Originally Posted by
travelingdrsuz
The benefits to a non elite are important.
What benefits does a non-elite get on a main cabin fare?
But my main point is definitely canceling or changing.
When I book a flight, I generally know of there's any realistic chance that I'll change or cancel. If there is I won't book BE.
Also, earning LPs matters to me, even though I do get free bags, seats, etc.
Earning LP is extremely important to me too. If the markup is small compared to the BE cost, I'll buy main because it's more extra miles per extra dollar spent and the "insurance" against unexpectedly needing to cancel becomes more worthwhile.
At the end of the year 10% or less of my LP will have come from flying. There are cheaper ways to get them (and besides, the whole point of earning all these is to fly for free)