How to make a care package with food

The most common type of care package consists of food. While a lot of colleges offer meal tickets for cafeteria food, that’s not always sufficient. Students keep odd hours and need snacks on hand at all times. Fast food, in addition to being unhealthy, can also be costly – especially for college students. That’s where food related care packages come into play.

When sending food care packages, make sure that everything you send is non-perishable. Also take into account how much space your child has to store the items and whether or not your child has a stove, oven or microwave at their disposal.

Best foods for a college care package

Here is a list to get you started:

• Beef jerky
• Bottled water
• Candy bars
• Gum
• Canned soups
• Cereal and oatmeal
• Granola bars
• Chips
• Brownie mix
• Rice crispie treats
• Homemade cookies
• Ramen noodles
• Popcorn
• Pretzels or party mix
• Protein bars
• Tea or lemonade mix

For an extra treat, consider gift cards to your child's favorite restaurants or fast food places!

What types of health & safety items are best to include in a college care package?

When your child is off at college, fighting off germs will remain a constant struggle. Dorms are notoriously dangerous breeding grounds for all types of nasty bacteria, molds and viruses. Keeping everything as clean and sterile as possible is the best way to avoid getting sick.

Best health & hygeine items for a college care package

Here are some items that could be included in your care package:

• Antibacterial spray
• Cleaning products
• Hygiene products
• New bedding items
• New towels and wash cloths
• New undergarments
• Shampoo
• Colorful or whimsical loofa
• Shower slippers
• Soap
• Deodorant
• Contact solution
• Fun lotions
• Shower shoes
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Mini first aid kit with bandages, anti-biotic ointment, etc.
• Air freshener

What types of school supply items are best to include in a care package?

Items that can be included in this care package include:

• Pens
• Pencils
• Highlighters
• Notebook paper
• Brightly-colored folders
• Organizational binders
• Construction paper
• Scotch tape
• Printer ink and paper
• Bookmarks
• Computer accessories
• Stamps
• Envelopes
• Fun-shaped paper clips
• Post-its
• Gift card to their campus' college supply store

Don't forget fun items such as: 

• music CDs
• Colorful sticky labels
• sketch books
• video games
• web cam
• iTunes gift card

Other college care package ideas:

A good idea is to send the care package in a plastic container. The plastic container can be re-used by your child while at college to separate clothes, school books or any other number of things. Make sure that all fragile items are packed securely and that you clearly label the container.

No matter which kind of care package you are sending, make sure to add a personal touch. Include a hand written note, pictures of the family, homemade cookies and anything else that will make your child feel loved and remain motivated to do well at college.

More information on back-to-school and going to college