we fulltime, we are totally wireless, NO landlines or cable,
I use the data with phone, i also test phones, so my data useage and account features change every few months, I go from NO data, to mobile phone web, to full tethering and back again
while i have used aircards, i do not have one right now
using data on the phone means (1) less phone number, less add on local taxes & state charges, and NO dedicated contract for using an aircard
data features for the phones can be added & removed or changed as needed,
using the phone to tether for a modem, is the easiest way to alterable removable service 'as needed' no additional contract, just pay for the days needed, a week, a week end, or a month
call customer service, turn on before trip, turn off after trip
just don't download movies & music if you are going to do limit your days
because IF your data useage exceeds the pro-rate useage you will get an overage charge
as far as this thread, only the last yr of posting is the most applicable
as all carriers have added features and chaged their data limits & pricing structures,
it like reading a thread on campground prices or gas prices and looking at posts from (2-3_ years ago0, NON-applicable