by c.l.beyer

Created on: April 12, 2007   Last Updated: December 30, 2009

Whether you're staying in touch to satisfy dear old dad, or you're just a little homesick yourself, keeping in touch with family while traveling can bring some fun and familiarity to any trip. Calling and e-mailing are always easy ways to keep in touch, but using a little creativity can create a line of communication that your family back home will really appreciate:

CREATE A BLOG of your traveling adventures. Find a site that offers free web space to post your entries. Let family know your blog address before you leave on your trip, so they can keep up with your adventures.

SEND A POSTCARD or a series of them. Especially if you're traveling domestically, sending snail mail is inexpensive. And as old fashioned as sending a hand-written note is, it still is one the most exciting ways to hear from a loved one.

AGREE TO CALL at predetermined times. It's always comforting to hear a familiar voice when you're away from home. Agreeing on a time to call will free you up to go sightseeing at your leisure or tend to business, depending on the nature of the trip. If you're in a different time zone, it will also prevent you from worrying that you're going to wake someone up in the middle of a good night's sleep.

POST PICTURES on a free photo website as your week progresses. Be sure to bring the technology necessary to upload the photographs from your camera to the Internet. Take pictures that would intrigue your family members.

EXPRESS A PACKAGE of specialty food from the region you are visiting. This will show your family how much you care and miss them, as well as giving them a taste (literally!) of what you're experiencing.

One last word: Before you take off for your Rocky Mountain expedition or European escapade, be sure to provide a list of contact information in case of emergency. List the phone numbers and addresses of all overnight accommodations, as well as your own mobile phone numbers. This will give both you and your family a little sense of security until you're able to touch base with lovely descriptions of your traveling adventures. Bon voyage!

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