Son in Iraq, need recipes for items that ship well.

[nursevb8]

How about some Chex Mix. You can make it regular or spice it up with a bit of red pepper.

[mrssgtsupergrunt]

You know, my hubby and the rest of the guys I send things to really have been wanting popcorn. It is cheap, if they do not have a microwave, like my husband, you can send already popped popcorns. You can even flavor it or buy it already already flavored. Also, another cheap thing is something called muddy buddies, there is a recipe on the back of the Chex cereal box, it basically is melted peanut butter and chocolate chips, vanilla and some butter. Melt it all togeather and then carefully mix in the cereal and then get a zip lock bag with powdered sugar in it and coat the cereal in it. The guys love it, I send pounds of it at a time, they all eat it up! Try it!

[ThatSouthernBelle]

I'd skip the pre-packaged stuff too because if I remember correctly, when my aunt and uncle were stationed in that area, I believe they had that stuff for sale anyway.

I liked the first suggestion about the stuff in the jars because that was the first thing that popped into my head too. You could always ask him if there's anything that they don't sell on base (when he gets there) that he wants and you could send him that along with the cookies/soup mixes/ dip mixes in a jar.

It gets hot there so don't send anything that could melt (like chocolate) unless you put it in some ziplock bags.

[Molly53]

mrssgtsupergrunt wrote:
You know, my hubby and the rest of the guys I send things to really have been wanting popcorn. It is cheap, if they do not have a microwave, like my husband, you can send already popped popcorns. You can even flavor it or buy it already already flavored. Also, another cheap thing is something called muddy buddies, there is a recipe on the back of the Chex cereal box, it basically is melted peanut butter and chocolate chips, vanilla and some butter. Melt it all togeather and then carefully mix in the cereal and then get a zip lock bag with powdered sugar in it and coat the cereal in it. The guys love it, I send pounds of it at a time, they all eat it up! Try it!

Welcome to 'zaar, MSSG! Nice to meet a new friend. I can see you'll be an asset to the site.

There are numerous Chex recipes in the db, including Muddy Buddies: http://www.recipezaar.com/recipes.php?q=chex&ls=h (click on the link)

There are LOTS of great ideas for military care packages at GREAT SUGGESTIONS

[onrey55]

Has anyone sent oatmeal cookies, bar form I imagine would travel better? I know my bf loves my oatmeal scotties and so do alot of his unit. I would love to send some to him but I am worried they would spoil or dry out. Any ideas. I use the Toll House recipe and add a couple of things. Any suggestions on making them care package friendly?

[Chef #539961]

I am so glad I found this site! I've 'adopted' a Marine in Iraq and have so enjoyed sending things for him and his 40 men. Initially, he sent out a mass email for socks, socks, and more socks....said their feet perspired the worst! I got great deals through eBay where the sellers shipped directly to Iraq. Saved me a ton in extra S/H. They also wanted cushioned insoles and foot powder. They LOVE Oreos andTootsie Pops.....not the cheapest candy, but I don't send them everytime. Mini Tootsie Rolls (maybe they won't melt as quickly), bubble gum, and hard candies. They also carry these to hand out to children. I just sent crayons ($.20 at Wally World right now!) and coloring books (animals and small children). Dollar Tree is a GREAT place to shop! Toy cars, packages of toy jewelry. Everything is $1. I do try to choose items that don't promote violence or beauty status. I've sent Frito dips in cans with pop tops, along with pretzel sticks instead of chips, thinking they might not crumble as easily. I beg, borrow, and (almost) steal paperback books and also send my National Geographics. My beauty shop saves the men's magazines for me. I just ordered one of those Mister Mates along with a little fan that attaches: MistyMate.com. I have sent small box fans ($8 at Dollar General) with extension cords. I can't imagine how they stand that heat. These guys have access to a fridge, so they inhale freezer pops at night! I cleaned out extra plastic containers with snap on lids and often pack small things in them. Then my Marine can use the container to store other things in........and maybe protect them from creepy crawlies! I have found a site that makes those 'Cool Scarves'. You soak them in water and wear them around your neck.

One thing: check with your guys and gals about....constipation. A young man returned from Iraq and had to have surgery for hemorroids. He now swears by Metamucil (powder not pills). This might be a real problem for some folks depending on what their food and diets are like.

So, on that happy note , I'm going to check out some of your recipes! I'll check back often.

Mima in MO

[jneen]

I had a soldier before and sent a care package. I'd like to send one to another soldier. I don't remember how I got him. Can you point me in the right direction? Thanks.

[Molly53]

jneen wrote:
I had a soldier before and sent a care package. I'd like to send one to another soldier. I don't remember how I got him. Can you point me in the right direction? Thanks.

Click on Foster a Soldier or Adopt a Soldier to get a person of your own.

[Chef #539961]

Here is another site:
http://www.soldiersangels.org/

[Saralaya]

Here's another great one: www.adoptaplatoon.org I've adopted soldiers through them for quite awhile- they also have a great forum with recipes that stand up to shipping and other ideas. Also, you can go to - www.americasupportsyou.mil for other links to support organizations and support ideas. It's such an amazingly rewarding thing to do... these guys and gals deserve ALL of our love and support- no matter how you feel about why they're there!

[Tia Mouse]

I used to work for UPS, and those"The UPS Store" locations are franchised, so each individual owner makes the decision for his/her business. If you get a "No" don't give up! Try another location, if possible, or ask about a special rate they would be willing to give for a monthly shipment (or whatever frequency you plan).
Please tell your son that Gato (DH) and I are grateful for his service and for the service of all around him.
If you know of a general shipping option where some of us can send care packages like the one you describe, please post.
Thanks!

[Chef #799930]

I send the troops biscotti cookies all the time and they just love them--they last very well and do the heat well--good luck--biscotti arew so easy to make you will be jhookede Sincerely Elainek

[Chef #1240246]

You say you're from Southwestern Ontario. I am too. I was wondering if you sent your package to Iraq? My soldier is a Canadian citizen fighting in the American Army and is stationed in Iraq, but thus far I'm only aware of the (cheap) shipping rates to send something to Afghanistan. I will call the post tomorrow, I don't expect you to reply, but if you do, could you please let me know?

[Chef #1447703]

My huband is in Iraq and I can tell you it takes approx 2 weeks for him to get my packages. No matter the size. Even the cards. But you must send it priority. It gets it from the pot office to the military mail quickly but after that it's all up to the military. It took a month when I didn't send it priority. Tip don't send chips. I sent fritos and the bag burst the chips weren't crushed but there were ants every where lol. If you try to send chips I suggest putting them baggies. Any way GOD BLESS your son and all those there. I am sending cookies to my husband to share with the 40 special OPs team members he works with.

[Krislady]

I haven't read through all seven pages (!) of this thread, but I came across some good suggestions for packing baked goods for shipping:


Good Things Catered

Maybe that will be of some help.