Originally Posted by
But seriously
What everyone above said is absolutely true about true days off. If you are only counting nights away from home though often RSV works out better than a junior line. It’s very dependent on BES and staffing within BES though.
I personally find reserve MORE relaxing than holding a line. Sure I have to leave my phone on, but I don’t think about work at all beyond today or tomorrow. When I hold a line I constantly have open trip alerts going off and I’m always wondering what if I traded this for that, or picked up here, etc.
Im fully aware that this is a self induced stress. I’m just sharing the observation.
I set alerts, but they're very few. Best part of having a line is you can choose to only pick up or trade for what you want. You don't have to swing at every pitch. Very easy to get 80% of what you want and very hard to optomize for that final 20%.
The issue with reserve is you are told when to take something. I find it's infinitely more stress sitting at home ready to take a call. Very tempted to try a VEC line next month because I know I'll not fly much but is my mental peace worth it?