What to Put in a Care Package: 20 Thoughtful Ideas for Any Occasion
A small box of thoughtful things can mean so much.
Whether they’re having a tough week, deep in revision, or just need a little lift, a care package is a gentle way to show you care — no matter the distance.
But what do you actually put in a care package? The best ones feel personal, comforting and useful too. Here are 20 thoughtful ideas to help you put together the perfect parcel for any occasion.
1. A Thoughtful Note
A printed note with kind words or a personal message can mean a lot. It’s a gentle reminder they’re cared for, even from afar.
2. Sweet Treats
Chocolate, biscuits or their favourite sweets — something comforting they wouldn’t buy for themselves.
3. A Hot Drink
A couple of nice tea bags, a hot chocolate or their favourite coffee. A gentle nudge to take a break.
4. A Tealight Holder or Incense
A simple tealight holder with a few tealights, or a pack of calming incense sticks. Perfect for adding a warm, gentle atmosphere to any room.
5. Cosy Socks
Warm, fluffy socks are always a winner — especially if they’re unwell or studying late into the night.
6. A Face Mask or Bath Bomb
A little self-care helps them unwind. Pop in a sheet mask, bath bomb or bath salts.
7. A Pocket Hug
A tiny keepsake heart or token they can keep in a pocket or bag. Small but comforting.
8. A Book or Notebook
A light read, an inspiring book or a pretty notebook for jotting down thoughts.
9. A Puzzle or Activity
Crosswords, sudoku or a small colouring book. Something to keep busy minds calm.
10. Snacks
A few healthy nibbles to fuel them through long days.
11. A Photo Card
A printed photo card with a favourite picture or memory is a personal touch that can brighten their day.
12. Lip Balm or Hand Cream
A small practical treat that feels like a bit of luxury, especially in colder months.
13. Aromatherapy Roll-On
A calming aromatherapy roll-on to help ease tension or promote restful sleep.
14. A Simple Journal
A “one line a day” style journal to encourage little moments of reflection and positivity.
15. A Small Keepsake
A charm, keyring or bracelet — a little reminder they’re not alone.
16. A Playlist or QR Code
Add a note with a link to a playlist of songs you know they’ll love.
17. Something Just for Them
An in-joke or something only they’d understand — it’s the personal touches that mean the most.
18. A Cosy Blanket
A cosy blanket to wrap up in — perfect for chilly days or when they just need a bit of extra comfort.
19. A Little Something for the Family
If you know they have children or others at home, include a small puzzle, fidget toy, or colouring activity to spread a bit of joy to everyone.
20. A Warming Eye Mask
Choose from single-use warming eye masks designed for relaxation, or reusable heated wheat bags that provide gentle warmth to soothe tired eyes and help them unwind.
Putting It All Together
Once you’ve picked your bits and pieces, think about how it all feels when opened. Wrap things in tissue, add a sprinkle of confetti or dried petals, and seal it all with a thoughtful note that says: I’m thinking of you.
If you’d rather skip the packing yourself, that’s where we come in. At Where Bluebirds Fly, we create thoughtful, letterbox-friendly care packages to help you send a little kindness through the post.
Ready to send one?
Browse our care packages — or drop us a message if you’d like help choosing.
A small box of thoughtful things really can mean so much. 💙✨
