Deployment is a difficult time for military families. Exchanging letters, email and video calls can help combat the feelings that accompany separation, but many soldiers still long for the familiar luxuries from home. One thing military families can do for their heroes is send care packages. There is nothing like being halfway across the world from everything and everyone familiar and receiving a big box of your favorite items from home. AFBA has complied a list of items to include in your next care package.
Personal care items
The military provides soldiers with personal hygiene products, but some specialty items are not included. Your servicemember is hard at work most days, so sending a tub of IcyHot or other topical pain reliever can really make his or her day. Things like lip balm and exfoliating body washes are also appreciated. However, package any items that could leak in a Ziploc bag to avoid contaminating the rest of the package. Servicemembers also spend a great deal of time on their feet. Keep your soldier's feet dry and comfortable by sending cushioned camping socks and gel insoles regularly.
Activities for downtown
While your servicemember will have his or her fair share of action, there is still plenty of downtime. Send some items to combat boredom, such as movies and video games. iTunes gift cards and mp3 players are another luxury your servicemember is sure to appreciate. However, there may not always be a way for them to play or watch. Include non-digital items like books, puzzles, board games and decks of cards in your care package.
Reminders of home
Even though your servicemember is busy, he or she will inevitably get homesick at some point during deployment. By including photos of the family, the house and favorite places around town you can give them a piece of home to carry along. Handwritten letters are great care package items. While email may be faster, there is something special about reading the handwriting of loved ones as they wish you well. If you have the opportunity, you could also pack home videos that include messages from friends and family, the baby's first steps or a younger sibling's graduation. USB drives can hold quite a few photos and videos, and they fit well in care packages.
Special foods
The military makes sure that your servicemember will never go hungry, but many soldiers find the food repetitive and bland. A care package is the perfect opportunity to send along some luxury food items. Veteran United Network recommended including a bottle of your servicemember's favorite sauce or condiment from a local restaurant to give the package that extra personal touch. Typical American snacks like beef jerky, potato chips, sunflower seeds and hard candies are always appreciated. Make sure the food is non-perishable and will not be crushed or leak during shipping.
Deployment is rough on both servicemembers and their families, but care packages are a great way to connect. They help families feel like they are there for their servicemembers, even when they cannot be physically present, and it gives the soldiers something to look forward to.