It can be challenging to maintain strong connections with your barkada when everyone is scattered across different locations. However, distance doesn’t have to weaken the bond you share with your closest friends. Thanks to modern technology and a bit of creativity, there are countless ways to stay connected and keep the friendship thriving, no matter the miles between you. Here are 8 fun ways you can maintain friendship with your barkada despite the miles.

1. Virtual Game Nights

The distance might keep friends from physically hanging out but with online platforms like Discord, you can now play with friends, see them, and talk with each other while playing. There are a lot of games you can play online like Monopoly, Among Us, Mobile Legends, or Minecraft. Non-gamers can still enjoy game nights with games like Skribbl where a member draws something and everyone guesses what they are drawing.

2. Watch Parties

Watch parties are a fantastic way to enjoy movies or TV shows together without being physically present. Services like Netflix Party (now Teleparty), Disney+ GroupWatch, and Amazon Prime Video Watch Party allow you to sync your screens and watch the same content simultaneously. This way, you can chat about the plot, share reactions in real-time, and discuss your favorite scenes as they happen.

3. Group Chats and Video Calls

Maintaining a daily connection through group chats on platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Facebook Messenger can help you stay updated on each other’s lives. These platforms are perfect for sharing quick updates, funny memes, and everyday thoughts, keeping the conversation going. For more personal interactions, schedule regular video calls via Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime. Seeing each other’s faces and hearing each other’s voices can significantly enhance your connection, making it feel more intimate and real.

4. Comment On Their Social Media Posts

Engaging with your friends on social media is an easy yet effective way to stay connected. Commenting on their posts, liking their photos, and reacting to their stories shows that you care about their lives and are interested in what they’re sharing. These interactions can spark conversations and give you insights into what’s going on with them, even if you haven’t spoken directly in a while. It’s also a great way to give support and encouragement, whether they’re sharing an achievement, a new hobby, or a simple day-to-day moment.

5. Collaborative Playlists

Music is a powerful way to feel connected, and creating a collaborative playlist on Spotify or Apple Music is a great way to share this experience with your friends. Everyone in the group can add their favorite tracks, resulting in a diverse and eclectic mix that reflects everyone’s tastes. This shared playlist can become a soundtrack of your friendship, filled with songs that remind you of each other and evoke shared memories. Listening to this playlist can bring a sense of togetherness, no matter where you are. You can also use the same playlist as your go-to playlist when you sing at karaokes.

6. Virtual Happy Hours

Schedule regular virtual happy hours where everyone can unwind with their favorite drinks and snacks. Use platforms like Zoom or Google Meet to host your sessions. Play drinking games, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. This can be a great way to relax and catch up at the end of a busy week.

7. Planning An Outing To Look Forward To

One of the best ways to stay connected and keep the excitement alive in your friendships is by planning an outing or trip to look forward to. Even if it’s far in the future, having something on the calendar gives everyone a common goal and something exciting to anticipate. This can be a weekend getaway, a road trip, or even an international vacation, depending on everyone’s preferences and schedules. Start a group chat or a shared document to brainstorm ideas, plan the itinerary, and discuss logistics.

8. Use Location-Sharing Apps

Location-sharing apps like Find My Friends, Google Maps, or Life360 can help you stay connected by providing real-time updates on each other’s whereabouts. This can be particularly useful for safety reasons, ensuring that everyone is okay, especially if someone is traveling or in an unfamiliar area. It also adds a layer of connection, as you can see where your friends are and what they’re up to. This can spark spontaneous meet-ups if you’re nearby or simply keep you informed about each other’s daily activities.

Staying connected with your barkada across miles may require some effort and creativity, but the reward is well worth it. These activities can help maintain your strong bond, ensuring that distance doesn’t diminish the closeness of your friendship. Whether it’s through shared experiences, regular communication, or exploring new hobbies together, you can keep your barkada spirit alive and thriving.