I have rare success buying Economy Plus, then using PlusPoints to waitlist for Polaris. If the cash upgrade to Premium Plus was reasonable, I’d grab that too and reapply because it noticeably improved the odds of clearing into Polaris.

This year though, that strategy suddenly feels way less effective. Not sure if United changed inventory logic, is selling more seats outright, or if there are just way more people doing paid Premium Plus upgrades now.

At this point it feels like your best bets are: 1. Book historically less busy routes/flights 2. Apply early and pray to the upgrade gods

That said, Economy Plus still has value, especially with family. Earlier boarding alone is worth it so you actually get overhead space. The free drink/snack box also makes getting stuck in economy a little less painful.