Just thought I'd illustrate a purchase decision I made involving choices.

I decided today to spend a few days in LAS with a friend as a quasi-bachelor party for him. I'm flying out Monday and returning Wed.

Southwest -$286 US Air -$290 United -$309. I could book with miles, saver fares wide open, but United would charge $75 since it is close in.

So I purchased the United fare, will use 25,000 choices on the price once the charges are on my credit card statement, which leaves me with $59 for the flight, unless I want to pony up 30,000 and leave it just $9. I then gain the 4,000 RDMs (4 segments + 100% Elite bonus) and 4,000 EQMs (4 segments + Double EQM offer) for the trip.