When I travel I like to bring my laptop with me for some on the go programming or studying but an issue often came up: finding a place where I can sit with my laptop and my books.
In some trips I may use the hotel or hostel lounge or room. When it's not an option I usually stop to a McDonald's or a Starbucks but I'd love to skip these in favor of local cafes, the issue is that I don't want to be seen as a loiterer.
Big chains happily tolerate people who work and study there because its part of their business model but I'm not sure about smaller independent places.
How can I find places who are okay with that and as a rule of thumb how often should I order something to be a courteous guest?