Decision time for newbies on laptops/mifi/phones

Finally able to sit down for a minute and take a break from packing, whew, tough work.

So much wonderful concise, clear information from you people, thank you so much! Now for understanding and seeing what is available out there.

Well, I actually forgot that I do have a tablet and am now considering the hotspot through the tablet. What would be required for that setup? Going through Verizon again, I assume?

Thank you and bless you all!