I agree with many others here about the value of Skymiles. I used to collect them actively and now I realize their value has become very limited. Instead, I found AMEX MR and Chase UR points more flexible and rewarding. On routes like PVG-LAX, I can transfer 60k MR or UR to VA and get nonstop Delta one suite, which usually costs 120k Skymiles on the same route. Back to OP's question, I use Skymiles primarily on international upgrades (e.g., 45k from PS to D1) and short distance flash sales (for me, 10k miles for round trip SAN-LAX).