Originally Posted by
findark
GPUs are going to be the highest value - especially consider LAX/MEL as it is a good source of R space. Award tickets are also a good deal but may involve transiting Asia as UA metal I space is very rare. I would look out for I space but realistically just find an itinerary that is R4 or better and use a mix of GPUs and miles+cash upgrades.
I did MEL-LAX 2x with GPUs (R available at booking a few months out) as it also had good o/w fares (about $650-$750) when I was piecing together my own circle the pacific with a mix of paid, award and GPUs.