Sunday, August 7, 2011

Ask Engadget: what should visitors to the USA do for mobile internet?

We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Mustafa, who'd love to visit America... if only the internet were cheaper. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.

"As someone who doesn't reside in the USA, I was wondering what would be the best way to get internet for my computer in the US for a couple of weeks? If it were Europe I know I'd look for some prepaid data. Is there anything similar offered by American carriers? A MiFi or a data SIM that I can tether from would work, but I'm trying to maintain a tight budget. Help!"

Truthfully, young Mustafa could probably round up an old AOL dial-up disc and at least connect from a family's house, or just camp out at a Starbucks all day and enjoy the sweet spoils of gratis WiFi. But when it comes to getting temporary mobile data in the States... well, let's just say we're keenly interested in hearing any tricks you readers may know. Xcom Global certainly rents a US modem (nice for folks with family in America that can order for them), but otherwise, we're drawing a blank. Toss your suggestions in comments below!