Maximum Return on cash tickets ??
 

Hi all. Thanks for the great posts and advice for us newbs !

Wasn't sure where to post these questions so I'll start here.

I'm just out of the embryonic stages of getting into the miles & points game, (the jaw is up off the floor, the detached and disturbed look is gone; replaced by a look of firm resolve as he ponders past flights regretfully) :D

Miles & points, btw, is right down the alley for my analytical self. ^

We are accumulating miles but don't have enough to do our next BNE-CLE trip on miles. (We are 2 adults, one 5 yr old.)

Could we have some suggestions for those of who still (horrors) buy tickets ?
How do I maximise a $4800-5400 spend on airlines ? (I have hotel points)

If you're going to lay out a couple grand anyway, how do you get the most for your money ? I'd be interested in knowing how other people do it ?

We would like to make the trip part of the fun, stopping off in SFO or DEN, en route. Maybe both.
Any suggestions, tips and tricks are welcomed !!

I do have student status. Don't know if that counts for anything.
I have a MP Xplorer and a US Airways card.
We are planning on traveling last week of May till first week of July.

Thanks !!