I’m going on vacation next week; same music festival I go to every year. We camp onsite. This year I need internet access to be able to check into my online class and submit homework during that week. I called Verizon my mobile phone provider but they only wanted to sell me a 2 year plan which I do not want. Can someone tell me what options I have? I do have a smart phone, an LG Ally (runs on the Android platform). Is tethering an option? Is an air card a better bet since I will be uploading documents? I could go into town to McDondalds each day for internet access, but I’d rather not. Educate me!!
Some, including Verizon sells a per use USB card, you play for what you use on a per day basis. You may have to go to the store to find it.
Tethering should be a option on your phone, a service you turn on and off with the carrier.
I believe Verizon has a ‘try it for 30’ days on their contracts. If they still have it you can sign up for a contract, use it then return it.
Since you have an Android device already, you could root it and load the Cyanogen or Syndicate ROM appropriate for your device. This should allow you to install a free tethering app, or it may even come preinstalled.
Or if you want to go non-techy, ask Verizon if they have an Android app for tethering and can you buy only a single month of their service.
Just buy EasyTether from the app store for $10 or the similar PDANet and you get unlimited tethering with no monthly fee, rooting, contract, or aircard needed – just a USB cord.
Just don’t use it too much (bandwidth-wise) and you’ll be fine.
But dude, you’re on vacation… disconnect and enjoy! 
Thanks for the suggestions. I ended up with EasyTether and so far it’s working great! I wish I could disconnect and usually do on vacation, but I have to check in with an online class or two. Not what I had planned to do on vacation, but I really want to do well in these classes.