Care Packages from The-Gift-Wizard.com

What better way to show you "care" than with care packages! A care package is just a different way of saying "gift basket", but they tend to be a little less formal. The reason for their "laid-backness" (OK, sorry, we seem to be making up words, here!) is that they are usually sent to a recipient in a situation where they could really care less about the packaging.

Common situations where care packages are sent:

students away at colleges and universities
soldiers on military deployments
campers away at summer camp

The recipients don't really care that it's all sent in a cardboard box... they are too busy diving into the gift like a stocking at Christmas! College roommates will be fighting over the chocolate bars, not the container they came in! Of course, you can send it in something more useful like a crate or tin that can be reused, but, really, they are looking at what's inside.

Care packages don't have to be limited to the common situations. Anyone who is away from home for an extended period of time would appreciate a little pick-me-up. Or even a package full of home-town reminders sent to someone who moved away permanently is an example of a care package. They are also a nice touch as a get-well gift or a "congrats on your new house" present.

The key to care packages is to include some of what they might need (for convenience) and some of what they want (like snacks and stress relievers). Convenience items would include shampoo or laundry detergent or toilet paper. But what really puts a smile on their face are the goodies... chips, candy, chocolate, tea... even something simple like a Frisbee can be fun when you're missing the simple things. You really can't go wrong, especially in a university or military environment when they are missing the "comforts of home".

Include foods like instant noodles, instant oatmeal, instant coffee, tea, or hot chocolate that don't require anything more than hot water to make. You wouldn't want to send something like Hamburger Helper because a) they'd have to go shopping to get the ground beef, and b) they'd have to have the utensils and skills to cook it (not to mention access to a kitchen). And don't send canned items unless you also include a can opener.

For colder climates, consider including warm wool socks or a new pair of gloves. For warmer climates, some sunscreen or sunglasses might be in order.

Sending specific items like pictures of family or friends from back home make the care package something that no one else could send and adds a personal touch. A disposable camera would be fun to include, too. And if you're wanting them to write back, try including envelopes or stamps, even going as far as putting your address on them. Including a pre-paid phone card is one way to say "Hey, I miss you - give me a call". :)

The whole idea is to put a smile on their face by making life a little easier and a little more enjoyable. To make the care packages a little easier (or less expensive) to send, try to avoid items that are heavy. This will make your shipping costs lower. For example, opt for ramen noodles instead of chicken noodle soup in a can. And while a jar of peanut butter may be a welcome treat, a box of Goldfish crackers are a lot lighter.

If you don't have the time to make and send your own care package, there are companies that can do that for you. You can find general care packages at FunCarePackages.com. To sponsor care packages for military troops, visit www.usocares.org.

Care Packages - Send a Pick-Me-Up!