Travelling can often put a strain on our relationships with family and friends back home.
Long distance telephone calls can be expensive, while even when using the internet, it’s not always easy to stay connected if you’re far from home.
However, technology can help to bridge that gap and keep you and your loved ones close, even when you’re oceans apart.
In this article, we explore some tips on how to stay connected while traveling.
1. Use Social Media
Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are fantastic tools for staying connected while on the go.
By updating your status, posting pictures and messages, you can keep friends and family updated with your travels, while they can do the same on their profiles.
Facebook’s messaging feature also allows you to chat with friends and family in real-time, even if you’re in a different time zone.
2. Get a Local SIM Card
One of the best ways to stay connected while traveling is to get a local SIM card.
Local sims providers like Airtel, Safaricom and Tigo can make your communication cheap in East Africa.
This way, you can use your phone without incurring huge roaming charges.
You can buy a local SIM card at the airport or convenience stores.
The SIM card will usually come with a data plan, which allows you to use the internet to make video calls, send messages, and keep in touch with loved ones.
3. Use Video Calls
Apps such as Skype and FaceTime are great tools for staying connected with loved ones back home.
With a stable internet connection, you can make high-quality video calls and see your loved ones almost as if they were there with you.
While a video call may not be as good as the real thing, it’s a good way to catch up and share your experiences while traveling.
4. Send Postcards and Souvenirs
Sending a postcard or souvenir to family and friends back home is a great way to remind them that you are thinking of them.
They will appreciate the effort you’ve made to stay connected, and it’s a great way to show that you care.
5. Use Time-Shifted Communication
If you’re traveling to a country with a significant time difference, time-shifted communication can be an effective way to stay connected.
Apps such as WhatsApp allow you to send voice messages.
This gives you the chance to share your experiences and thoughts in real-time, without worrying about waking your loved ones up in the middle of the night.
6. Buy a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
A portable Wi-Fi hotspot is a device that allows you to connect to the internet via a cellular network.
This can be a great way to stay connected in areas where there is no Wi-Fi available.
The device can usually be rented at the airport or bought online before you travel.
It allows you to connect your phone and laptop to the internet, which means you can stay connected and work remotely.
Top internet providers in East Africa are Airtel, Tigo, Vodacom and Safaricom.
7. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
If you’re traveling to a country that censors or blocks content, using a VPN can be an effective way to stay connected.
A VPN allows you to access the internet as if you were in a different country, giving you access to blocked or censored content.
It also encrypts your internet connection, which protects your privacy and security.
Some social networks are bannned in some East African countries like facebook in Uganda.
In conclusion, staying connected while traveling is important, and with these tips, you can stay in touch with loved ones back home.
Whether it’s using social media to keep friends and family updated, getting a local SIM card or simply sending a postcard, staying connected can help maintain strong relationships even when you’re far from home.
Technology has made it easier than ever to stay connected while on the go, so don’t hesitate to use it to your advantage.
