“Care packages” are a great way for family members or friends of deployed military service men and women to say that they care. Service members look forward to receiving these packages more than most people realize. Letters and items from home make time during a deployment pass a little quicker for those receiving and those making the care packages. You may find yourself asking what to actually put in the care package. Themes are really fun to keep in mind when putting together your package. Here are some interesting and creative ideas to incorporate when making your own care packages!
Sweets for my Sweet: Fill the package with lots of sweet treats for your sweetie. Homemade cookies, rice crispy treats, cakes, and candies are always a big hit. Your service member will really feel the love that was baked into every treat. Sometimes mail can be incredibly slow to an APO or FPO, so make sure to wrap your sweets up very good. One trick that has been used when sending baked goodies is to wrap them in cling wrap and then place them in a plastic container or plastic bag. If you are sending store bought sweets, buy things such as gum, Skittles, gummy bears, and mints. Try to avoid anything that is mostly chocolate because it can melt and be very messy.
Squeaky Clean: Never under estimate the simple luxuries of home! Sometimes service members are very limited on their selection of personal hygiene products to purchase. Pamper your service member by sending them a box of their favorite products. Remember, you cannot mail aerosol products. Include body scrubs, new loofahs, body wash, shampoo/conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and deodorant. If your service member is a female, include some girly items so that she can pamper herself. Make sure to pack anything sticky in a leak-proof plastic bag. They will definitely enjoy having their favorite products sent to them!
Party in a Box: If your service member has a birthday while they are deployed, send everything they would need for a party in the box! You can fill your box with balloons, presents, party favors, decorations, candies, and a birthday card. You can even bake and decorate a birthday cake! Remember to wrap it up and place it in a plastic container for the maximum freshness. If you really wanted to surprise your service member, send this package to a close friend of theirs. Their friend can help throw a little surprise party for them, courtesy of you!
Going Nuts: Everyone feels as if they are going nuts waiting out a deployment, so pack this care package full of nuts! Not only are nuts a great nutritious snack and are a natural energy food, they are easy to mail. You can find a wide variety of nuts at your local grocery store that will please their palate. Another idea is to make a homemade trail mix. Combine nuts, raisins, toasted honey oats, pretzels, and a few M&M;’s to make a tasty and healthy mix.
Love Story: Write your love story for your sweetheart. Tell about how you met, what you love about them, what you miss the most, your favorite memories, and what you are looking forward to doing with them once they come home. It will be a great way to connect to your loved one that is so far away. Fill your package with items and photos that make you think of him/her. If you want to, many photo processing businesses can print a picture on a pillowcase. Put a picture of you two on a pillowcase so that they can still cuddle up to their loved one back home. This theme can also be adapted to a family with children. Include pictures with the children, their artwork, and stories. Memories from home can really boost morale.
Remember to always include letters and cards in your care packages. The little, heartfelt touches are what really mean the most. Also, make the most out of every holiday by making a themed box for each holiday. Always include enough to share! Have fun and get creative making your care packages!
