Travel Q&A - Mobile Internet

Q. I want to be able to check my emails and research tourist destinations on my laptop but I'm wondering if I will get internet in remote areas?

A. If you are planning to use the internet on a casual basis, you may be able to rely on internet cafes and the odd McDonalds for Wifi access. But if you want to use the internet while you’re on the go, you will need to invest in a broadband device that can be connected to your laptop via the USB drive. At the moment, Telstra is the only mobile data provider in Australia with extensive national coverage. Pre-paid devices range in price depending on the amount of usage you estimate you will need per month. With pre-paid mobile broadband you only pay for what you use which is helpful if you are new to the system. These devices start at $79 a month for 2 Gigabytes.