#1: Text-Free by Pinger is a free app available for Android or iOS. You have to use the phone number they give you, but w unlimited texting (or pics) worldwide. Free calls. Also get the web app.

#2: Google Voice also gives you your own phone#. If you create your account in the US, you can call &text unlimited to any number in the US for free using Google Voice app on your device or computer.

Downnload the free G Voice app to any Android or iOS phone or device. Get transcripts of voice mails in your gmail inbox, and even reply to voice mail w a text. Call outside of US for about .03 p min

#4: iChat/FaceTime: Although only available for iOS, this is a great option within iOS friends, even if they don't have a phone number. Not only can you text free, but you can FaceTime!

#3: Viber is a free calling and texting app. for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Blackberry, and more. Voice calls sound the clearest using this app.

You can also do free photo &video messages with location sharing or group messaging w up to 40 friends. No registration or passwords required., Viber detects your contacts who have Viber already.

Those are just my 4 favorites. Keep in mind that this was made more for US travelers who go abroad. Also, check out Skype, Facebook, or Google Hangouts. Let me know of others or pros/cons you find.

For more technology or photography tips, find my other tutorials on Snapguide or follow me on Twitter. @magrelacanela

How to text and call free when traveling internationally

With wifi and a computer, smart phone or other device, you can text or make phone calls internationally wout paying a penny. Here are my favorite ways to do it. Choose which works best for you.