My recommendation: full-size AT&T iPad2 with no data plan. AT&T gives you the option to get a dataplan on a month to month basis in case you need it at a future time..
Same for Verizon....better coverage
Better coverage, eh. Well, I got three bars of AT&T in the Alvord Desert. Can you say that about Verizon? Hmmmmm?
Mark, I was thinking that I was checking email on my Droid (Verizon) in the Alvord....but maybe I am mistaken. I do remember on my first Alvord trip many years ago I was the only one who could get reception and I was on ATT at that time.