Where & How to Find Free WiFi While Traveling
It used to be that travelling was a time to disconnect from the everyday, however finding free WiFi when you travel has now become almost as important as finding where the nearest bathroom is. Staying connected has become the norm for most Americans today, whether they travel domestically or internationally. While many restaurants and hotels now charge for WiFi service today, it is still possible to get free WiFi if you know where to look and are willing to travel a little to get it! Here’s how (and where) to find free wi-fi service when you travel.
Free Wi Fi: Best Hotspots for Find Free Wifi Internet When You Travel
Businesses that cater to short term visitors are very likely to offer free WiFi as an incentive for consumers to choose them over a competitor. Therefore, some “hotspots” you are likely find free wireless internet access when you are in a new town, state or country include:
- McDonalds (12,000 locations with Wi-Fi in the United States alone)
- Coffee shops, like Starbucks
- Hotels, motels, inns and other accommodations
- Campgrounds
- Bars and restaurants, including a large percentage of chain restaurants
- Airports may or may not offer free WiFi, but even in airports without it, individual restaurants and coffee shops may have it.
- Major bookstores like Barnes & Noble
- Businesses that cater to small businesses, like FedEx Office, Staples and Office Depot
- Places where consumers frequently have to wait, like hospitals and garages.
- Major grocery stores like Wegman’s, Whole Foods, Publix and Safeway.
- Technology retailers, like Apple Stores.
- Public libraries
Whether you are looking for free WiFi in the United States, Canada or Europe, many of the big name chains you are familiar with offer it. To help you find a location, check out Wifi Free Spot, a great resource for finding ways to get free internet when you are travelling.
The Security Issues of Free Open WiFi Networks
While WiFi is hugely convenient, the fact is that free WiFi is an unsecured connection. This means that anything you access or send using this type of connection can possibly be seen by others. Hackers are aware of the fact that many people let down their guard when using WiFi and are waiting to take advantage of the fact. Be sure that if you choose to use complimentary WiFi that you never leave your device connected while you are not using it. You should also not use such connections for Internet banking or to make purchases.
Portable WiFi Internet Offers A Secure Option
Security problems concern many who use unsecured free WiFi networks (without password protection) while travelling. However, there is another option for frequent travellers. Anyone who travels on a regular basis will benefit greatly from a secure portable wireless Internet device that goes where you go. If you have an electrical plug, you can have the Internet connection that you want regardless of where you are. Using cell phone towers to transmit information, you can have a secure high speed Internet connection anywhere you can get cell phone service in the United States.
Free Wi-Fi access is an easy way to stay connected with those who are important to you when you travel. Travellers today have the luxury or easily being able to find free WiFi or opting for a more secure connection that is private to them. Whatever your choice, there’s no longer an excuse for not staying connected.