Care packages will make deployment more comfortable and pleasant for soldiers.
Whether you have a loved one currently deployed overseas or want to contribute to a non-profit organization for military soldiers, sending a care package is a thoughtful way to thank a soldier for his commitment to the country. Care packages generally contain both essential and luxury items that will make the soldier's time away more comfortable. When compiling your care package, include a wide variety of items but make sure the contents all comply with military and shipping regulations.
Toiletries
Toiletries are among the most requested items by soldiers. While soldiers receive basic soap and supplies while deployed, sending higher quality items in your care package is a kind gesture. Include shampoo, conditioner, body wash, bar soap, hand sanitizer, deodorant, disposable razors, toothbrushes, toothpaste and mouthwash. Be sure to place all bottles containing liquids into sealed plastic bags within your care package. Purchase toiletries that are designed for the sex of the soldier receiving the package, for example, women's deodorant for a female.
Snack Foods
Soldiers receive ration food while deployed, but snack foods are a luxury. Include a wide variety of different, non-perishable snacks in your care package. Crackers, cookies, chips, beef jerky, canned tuna, canned chicken salad, hard candies and gum are only a few ideas to consider. Powdered drink mixes that are individually packaged are also acceptable for a care package.
Clothing
Clothing items such as socks, beanies, undershirts or gloves are commonly requested by soldiers during deployment. If you have extra money to spend, you can also purchase new gear such as boots online through non-profit organizations devoted to military; these organizations will ship the gear directly to your soldier.
Entertainment
Items such as books, magazines, puzzle books and even DVDs can serve as forms of entertainment for soldiers when they are not on duty. If you are sending a care package through an organization such as Soldiers' Angels and are not familiar with your soldier's taste in books or movies, choose ones that are currently popular or ask for recommendations from people you know who are close in age to the soldier receiving the package.
Items to Avoid
Some items are prohibited from military care packages. These include aerosol spray cans of any kind, matches, lighters, firearms and ammunition, perishable food items, fruits, homemade foods, alcohol, carbonated beverages, pornography and any kind of illegal items. If your soldier is deployed in any Middle Eastern country, such as Afghanistan or Iraq, pork products are also prohibited, as they are illegal in the region.
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