If you don't fly frequently, air travel can be a colossal pain in the proverbial neck.
From packing to getting your boarding pass to getting through the security line to actually getting on board the plane just seems to have one thing after another that could possibly go wrong.
And, in air travel, Murphy is quite well and very active - if anything can go wrong it will go wrong.
And you will be left holding the bag - so to speak.
Here are some tips to help the process go smoother.

1. Keep a bag of toiletries in you bathroom all packed and ready to go.
   Things can be in container no larger than 2 ounces so go to the drug store or grocery store and stock up on travel size toiletries.
   All you will have to do is add your medicines and you will be ready to go at any time.
   Be sure to put the bag in your carry on so you can get it out quickly in the security line.
   It needs to go through the scanner separately.
   
2. Print out your boarding pass at home.
   Most airlines let you do this 24 hours in advance of your scheduled flight time.
   It saves you a lot of time and agony because you will not have to stand in long lines at the airport.
   
3. Put your passport or driver's license on a string around your neck.
   You can buy little packets for this use and it really makes it convenient.
   Also, you are not digging though pockets or purses at the last minute trying to find what you need to get through security.
   
4. Wear slip on shoes as you will have to take them off and put them through the scanner separately.
   Be aware that jackets and sweaters get the same treatment so don't put them on until after you have gone through the line.
   Be sure you can easily get to change and easily remove and jewelry that may set off the people scanner.
   It just holds you up to have to step back and put that stuff in a container they can put through the machine.
   
5. Pack something to do on the plane in your carry on bag.
   Don't count on the airline to entertain you or to feed you for that matter.
   You may want to pack something to nibble on during your flight as food is not usually readily available and is rather expensive to purchase.
   

These are just a few quick tips but they will make a ton of difference in your travel.
Think ahead and be prepared to make your trip more pleasant.