I am over 17,000 miles so far this year, and I might have to do the "buy gift cards" gambit in December to get me over the hump to attain Elite Gold for next year.

Am I the only one here who has resigned himself to the fact that I will probably only attain Silver Status in the coming years? I only fly the ultra cheap flights, and my miles redemptions go towards high fare flights. So basically, I have to spend at least $16,000 --probably more-- on the credit card to have a chance to retain Gold Status for 2027. I just don't see that happening...

Silver Status is okay; being able to get my aisle seat every flight is important to me. But I almost never need to check a bag for my trips; I will dearly miss the free carry on bag. I am adept at bringing a full personal item, but a normal carry on really does make life easier....