As wireless Internet becomes more common, the trick is figuring out where it’s available for free. Unfortunately, that may not be your hotel room, but there are some familiar spots to get connected.

McDonald’s recently announced that it’s removing the fee to use Wi-Fi in 11,000 locations nationwide. Earlier, it cost $2.95 for two hours of access.

One of the first chains to offer free Wi-Fi was Panera Bread.

Just go online to find a location near you, and if there’s a little signal icon next to the listing, you know it’s got free access.

When you’re off the highway and in town, it’s a good bet that a local coffee shop will offer free wireless.

And some regional chains, like Caribou and Peet’s Coffee and Tea, now offer limited-time access as well.

But you’re not stuck with just cafes and restaurants: All of the Barnes & Noble locations in the country, and about two-thirds of libraries in the U.S. offer free Wi-Fi.

To find other recognizable spots where you can get connected without paying a fortune, check out Web sites like wififreespot.com and jiwire.com (J-I wire).

For more travel tips on staying connected, don’t miss the Travel Gadgets & Gear section..

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