Originally Posted by gobluetwo

Which airline? There are strategies, depending on the airline, to board earlier. For instance, on UA, you could pay for premier travel which lets you board with seating area 1, or go for a window (seating area 2). On Southwest, you could pay for business select, which gives your priority boarding in group A. Other airlines have different boarding schemes, so it would help to know which one you're flying.

EDIT: Oh, I remember you. You're going to Dallas in August for Quakecon with those sweet rigs/cases. According to Seatguru and Cranky Flier, US Airways boards those needing extra time first; then F/top elites; then other elites; then those who check in online; then those who check in at the airport. So seems like your best bet is to check in online and to get as close to the front of the line (ie, right after the elites) as possible. Alternatively, you could go for an upgrade to F, although that will cost you.