When it comes to sending care packages to service members, you’d think the top requests would be high-tech gadgets or state-of-the-art survival gear, right? Nope! After scrolling through a mountain of online comment threads and reading feedback from service members, the desired items list reveals what really matters is the small stuff. These simple comforts can make military life just a little more bearable.

But before you start packing boxes, there are some important things to know—especially if you’re sending them overseas. Dangerous goods regulations can be tricky, so we’re here to help you navigate what to send, what to avoid, and where your care packages should go.

Here’s what we found out after digging through thousands of comments:

Forget the candy and razors for a moment. What service members cherish more than anything? Letters. And not just any letters. We’re talking heartfelt, funny, quirky, “Have a good war” type of notes from kids and family members. One commenter summed it up perfectly: “All the [snacks] from care packages were gone in a few days, but I’ve kept every letter I got from a kid or a family member.” Another remembers a letter from a child that simply said, “Have a good war.” Turns out, that one still sticks with him today.

Personal connections in the form of letters seem to be the MVP of care packages for service members. They provide that emotional boost during long deployments, and many soldiers keep these notes for years, creating a tangible reminder of why they’re out there. So, if you’re putting together a care package, toss in a handwritten note. Trust us, it’ll go farther than a box of Twinkies.

Forget expensive soaps or luxurious bath bombs—baby wipes reign supreme in the field. One commenter nailed it with the essentials list: “Baby wipes, chapstick, and band-aids.” If you think this sounds like prepping for a family outing, you’re not entirely wrong—but these items are lifesavers in environments where showers may be elusive.

Similarly, nonhazardous pest control and hygiene products like quality razors and shaving lotion (no aerosols) are appreciated because they save both time and money. One service member even highlighted that packages containing just a few high-quality toiletry items were far more appreciated than those crammed with generic soaps and disposable razors.

Due to regulations, items like hand sanitizer, mold sprays, and pest control sprays are a no-go for overseas care packages for service members. One clever workaround, suggested by service members themselves, is to include things like fly swatters or fly paper to deal with the inevitable pests. And yes, this really is a priority for those stationed in places where local wildlife has no respect for personal boundaries!

Service members today are asking for food—lots of food. While energy drinks like Red Bull and Monster require special packing due to shipping restrictions, items like Liquid IV hydration packs are a modern favorite. These electrolyte-boosting packets are mailable and practical for hot environments.

Beef jerky, candy, gum—these are the golden trio. But before you start stuffing boxes with melt-in-your-mouth goodness, heed this veteran’s advice: “No soap if you send anything edible… [the snacks] tasted like Irish Spring soap.” Lesson learned: edible items and hygiene products do NOT mix. Keep them separate, folks!

Commenters also highlighted the need for quick meals that only require hot water, such as ramen, cups of mac and cheese, and cup o’ soup. These make life a lot easier for those working late shifts when the dining facility has already closed. Granola bars, trail mix, and snack packs that travel well are also great additions. One service member hilariously recalled receiving ramen that lasted a whole year! Talk about getting your money’s worth.

Just make sure to check local restrictions before packing items like beef jerky, meat products, or pork-based snacks, or even coffee as some overseas bases won’t accept them. But if you’re sending a package stateside, these snacks are still fair game!

While snacks are always a hit, sometimes service members just want to treat themselves to something they actually need. Several commenters mentioned the brilliance of including gift cards in care packages—whether it’s to Starbucks, GameStop, or even the on-base PX. One genius idea? $5 gift cards to AAFES or even Steam. And for those stationed near a food court, a Starbucks gift card can be a lifeline when they need a caffeine fix.

Gift cards can be problematic though. While they might be a thoughtful idea, it can be risky to send money or gift cards through the mail because of theft. If you’re sending a package overseas, it’s best to skip the gift cards and opt for more reliable items.

A special shoutout goes to the commenter who slyly suggested adding phone numbers from any single moms. We’re not sure if that’s officially sanctioned, but hey, creativity is key in these care packages!

While it might not top your list of must-have items, apparently, a small rubber ducky can brighten even the most grueling day. One service member said care packages filled with tiny, comedic rubber ducks became an instant favorite. Another shared that stuffed animals and thoughtful little gifts from home really help to combat the loneliness that comes with long deployments or barracks life.

Some soldiers take humor to another level. “Gummies MUST BE GUMMY [redacted anatomy part] NO EXCEPTIONS,” one commenter said. It seems that if you’re sending gummy treats, there’s a strong push for… novelty and humor. While we can’t vouch for their tactical usefulness, they certainly seem to boost morale! Care packages are as much about the laughs as they are about the essentials.

Batteries, specifically Alkaline AA and AAA, are lifesavers (no lithium batteries). With the never-ending list of gear that needs to be powered, having extra batteries on hand is like carrying gold. Entertainment, too, ranks highly—magazines, books, or even DVDs of “cool war movies” can provide a much-needed mental escape. And while not explicitly mentioned, anything that can help pass the time during long, boring stretches (pocket-sized games, puzzles, or even a deck of cards) is bound to be a winner.

When shipping used electronics overseas, particularly to military locations (APO/FPO/DPO addresses), used or damaged electronics containing lithium batteries (such as cell phones, laptops, or Bluetooth devices) are prohibited. Devices must be new and unopened with properly installed batteries. The customs details must identify the item as new and provide a detailed description of the device (example: New, unopened Samsung Galaxy Flip cell phone with battery installed).

Additionally, country-specific regulations can severely restrict the sending of “adult” entertainment, even if it’s something personal from a spouse. Some countries consider any explicit materials, whether physical or digital, illegal and could result in the confiscation of the package or even legal trouble for the recipient. Always check military postal guidelines before including these items to avoid issues.

One of the most touching trends we saw was the value placed on small holiday-themed items. A pair of warm socks, a stocking, or a few festive lights can go a long way in lifting the spirits of a soldier spending Christmas far from home. And as always, a handwritten holiday card saying “we’re thinking of you” can turn even the worst day around.

An important takeaway is understanding that where a service member is stationed affects what you can send. Stateside service members have access to many comforts of home and often appreciate different things compared to those deployed overseas. Items like beef jerky, tuna packets, or certain hygiene products are fine to send within the U.S. However, these items could get your package returned or confiscated if sent abroad to a base that prohibits them, even through the military mail system. Similarly, while a gift card might be perfect for a stateside soldier, it’s a gamble when shipping to an APO, FPO, or DPO address.

If you’re not sure what’s allowed, always check with military postal guidelines or resources like ShipToMilitary.com to make sure your care package reaches its destination without any hiccups.

While the internet is filled with threads of service members debating over whether Red Bull or Monster is the superior energy drink, the truth is, it’s not really about the stuff in the box. Care packages are an incredible way to show support, brighten someone’s day, and make a service member feel connected to home. From the thoughtful notes to rubber duckies (yes, really), every little gesture counts.

So, next time you’re assembling a care package, just remember: letters first, snacks second, and maybe toss in a rubber ducky or two for good measure.