I timed my only comping wonderfully, getting UA Exec Prem status through 2/02 for me and Prem for my wife. We were even awarded the "Thank you gift" for loyal Elites, although I haven't had a chance to fly them yet.

NW also sent me "We'll comp you, too!" info (for AA Plat), but we'll save that option for later in life.

I also was just informed about the Hilton Gold fast track promo (on that board, but someone went so far as to e-mail me privately), and will now get extra points and whatnot from my upcoming 3 Hilton stays that were planned even without their current promotions. (dbl dbl dipping, etc.)

So comping can sometimes work out alright!

-KP