I normally don't loose an off day due to the commute...There is not very much flying in/out of JFK (where I'm based) and so I normally DH to my first operating leg normally from ORD, MIA, TOL, PHL for Dover or McGuire flights, etc.

Then there is a rest period before you operate an aircraft...so, it works very well.

Disclaimer...I am fairly senior in my base/equipment so I can bid out of those trips that start in JFK.

As for the other bases (MIA, HSV, IAH, LAX, ANC) I'll let the others address their experiences.

Good luck.