[RyanCahoon]

For those wondering about this in the future...

If all notebooks are wireless-equipped, set them to all connect to the same ad-hoc wireless network (google: ad hoc wireless <operating system>) and they'll all talk to each other. No additional hardware (i.e. a router) needed.

For more advanced users, look up mesh networking, which computers to be "chained" together wirelessly, meaning two computers can talk to each other even if they're too far away to connect directly over wireless. Designed for use in ultra-rural areas like Africa. Really interesting technology, but may not be appropriate for scouting situations.

--Ryan