Powering the Lappy.... two options... Either pickup a 12V for the Laptop (they sell universal ones that fit most laptops via power-tips that you can swap out). Though a better option would be to pickup and inverter (12v dc -> 120v Ac) that you can run your laptop off directly. 500W inverters can be picked up pretty cheap (less than $50 new) and are sufficient for most laptops. You will find many other uses for the inverter as well, such as running standard compact fluorescent lighting for your camp...Or to power some jams, etc.

For your internet.... I will say, that (though I am anti-cell phone in general).. A cellular PC Datacard is very useful for connectivity on the road. Of course will be worthless in the backcountry.

Before leaving my techie job (and tossing all my cell gadgets) I used a PC datcard to stay connected as I ventured around from state-to-state.. My employer oblivious to the fact that I was doing zipping down the highway, stopping occasionally to catchup on the biz-E, etc.

Anyhow. Between your Wi-fi card and a Cell PC data card you have many options for getting on the net. The only other solution would be to pack a Sat-dish...But aiming those for data is critical...and would only recommend that for a die-hard in need of much downband.

(feel free to ask more questions if more detail needed).

See ya on the road.... Still building my gypsy tinker wagon.

after a couple months , i have to wonder, what you finally ended up with.

solarcharlie

Verizon offers a USB dongle that acts as a wireless service. True, it's $60/mo, but I had no problems with it in the middle of nowhere. The key part about that being that is has to be used in an area Verizon has coverage.