Husband is scheduled to go downrange again this year. What are some useful things to include in care packages?

Savanna Allen — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 01:37:50 -0400

Response by TSgt David L. made Apr 13 at 2018 2:34 AM

TSgt David L. — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 02:34:35 -0400

It depends on where he is going. For OPSEC we wont say, but some FOBs and bases have a pretty good PX/BX, so the list is smaller when they can buy it all there. There are also care packages that sent by schools and churches so in some places you can grab what you want from what's already there. Again, some things are available and some not at all. I'm sure he'll let you know the things they really need (I say "THEY" cause some guys have nobody to send them stuff). Extras can cheer up the folks that don't get goodie boxes.
Like powdered gatoraid or other beverage mix. Water can get really tough to swallow, literally. A little flavor goes a long way. Jerky is always good. Baby wipes are always good. Granola/snack bars. Tobacco (if he smokes or dips) is worth it's weight in gold. Cross word puzzles, word finds and things like that are nice to pass the time, when there IS spare time. Sometimes batteries (AA and AAA) are hard to get a hold of for things like flashlight and other gear. Cookies, at least the home made ones never seem to make the trip successfully. Cookie chunks mostly. A lot of folks try to send alcohol. It's been done every way imaginable. Better to not try. The FOB postal guys are pretty sharp and will catch that, and porn!

Little notes, cards, letters and pics were my favorite. Personal touches. Helps it seem less lonely on the long streatches. Something for the hooch to look at when things are down.
I'm sure I missed some things, but that is a good start to getting ready off the top of my head.

I'm sure y'all have been through it before, so this may be unnecessary, but the long distance thing is hard on everyone. Sometimes it is impossible to call/text/email for extended periods, and then it might only be for a few minutes. It can seem like forever, but for the folks down range it always seems longer. Be patient and take advantage of the contact you do get. He will be wanting to talk to you as much as you do him. Probably more. Depending on where he is and what he is doing it can get intense. A few minutes of news from home is a welcome distraction from the daily grind. I'm not saying don't have bad news or don't argue, but you never know if that's the last words y'all may share. Something to keep in mind. Not trying to end on a down note. Just saying.

Most posts/bases have spouse support groups that are nice so you can share the load with folks who know what you're going through. Be sure to take advantage of their knowledge and experience. If you have kids a lot of the child care providers have a free day a month or something like that for deployed families. A little break for some YOU time. You need it.

Sorry if this is long, but these are the things that stick out from my 20 years of doing this kind of thing. If this isn't helpful feel free to ignore it. No insult to me.
My very patient and understanding wife was my rock and made it possible to do the business we do. I couldn't have done it without her. I admire the courage it takes for you to send your loved one off to the unknown. Please let us know how things are going and if you need help or advice. Lot of RP folks have been through both sides of this. I'm always happy to help or talk.
Best of luck to you both.
Respectfully,
Dave

Response by SGT Eric Davis made Apr 13 at 2018 2:34 AM

SGT Eric Davis — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 02:34:47 -0400

Oreos!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2018 3:02 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 03:02:26 -0400

Savanna Allen Some items that never go out of style include stationary, photos, flashlights/batteries, books, and beef jerky. Below is a list of items you can put in a care package. The fact that you are sending him a package will mean more to him than what is in the package.

https://jomygosh.com/2014/06/150-items-care-package-list/

150+ Awesome Items for Your Next Care Package

It’s time to fill that care package! Here’s a list of over 150 items to choose from– if you’re not sure how to get started. This list is broad and could be used for anyone sending a care package– to a college student, military personnel, or a missionary– so make sure that you know whatKeep Reading...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2018 8:45 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 08:45:50 -0400

When it comes to hygiene products and certain snacks, that’s pretty much taken care of. Unless he requires special specific products.
But things that will make him smile is best, like pictures. Oo and beef jerky, everyone loves beef jerky.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2018 9:16 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 09:16:05 -0400

If he's going to some place like Kuwait, he shouldn't need much. If he's going elsewhere; socks, underwear, tshirts, shaving cream, razors, (I recommend Dollar Shave Club for those two), toothbrush and toothpaste, snacks that won't succumb to heat (most candy, especially chocolate, doesn't do well making the trip to warmer locations), coffee.. things like that.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2018 10:39 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 10:39:24 -0400

Savanna Allen if you are going to give a box just for him send him reading material that he likes (books or magazines). Maybe an external hard drive with some movies on it (he can share that with others or have a unit movie night). Any food he likes that does not spoil right away such as homemade cookies are a win whether he eats them all by himself or decides to share. Also, ask him what is on his base. If it is huge it might have somethings he needs such as toiletries, but if it is remote he may need some of the daily use items.

If you want to give a care package for his unit or for another Soldier in his unit that may not have anyone sending them a package stick with maybe razors, deodorant, good treats to each such as Oreos or chips, and reading material.

The best packages I ever got was cookies and little Husky utility knife.

The most important thing is just send him something and letters to know that you are still thinking of him and help him know that you are supporting him. If he is in an area that has good internet you can use Whatsapp or if you both have iPhones FaceTime to keep in touch as well. However, nothing replaces receiving a letter and a package.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 13 at 2018 10:52 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 10:52:08 -0400

Depends on climate- Hot- chap stick, sun screen, socks, powdered drink mix, trail mix, foot powder, hard candy.