Summer split: it's summer time. Do you know where your BFF is? (GL Friends).

Before you get too stoked about long, lazy tankini days, consider that summer break could come at a cost--to your friendships. During school, hanging out is so simple it's basically automatic. But despite summers freedom, it's plagued with potential separation pitfalls-especially if you and your buds don't live a Rollerblade away.

Summer hang time is especially rare if you head off to sleepaway camp or your BFF spends summers at her lake house. If so, you might be missing out on bud time big time, and it's crucial to capitalize on time you do have together.

If one of you hits the road, call often (get one of those pre-paid phone cards), e-mail regularly, and send old-fashioned letters and postcards! Even super short messages will make her smile and remind her you're the most thoughtful pal on the planet.

But, if nobody's sunning in Singapore, don't throw in the beach towel just yet. First of all, you'll have to be more persistent with the planning than during school. Plan ahead to hook up, being sure to run it past the 'rents before marking your calendar. Busy parents hate getting word of a play date 15 minutes before you need a lift. Springing stuff like that on Mom might make her a much less willing chauffeur.

Make things as simple as possible for everyone. Can Mom drop you at your BFF's for the day on her way to work? Maybe both moms could meet halfway. If the mall's midpoint, why not meet there? An older sis has wheels? Hit her up for a ride (this might require a small bribe, though). If you have a third friend you guys want to hang with, see if her parents can shuffle you all around.

For more frequent fun, sign up for a week of soccer camp together. Or volunteer as rec counselors at a local day camp for kiddies. Grace, 12, says, "I always throw a huge mid-summer bash. I invite every girl I know, and we swim, pig out and catch up. It's awesome! And when we get back to school, it's not so weird."

If it's been awhile, don't assume she doesn't want to chat. Pick up the phone, and give her a ring. Catch up on stuff, and tell her you miss her. You'll likely wonder why you didn't call earlier. With a little bit of effort, you'll send summer separation anxiety packing!