How to Find Free WiFi Wherever You Roam

How did we live without the internet, let alone without WiFi?

With the rapid pace of technology, its hard to believe that the internet only has existed since 1991 - and that we used to access it only via our wired computers.

There are now numerous ways to access the internet - computers, laptops, tablets and the fast growing segment: smartphones.

So with all this connectivity, is there a need to pay for wireless access or even pay for the internet?
No longer is it the just surfing the web, but it's all about downloading and streaming - whether it's music, television or movies, there's a constant need to be entertained via the Internet.

Most Canadians are paying on average $30-$40 per month for Internet access, and it can easily increase with the number of devices attached to the bill and the data used. In 2011, Canadians were paying on average 3.9 per cent more than Americans for broadband access.

For those looking to avoid paying for WiFi, there are loads of places where free WiFi can be found. Check the list below and download free apps like this one for the iPhone and iPad, or this one for Android devices, which help you locate the nearest free WiFi hub.


Free WiFi Offered Here:

• Restaurants/Retailers: we're all familiar with the neighbourhood coffee shop that offers free WIFI, but it's now become a benefit of major chains such as Starbucks, McDonald's, Tim Hortons, David's Tea, Indigo/Chapters and Second Cup.
• Libraries: these old school information hubs have also embraced technology, with many public libraries offering free access to the internet via computer stations but also WiFi availability
• Schools: for those attending post-secondary institutions, WiFi access is part of the student experience in the 21st century - most campuses offer free WiFi for their students
• Public hotspots: in some major cities, such as Toronto and Calgary, free public WiFi is available in a downtown area
• Travellers - many airports offer complimentary WiFi, including Vancouver, Victoria, Edmonton, Calgary, Regina, Toronto, Ottawa, Quebec City, Montreal, Fredericton, Charlottetown, St. John's, while passengers on VIA Rail and MegaBus can access free WiFi too.
• Hacking - yes, there are apparently ways to hack into secure WiFi - for those who are tech-obsessed and want to avoid a bill.....

Look for the WiFi logo - and don't hesitate to ask. Many restaurants and bars offer complimentary WiFi to patrons if you ask politely.