Things to Send

Ironically as I was compiling this list, one was sent out through the FRG, so I added to it from suggestions they gave.

When sending a package to a solider, whether you know him or not, you may be at a loss figuring out what to box up. Of course if you know the solider you probably have some ideas of things they would love to receive.

Suggestions: photos, favorite magazines or one geared towards male/female, neck coolers, small fan, extra batteries, hand heaters (found in camping section – also under label ‘Take Me Out to the Ball Game’), a book, new towel or pillow case – Im sure Army issued ones are not the greatest, drink mix in’s like Crystal light / Gatorade, soft toilet paper (you never know), Under Armour might be good, thick socks, gel inserts, camera case and lens cleaner, chapstick (I love Bert’s Bees), eye drops (we sent cases donated from an a local Ophthalmologist last time my brother went to Iraq). Razors, non-perishables; granola bars, put certain things in a zip lock incase you think they may leak, single serving microwave things – mac & cheese / popcorn, chocolate is probably not a good idea, neither is alcohol, porn or pork. Other things; gum, coffee creamer (I would want that), Pop-tarts, beef jerky, wipes, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, local newspaper to read what’s going on back home, hot sauce, spices, calling cards – look into the best ones, unlocked GSM cell phone (thank you to a military connection for this one), sunglasses, hand held games, computer screen wipes, cards, DVD’s & CD’s, flash drives, MPs player, USB hubs, do not send fruit or things that are contrary to the belief in the land they are in. Keep in mind they might have a PX with lots of things like cookies and candy, but maybe they have a favorite from home. Sending food (cookies) and scented products (deodorant) together might result is something not good to eat, especially when your box travels for 10 days in 100* heat. No thanks to your “fresh breeze sugar cookies”…
Things found on the FRG list:
Foot powder, Glade stick ups, Sheets/Pillows (twin), Blanket from home, Fly Traps/Bug Spray, Nose Saline, Instant coffee/tea, calendar, Record their favorite shows on DVD (I thought this was a nice idea), Disposable cameras, Theme packages, Cordless electric razor (buy a DUAL Voltage one - voltage is different over there), Sun block the spray or stick kind, Eye glasses cleaning wipes, shaving cream
I would also recommend Left, Right, Center (look under games)

because it is cheap, compact and fun

02/09/09 - Im adding another item. I spoke with my brother today, who is in Iraq. His request: a camping shower, the kind that hangs from a tree and holds water. I think many items of use can be found in the camping section.

Another thing an Army mom said travels well:

pound cake, then add a can of frosting

Paul in his Kuwait tent 1st tour in 07