29 Care Packages We’re Sending to Friends

If you want to send a quick little treat, a Greetabl box is my go-to gift for any occasion. Start by choosing a box design, then add a small trinket and a gift card, if desired. Personalize your gift with a heartfelt note, photos and graphics for the sweetest (and simplest) gift ever. Read my Greetabl review for all the deets.

12 Creative Care Package Ideas and Printables

In today’s interconnected world, our loved ones might find themselves scattered across the globe for various reasons. But here’s the heartwarming truth: physical distance doesn’t have to hinder you from being there for them. The solution? Sending a heartfelt care package that arrives brimming with joy, love, and cherished memories, all neatly wrapped in an adorable box. Whether it’s college kids far from home or military members on distant deployments, these care package ideas are your ticket to spreading a little sweetness to your beloved long-distance connections.

But we don’t stop there! We’ve also crafted some unique pintables to elevate your care package game. With these delightful pintables in tow, you can add a touch of flair to your gift for any occasion. They come complete with box flap decorations that you can tailor to fit, playful tags to add a pop of fun, and matching stationery to pen a heartfelt note.

There’s always a reason to send your love and well wishes to someone you hold dear. When physical proximity isn’t on your side, a care package becomes your messenger of affection. Bursting with delightful goodies and personal touches, it’s your way of sending happiness, comfort, and treasured memories, no matter how vast the distance between you. And if you’re on the lookout for more gift ideas to include in your care package, be sure to explore our collection of last-minute gift ideas as well.

For college students

For college students miles away from home, the second best thing to a visit from family is a surprise delivery in the mail. Care packages are a great way to send your love and let your college student know you’re thinking of them. Whether they’re a little homesick or under pressure during finals, these college care package ideas will send a little piece of home to comfort and encourage them.

Feeling under the weather

Catching a cold in college is hard to shake off, especially without mom there to make you feel better. Send medicine and feel-good items to your college student and let them know it’s okay to take a break to get some rest.

Care package ideas:

• Cold and flu medicine
• Cough drops
• Tea
• Mug
• Microwavable soup
• Fuzzy socks
• Disinfecting wipes
• Thermometer
• Band-aids
• Tissues
• Hand sanitizer

Surviving finals week

Between spending hours in the library and attending study reviews after class, finals week causes a lot of stress for college kids. Sending a finals survival kit gives your college student a much-needed boost of energy and motivation to get through the week and finish strong.

Care package ideas:

• Stress ball or fidget spinner
• Coffee (or a gift card to a coffee shop)
• Water bottle
• Healthy snacks like granola bars, dried fruit, mixed nuts or trail mix
• Study supplies like notecards, highlighters, colored pens and sticky notes
• Candy and chocolate
• Chewing gum
• Stress relief candle
• Headphones
• Chapstick

Housekeeping supplies

Taking care of your own space with limited trips to the grocery store means frequently running out of common household items. Stock up your college student with some items they may forget to pick up and keep on hand.

Care package ideas:

• Laundry detergent pods
• Clothing hangers
• Razors
• Body wash
• Toothbrushes
• Q-tips
• Sunscreen
• Lotion
• Scissors
• Lint roller
• Stain remover pen

For service members

Send a care package full of supplies and personal items to your service member to remind them of their loved ones at home. Deployment can be a tough environment, but sending a mix of practical and thoughtful gifts can help your military member feel a little bit closer to home.

When shipping packages internationally, remember to keep in mind:

1. Size and weight restrictions
2. The time it takes for your package to ship (try to send non-perishable foods)
3. Include a card listing the materials in case the package comes open
4. Limit items since soldiers have limited personal space and storage
5. Use resourceful packing materials your service member can reuse such as newspaper or plastic bags

Dear spouse

Sentimental items from home are a great way to send your love and allow your spouse to get a glimpse of life at home. Most of these items are small enough to be carried around and will mean the world to your military spouse!

Care package ideas:

• Printed photos
• Kids crafts from school
• Calendar with family birthdays printed
• Photo pendant
• Flash drive of home videos
• Stationery and stamps
• Personal care items like baby wipes, deodorant and toothpaste
• Interesting articles clipped or printed from the local newspaper or a magazine

Taste of home

Send some of your soldier’s favorite snacks to indulge in during their deployment. Some of the easiest snacks include non-perishable foods, hard packaged items (rather than in a plastic bag) and anything that can be added directly to water. Be sure to include some local tastes such as a local honey or barbeque sauce your troop can use to liven up their meals.

Care package ideas:

• Hot cocoa
• Chips and salty snacks
• Candy (that won’t melt)
• Fruit snacks
• Cookies
• Condiments like honey or hot sauce
• Treats from a local restaurant like seasoning packets or dipping sauces

My hero

This superhero-themed care package is packed full of heroic treats and entertainment for your service member. Let them know how strong and appreciated they are with these fun items.

Care package ideas:

• Superhero socks
• Sports drinks (preferably powdered mixes)
• Energy and granola bars
• Jerky snacks
• Board games
• Playing cards
• Movies or music loaded on a flash drive

For a long distance lover

Long distance relationships make it tough to spend quality time with your significant other but that doesn’t mean you can’t bond in other ways. Let your boyfriend or girlfriend know you’re thinking of them by sending a care package their way. You may be celebrating a special anniversary or it could be just because. A care package will have to do until they can be in your arms again! And for when you’re able to physically be together, try some of these date ideas so you never run out of things to do.

Celebrating an anniversary

Whether you’re celebrating 1 month together or 10 years, send your partner a special gift in the mail and have a date night at home. These ultra-romantic gifts will make it seem like you’re not even apart. Take your date up a notch by sending your sweetie a flash drive or link to a secret playlist you created just for them.

Care package ideas:

• Framed photo
• Confetti
• Chocolate
• Travel sized cologne/perfume (via ground shipping only)
• Rose petals
• Candles
• Lipstick or chapstick
• Breathmints
• Jewelry with initials or coordinates
• Gift card for takeout so you can have a virtual date together

Travel themed

Miles apart means nothing to the heart. Celebrate your long-distance love with a travel-themed care package that proves “distance is just a test to see how far love can travel.”

Care package ideas:

• Map marked with dream destinations or your next road trip
• Luggage tag
• Travel pillow
• Passport holder
• Sleep mask
• Cozy socks
• Travel sized toiletries
• Pretzels
• Peanuts
• Magazines

Treat yourself

Treat your loved one to a spa night at home and pamper them with a special care package full of luxurious goodies. Tell your sweetie to put on some relaxing music, light some candles and cozy up for a chill night in.

Care package ideas:

• Bath bomb
• Face mask
• Body lotion
• Body scrub
• Nail polish
• Manicure set
• Robe or pajamas
• Fuzzy socks

For kids away at camp

Going to an overnight camp for the first time can be nervewracking for all involved, but your little camper will return with new friends and fun memories while you get some time to yourself. Whether it’s a summer camp, church camp or sports camp, your kids will appreciate a care package full of goodies and activities to keep them going through the week. Plus, at their age, nothing is more exciting than receiving mail!

Happy camper

Make sure your camper is staying protected from the sun and outdoors with these fun camping-themed ideas. Even if they aren’t staying in tents or cabins, you can give them the feel of an authentic camping trip!

Care package ideas:

• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Water bottle
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Compass
• Flashlight
• Marshmallows
• Graham crackers
• Chocolate
• Snacks like pretzels and popcorn

Busy bee

Even with all of the programs and activities planned, your little one may need some play ideas during their downtime to keep them from getting home-sick. Send a fun-packed care package with games and activities to keep them busy during free time.

Care package ideas:

• Frisbee
• Jump rope
• Coloring books
• Crayons
• Stickers
• Playing cards
• Watercolor paints
• Glowsticks
• Inflatable beach ball
• Outdoor scavenger hunt
• Decorations for their cabin
• Funny note from the family pet with a printed picture

Capture the memories

Although you can’t be there to capture all the fun they’re having at camp, this care package will help them document some of their favorite friends and memories.

Care package ideas:

• Drawstring backpack that friends can sign
• Colored permanent markers
• Matching friendship bracelets
• Journal with pen
• Disposable camera (or two)
• Silly photo props like fake mustaches and crazy sunglasses

Shipping tips for sending your care package

There are certain restricted items that can’t be shipped via ground or air transportation. Make sure your care package doesn’t contain the following so that it will successfully be delivered to your loved one.

Restricted shipping items:

• Alcohol (beer, wine, liquor)
• Cigarettes and smokeless tobacco
• Lithium-ion batteries

Restricted items via air transportation:

29 Care Packages We’re Sending to Friends

Send some smiles via snail mail with these fun care package ideas.

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VIA MERCHANT

Whether you’re hunting for the best “thank you” gift or “just because” gift ideas, a care package says it all no matter the occasion. It’s like receiving a never-ending box of happy—bonus points if it’s filled with snackable goodies. With care package ideas for just about anything these days, we rounded up the best options for everyone on your list, including build-your-own boxes and curated gift sets. Plus, ideas for specific occasions like gifts for new moms, a golf-lover’s care package and ideas for crafters. Treat your loved one with one of these sweet care packages—then get one for yourself!

Love and Hugs Care Package

Sometimes a hug in a box is just what faraway loved ones need. For the pal in need of a cozy pick-me-up, consider this sweet care package. It’s loaded with everything they need to unwind, including tea, a mug, honey, socks and a heartfelt card. It makes a perfect “just because” gift as well.

Happy Box Care Package

Sending your BFF a custom care package has never been easier, thanks to Happy Box. You start with a package, then add as many gifts as you’d like. (There are tons of fun selections to choose from, including sweet treats, socks, candles, bath bombs, stickers and beyond). Finish your gift with a card and custom note. Read our Happy Box review for all of the details.

Cookie Sampler

For the friend with a major sugar craving, you can’t go wrong with a Milk Bar sampler. This care package nestles truffles, cookies and a pie slice from the iconic bakery into a cozy tin, then ships it straight to their door. Bonus: It’s available as a monthly care package delivery for sweet pick-me-ups on the regular. Speaking of, did you know you can learn how to make the Milk Bar birthday cake?

Donuts and Coffee Gift Pack

Whether your college student is studying for a big exam or is simply tired on a Tuesday, this Stan’s Donuts gift box is a delicious pick-me-up. It includes a half-dozen donuts, one bag of Stan’s whole-bean coffee and a ceramic mug. If you’re looking for more caffeinated goodies, check out these coffee subscription boxes too.

Sunshine Box

This sunshine box brings smiles—even on a cloudy day. It’s loaded with cheerful goodies, including a bright yellow card, a candle and a succulent. Here are even more ways to create a sunshine box.

Moose Munch Gift Tin

Warning: Giftees won’t be able to stop snacking on this sweet care package once it arrives on their doorstep. The mouth-watering gift includes four decadent varieties of Harry and David’s famous Moose Munch popcorn. It’s perfect for family movie night! And if you’re looking for more “thinking of you” gift ideas—we’ve got you covered.

Cozy Gift Set

This cozy gift set screams relaxation. Not only does it come with a throw blanket and warm socks, but it also includes your choice of tea, hot chocolate or coffee, plus snacking chocolate and a golden tea spoon for helping your loved one cozy up with their favorite brew. It doubles as a fall gift for those who are obsessed with spooky season.

Cocktail Pick Me Up Kit

Everyone needs a little pick me up from time to time, and there’s no better way to show a friend some love than with this happy hour care package. Complete with cocktail spoon straws, a “cheers to happy hour” tea towel and a 3D-printed cocktail mix, it’s guaranteed to brighten their afternoon. Just add vodka! By the way, these are our favorite cocktail kits.

Bacon Jerkygram

Consider this a bacon care package but with a twist. Packed with “jerkified” bacon (yes, you read that right), sending a “jerkygram” is a surefire way to put a smile on someone’s face. They’ll snack on jalapeño bacon jerky, old-fashioned maple bacon jerky and spicy sriracha bacon jerky. The hardest part is finding a spot where no one can find it. Their belly will thank you later!

Everyday Joy Care Package

Sending a gift out of the blue? Look no further than this gift set that celebrates life’s simple joys. Your friend will enjoy a moment of reflection and peace thanks to this calming delivery that includes everything they need for a refreshing cup of tea. If they’re not into tea, try one of these gifts for coffee lovers instead.

Wine and Snack Box

Whether you’re looking for a last-minute birthday gift for a wine lover or a “just because” boozy treat, this wine and snack box fits the bill—and then some. Your friend will enjoy a meat, cheese and cracker assortment paired with a red wine. Cheers!

Italiana Spa Day Kit

For when a European vacation just isn’t within reach, gift the next best thing with this Italiana spa day kit, courtesy of Giada De Laurentiis. Included are Giada’s favorite DIY face scrub, the essentials for a luxurious Roman-style bath and chocolates for snacking. It comes pretty close to satisfying any cravings for travel.

New York Bagel Delivery

Anyone who’s ever visited or lived in New York will delight at this Essa-Bagel box showing up at their door. These massive, hand-rolled delights are worth the wait. Choose up to four bagel flavors, add cream cheese and then get ready to spoil your friend with breakfast heaven. Bread bakers and beyond will appreciate this sweet gift.

New Mom Care Package

“Curated by moms who’ve been there,” this peaceful postpartum new mom gift box is the ultimate push present (yes, that’s a thing). Goodies include slipper socks, a non-toxic candle, tea and luxury hand cream. Finish it off with a custom message.

Sugarwish

No matter the occasion, a Sugarwish fits the bill. This genius service makes it easy to gift someone candy, cookies or popcorn without having to guess their favorites. Once you select the box size you wish to send, Sugarwish sends a code asking giftees to choose their goodies. How sweet! Get the full scoop in our Sugarwish review.

“Thank You” Cookie Box

Trying to find a heartfelt way to show your thanks to the hostess? An Olive and Cocoa care package is just the thing for any occasion. Inside the gift-wrapped box, they’ll be treated to gourmet cookies, rocky road popcorn, nuts, farmhouse cheese and crackers. How sweet!

Cheese-Lover’s Charcuterie Package

It’s official: Boarderie charcuterie boards are the prettiest food gift you can send for any occasion. And this ciccetti all cheese board is what dreams are made of. Not only does this care package include artisan cheeses, dried fruits, nuts, chocolate and jam, but it also arrives fully arranged inside a keepsake acacia wood board. Talk about genius cheese board gifts!

Tea for Every Situation Gift Set

Calling all tea lovers! If they need a reminder that someone they love is thinking of them, there is quite literally a tea for every situation inside this comforting care package. Think a refreshing mint tea for when they’re “turning over a new leaf,” and a spicy citrus blend for when your loved one is “plotting revenge.”

Japanese Snacks Box

If you really want to wow loved ones, we can’t recommend a Bokksu snack box enough. Packed with more than 20 authentic Japanese snacks, sweets and tea (an impeccable value, if we may add), it introduces adventurous eaters to a whole new world of treats. Each box is expertly curated to include new seasonal treats every time, and every purchase supports Japanese family businesses. BRB we’re subscribing to the curated boxes immediately.

Succulent Heart Kit

The recipient can put their own special touches on this sweet succulent heart care package. It comes with moss, a shaped frame and six succulents they can arrange to their heart’s content. Plants make for some of the best housewarming gifts because of their longevity.

Chicago Restaurant Tour

If they can’t make it to the Windy City, gift them the next best thing. This beautiful gift box is packed full of delicious treats from Chicago chefs and restaurants. They’ll dig into a cheddar and caramel popcorn mix, house-smoked sea salt, spicy chili crisp oil—and so. much. more. This food gift contains 11 treats, all expertly wrapped for shipping, so it’s an excellent value too.

Blind Date with a Book Box

Treating a bookworm? This blind date with a book gift box is the care package to get. It includes a book of your chosen genre, tea, stickers and more fun freebies. All they have to do is cuddle up on the couch with their new book to make it a solo date night at home.

Birthday Ice Cream Assortment

Nothing screams, “Happy Birthday” better than this decadent ice cream assortment. For when you can’t be there on a loved one’s birthday, help them celebrate by the spoonful with cupcake ice cream, Oreo sweet cream ice cream, chocolate ice cream and mint fudge ice cream. Need more birthday gift inspiration? You can’t go wrong with these birthday gift baskets.

DIY Embroidery Kit

Crafty friends will be delighted by this thoughtful embroidery kit. It’s perfect for beginners and anyone looking to hone their craft—literally. Choose from eight nature-inspired patterns. Find more gifts for crafters they’ll love.

Dinnerly Meal Kit

When feeling under the weather, the last thing your loved one needs to worry about is cooking dinner. Dinnerly comes to the rescue with quick, easy and delicious meal kits. It’s a more comforting alternative to eating out when the last thing you want to do is cook. Customize their plan and cancel at any time.

Greetabl

If you want to send a quick little treat, a Greetabl box is my go-to gift for any occasion. Start by choosing a box design, then add a small trinket and a gift card, if desired. Personalize your gift with a heartfelt note, photos and graphics for the sweetest (and simplest) gift ever. Read my Greetabl review for all the deets.

Gourmet Soft Pretzels

Everyone has a friend who chooses Team Salty over Team Sweet. Satisfy their savory cravings with a soft pretzel gift box. It features a variety of soft pretzels and slider buns, plus fun flavored salts. By the way, check out these thoughtful gifts for bakers.

Spoonful of Comfort Box

Whether you’re sending a “get well soon” care package or want to cheer up a homesick loved one going through a hard time, a spoonful of comfort is exactly what they’ll get inside this heartfelt box. Complete with all things warm—chicken noodle soup, grandma’s old-fashioned rolls and chocolate chip cookies—it quite literally lights up their soul. The box arrives with a shiny ladle and a personal message from you.

I was impressed with how everything heated up perfectly in the microwave and stovetop, and now I have enough chicken noodle soup for the week. I’m not exaggerating when I say I almost ate all the cookies in one sitting—they’re that good.

Talk Birdie to Me Care Package

Whether your loved one is retiring or simply enjoys golfing in their spare time, celebrate their love for the sport with this curated golf gift set. Goodies include smiley face golf balls, wood tees, a cleaning cloth, crew socks and roasted pecans. It may even help them master their swing!

Additional research contributed by senior shopping editor, Katie Bandurski

Want more fun product picks and money-saving deals from our shopping experts and Test Kitchen? Sign up for the Stuff We Love newsletter .

As Associate Shopping Editor, Madi covers the best cleaning gadgets, organizing gear and home buys. She’s constantly testing internet-made-me-buy-it splurges and home goods—if there’s a viral product taking the internet by storm, you can count on Madi to give her honest review. Her work has appeared in various home outlets including Better Homes and Gardens, Reader’s Digest, The Family Handyman and Birds and Blooms. When she’s not decorating her apartment, you can find her sharing her favorite finds on Taste of Home’s social media platforms and scouring Denver for the best espresso martini.

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