Recently I've started using two tools that let me call home or the office, talk as long as I want, and not break the bank.
The Software
My personal app of choice in Skype. If you've never tried it you're missing out on one of the best communications apps out there. I've used two versions recently, the PC and the iPhone app. on my iPod Touch. Here's how.
Skype to Skype - Skype's first claim-to-fame was the ability to make free internet phone calls between two computers running Skype. For this you'll need two Skype devices (Computers, Skype Phones, iPhones etc).
This is awesome. Basically you get Voice (and Video) calling for nothing. Except the cost of your internet connection and the mic/headset/camera hardware -- though most netbooks and laptops come with it all built in nowadays.
Members of my family have done this for years, saving on long distance charges and enjoying something the phone company can't offer - Video Chat. And it's free! What's not to like 
Skype to Landline - This is new to me, but has been around for a while. While travelling recently I needed to make some phone calls to cell phones and landlines to coordinate equipment, meetings etc. After looking into my current mobile provider's rates and the hotel phone rates, I decided to try out Skype's USA / Canada plan.
And how could this not be a win? Pardon me while I do a bit of math (I know, as my wife would say, not my strongest suit, but bear with me) to prove my point. For my needs, I selected the $2.95 / month USA / Canada plan - unlimited calling from my computer oriPod Touch.
Contrast that with my Pay as you go plan on my mobile: 35c/min + 35c/min LD charge + 1.45 roaming fee. So for one minute it costs me over $2.00. Why wouldn't I want unlimited calling for just under a loonie and a twonie?
The Hardware
Basically any modern computer (Windows, Macintosh, Linux) OR a smart-phone such as an Android, Blackberry, iPhone or Symbian, OR a handheld device like the Sony PSP, WiFi phones, or some cordless phones. Full details on the Skype Mobile page.
Install the Skype software on your hardware device of choice, and you're set. Sign up for a Skype account and that device can now call other Skype devices for free, using any internet connection the device can connect to, for example a hotel or coffee shop's free WiFi.
Sign up for a calling plan, such as I did, and your Skype device can now call mobile and landline telephones, for far less than any other calling plan that I've seen when travelling.
Or is it? Got a better or cheaper way to call home while on the road? Let us know! Detail your super saver secrets in the comments, please.
