How To Send Care Packages To Troops Overseas

Choose a category. It’s best to pick one kind of item ¬¬– food, toiletries, or gadgets – and stick with it. No one wants to eat trail mix that’s shared an enclosed space with deodorant.

For a food-themed box, pick non-perishable goods like powdered drinks, chips, dried fruits, protein bars, mints, pretzels, nuts, hard candy, small packages of popular crackers or cookies, ramen, tea, instant hot chocolate and coffee (as well as other instant foods), snack mix, and cereal.

Troops need toiletries, too. The basics are great, but also consider lip balm, pain relievers, adhesive bandages, cushioned insoles, powder, razors, and packets of unscented baby wipes. Only send non-pressurized travel size toiletries, and try to send requested brands.

Disposable cameras, AA and C batteries, playing cards, puzzles, CDs or DVDs, phone cards, board games, Frisbees, and flashlights, as well as all kinds of reading and writing materials, are in high demand. Don’t bother sending expensive gifts that could break easily.

They may not be the first things that come to mind, but supplies like duct tape, baggies, sunglasses, journals, and bug spray are also good choices.

Use a sturdy cardboard box, and get packing material to fill in the empty space. Double-tape the edges, and wrap any items that might leak in plastic bags. If you’d like a response, enclose a brief note including your home address and email.

Since you’re likely shipping to a dangerous area, the postal service has strict requirements. Label your package clearly and correctly, and get postal form 2976-A and customs documentation. If you’re at all confused, visit usps.com or contact your local post office for full instructions.