Care Package Ideas for a Loved One

Care packages are not a new idea in the least, but with many people still spending months shielding, this clever idea is seeing something of a resurgence. There are many ways to show someone you care, but it takes a little creativity to show someone a little love while maintaining safe social distance. Here are a few ideas to get you started. 

Make it personal 

Everyone loves receiving a little gift in the mail, but what makes it really special is knowing that a gift has been chosen with care and thoughtfulness. If your loved one is elderly, and you know they adore doing jigsaw puzzles and their two gorgeous cats, for example, why not send them a customized jigsaw puzzle made of pictures of their beloved fur babies? They’ll have a unique gift that will make them smile. 

You can also personalize your care package simply by coordinating everything in your loved one’s favourite colour, flower, food, or hobby. Put together a whimsical cupcake kit for a baking enthusiast or a collection of calligraphy inks and a beautiful notebook to scribble in – you could also write your own special note in the front page. 

Make a pampering care package 

Let’s be honest – lockdown has been challenging for most of us, and for those still shielding, maintaining good spirits can be a struggle. In trying times, there’s something magical about taking a moment to enjoy a little luxury and spoil yourself. Your care package could include goodies for a home “spa day” such as a fragranced candle, pretty soaps, oils and lotions, a face mask, a gorgeous bath robe, slippers, bath treats or even a sample size of a new perfume. Not only will the recipient feel cared for to receive such a package, they’ll get the opportunity to practice some vital self-care, too. 

Sweets treats are always welcome 

Does your loved one have a sweet tooth? There’s a reason why chocolate and candy make a frequent appearance in care packages – everyone loves them! Nothing makes your day quite like receiving a sweet nothing in the post, and for those who are self-isolating at home, the sweet sentiments that come along with such a gift are (almost) as lovely. 

Why not include your recipient’s favourite treat but with a twist; personalized cakes are great, or you could try a box of colourful macaroons, but with your favourite photos printed on them!  

If in doubt, homemade cookies are always a winner; just wrap them in brown paper and tie with a beautiful ribbon to make them extra special.  

A little bit of everything 

Get creative – your imagination is the limit when it comes to what to include in your care package. You could wrap up a book from a favourite author, some dahlia bulbs for spring, a packet of luxury fudge, and a small gift voucher for a store you know they love. Or why not include a few knick-knacks for their hobby, novelty spices, a DVD or game, puzzle books, incense or candles, pretty stationery, a plush toy, jewellery, pet treats or a fuzzy hot water bottle?  

The homemade touch always makes it – though there are plenty of companies out there that will send a care package for you, none can compete with a handwritten letter, drawings from grandkids, photos, crafts or a jar of homemade jam with a handwritten label.  

Spare a thought for the package itself 

Finally, a great care package is not just about what’s inside – the wrapping itself is also important. Depending on how you send the parcel, you can consider including packaging that is itself a gift. For example, wrap beauty products in a lovely silk scarf, or pack kitchen treats in a little hamper or basket that can be reused. Pretty tins, boxes or bags can be lovely gifts, too.  

Take care to package more delicate items if you’re sending them through ordinary post and pay a little extra for tracking and insurance. Otherwise, you could get some gifts – like fresh flowers – hand delivered to their door. If you live nearby, you can drop off the parcel yourself, and in this case, you have more freedom to put together a decorative, elaborate package.  

Care packages are a simple but powerful way to communicate to someone that they’re on your mind, and you care enough to make their day a little brighter. For those who are isolating at home, whether due to age, illness, disability or any another reason, a gift like this can be a truly wonderful thing.  

Article by Ella Hendrix

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• Homepage, Hay Hampers, hampers.co.uk