There may a slight issue with proxy settings so once at motel try to detect their router and see if you can connect. If no joy you may have to pay -- and ask for advice on making the connection. There should be somone on the staff who has fielded such questions before.
If the hotel offers wireless internet access, get the password and network info from the front desk, look for available networks on your laptop, connect to the network, and enter the password when asked for.