In search of Free WiFi...on the road.

I’m travelling ‘wireless’ for the first time this trip so I’ve been searching around for information on where to find WiFi on the road.

Here’s what I’ve found out:

Just because a hotel say they offer free WiFi access doesn’t mean that it’s available where you want it. For example, the hotel might have free WiFi but only in the lobby or on specific floors.

It’s important to do your research before you leave. Check the hotel’s website for information on WiFi access and where in the hotel it’s offered. Call the hotel direct and ask someone about the access.

For further verification, you could check out an independent hotspot directory to find out more details. Directories worth checking out include Free Hotspots, WiFi Free Spot, Hotspot Locations, and JiWire.

These directories can also guide you to hotspots around the city you're visiting. I did a check through Free Hotspots and discovered a number of places in central Madrid that offer WiFi.

Open WiFi Spots has a comprehensive listing of over 24,000 free WiFi spots around the United States. They have also listed them by category. For example, there is a listing of bookstores, coffee houses, fast food restaurants, public parks, NYC hotels, and airports with free WiFi.

The Airport Wireless Internet Guide has detailed information on access in US airports. For the rest of the world, check out the USA Today Hotspot Finder.

It seems that free WiFi is everywhere.

You just have to know where to find it…

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