How to Make a Care Package For a Soldier Overseas
If you have a loved one in the military serving overseas, or if you just want to show your support for the troops by sending a care package, here are some helpful tips to follow when preparing your care package for a soldier overseas.
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Things You'll Need
- Plain brown mailing box
- Packing tape
- Items such as:
- Hand sanitizer
- Lotion
- Travel medicines
- Cleansing cloths
- Travel-size toiletries
- Non-perishable food and drink mixes
- Batteries
- Puzzle books
- Games
- Reading material
- Writing material
- Phone cards
- Zip-sealing plastic bags
Instructions
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Go to your local post office or to the United States Postal Service website (see Resources) to find flat-rate boxes that you can ship to APO/FPO addresses. On the website, look under Shipping Tools and then under Supplies. You will be able to find the appropriate boxes for shipping.
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Decide which items you want to put in the care package. Some good choices include: hand sanitizer, lotion, travel medicines, cleansing cloths, toiletries, non-perishable food and drink mixes, batteries, puzzle books, reading material, games, letters, pictures, writing material, phone cards and any other items you think someone could use.
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Know what items NOT to send. Do not send any pornographic material. Do not pack any dangerous items or anything that can be considered a weapon. You can't send certain foods and drinks, such as chocolate, pork and alcohol. In certain countries such as Iraq, pork and other foods are considered disrespectful to the country. Chocolate can melt during shipment and make a mess of the other items in the box. Pornographic materials are considered vile in some countries, so out of respect for the customs of the country you should refrain from sending any potentially offensive items. All packages will be inspected.
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Buy travel-size lotions, toothpastes, hand sanitizer and other toiletry items, because they will be easier for the soldiers to carry. Put these items inside of zip-sealing plastic bags just in case the tops come off.
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Pack the items in the box and tape the box securely. Write the address correctly on the box before taking it to the post office. You may be required to fill out customs forms in addition to paying for any fees and shipping and handling rates.
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Check with websites regarding military packages for a complete listing of items you can send, any restrictions on packages, shipping rates and customs forms that you’ll most likely have to fill out. Some sites have it set up so you can purchase items directly and they will send the package on your behalf.
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