2016 Bonus Guidance
 

I could use some guidance in this area.

Current cards:

Chase UA Explorer
Chase Marriott
Chase Sapphire Preferred
B of A AS (just done in 2015)
Citibank Platinum Select (AA) (just done in 2015)

My FICO score is solid and it’s no big deal if it gets banged up a little. My spouse is not inclined to sign up for cards in her name (bummer) and does not care what I do as long as I don’t screw up. (As an aside, I truly admire the exploits of the folks in the MS thread. However, I would get torched by my wife if I did something that led to an account closure.)

I can generate $30K or so in spend in 2016 without too much trouble and can generate another $30K (tuition bills) for one of my kids. This would require the use of Plastiq or something similar and I’m willing to do so if I can capture some good signup bonuses.

Ideally, I would like a couple cards with high spend and high bonuses in return.

As far as I can tell, the Chase BA and B of A Virgin Atlantic look the best in this regard. I am less inclined toward cards (but willing to consider) that offer things like lounge access with high annual fees.

Thank you for any guidance you may offer.

2016 Bonus Guidance
 

What is your goal for the miles/points? What airport are you near?

Home airport is BOI. We have decent UA, DL and AS coverage. AA is a recent arrival with the U.S. merger.

I don't have a specific goal (and that may be part of the problem) - most of my business travel is domestic with pleasure travel most anywhere in the world.

Wirelessly posted (BlackBerry: BlackBerry8530/5.0.0.1030 Profile/MIDP-2.1 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/417)

FFPs that charge hefty surcharges for long-haul travel are best avoided if your primary goal is international travel.