I think you can use Facetime on one of the newer iPod Touch but the caller would also need it, email might be another option but you'd need a wifi connection.
On my iPod touch which I have had for some years (4th generation) if in a wifi area can talk to people on facetime, or viber for chat or text to others who have these apps.
I also can use my emails.
Maps and Internet also fully usable in wifi areas. Am using iPod now to type this.