Travelling is a chance to broaden your horizons, experience new cultures, and get a little time away from your everyday life. But for those always on the road, “home” can start to feel more like a pitstop than a landing pad.
If you’re feeling out of touch, you won’t be for much longer. There are now countless ways to stay connected with family and friends while abroad. Whether sending your love via ground, air, or world wide web, here are a few methods to stay in touch with those who matter most.
#1: Snail Mail
Take a literal page out of your grandma’s notebook and put pen to paper. In today’s digital world, hand-written cards are rare to find, which makes them all the more special to receive.
For the younger ones in your life, an eye-catching postcard is a great way to share your destination. If you’re travelling for longer, try out a pen pal system! Throw in some colourful doodles, and you might even earn a spot on the kitchen fridge.
Are you writing to your loved ones on the regular? Quality stationery shows both your good taste and gratitude.
#2: Social Media
We are in the golden age of posting. Everything from opulent weddings to random shower thoughts can be tweeted, pinned, or shared. But instead of taking another dimly lit picture of your meal, why not post your travels?
Friends and family alike will love seeing your whereabouts via these platforms:
- Keep a blog – Blogs are an excellent, low-key way to share your adventures with loved ones. Include photos, daily thoughts, and highlights to keep things interesting.
- Instagram – If you’re into capturing memories via photography, this one’s for you. Bring along a travel-friendly camera and start uploading daily or weekly posts (and don’t forget to add clever captions!).
- Vlogging or YouTube – Have a little more time on your hands this trip? Try making vlogs (video blogs—pretty clever, right?) of your adventures. And if you’re interested in growing an audience, starting a YouTube channel is the way to go.
#3: Send a Gift
The right gift says a thousand words: “I love you,” “I miss you,” or even just, “I hope you enjoy!” Travelling provides an opportunity to give special items that may not be available at home. Just make sure that you’re abiding by all shipping regulations when sending that cologne, bottle of Brandy, or authentic Parisian beret!
Some ideas for packaged goodies:
- Duty-free items – You’re not going to find a Dior perfume at this price anywhere else. Take advantage of duty-free prices to send or bring back some luxury items for your family.
- Local delicacies – Give your family a literal taste of your travels. Whether it’s Swiss chocolate or Texan BBQ sauce, sending your destination’s culinary hits will always hit the sweet spot.
- Flowers – A bouquet of fresh flowers never fails to show appreciation. With ProFlowers, you can send flowers to any location while abroad.
#4: Call
No, not a text. Not even a voicemail. A real-time, genuine, fresh-out-of-the-early-2000s phone call. Texting may be instantaneous but hearing someone’s voice always feels more intimate. Even if you’re overseas, there are still ways to connect with your family:
- Prepaid SIM card – If you’re taking the cost-effective route, try out a SIM card for your phone. With prepaid minutes, this is a great option for a shorter trip.
- Video call – Will you have access to high-speed Wi-Fi? Then Facetime, Skype, or WhatsApp are the perfect ways to actually see your family in real-time.
- International data plan – For those on the road overseas, an international data plan is key. Make sure to check with your cell service provider about pricing options.
Stay Connected
We know it can get lonely on the road. With a few of these tips and tools, we hope you can keep your family in your thoughts and in your life, no matter where you are.
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