Long distance calling has grown since the invention of the phone. Quality and rates were once issues of grave importance just even 10 years ago. When you used to phone long distance you had to worry about paying 25 cents or more per minute, being charged in huge block increments, static and echo quality problems, and this was with the big telecommunications providers! We have come a long way since then.

Today, we have access to an unlimited variety of calling services, all with quality features that easily rival any phone services of the past. Now you can telephone long distance from almost anywhere to talk and not have to worry about minutes or quality troubles. If you aren't using these pre-existing solutions for long distance service, then you should read on to find out what the services are and how you can save on or even get free long distance.

1.Many seek long distance cheap in pricing, but how about free? One product offers you just that. The company is called Skype and allows you to use your computer and current Internet connection to call other Skype users online for free. This technology is a form of VoIP, but better known as a soft phone. Many international businesses and users are using Skype to not only save on long distance calls, but to get them for free.

2.Since we brought up VoIP previously, we will stay on the subject. VoIP is the newest, but not necessarily a new technology. VoIP has allowed the ability for consumers and businesses to have unlimited long distance access for a flat monthly rate, saving consumers untold amounts on their long distance phone service. I in fact use VoIP myself and love the quality of my calls, but even more, the price.

3.Prepaid phone cards. Whether it is long distance international calling or USA domestic, prepaid calling cards really offer a lot for less. If you are ever in a jam, it's great to know you have one of these cards around. Many providers offer long distance cards for under one cent per minute domestic and even one cent per minute for many international long distance calling destinations.

4.Mobile phones. Yes, phone long distance for the same pricing you would your local, it is something many are just used to now. Mobile phone long distance is something so commonplace now, users don't even think about the word “long distance". They know they have either their flat rate or unlimited calling plan, and never sweat any of it.

As you can see, there are multiple options to save on long distance without having to look far and wide, it just depends on what technologies you are willing to adopt and which services you are requiring.