How to Stay Connected with Family while Studying Abroad
1. Social media for instant updates? Yay yay!
Social media isn’t just for posting your travel pics and bragging about the amazing food you eat. It’s also a great way to keep your family and friends updated on your daily life. Share snippets of your day, whether it’s a beautiful sunset from your dorm window, a funny encounter with a local, or a snapshot of your study space.
Set up a private Instagram account or a Facebook group specifically for your close friends and family. This way, you can share personal moments without feeling like you’re over-sharing with the world. Plus, your family will appreciate the behind-the-scenes look at your new life.
2. Go for regular video calls (and stick to them!)
Time zones can be tricky, and it’s easy to lose track of time when busy with classes and new friends. However, scheduling regular video calls can make all the difference in staying connected. Whether it’s a weekly catch-up over coffee or a quick check-in before bed, these moments can keep you grounded and in touch.
Tech Tip: Download multiple messaging and video apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Zoom. That way, you’ll always have a backup in case one app is glitchy. Plus, if the internet connection in your host country is spotty, having options is a lifesaver.
3. They are just a ring away!
Sometimes, you can go old school! There’s nothing like hearing a familiar voice on the other end of the line. With all the technology available, it’s easy to forget that a simple phone call can be incredibly comforting. Studies have shown that hearing a loved one’s voice can reduce feelings of loneliness and stress.
With CanadianSIM’s plans, you can stay connected without worrying about hefty bills, making those spontaneous “I miss you” calls much more manageable.
4. Keep a blog or vlog to share your experiences
If you love writing or making videos, why not start a blog or vlog? It’s an excellent way to document your journey while keeping your family in the loop. Plus, it gives them a chance to experience your adventures through your eyes.
Just FYI: Blogging is still relevant! Over 77% of internet users read blogs (source) and vlogging has exploded, especially among younger audiences. It’s a fun way to share your story and stay connected with your family and friends.
5. Plan ahead: Organize time zones and schedules
One of the trickiest parts of staying in touch with family while abroad is managing the time difference. Waking up to texts from home in the middle of the night or accidentally calling during dinner can be frustrating. Planning ahead is crucial.
What to do? Keep track of the time difference using apps like World Clock or Time Zone Converter. The time difference between Canada and India typically ranges from 9.5 to 11.5 hours, depending on your location in Canada and the time of year (considering Daylight Saving Time). Set a time that works for both you and your family for regular calls and stick to it. Early mornings or late evenings in Canada often work well, as they correspond to convenient times in India. Weekends usually work best, as everyone is more relaxed and available.
Did you know that the time difference between Toronto, Canada, and New Delhi, India, is 9.5 hours during Eastern Standard Time (EST) and 10.5 hours during Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)? Planning your calls around this difference can make staying connected much easier! (source)
6. Plan a visit or a reunion trip
Planning a trip back home or inviting your family to visit you abroad can give you something to look forward to and help ease homesickness. Even if it’s just a tentative plan, having a date on the calendar can make the distance feel a bit shorter.
Travel Tip: Stay connected with CanadianSIM on your way back home and do not forget to get your CanadianSIM before flying to Canada
7. Celebrate together from afar (no more FOMOs!)
Being away from home during holidays or birthdays can be tough, but it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the celebrations. Send a gift, organize a virtual party, or even prepare a traditional dish from home to celebrate with your friends abroad. Just because you’re far away doesn’t mean you can’t be part of the celebration.
Guess what can help? Got it right! With CanadiaSIM’s uninterrupted network, you can video call your loved ones instantly.
8. Stay connected with CanadianSIM
Finally, don’t forget about the basics—staying connected is much easier with the right tools. Having a reliable phone plan is crucial, and that’s where CanadianSIM comes in. With affordable international plans and seamless connectivity, you can call, text, and surf the web without worrying about expensive roaming charges.
Why CanadianSIM? CanadianSIM offers a true Canadian solution. We provide exclusive, affordable plans loaded with features and benefits tailored for newcomers. You can receive your Canadian phone number up to 60 days before your arrival, making it easy to stay connected with family and friends from day one. Enjoy the reliability of Canada’s largest 5G network, reaching over 30 million people, without the hassle of fixed-term contracts through our flexible BYOD plans. Plus, our postpaid plan helps you start building your Canadian credit history as soon as you land.
Final words: Stay connected, Stay happy!
Studying or living abroad is an amazing experience that will change your life, but staying connected with your family will keep you grounded and supported. With these tips and a little help from technology (and CanadianSIM), you can make the most of your time abroad without feeling too far from home.
Now over to you! Check out the plans and order your CanadianSIM today!
