Originally Posted by
travelingdrsuz
The one time you think you should buy BE to save the money because you are absolutely sure you won't need to make a change or cancel, you will need to make a change or cancel. Just buy Main Cabin anyway. You get a better deal all around and much less risk and more benefits all around.
I usually either buy BE or use award tickets. What "more benefits" do you get for buying main? The benefits are identical. I am still in the same position on the upgrade list, I get free MCE seating in case I'm not upgraded, free checked bags, etc etc.
A couple of weeks ago I paid about $350 round trip PHX-MIA and got upgraded in both directions. Main was $40 more per direction. I don't see the need to pay an extra $80 for some flexibility that I don't need. My hotel was prepaid and not cancelable as well (saved about $120 there across 4 nights) so I knew I was going. I see no reason to just throw away $200 for the right to cancel a trip that I know I'm not cancelling.