I fly 100% for leisure and usually make 3 paid trips to Asia each year, plus a few other trips to various destinations, all on Northwest. I always make sure I reach Platinum status each year.

So far this year, I have 31,087 actual NW miles and have purchased tickets for 3 more trips in 2001. These 3 trips will net me another 43,964 actual miles, which will give me 75,051 for the year.

I don't have a budget cap, I just plan in advance and try to get the best deal on tickets.