OK, with what seems like a lot of experienced nonrevers (even confirmed flyers) I am searching for the best inexpensive ways to access internet and have cell phone when traveling. Cell phone would be mostly out of U.S. travelling.

First, I am not a big cell phone user and have a basic tmobil prepaid cell phone. I do not use a phone enough to want a monthly bill.

I have heard it is easiest, and probably the most cost effective, to have a phone that takes sim cards. Then you buy sim cards at locations for your minutes. Is this what a lot of you do?

Then what about internet access (using laptop or netbook). I found there are some prepaid 3g services but the minutes expire to soon after purchasing. My recent delay through LAX I purchased the tmobil hotspot 24 hour access. Right now for me this is the easiest, cheapest method when needing internet when no free wi-fi is available. But, I am not sure how many airports without free wi-fi use tmobil (not sure what they have outside of U.S.). Plus I would hate to connect through a few airports and have to pay the $7-10 (guessing range) for access if there is another way.

I know when not at the airport I could probably find free wi-fi either at the hotel, book shop or coffee shop. But when at the airport and if plan A falls through to be able to access the internet to check loads and routes would be nice.

How are most airports outside the U.S. for wi-fi, is it mostly free, for a fee or not available?

I have to look for a phone I can use with my prepaid plan that uses sim cards for the times outside the U.S.

Thanks for any information. Just wanting to get set up for when I start flying more out of the U.S.

Tony