The various twists and turns that life takes means that you can't always be with your loved ones when special occasions roll around, but with a little ingenuity, you can still make them feel special. Discover ways to show how much you care no matter where you are and ensure that your favourite people know how special they are to you.

The cost of travel and practical considerations are just some of the reasons you might not be able to spend birthdays or Christmases with the people closest to you, but don't let that stand in the way of your celebrations. Start planning ahead of time, and you could send a care package to your loved one that will arrive near the big day and let them know you've been thinking of them. It doesn’t have to be a big and bulky box if postage is expensive, a handwritten card and a small memento of a time you've shared is perfect.

On the big day itself, set a specific time to speak to each other on the phone and stick to your plans. By making sure you agree to a time and treating it as though it’s a date, you're more likely to make the call feel important and it's less likely to be interrupted or shifted. Make your conversation extra special by writing down a few of the things you love most about the person you are speaking to, whether it's their sense of humour or their ability to stay calm in a crisis.

It can also be a really nice idea to choose a song that's special to you both and playing it for a few moments during the call. If you're a talented singer and songwriter, this is also the perfect time to show off your skills. There's nothing like being serenaded and there are few ways to make someone feel as cared for as by writing a song for them. If you're not one of the world's natural singers, you might like to consider choosing a short poem to read instead or a quote that you think sums up something about the life you share together.

Do remember though, that it's not always the grand gestures that mean the most. Simply giving the call your full attention and making it clear how happy you are to be speaking to your loved one is everything you need to make the day special. Before you hang up, it's also nice to make a date for your next phone call – because it's good to share all year round, not only on special occasions.

Be sure that when the big day rolls around, you're not worrying about the cost of your phone call. Investigate some great, cheap ways to keep in touch with your loved ones overseas and ensure you can make the most of every moment you can spend in touch. It's easy to find savvy businesses who offer everything from cheap calls to South Africa to cut price rates for calling America. Do your research and know that when you're speaking to your loved ones, they are the only thing on your mind.