The phrase "long distance" is something that no couple wants to think about, let alone have to deal with. Although it can be avoidable for some, for others it is completely inevitable. Whether it's meeting at college and going home to your respective states for summer vacation, one partner studying abroad for a semester, or simply connecting online and deciding to start dating without meeting, keeping a relationship strong and steady—especially in the early stages—can be twice as difficult when there are cities, states, or even countries between two people. In this day and age, however, there are a few tricks to feeling a little bit closer to one another. Although nothing beats being able to hug, kiss, or snuggle with your partner, here are a few ways to keep the spark lit even from far away.

Social Media

This is an obvious one. Back in the day, couples in LDRs didn't have the luxury of seeing each other's every move through Facebook, Instagram, or Snapchat, but we are lucky enough that with a few taps on a smartphone screen, we can find out exactly what our significant others are eating for lunch that day (among other things). Snapchat is great for a quick glimpse at your partner's gorgeous face, while on Facebook you can share funny videos and relatable Odyssey articles with them. Even if you're texting 24/7, social media gives you a chance for another means of interacting.

Couple Apps

Phone apps built specifically for couples are another great way to stay connected and feel close to one another. There are several great ones out there, but my personal favorite is Couple. This app allows you to link to your partner's phone, and from there you can share lists, draw pictures together, and even "thumb-kiss" each other through your phone screens. It gives you and your significant other a place that's all your own, where you can be lovey dovey and the whole world doesn't have to see. Plus, thumb-kissing before bed is the best way to end the night!

Online Games

Another fun way to enjoy each other's company is by playing typical board games in a not-so-typical way: on your computer! For those couples that love a little bit of competition during their hang-out time, there are lots of different websites to choose from that house dozens of games. Everything from Battleship to Scattergories to Bingo can be found online (and almost always for free!), and you can turn up the challenge by holding "best two out of three" rounds or placing bets on each game to really gain some bragging rights!

Netflix Dates

One of me and my boyfriend's favorite activities to do together involves sitting in front of the TV and watching a movie or a few episodes of a television show. It's a simple and classic date, and just because you're separated by a few miles doesn't mean those dates should stop! Schedule "Netflix and Text" times where you and your significant other watch an episode or two of your favorite show and text or talk to each other on the phone as you watch so you can share in the hilarious and heartbreaking moments together. The trickiest part is syncing up your computers to hit Play at the same time, but once you get started you'll have so much fun watching "together" it will hardly feel like you're not in the same room with a bag of popcorn!

Keeping Yourself Busy

Perhaps the most important way to not miss your partner too much is keeping yourself occupied during your time apart. If you are in work or school throughout the long distance part of your relationship, that alone can help take your mind off of your boyfriend or girlfriend. On the days that have a lot of empty time, however, it can get a little trickier. Fill these moments by hanging out with friends, dancing around your living room, exercising, volunteering, spending time with your family, or whatever you find enjoyable. In doing fun activities, you will not only get your mind off of loneliness, but you will also be experiencing adventures that you can share with your partner later. Keeping yourself busy will give you more to talk about than just the usual "How was your day?" conversations and will help to pass the time until you and your significant other are back in each other's arms.