The first care package I ever mailed during the holidays was a mess — in the most beautiful way. My kids and I had walked the neighborhood collecting pinecones, just like we do every year, and we sat at the kitchen table painting them gold and tying them into a wreath for my husband overseas.
When he called weeks later, he told me that little wreath hung on the wall of his shared room, and that every guy who walked past it smiled.
It reminded all of them that somewhere, someone was thinking of them.
That’s what makes holiday care packages powerful: they’re not just boxes.
They’re connection.
They’re comfort.
They’re home — delivered.
Here are five must-have holiday care package ideas to help you send a little holiday magic wherever your service member is this year:
Top 5 Holiday Care Package Themes
1. Holiday Traditions Box
Fill it with:
- Mini stockings
- A small pinecone wreath (yes, make one together!)
- A tiny artificial tree
- Holiday-scented candles (or wax melts if candles aren’t allowed)
- A handwritten card with your family’s yearly traditions
Tip: Include a flat “portable mantlepiece” — a decorated piece of cardstock your service member can tape up as a display for cards or photos.
2. Special Interests Box (Pokemon, Gaming, Marvel, etc.)
Fill it with:
- Pokemon cards or figurines
- Mini puzzles
- Fun socks with their fandom
- Stickers for their laptop or gear
- A themed holiday card
Tip: Add QR codes linking to videos from home related to the theme — kids showing off Pokémon moves, a short gaming clip, or a family message.
3. Practical Needs Box
Fill it with:
- High-quality socks
- Travel-size toiletries
- Hand warmers
- Protein snacks
- Coffee or tea packets
- Batteries
Tip: Wrap each practical item in holiday paper with a note that says: “Open when you need a boost,” “Open when you miss home,” etc.
4. ‘Let’s Stay Connected’ Box
Fill it with:
- A small board or card game
- A shared journal (you write in it first, they write when it returns)
- Matching ornaments
- Photo album
- A playlist QR code
Tip: Include a time and date for a virtual game night or synchronized movie meet-up.
5. Family Favorites Food Box
Fill it with:
- Shelf-stable versions of your most-loved snacks
- Individually wrapped holiday cookies
- Microwave-safe meals
- Hot chocolate packets
Packing Tip:
Use double bags, wrap liquids in plastic wrap, and fill empty space with crumpled paper to prevent shifting. Always check shipping restrictions.
The holidays can stir grief, frustration, and irritations we don’t always say out loud — especially during separation.
So lower the pressure.
Simplify the traditions.
Ask family and friends for help with gift cards, baking, shopping, or shipping.
And most importantly, adjust expectations compassionately.The goal isn’t perfection.
It’s presence — even from afar.
