SR 290 to SR 71 through Austin?

So I went on 290 as I approached Austin from the west going east, quite a bit of traffic about 10-20 miles out. This was around 11AM. Once I got on 71 it was easy going until I choose 71 toll. That was hard to get on as it was four lanes over with entrance on the left. And NO TOLL BOOTH, which makes it difficult for us full timers without a tag for every state and who only get mail rarely. By the time I get the notification they have fined me for being late. Ugh! I think I should of stayed on the non-toll 290, it looked ok as it met up with 71. All was good then.