Solo traveler, no status. I'm planning a trip to Australia from LAX over the 4th of July weekend and am looking for flight recommendations. I've found a few options and would appreciate your insights.

Option 1. Fiji Airways offers a roundtrip flight from LAX to SYD for $850 on their A350, with a 3-hour layover in Nadi (NAN). I have Priority Pass access, so the layover isn't a major concern as I can use the lounge. However, I've heard Fiji Airways charges for seat selection: around $70 from LAX to NAN and $10 from NAN to SYD, totaling $160 roundtrip for seat assignments. On the bright side, you get 3 meals (1 dinner, 1 breakfast from LAX-NAN and 1 breakfast from NAN to SYD)

Option 2. Qantas has a direct A380 flight from LAX to SYD for $1100 roundtrip. While more expensive, it's a direct flight. I understand they also charge for seat selection, though less than Fiji Airways. Qantas is known for its good food, especially their beef dishes, and they offer self-serve snacks.

Option 3. Finally, I could book a roundtrip flight on Air New Zealand via LifeMiles for around $1000 (during the miles promotion). This would require a separate booking from AKL to SYD, and a layover in Auckland (AKL).

Option 4. Use US based airlines. Although they are not strict with carry on, I'm kinda bored flying with them and want to try something new.

My priorities are reliability, seat comfort, seat pitch (I'm 175cm), good food, and reasonable carry-on baggage policies (especially the weight). Which airline would you recommend? Any insights into these options, or others I should consider, would be greatly appreciated!