Mobile broadband for non-tech savvy

I am definitely non-tech savvy when it comes to smartphones and all the latest technology. I do know how to use aphone and the apps on it, but that it about it. I am seeking how to get internet on my laptop (or tablet) - not my phone - while traveling. I know nothing about hotspot devices, etc., but in the past, I have used a mobile USB "stick." I am looking at a mobile broadband plan for internet so I can use, Google maps, Youtube and general web surfing (Facebook, Twitter, eBay, etc.). Can anyone help this older generation, non-tech savvy guy out?

 

Your phone has the ability to be your hotspot. It's an extra charge per gigabyte to your cellular bill.

 

I have a Verizon phone.
In my phone menu I have a selection for personal hot spot.
I turn my personal hot spot on on my phone and then connect my iPad to it and then surf the web.
My wife also connects her windows based surface to it to do her online classes while we are on the road.

 

But aren't you charged at a higher data rate for using your phone as a hotspot?

 

I have heard of that, but how much is the extra charge per gigabyte - with Verizon for instance?

 

Give 'em a call.

 

I am not charged extra.
It uses the data plan that I have on the phone already.
Think of it as your using your iPad or laptop as a bigger remote monitor for your phone.
Now if you spend hours streaming video you may need to increase your data plan on your phone.

 

My phone is from Straight talk. I am looking for a personal hotspot or similar in my menu, but alas, can't seem to find it.

 

Is anyone still going old school and using a mobile broadband USP device/stick?

 

All carriers have mobile hotspot devices.
From what I've read Verizon's is the way to go.
If you use your straight talk account ( phone) for a hotspot it's a heck of a lot more expensive than Verizon's.
Its like $ 75 for only 7gigs.
I'm not sure which Verizon myfi works the best but you can look on there website.