points next year.

-I haven't received my S package two years running without several calls or the assistance of AGR Insider (thank you again!). I'm doubtful I'd ever get the extra S+ coupons by mail so didn't consider that. I also usually travel Regional and prefer the quiet car over business anyways.

-S already gets you the preferred redemption line.

-I don't use NYP Club Acela. I rarely make it to WAS or PHL far enough ahead of departure to use Club Acela. If I were traveling out of either regularly and didn't cut it so close each time, using those clubs would probably be the biggest benefit to me.

-I would be nowhere near SE so just didn't consider that.


If I were within 1000 (maybe 1500 points at the most) I'd consider a MR. Otherwise, I didn't see the monetary payoff next year from being another level up. I'm planning to cut out a lot of train trips next year so I figured I'd just be chasing status for the sake of it.

I'm also just tired from traveling this year. Personally, I wouldn't want to do MR during the holidays when fares are higher and everything's crowded unless there's a really compelling reason.

That would be my attempt to talk you down from the ledge. If you're going to be closer and planning on using WAS a lot next year, maybe it's worth it for you.