How to Maintain and Strengthen Friendships with Long-Distance Besties
Especially in your twenties after college, life gets busy, and distance can make it harder to stay connected. However, great friendships don’t have to fade just because you live in different places. With a little effort and intentionality, you can keep your long-distance friendships strong. Here’s how:
1. Prioritize Regular Check-Ins
Staying in touch doesn’t have to mean texting every day, but consistency is key.
I’m all for just calling out of the blue, but also it can be helpful to schedule weekly or monthly calls so you always have a set time to catch up.
Send quick check-in texts so they know you’re thinking of them. But as a chronically online person, my go-to is always to send them a bunch of funny TikToks or memes.
Use voice notes or video messages for a more personal touch.
2. Send Thoughtful Surprises
A little effort goes a long way in reminding your friend you care.
Mail them a handwritten letter or a small care package.
Venmo them for a coffee, drink, or treat on a tough day.
This one is kind of silly, but I love sending Cameos to my friends. It’s this website where you can pay celebrities or internet personalities to make personalized video messages and I swear they always turn out hilarious.
3. Plan Visits (When Possible)
Seeing each other in person, even if it’s just once a year, helps keep the friendship strong.
Plan a trip to visit each other, or meet in the middle if distance allows. Even just a quick weekend trip can be so much fun.
If traveling isn’t an option, start a future trip bucket list for when you can.
4. Embrace the Different Phases of Friendship
Not every season of life allows for constant communication, and that’s okay.
Although talking less can totally suck, especially when you miss your besties, just remember that life can get hectic and that it’s not personal. Give each other grace if one of you gets busy—true friends pick up right where they left off.
Be intentional about reconnecting, even if it’s been a while.
5. Celebrate Their Wins, Even From Afar
Even if you’re not physically there, take time to acknowledge your friends' achievements. Whether it’s sending a congratulatory message, a small gift, or posting a shout-out on social media, celebrating their victories reinforces that you're always cheering them on.