Paying 800k is cray cray. Start building up Amex MR, Chase UR, or similar transferable points. In particular, I would look at programs which allow you to transfer to ANA, as US-Southwest Pacific runs 120k miles per person in J and the *A carriers actually have decent availability far in advance. You can book 355 days in advance on many foreign carrier’s programs, including ANA, giving you first shot at saver award availability. By the time United’s booking window opens at T-330, plenty of options may already be gone. If you’re not comfortable navigating waters like this, an award booking service may be money well spent for you.