My family travels a lot out of the country, which phone and plan is best for using on international calls?

We are having a hard time with dropped calls, missed texting and going over in minutes because of this. We would even opt for a great family plan to keep all of us connected when out of the U.S. And we all are at least 1-2 times per year. Would it be better to just fone card it when out of the country?

I have come across a phone service that allows you to make international calls by simply dialing a local rate phone number. So if you can make free local calls (free inclusive minutes on your phone tariff), then this will be included and the international call will be free. See the links below for more details.... I have been using this service for over 11 months now and i also noticed that there is a special offer for new customers....

http://www.rebtel.com/affiliates/index.aspx?img=5&kbid=1387
http://www.squidoo.com/free_international_calls