Care Packages: What to Send a Loved One Who is Deployed

Although your service member would be excited to receive anything, its helpful to know what items are not permitted and what is needed. Be sure to find out what he or she wants and if there are any restrictions.  

Packing Tips 

• Know a timeline and keep in mind possible delays or climate extremes 
• Check on size and weight restrictions for packages especially according to your loved one’s unit 
• Enclose a card listing all contents including the recipient’s name and yours as well 
• Place items that may spill or leak in heavy duty zip lock bags 
• Be sure to properly cushion breakable items 
• Writ out the complete address: Unit and APO/FPO – Air /Army Post Office or Fleet Post Office 
• Number your packages and letters to alert your service member to items still on the way 
• Do not sent perishables to areas with a warm climate  

Suggestions for Food and Drink 

• Powdered drink mix 
• Meal enhancers for MREs: Ramen noodles, individual sauce packets 
• Quick protein: tuna, sardines, beef jerky 
• Snacks: pretzels, chips, crackers (in hard containers)  
• Candy, gum 

Personal Care and Clothing 

• Avoid aerosol cans 
• Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, shaving lotion 
• Foot care: medicated foot powder, athlete’s foot ointment 
• Disposable hand warmers 
• Cotton socks and underwear 

Other Thoughtful Items 

• Reading materials, word games/puzzles, frisbees, playing cards 
• Electronics: portable media player, small electronic games 
• Reminders of home: Small scrapbooks, child’s artwork, Homemade goodies, pictures 

Source:

What to Send Someone Who is Deployed - https://www.military.com/deployment/what-to-send-someone-who-is-deployed.html