Now, I love Skype gear as much as (well, let's be honest, probably more) than the next guy, but I do have a pet peeve: on most Skype hardware you can't actually purchase SkypeOut credit within the device. The screen will tell you how much credit you have left, but when it comes to purchasing credit you have to go to the Skype website. This is not a problem when you're near a computer, but when you're using a Skype device that doesn't need a computer (such as a desktop or cordless phone that plugs into your router, a WiFi phone, or your mobile calling your Skype to Go number on Skype Pro), this can be an issue. Fortunately, there is a way around it.

I'm not sure how long this has been available, but it's possible to use PayPal (or a credit card) to automatically recharge your SkypeOut credit, so that when your balance hits a certain level ($2 in the US) you'll automatically be charged so you'll never run out again.

It's pretty easy to get going. To set up PayPal Preapproved, go to this page, log in, then follow the instructions (you'll have to log into your PayPal account or set a new one up). Once you've accepted the PayPal Preapproved agreement, the next time you purchase Skype credit (here), you have the option to use PayPal with auto-recharge.

Of course, I wouldn't want you to buy credit that you don't need or won't use, and Skype-to-Skype calls are always free, but if you are going to use the credit and do need to call non-Skype numbers, turning on auto-recharge saves you a step and ensures you don't find yourself at a cafe with your WiFi phone but no computer and unable to make calls.