Originally Posted by
sincx
It can easily be done for less than $250. Benefits of Silver? Let's see:
1. Y/B instant upgrades.
2. XN access for award flights.
3. E+ within 24 hours (usually works decently if you check in right at 24 hours)
4. Free checked bag
5. Priority in irrops/when standing by
I'd say having the above for an entire year is worth a few hours and $200 or so.
You get much of it (plus bonus miles) with a credit card, which is free for the first year. $200 would buy a reasonable amount of E+, at least domestically.