Everybody wants free WiFi, but it’s getting tougher and tougher to find.

In most cases, you’ve gotta buy at least a cup of coffee to get the login and password to a commercial operation’s WiFi network.

And some coffee shops and bars that provide free WiFi are starting to hustle folks along — looking to free up tables and get customer turnover.

The latest WiFi freebie with a few strings attached: Google’s providing “free” wireless Internet access at 47 U.S. airports through January 15, 2010 (the free access began today, November 16, 2009).

They’re also providing free WiFi access on all Virgin Atlantic flights for the holiday season.

Of course, you have to be a ticketed passenger to get into an airport these days, and so far, nobody’s offering free flights on Virgin Atlantic — that we’ve heard of.

One way to lower your costs: Win one of the prizes Google’s offering in their photo contest by submitting a picture of yourself using the free WiFi in a participating airport or on a Virgin Atlantic flght.

The burning question: How will they be able to tell you’re actually using WiFi?

Google’s also matching any donation to its list of favorite charities — but only up to a $250,000 gift.

Oh, and one more thing: The search giant is hoping you’ll try out their new “Chrome” browser while you’re at it. Chrome’s only available currently to PC users, but word is that a Beta of the Mac version will be ready by early December (but don’t quote us on that!)

See, there really is no free WiFi.

To read more about the details of Google’s offer and learn which airports are participating, visit here.

Tags: access, airports, free, Google, Virgin Atlantic, WiFi