Sending a care package to our troops is a great way to show kindness and thankfulness to those who serve. It is a small act that we can do to provide a morale booster and some encouragement. Is there a friend or family member serving overseas that you can send a care package to? If you don’t know anyone, but still want to do send some goods, you can find a list of soldiers that could use a little love!
Collecting Care Package Items
If you’re in correspondence with a solider, ask them what you can include for them in their care package. Remember, a hand written card is the best thing you can include. Make it fun! Have your friends,
neighbors, family or coworkers sign the card(s) you’re sending. Your soldier will love reading the message of encouragement and thanks. As for additional items, anysoldier.com offers a list of recommended goods that you can include in your care package.
Consider including the following factory packaged goods:
- Portable nutritious snacks: jerky, granola bars, trail mix
- Instant breakfast foods: oatmeal, cream of wheat, etc.
- Treats: cookies, popcorn, etc.
- Toys: US soldiers interact and provide support to the local citizens. Consider toys for children or even animals!
Don’t send the following:
- Home-cooked items or items that you package at home
- Pork or items with pork by-product depending upon the country
Prepping your Care Package
You don’t need a specific box to pack your goods in. However, it’s important to choose a durable box that will last through the shipping process. Be sure to wrap the goods in protective material, like bubble wrap to prevent any damage to your items. Also, be sure to tape your box well! With these tips in mind, your goods will get to your soldier is one piece.
Shipping your Care Package
It’s a common misconception that shipping a care package to the troops is pricey. Think again! When you’re shipping something to a solider, it’s typically to an APO (Army Post Office) or an FPO (Fleet Post Office); these
addresses are on military bases in the United States. Once your package is sent to the APO or FPO, it will then be sent to your soldier on military transport to the country they are stationed. Note: you cannot send a care package to “any soldier”; you will need a specific name and corresponding address. When shipping your care package, USPS (United States Post Office) is your best bet. Don’t worry about sending your packages overnight – standard delivery will suffice. Your package will remain at the APO or FPO until the military transport is
available. Only opt for insurance if the items you’re sending are expensive. You will need to fill out a Customs Declaration form with USPS.
You will need the following information for this form:
- Soldier’s first and last name
- Soldier’s full address
- Detail list of contents along with corresponding amount and dollar value
Have you sent a care package to the troops? What items can you recommend be included in a care package? Write your suggestions in the comment section below!
