Originally Posted by rylan

Since you plan at least a few months out, you should be able to find dates/routing with eligible fare classes, unless you're trying to travel during a peak vacation period... but even then its still possible.

It seems that the majority of people who complain its hard to use are not flexible at all or just take a couple looks and give up. I've always been able to use mine. Sometimes its piece of cake, sometime I have to watch the flights I want regularly until the availability opens up.

If you have status, you are eligible for upgrades with the companion cert now. Not sure on the details for upgrading after.