I will be flying a round trip later this year to Europe and back via Lufthansa. They had a great deal on their Premium Econmomy that was, at that time, less than most of the competing regular economy fares. Otherwise I would probably have booked Delta as I like their reliability.

However, Lufthansa miles have a 3 year life that is more difficult to extend than US airlines, and I am not sure if I will fly the airline very often. While the cheaper airfare is worth losing the miles (dollars trump miles) it would be nice not to lose them.

Any suggestions as to what airline reward plan I can use? The only reasonable alternative seems to be United, but, I thought I would ask in case I have overlooked something. At this point I might even consider a hotel plan rather than simply let them expire in 3 years.