Originally Posted by
slivrflyr
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The only benefit is Econ plus, which really is only sitting a row higher up.
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E+ free access, extra economy award space, extra bag allowance, higher boarding group and access to premier security are the "real" Silver benefits. Some credit cards will give you the latter four. So if E+ is not viewed as a benefit, get a credit card and don't waste time and money chasing Silver.
Upgrades have never been a significant Silver benefit and should not be the goal of a Silver elite.