My husband has only been in Japan for 5 months, so I wouldn't call myself a care package pro or anything. However, I will share with you all of the insight that I have gained so far.
1. Obtain their mailing address. Most of the time, this can be done by Googling their ship name or base name. If you can't find it online, simply ask your soldier/sailor/airman/coastie/etc. and they will be able to give it to you.
2. Order and/or pick up military care package boxes. USPS is your friend. You can either call them at 800-610-8734 to order the kit or you can go to your local post office and ask for the FREE military packages. These can be sent to any FPO/AP address (so, any military base worldwide). The kit includes boxes, stickers, customs forms, and even tape.
3. Choose a theme. Whether it's a holiday, their birthday, or just because, themes are an awesome way to begin creating your care package.
2. Order and/or pick up military care package boxes. USPS is your friend. You can either call them at 800-610-8734 to order the kit or you can go to your local post office and ask for the FREE military packages. These can be sent to any FPO/AP address (so, any military base worldwide). The kit includes boxes, stickers, customs forms, and even tape.
3. Choose a theme. Whether it's a holiday, their birthday, or just because, themes are an awesome way to begin creating your care package.
3A. (Optional) Choose scrapbook paper to go on the inside of the box. This is my favorite part.
Hobby Lobby and Michael's are great. You just choose two coordinating pieces,
fold them in half, cut them and tape them to the box. It's simple and decorative!
Hobby Lobby and Michael's are great. You just choose two coordinating pieces,
fold them in half, cut them and tape them to the box. It's simple and decorative!
4. Get the stuff. Depending on your theme, now's the time to get the good stuff! Military members love food, but I would shy away from homemade goods unless its something like trail-mix or you know that it will get there in time. There are a lot of not-so-successful stories about homemade food items. Other good items to send are: pictures, cards from family/friends, working gloves, thermals, socks, underwear, washing pods, dryer sheets, towels, blankets and favorite snacks. For a list of things not to send, go here.
5. Stuff it, seal it, send it. Stuff all the stuff into the care package. Seal it with your handy dandy packing tape they sent you. Fill out the pesky customs form (if it's an international shipment). Send it by taking it to a drop box or to your local Post Office! :)
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