iPhone, Android, Blackberry, Windows Mobile and more: Even the most cautious drivers can sometimes make mistakes. Trapster® is a FREE app that alerts you to speed traps, red light and speed cameras, police check points, and more. But don't speed.
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Come on in, the water’s nice! And bring your camera and your music with you!
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The answer is NO. But here’s how to keep the kids entertained along the way.
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Looking for a travel gadget that’s both portable and versatile? Here are 10.
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Wondering where you are? Where you’re heading? GPS to the rescue.
Technology On Vacation
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Summer MoviesWe watched WAY too many films about summer and found a theme (seven actually).
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The Ultimate StaycationStuck at home? Here’s how to turn your backyard into a vacation oasis.
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Before You GoHere’s your technology checklist (so you don’t leave home without it).
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While You're AwayFive ways to stay connected to your home when you’re not at home.
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Stay Connected on VacationCan’t bear to go off the grid? Here’s how to keep plugged in while traveling.
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TV To GoWant to watch TV when you’re away from your TV? You’ve got options (Lots of ‘em).
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Tech 101: Digital Photo BasicsThink taking pictures is simple? Well, it is, but now what?
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Tech Tips for International TravelHeading overseas? Here’s what to pack in your gunny sack.
What else is On?
Four titles made just for children. Or, for adults who act like children.
Saving money and energy at home is simple. Here’s how to get started.
What? Music games with ACTUAL instruments? Huh. Imagine that.
How to get your favorite shows without paying for them (legally, of course).
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Apps for the Road
Trapster
Yelp
Android, iPhone, Blackberry and more: Not sure what to do in your chosen destination? Try Yelp. It’s the fun and easy way to find reviews and see what's great (and not so great) in the city you're in.
Layar
Android, iPhone 3GS: See beyond the map. By using a combination of your phone’s camera and GPS data, the Layar Reality Browser can identify your location and literally show you the sights you may be missing.
Kayak
iPhone, Blackberry, Android and more: Get flight, hotel and car rental info in a snap with KAYAK’s free travel app. The app also includes KAYAK Trips so you can easily manage your itinerary from anywhere.
Urbanspoon
iPhone, iPad, Android: If you enjoy food and slot machines, then Urbanspoon is your best bet. This free app helps you find great restaurants based on your cravings. Just shake it until you find a restaurant that looks promising.
GPSed
iPhone, Blackberry, Windows Mobile and more: Record your trips anywhere on Earth using your mobile device. Tracks are traced on Google Maps and stored in an online archive. All you need to start tracking is a mobile device with a GPS receiver.
My Vacation
iPhone, iPad: Tired of crummy, over-priced postcards getting lost in the snail mail? Now you can create picture perfect postcards on the road and send them to your friends (and frenamies) from your iPhone.
uPackingList
iPhone, iPad: uPackingList is a free app designed to turn packing into fast and convenient activity for any journey – business trip, vacation, family picnic, fishing, theme park etc.
Google Sky Map
Android: Discover the night sky just by pointing your phone to space. By using your Android phone's orientation sensors, Google Sky Map can show you a star map from a campground, backyard or creepy truck stop.
Road Trip Lite
iPhone: Turn your iPhone into a road trip expense tracker and keep tabs on gas prices, fuel economy, even repair costs. Road Trip Lite is especially useful for groups to divvy up road trip expenses.
Free Wi-Fi for All!
Want something for nothing?
Free mobile apps like Wi-Fi Finder make finding free Wi-Fi easy. But what if your phone can’t do apps, or your battery dies? Luckily, there are some common places to get a complimentary connection. Click the arrows below to find out where.
Coffee shops
Major chains like Caribou Coffee, Starbucks and Peet’s Coffee & Tea typically offer complimentary Wi-Fi, but many of the independents do, too. Of course, you’ll need to buy a cup of joe (or a $9 scone) so you don’t feel like a freeloader.
Places with books
You’ll have to be quiet while you’re using it, but many public libraries have free Wi-Fi. Sometimes the local bookstore will have it too, but if you want to be sure, go to Barnes & Noble. It’s free at every location.
Restaurants
Hungry for some free Wi-Fi? Most Paneras have it. Many McDonald’s do too. You also might find it at Burger King, IHOP, Krispy Kreme, Schlotzsky’s, Taco Bell and Denny’s (we suggest the Moons Over My Hammy).
Hotels
Typically, the more expensive the hotel, the more expensive the Internet access. Go figure. Luckily, many 2- and 3-star chains like Hampton, Courtyard By Marriott, Red Roof Inn, and Holiday Inn Express offer free high-speed access (it’s not always Wi-Fi, though).
Airports
You’ll have to pay at LAX and Newark, but free Wi-Fi is an increasingly popular offering at smaller airports like Cedar Rapids and Reno. You’ll also find it in Phoenix, Orlando, Charlotte, Kansas City, Pittsburgh, even Anchorage.
Proceed with Caution
Free Wi-Fi has its drawbacks: Signal strength can be spotty, and it’s not very secure. Hackers have been known to set up fake hotspots to steal data, so be certain it’s legit, use a VPN when possible and make sure your security software is up to date.
