Keeping in touch with loved ones after you move

For most people, moving - be it across town or to the other side of the country - can be an exciting life event. It's a chance to meet new people, experience a different kind of culture and seek out new opportunities for your entire family. On the flipside, you're moving away from a familiar environment, and often leaving behind friends, family and coworkers that you hold dear.

But thanks to a slew of modern advancements, not to mention other tips and tricks, it's easy to stay in touch with loved ones after you move. Here's how:

Get organized 
If you live on the opposite coast as your family and friends, it can be hard to either find the space in your calendar or to make things work due to the time difference. That's why it's so important to take steps to sync schedules if need be. Google Calendar, for instance, allows you to see what other people have scheduled. That way, you can work out something that fits for all parties, and you're more likely to actually make that important call.

Rely on technology 
For those with regular access to a computer, the sky is practically the limit. You can chat with your friends and family via Facebook, have a video call via Skype, Viber, FaceTime or a similar service, instant message through WhatsApp, send emails and share photos through Instagram. Some people even choose to create shared folders - usually through an application like Dropbox - which allow them to send photos and videos back and forth in a living collection of memories.

Send physical letters
Email is great because it's so fast. However, it can lack the intimacy of a handwritten note. If you send someone a physical letter, they'll know you took the time to compose, address and mail it out. You can even send them small gifts, or things that make you think of one another. Mailing letters doesn't have to be a regular occurrence, as it can be time-consuming. One letter every few weeks is an effective way to show someone just how much you care.

Plan a trip
At some point, letters, phone calls and video chats won't be enough, and you'll want to spend quality time with your loved one. That's when you're going to want to plan a trip. It would be nice to go home, or to invite your friend or family member over to your new corner of the world. However, if that doesn't work, you can always choose a destination between the two of you. No matter where you go together, plan your trip ahead of time and use travel sites like Expedia, Kayak or Orbitz to find the best deals possible.

Make it all a snap 
Moving away from your family and friends is never easy. But that doesn't mean the actual journey has to be. With a professional moving service, you can dedicate more time to the things that matter, like acclimating to your new home and city. Atlas Van Lines has nearly 70 years experience tackling moves of all sizes, and they can ensure an experience worth remembering.