We do not purchase the EBCI when we are traveling to our destination; as I can be a computer at the 24 hour check in mark. We can usually land up getting in the late A group or early B group, and still manage to get seats together.
We do purchase EBCI for our return flight home. Takes the worry of having to check-in (or have someone check you in) at the 24 hour mark. Especially if you plan to be in a park. We just print our boarding passes when we get to the airport. This could be something to consider on your return trip home.