Military care packages are fun, right? You get to put together something special for a person you really care about. And if you don’t know the person you are sending the care package to, you obviously still care about them enough to participate in a random act of kindness.
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If you are looking to make it even more special, these military care package ideas are unique and probably items you never thought to pack before. My personal favorite military care package idea? Number 7. Definitely number 7.
1. #1 Rated Microfiber Sports Towel
Okay this is great. This towel is super lightweight and because it’s microfiber, it dries incredibly fast! It also, has a loop hook sewn at the top to making it easy to hang anywhere. This is perfect for a any service member, but especially those out on missions. Duals as a sweat towel and shower towel. Gross, but true.
2. iSnap Pro 2-In-1 Selfie Stick
Service members probably won’t have an iPhone to make phone calls, BUT they will likely have some sort of iTouch device or similar to take pictures, use apps, games, etc. This selfie stick is perfect for service members since it isn’t always easy to ask someone to take a group picture. Such an easy-peasy way to snap a few shots. Comes with a blue tooth remote, but you can also simply set the timer on your device.
If you know a service member will have reasonable access to electricity, a bread machine is my go-to appliance anytime my husband is deployed. There is just something about being able to make fresh bread and enjoy it. This item won’t fit in a typical flat rate care package box, but it is well worth the extra postage for many service members. The best part? You can send “just add water” bread mix, and your service member will have everything they need to make fresh bread in about an hour.
4. Portable Solar Power Charger
This is a must-have for anyone traveling with electronics. Perfect for service members who might get stuck without access to power while on missions. This device will easily charge any small electronic device and it continues to gain power from the sun. No plugs required. My husband even uses his when he is at home.
5. O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Cream
What an awesome gift for anyone who works with their hands a lot. This is especially great when soft hands and personal hygiene is less frequent that when a service member is home. And this cream is relatively inexpensive for anyone on a budget.
6. Starbucks VIA® Ready Brew Colombia Coffee
This is literally the only instant coffee that I have ever tried and thought was remotely drinkable. Love the single serving packs. All you need to do is add water and stir. Perfect for any service member, who needs a pick me up on the go. Comes in a few different flavors.
7. Dude Wipes
Baby wipes are cool, but if you want to send something extra special these Dude Wipes are pretty sweet. They are intended for use after the bathroom to help keep your bottom clean. I would say that is a must-have comfort item for just about anyone outside of their regular environment.
Bonus: Just Add Water Bread Mix
This is for anyone looking to snag a bread machine for their service member. This is the just add water bread mix. Probably not the most nutritionally complete, but it’s the best I’ve ever found when looking for a just add water bread mix.
There’s nothing wrong with creating a military care package that includes the good ‘ole standbys. My husband loves tuna no matter what, but sending one of these unique military care package ideas to a service member is a great way to make a box extra special.
When you’re done with your care package, be sure to tuck in a missing him quote or a long-distance relationship quote for an extra special touch.
Want more on military life?
- 75 Awesome Military Care Package Ideas
- Learning to Reconnect After Deployment
- 25+ Self-Improvement Ideas to do During Deployment
- 47 Things No One Tells You About Being a Military Wife
What’s your most unique military care package idea? Let’s chat in the comments!
Tiffany
Those dude wipes look cool and practical. I really like the idea of the solar portable charger. I’d like to have that myself!
Lauren Tamm
Right! I feel the same way!
Hannah
I love how you included a selfie stick! I have never heard of Dude Wipes but I am totally going to get me, or rather him, some of them!
Kathryn
Can you randomly send packages to military people you don’t know? How do you get their name and addresses where they are stationed? That would be a cool little project for paying it forward. THanks!
Lauren Tamm
The website anysoldier.com allows you to do this 🙂
Michael
Try send a mail to usmilitarystore_care@yahoo.com they can help you out with sending care package.
Tracy
You can also sign up through soldiersangels.org. I love communicating and sending packages to a deployed soldier!
Nicola
Actually I have done variant’s of all of those already bar the bread machine as UK soldier’s hardly have the luxury that American soldier’s get on tour. Another good one is a portable heater (the small sort) for chilly nights in tents. I’ve even sent UGG style slipper boots to keep my man’s tootsies warm.
I suggest doing themed packages after a while to make it a bit different too
RockysGirl
Will liquid shelf stable coffee mate creamers ship well?
Brian
I ship them all the time to Afghanistan. Buy the boxes off the shelf and throw them in with everything else. No complaints yet.
Tasha Skolnick
Is it possible to ship a cold box of snacks to a military base?