What Are Care Packages?
Thoughtful Gifts That Show You Care
A care package is a lovingly curated parcel filled with goodies or comforting items, sent as a gesture of kindness and support. Whether it’s to lift someone’s spirits, show you're thinking of them, or simply bring a smile to their face, care packages are all about thoughtfulness — and they're especially appreciated when you can't be there in person.
Traditionally sent to someone far away — like a friend living abroad, a student studying away from home, or a loved one going through a tough time — care packages are packed with comfort. Think snacks, self-care treats, books or puzzle books, and small gifts that feel personal. It's the kind of gift that says, “I see you, I care, and I’ve picked these just for you.”
Where Did the Idea of Care Packages Come From?
Although we launched our own care packages in 2015, the idea itself goes way back — all the way to World War II. Families would send parcels to soldiers serving overseas, filled with essentials like food, toiletries, and handwritten notes to remind them they were loved and not forgotten. Over time, the concept grew beyond the military and became a more general way of sending support, comfort, and love — no matter the distance.
Who Are Care Packages For?
Care packages are perfect for… well, just about anyone who could use a little boost. They’re often sent to:
- Students during exam season
- Friends going through a breakup or loss
- Colleagues under pressure at work
- Loved ones who live far away
- Someone needing a reminder that they matter
To be honest, you don’t even need a reason — we regularly send care packages “just because!”
What Should I Include in a Care Package?
It depends on the person, but here are a few lovely ideas to get you started:
Snacks
Treats make everything better! Pop in their favourite chocolates, sweets, biscuits, or even some healthy snacks if that’s more their thing.
Pamper Treats
Encourage some self-care with face masks, lip balm, bath salts, or aromatherapy oils — the little things that help someone relax and recharge.
Comfort Items
Think cosy socks, a soft wheat bag, or a scented candle to bring warmth and calm.
Entertainment
A good book, a crossword puzzle, or a simple game can be a welcome distraction.
Personal Touches
Always include a thoughtful note or gift message — that’s what makes it feel truly personal.
Remember, it’s not about how much you spend. The most meaningful care packages are the ones that are thoughtful and tailored to the person receiving them.
Can a care package be sent as a Birthday Gift?
Absolutely! A birthday care package is a brilliant way to make someone feel loved on their special day — especially if you can’t be there to celebrate in person.
You might include:
- Their favourite snacks
- A small gift or two
- A birthday balloon
- A personalised birthday card
It’s a lovely twist on the usual birthday present and feels extra personal.
What Size Should a Care Package Be?
There’s no right or wrong size — it really depends on what you’d like to send. Traditionally, care packages were packed into shoeboxes — big enough to fit a few thoughtful goodies, small enough to post easily.
At Where Bluebirds Fly, our most popular gift box is slightly larger than a shoebox. But our Box Builder on the website lets you add as much or as little as you like — we’ll pick the perfect-sized box to fit your selection. Delivery costs stay the same no matter how big your gift is, and it’s free if you spend over £45.
We also offer letterbox-sized care packages, ideal if the recipient might not be home. Choose from our 3-item gift box (£12.95) or 5-item box (£19.95), both including free UK delivery!
Why We Started Sending Care Packages
We launched Where Bluebirds Fly in 2014, originally making handcrafted gifts. But early on, we noticed customers were struggling to find meaningful, personal gifts they could send by post — especially when they couldn’t be there in person.
That’s when we began creating custom care packages,. Our gifts were always beautifully presented in gift boxes, but we wanted to go further — and give people the option to build a box filled with items that felt just right for their loved one.
Our Box Builder makes it simple:
- Choose the treats and thoughtful items you’d like to include
- Add gift wrap if you wish
- Write your own message
- We’ll put it all together and post it straight to them
It’s gifting made easy — and meaningful.
Final Thoughts
At the heart of it, a care package is about connection. It’s a way to show someone they’re not alone, that they’re loved, and that someone has gone out of their way to think of them.
Whether it's exam stress, a birthday, or just because — a well-chosen care package can make all the difference.
We hope you have enjoyed learning a little bit more about our care packages!
If you have any questions at all or would like to learn more please feel free to get in touch with our the Where Bluebirds Fly team: hello@wherebluebirdsfly.co.uk