In the not so distant past, I was a college student. I recall brimming with excitement for all the new adventures to come, but also realizing that I was now mostly on my own. Luckily, I had grown accustomed to taking care of my laundry, cleaning up around the house and making dinner for myself, but there were so many things that I had taken for granted.
I was surrounded by thousands of people and tons of new friends, but there were many times where I felt lonely and homesick. Luckily, my school was only 30 miles from where I grew up and I often went home to visit family and friends. I couldn’t imagine was it was like for the students that were thousands of miles away from their families.
Even though it cannot replace quality time with loved ones, a care package is a great way to stay connected and support a friend or a loved one. I have compiled a list of 10 care package ideas to get your student through the school year. I have also included suggestions on what to include.
Make your care packages unforgettable by decorating the box flaps. You can DIY or use our Care Package Sticker Kits. We create them for all occasions and even do custom work. View our entire Care Package Sticker collection here.
1. Exam / Finals Care Package
- Note with words of encouragement
- Emergen-C / Airborne
- 5 Hour Energy
- Starbucks / Coffee Shop Gift Card
- Coffee / Tea
- Gum
- Pens / Pencils / Highlighters
2. Relax / Support Care Package
- Card / Note
- Tea / Hot Chocolate
- Candle (preferably not glass)
- Essential Oils
- Shower Gel / Body Scrub
- Bath soak / Shower Melts - Here is a great Shower Melt DIY Tutorial
- Lip Balm
- Lotion
3. Movie Night Care Package
- Card / Note
- Popcorn
- Popcorn Topping
- Candy
- Movie / iTunes / Amazon Gift Card
4. Birthday Care Package
- Birthday card / note
- Gift Card
- Snacks
5. Thinking of You Care Package
- “Open When” letters - Check out our “Open When” Letter Labels
- Card / Note
- Handmade Art / Crafts
- Something to remind them of home
- Toiletries
- Laundry Detergent
6. Football / Sports Care Package
- Snacks
- Team color themed items
7. Sweets / Cookies / Snacks Care Package
- Cookies / Baked Goods / Snacks
8. Get Well / Stay Healthy Care Package
- Card / Note
- OTC Medication
- Emergen-C / Airborne
- Band-Aids
- Alcohol Wipes
- Neosporin / (name of drug)
- Sanitizing Wipes
- Lip Balm
- Cough Drops
8. I Miss You Care Package
- Card / Note
- Snacks
- Something to remind them of home
10. Holidays: Valentine's Day / St. Patrick's Day / Halloween
- Card /Note
- Candy
- Snacks