Not an STL guy but you'll be commuting with plenty of Tway guys. Most go to either DFW or ORD unless they take the CA positions in LGA or MIA.
As far as commuting goes in general some basic rules that apply reguardless of where you are going to commute to/from.
1. One leg commutes are always better vs 2 legs.
2. Leave yourself a backup. Meaning 2 flights. Reserve the JS on your backup flight. If you get on your first call and CX your JS reserveaion.
3. In dicy conditions leave a day early or plan on driving if feasible. For example STL to ORD very drivable. It may just be better to suck it up and get there sacrificing a few hours at home in return for knowing you don't have to rush when all the flights CX or are filled.
4. Spend a little more for a nice crash pad if you know you're going to be based at that location for the duration. Especially if you will be on reserve. Some older guys will join up (say 3 or 4 that have the same or approximate retirement years) and buy a 2 bedroom condo. 2 to a bedroom (own bed) and a living area are much much better than 10 sharing a cheap crash pad. But to each his/her own. When it's time to retire they sell the condo and crashpad car(s). You may spend a little more i the long run but your commuting stress especially on reserve or if you can't get home will be way less.
It's been 10 years since I've had to commute. Commuting is an art form in itself. Some can't do it at all and some do it their whole career. You have to feel out what works for you.
Good luck
Last edited by Sam York; 09-27-2017 at 01:36 PM.