Extend your cable. Bright House, Cablevision, Comcast, Cox, and Time Warner Cable customers will soon have access to CableWifi, which will let you access a secure network in certain cities. Hotspots are being rolled out in New York City, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Tampa, and Orlando; more will be added soon.
Hit the books. Some 82% of public libraries offer free Wi-Fi access to visitors, the American Library Association reports. So look for a library near where you'll be.
Claim a park bench. Many locales offer connectivity in their green spaces. Examples include Kirkland, Wash., and New York City. Search muniwireless.com for others.
Get Wi-Fi sniffing apps. Wi-Fi Finder by JiWire is a free app for both iOS and Android phones that roots out networks in 144 countries. Similarly, for your laptop, install NetStumbler or WeFi for Windows machines and iStumbler for Macs.
Go to a business that wants your business. Several national chains advertise their free hotspots. (Naturally, they want you to come in, stay awhile, and drop some serious dough.) Among those that provide a connection: Panera Bread, Starbucks, Barnes & Noble, McDonald's, and FedEx offices. For others, visit wififreespot.com.
Correction: A calendar item in Money magazine's August feature "Get It for Free" incorrectly described the LegoLand promotion.
Just 10 years of aggressive saving can help you sock away enough money for a comfortable retirement.
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