If you have ever had a family member or significant other deployed, you know there are very few positives that come from it. Keeping busy is key, and for me, crafting is one of the best ways to pass the time. My one solace during deployments is putting together care packages for my husband. I love decorating the boxes, and even if they embarrass him or he thinks they are lame, I know they make him smile (even if it’s just internally). We’re on our second deployment and I’ve learned a few things about care packages, what works and what doesn’t. Here are a few tips for a successful care package!

Order the boxes straight to your home

If you go to the United States Postal Service website, you can order a pack of flat rate boxes for free. They arrive at your door, and you’ll always have them on hand to pack. I get the large size!

Use spray adhesive with your inside wrapping

No matter if you choose to just decorate the flaps, or the whole inside of the box, I have found that spray adhesive is the easiest and most efficient way to get the paper down flat.

Choose a theme

Some girls do color themes, choosing items that are all packaged in the same color. I try to make the items relate somehow. For example, I have done a workout box, filled with supplements, protein bars and sweats. Others might include: a breakfast box with instant coffee, cereal, granola bars, etc,

Include pictures

Whether they are on the box or in an envelope inside, send pictures! I had no idea they were valuable to my husband until he came home and I found a bag where he had saved them all. He had even cut out the ones that were glued to the cardboard.

Seal everything

Put food items in a large Ziploc, even if you think they will stay in their packaging. I forgot to do this once, and everything in the box wound up coated in applesauce. Whoops.

Know how to fill out a customs form

Have the format on hand before you get to the post office and can’t figure out what goes where. I have a template on my phone so I can just pull it up when I get there.

Make sure the box is sealed well

Don’t overpack it so that it’s busting at the seams, and know that there is no such thing as “too much” tape.

Send only things that are edible, disposable, or wearable

They don’t have a lot of room to move around “stuff," so keep it simple.