Air travel today can be challenging, finding an affordable fare, a convenient travel time, even the right city to depart from or arrive at can be challenging. And of course the long lines at security just add to the stress.

When you arrive at your departure airport getting through multiple security checkpoints can be a hassle, constantly changing rules about how soon to get to the airport, how to check in, what you can carry on board etc. can all be confusing.

Being a frequent business air traveler, I have come up with the following tips to help you on your journey.

To find the lowest and most convenient fares - always book your travel at least 21 days in advance.

Call ahead, or go to your airlines web site to find out how early you should be at the airport, international flights will require more time.

Whenever possible go to your airlines web site to check in and print boarding passes. If you are changing planes print out all boarding passes, if you don't, you will have to go back through security to get a new boarding pass. If you only have a short time window, this could cause you to miss your flight.

If you have already checked in via the airlines website, you usually do not have to check in at the airport check in counter. If you have bags to check, many airlines again have curb-side baggage check in, and/or they have self serve baggage check in kiosks. Using these services saves a lot of time and hassle. If you are unsure how to use the self serve kiosk, ask an airline employee, or another traveler who seems to know how it works.

When in line for security, put all metal objects, keys, watches, coins, pens, money clips, belt buckles, cell phone etc. in a pocket of your carry on bag, even your shoes if possible, send that bag through the scanner, as you walk hassle free through the metal detector.

If you are carrying a computer, be sure to take it out of the carrying case. I have my business card, taped to the top of my computer with duct tape for fast identification. If your business card has personal information on it, be sure to block that info out.

Have a Safe Trip!

Jim Newell