Disclaimer!

Let me first state, I highly recommend cutting as many tech ties as possible while traveling or living abroad. Nothing steals the moment of sitting on the Croatian coast faster than the pings of Outlook email – just leave it at home. I advise to not even bring an mp3 player – it’s too easy to sit in the corner with headphones on and miss out on culture and meeting new people.

With that said, here is how I stay connected if absolutely required:
My stay in Galway, Ireland for a month meant I still needed to get work done and keep in touch with the real world outside of common methods like email.

1. iPod Touch

Grab a used or refurbed iTouch (or any smartphone) for cheap. Aside from music, games for long rides, and apps (will discuss next), having the internet in your pocket is incredibly useful in wifi settings. Think along the lines of, “When the hell is the next train?” when no one speaks English.

2. Textfree by Pinger app

This is a free app that allows for unlimited, costless text messaging to any number. You get a number when you sign up, then add your contacts, then send and receive SMS messages to your heart’s desire. Perfect for getting a hold of loved ones immediately.

You can add pictures to contacts, select themes, customize sounds for each – it’s pretty slick. You may even end up using it for messaging when you head home instead of your default phone. The only downside is that it currently only works for US and Canada numbers, but Pinger states international service is soon to be added. Sweet.

3. Skype

Both the computer program and smartphone app are terrific. Free video calls to Skype to Skype accounts, and more importantly, dirt-cheap calls (and SMS) to everywhere else. You can also purchase a number that people can dial, set call forwarding from another phone, and use an answering service if need be.

4. GoToMyPC

This software allows you remotely control any PC or Mac computer from anywhere with an internet connection. In my experience, it trumps other remote networking programs for ease of use and reliability.

The program essentially gives you control of your desktop at home or the office. If you live with roommates, send messages to the printer at home – it’s always good for a laugh… I’m sure you can think of a few inappropriate pages to print.

They offer a free month of trial. After that, the service is $20 a month – but coupons and offers are always about, normally making it around $10. This combined with Skype call forwarding is perfect for being a cubical escape artist.

5. SIM Phone

Take or buy a cheap phone that can swap out SIM cards for different carriers. This allows you to easily communicate with the friends you have (or going to have). 10 euro for the phone and a few euros in credits snagged me more than enough chat time to arrange meetings with friends.

6. Slingbox

Missing the big game at home? That’s alright – just hook up a Slingbox to your television at home. Control and watch all your shows and DVR material from the internet. Definitely luxury and not a need – unless it’s a good game…

Check out my post here in regards to saving over $120 a month with tech tricks like Slingbox.

—————————————————————————

Those are some of the more clever ways I use to stay connected. I know there are many tricks out there, so let me know!

Remember – if you can avoid it, don’t worry about spending time off the grid. You will be better for it – trust me. Enjoy being connected across the globe.