AFBA has written articles on care package ideas for military families to send their servicemembers. These lists include items like activities for down time and special foods from home. However, there are some items that are simply not a good idea to send to your soldier. There are also military and United States Postal Service restrictions on some items. Take a look at some things you should leave out of your servicemember's next care package.
Carbonated beverages
These are mainly restricted because they may explode in transit and cause a mess for the carrier. It is likely that your servicemember will have access to his or her favorite carbonated beverage anyway, so prevent your package from being rejected and leave this item out.
Aerosol cans
Disinfectants and body sprays that come in aerosol cans are prohibited items. These are more items that could potentially explode during shipment and destroy other packages. Do not include any aerosol cans in your servicemember's care packages.
Firearms and ammunition
Servicemembers have a government-issued weapon and ammunition. Even if they request their personal firearm or special ammunition, these items are strictly off-limits in care packages. Do not risk legal trouble for you or your servicemember by including one of these in a care package. Let your loved one know that you will look after their prized possession until their return.
Alcohol
This is often considered an "unauthorized substance" in combat zones. While your servicemember may request it, it is not a good idea to send alcohol in care packages. It could explode in shipment and ruin the rest of the items you sent, and your servicemember could face trouble if it is discovered.
Adult entertainment
Most military establishments do not allow servicemembers to receive items or media related to adult entertainment. It is seen as inappropriate and causes a distraction. It is best to exclude these items from your servicemember's care packages.
Fruit
Because fruits rot so quickly and to avoid violating cross-border agricultural policies, fruit is not allowed in military care packages. Your servicemember will likely have access to local fruit or canned fruit in military rations anyway. Skip the fruit in your next care package.
Live plants
It can be tempting to send your loved ones items that will make their deployment a little cozier. However, live plants are another prohibited item, as they can violate the same agricultural laws as fruits. Send home videos, pictures and other decorative items in place of live plants.
Whenever you begin a care package for your servicemember, you begin with good intentions. You want every item to make him or her more comfortable and boost his or her morale. However, even a well-meant item that is prohibited could cause unnecessary stress for you and your loved one. Be sure you are familiar with what he or she is allowed to have by checking with your local military support group and the USPS. MarineParents.com has also developed a database of prohibited items based on region. Check it out here.