"local only" access problem

I have a new HP Pavilion dv7 (64 bit) laptop with Vista Ultimate. I CAN log on to the internet (using wireless) at home, but when I am "on the road", all I can do, is get LOCAL ACCESS only. I cannot get to the INTERNET. Without the INTERNET, I am dead in the water. I have an old "cheap" laptop that will get to the internet, anywhere. IT'S MY NEW laptop that can't connect. I need HELP. PLEASE.