One other solution would be to have a cheap and easy
land only based solution or couple this idea with
a cellphone.

Mail Station is a smaller than laptop text only email station.
I've seen them for $50-$99 purchase price. 800 number dialup
to check mail. you plug into phone line or hold up the phone
receiver (like the really old modems of the early 80's).
speed isn't a big concern if it's text only. it only is online
for receving/sending mail. no web acess. I think service
is $5-$9/month. Net concept for those who only need to
check email every few days at a gas stop or something.

(just an idea).

-mike