Introduction

Sending a military care package is a great way to show your appreciation and support for service members and their families. However, it is important to be aware of what not to send in a care package. In this blog post, we will look at what prohibited items, fragile items, perishable food items, items that could be mistaken for an explosive, and items that are not allowed in a given country should not be sent. Additionally, we will discuss why sending care packages to service members is an important way to show appreciation and support.

Definition of a Military Care Package

A military care package is a package of items sent to a service member stationed overseas, or a family member of a service member. Care packages often contain food items, toiletries, books, snacks, and other personal items that can help service members feel connected to home. These care packages can provide a much needed morale boost for those stationed far away from home. Additionally, care packages can be sent to service members' families, to help them cope with the stress of having a loved one serving in a war zone. Care packages are an important way to show our service members and their families that we are thinking of them and are grateful for their service.

Why sending care packages to service members is important

Sending care packages to service members is an important way to show our appreciation for the hard work and dedication of those who serve in the military. Care packages remind service members that they are not alone and that their service is appreciated. Additionally, care packages can provide a much needed morale boost for those who are stationed far away from home. Sending care packages can also provide a sense of comfort to the families of service members, as it can be a reminder of their loved one and the support from home. Care packages can be a source of hope, joy, and comfort to those serving in the military, and are an important way to show our appreciation for their service.

What NOT to send

When sending a military care package, it is important to be aware of whatnot to send. Prohibited items include weapons, firearms, ammunition, explosives, drugs, alcohol, and any items that could be used to create a weapon or explosive. Additionally, fragile items that are likely to break in transit, perishable food items, items that could be mistaken for an explosive, and items that are not allowed in a given country should not be sent. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are sending items that will be appreciated by the service member, and will not put them in harm's way.

Items that are prohibited by the Department of Defense

Items that are prohibited by the Department of Defense: There are certain items that are strictly prohibited by the Department of Defense. These include weapons, firearms, ammunition, explosives, drugs, alcohol, and any items that could be used to create a weapon or explosive. Additionally, items that are considered to be dangerous or hazardous are not allowed.

Fragile items that are likely to break in transit

Fragile items that are likely to break in transit: Sending fragile items in a military care package is not recommended, as the package may be subject to rough handling during its journey. Items such as glass bottles and delicate electronics may break during transit and should be avoided.

Perishable food items

Perishable food items: Sending perishable food items in a care package is not recommended, as the food may spoil during transit. Non-perishable items such as canned goods are a better option.

Items that could be mistaken for an explosive

Items that could be mistaken for an explosive: Sending items that could be mistaken for an explosive is strictly prohibited. This includes items such as fireworks, flares, and smoke grenades.

Items that are not allowed in a given country

Items that are not allowed in a given country: Items that are not allowed in a given country should not be sent in a military care package. Before sending a care package, it is important to research the local laws and regulations of the country in which the service member is stationed.

What To Send In A Military Care Package

When sending a military care package, it is important to be mindful of what items should be included. Non-perishable food items, personal items such as toiletries and books, clothing and entertainment items, and items that will help service members stay connected to home are all appropriate items to include in a care package. Items that are likely to bring a smile to the service member’s face, such as cards and letters from home, photos of family and friends, and small gifts, are also important items to include in a care package. By sending thoughtful items that will make the service member feel connected to home, you can show your appreciation for their service and dedication.

Non-perishable food items

Non-perishable food items: Non-perishable food items are a great option for a military care package. Items such as instant oatmeal, granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit are all good options. Additionally, single-serve items such as trail mix, protein bars, and jerky are a great way to show your appreciation.

Personal items such as toiletries and books

Personal items such as toiletries and books: Personal items such as toiletries and books can be a great way to make a service member feel connected to home. Toiletries such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and mouthwash are all useful items to include. Books and magazines are also a great way to help service members pass the time.

Clothing and entertainment items

Clothing and entertainment items: Clothing items such as hats, gloves, and socks are always appreciated, as they can help service members stay warm and comfortable in cold climates. Entertainment items such as board games, playing cards, and puzzles are a great way to help service members pass the time.

Items that will help service members stay connected to home

Items that will help service members stay connected to home: Items that will help service members stay connected to home are some of the most important items to include in a care package. Items such as pre-paid phone cards.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sending a care package to a service member or their family is a great way to show your appreciation and support. However, it is important to be aware of what items should not be sent in a care package. Prohibited items include weapons, firearms, ammunition, explosives, drugs, alcohol, and any items that could be used to create a weapon or explosive. Additionally, fragile items that are likely to break in transit, perishable food items, items that could be mistaken for an explosive, and items that are not allowed in a given country should not be sent. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are sending items that will be appreciated by the service member, and will not put them in harm’s way.

Care packages remind service members that they are not alone and that their service is appreciated. Additionally, care packages can provide a much needed morale boost for those who are stationed far away from home. Sending care packages can also provide a sense of comfort to the families of service members, as it can be a reminder of their loved one and the support from home. Care packages can be a source of hope, joy, and comfort to those serving in the military, and are an important way to show our appreciation for their service.

If you would like to learn more or send a great care package, here are a few more ideas from Troopster.