Staying connected with family and friends while studying abroad can provide support, reduce stress, and help loved ones share in your experience. At the same time, one of the greatest benefits of studying abroad is fully engaging with your host community and culture. Before departure, create a communication plan that helps you stay connected while still making the most of your time abroad.
Before You Go: Create a Communication Plan
Discuss expectations with family and friends before departure. Contents of a Communication Plan may include answers to these questions:
- How often do you typically communicate with your family and friends? Discuss your communication expectations so they know when to expect from you (for example, plan to text them when you’re picked up at the airport to confirm that you are safe).
- How often will you communicate? Daily contact is not always realistic or necessary.
- What communication methods will you use?
- How will family reach you in an emergency?
- What time zone will you be in? What times of day will be best for both of you to communicate?
What backup options are available if your phone or internet access is unavailable?
Remember that communication patterns may change once you arrive and begin adjusting to your new environment.
Questions to Consider
- How long will I be abroad?
- Will my current mobile phone plan work internationally?
- What internet access is available in my host country? Most countries have excellent wifi networks, and many universities even have eduroam.
- Which communication apps are commonly used in my destination?
Have I tested my preferred communication methods before leaving?
Tip: Before departure, put your phone in airplane mode and connect to Wi-Fi to test your messaging and calling apps.
Mobile Phones, SIM Cards, and eSIMs
Many students find that using an eSIM is the most affordable and reliable option for staying connected abroad. Before you leave:
- Confirm that your phone is compatible with international networks.
- Check what eSIM networks/companies work best in your host country.
- Find out the price of your U.S. carrier’s international plan.
- Compare the cost of your U.S. carrier's international plan with eSIM options.
Save important phone numbers both digitally in your phone and on paper.
eSIM plans can often be purchased online before arrival.
Emergency Communication
Regardless of your communication setup:
- Keep copies of emergency numbers for your program provider, the nearest American embassy, and host country contacts.
- Give emergency numbers to key family members or friends back home, so they know how who to contact in an emergency.
Internet Access
Wi-Fi is widely available in many countries, but speed, reliability, and accessibility can vary. To be prepared for varied internet access before departing, you can:
- Download important documents and maps for offline access.
- Enable multi-factor authentication methods that will work abroad.
- UNL’s TrueYou 2-factor authentication is tied to your U.S. phone number. If you change your phone number abroad, make sure to update TrueYou.
Consider downloading offline translation tools.
Keep in mind that if you are going to rural areas that public transportation and internet access may have limited connectivity.
Recommended Communication Apps
Many students rely on internet-based communication apps instead of traditional international calling plans. You may already use an internet-based app to communicate. If not, we recommend:
- WhatsApp - One of the most widely used communication platforms worldwide. WhatsApp supports:
- Signal - A privacy-focused messaging app that offers Encrypted messaging , Voice and video calls, Group conversations, Cross-platform support
- Facebook Messenger - Useful if family and friends already use Facebook and Messenger regularly.
Regional Apps - Depending on your destination, other communication platforms may be more common, like LINE in Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, KakaoTalk in South Korea or Viber in parts of Europe and the Middle East.
You can research which apps are most commonly used in your host country before departure.
Social Media: Finding a Healthy Balance
Social media can be a great way to share your experience with family and friends, but it is important not to let constant connectivity interfere with cultural immersion. We recommend these tips:
- Posting updates weekly rather than daily.
- Limiting screen time during excursions and cultural activities.
- Being mindful of privacy and local customs when posting photos.
Avoiding sharing your live location publicly.
Your study abroad experience is more meaningful when you spend time engaging with your host community rather than viewing it through a screen.
Blogging and Digital Journaling
Keeping a blog or digital journal can help you reflect on your experience while keeping your friends and family informed, especially if you’re gone for a full semester or academic year. Benefits include:
- Recording memorable experiences
- Tracking personal growth and cultural adjustment
- Sharing stories with family and friends
- Creating a lasting record to revisit after returning home
Popular options include WordPress, Blogger, or Substack.
You may also choose to keep a private journal if you prefer to reflect without sharing publicly.
Remember
Staying connected can support your well-being while abroad, but meaningful growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Communicate regularly, reassure family and friends that you're doing well, and leave room to fully experience the people, places, and opportunities around you. The goal is not just to stay connected to home, but also to connect with your new community abroad.