I take frequent road trips in my Roadtrek and needed something flexible. So I sold my iPhone and got an iPad mini with the Verizon data plan which includes hotspot capability like the jetpack.
I had my phone number transferred to the line2.com app, which turns the iPad into a phone for $10 a month.
Then, when wifi is not available, I can use the Verizon data plan, and can change the plan level from month to month. I use the iPad for GPS, gas buddy, email, etc. When I need to use the laptop and wifi is not available, I turn on the hotspot feature on the iPad.
When I get back home, or if I'm know I'm going to have good wifi access for the month, I can revert to a cheaper plan. The plan can be changed right on the iPad mini - you don't even need to deal with Verizon directly. There is no contract.
The current rates are:
1gb - $20
2gb - $30
4gb - $40
6gb - $50
10gb - $80
This works well for me.
