Just what the doctor ordered. These care packages for sick and recovering friends will bring a dose of happiness to their healing.
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When we’re sick, fighting a difficult disease or recovering from an illness or loss, care packages are more than just a gift. They can offer food when someone isn’t feeling well enough to cook, treats to lift their mood and tea to sip on to help with a sore throat. But most importantly, care packages are a gesture of your care and a reminder that you’re thinking of the recipient during a difficult time.
We found care packages that range from the traditional, such as those with soup and tea, to those tailored to particular tastes and desires. Some offer more immediate support, while others can also be enjoyed after they’ve recovered.
Below are some of the best get-well gifts and care packages you can order online.
For the broth-obsessed
Hot Pot Starter Set
Nothing says get well soon quite like a warm, soothing bowl of soup. Give them everything they need for hot pot at home with this set from Fly By Jing, complete with the pot and flavorful soup base.
“My husband and I are big foodies, and the Fly by Jing hot pot set has become a cold-weather staple in our home. Just pop in your favorite broth, veggies (I love adding bok choy and daikon radish) and protein for a fast meal,” says Shopping Editor Emily Way. “I love that the set contains everything you need to get started, minus the fresh ingredients. And don’t forget to add a spoonful of the brand’s famous chili crisp for a finishing touch!”
For the forager at heart
Mushroom Coffee Starter Set
If the person recovering is big on functional mushrooms, collagen, probiotics, vitamins and all things wellness, this mushroom coffee starter set from Atlas makes the perfect get-well gift. Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski says the mushroom coffee is ultra-fine and dissolves completely when mixed with a handheld frother, leaving no clumps or gritty texture. She also suggests adding a splash of milk and a bit of flavoring to make it taste more like a traditional coffee drink.
For the lover of all things floral
Farmgirl Flower Delivery
Brighten their day with a stunning farm-fresh bouquet from Farmgirl Flowers. This oversized arrangement features roughly forty blooms wrapped in lush, protective foliage. Roses, ranunculus, lisianthus and more create a dreamy palette of pinks, lavenders and peaches with crisp pops of white. It’s a showstopping gift that instantly lifts the mood.
“There were a ton of stems included in my order,” says Content Director Nicole Doster. “FarmGirl actually includes extra stems in case some wilt during shipment. Even with the wilted stems that I had to discard, I still had an overwhelming amount of flowers—so much so that I was able to fill two vases.”
For the One Who Needs TLC
Get Well Soon Package
Whether fighting off the flu or recovering from surgery and a charcuterie gift is just too heavy, this gift package features the quintessential treats that help make healing a little easier.
“Complete with all things warm—chicken noodle soup, grandma’s old-fashioned rolls and chocolate chip cookies—it lights up their soul,” says tester Madi Koetting. “The box arrives with a shiny ladle and your personal message.” It truly makes the perfect cozy food gift basket.
For the Tea Drinker
Tea Gift Package
Tea is a classic gift when someone’s feeling in need of some extra care. And this tea collection goes far beyond what they’ll find at the store. All of the blends are single origin from farms around the world, yielding brilliantly strong flavors that will make them realize, that’s how tea is supposed to taste. The gift-of-the-month club also comes with steeping recommendations and detailed descriptions about the tea and where it’s from.
Tester David-Christopher Galhea—a devoted tea enthusiast with deep knowledge of tea history, processing, and tasting notes—was pleasantly surprised by this subscription box. He says it’s a great fit for both new tea drinkers and those with some experience under their belts.
Note that this comes as a 3-month, 6-month or 12-month gift. Each month delivers different teas.
For the One Who Loves a Freshly Baked Cookie
The Core Collection Box
Sometimes the best medicine is a warm, gooey cookie. Fifteen seconds in the microwave and these cookies from Last Crumb taste like you just pulled them out of the oven, not like they were conveniently shipped to your doorstep.
The Core Collection has a dozen delicious flavors—each with fun names like “Netflix and Crunch” and “Donkey Kong.” Plus, sealed cookies stay fresh on the counter for two weeks or in the freezer for two months, so your giftees can enjoy them for as long as they’re under the weather.
For the Chocoholic
Legacy Gift Box
Chocolate makes everything better—especially if you’re not feeling well. The Legacy Gift Box from Andre’s Chocolates has chocolate orange peels, chocolate almonds, caramels and more, making it one of our all-time favorite chocolate gift baskets. Plus, its stunning red-and-white packaging makes it perfect for gifting to a freind in need of a dose of chocolate cheer.
For the friend who needs rest
Lola Blanket
While not your traditional care package, this blanket from Lola Blankets is one of the softest throw blankets we’ve ever tested—truly like curling up with the fluffiest bunny. It’s an ideal gift for anyone who could use a little extra warmth and comfort while they’re curled up and resting at home.
For the one who could use a pick-me-up
Build a BoxFox
Choose the packaging and pick the contents—it’s that simple. From candles and tea to gourmet snacks, puzzles and more, BoxFox has everything you need to build a custom care package. Each box arrives with a personalized handwritten card, and there’s never a packing slip or pricing included. Let BoxFox handle the wrapping so you can send a thoughtful, curated gift to a friend in need without any fuss.
For the meat eater
Butcher's Choice Box
While they’re recovering, give them the gift of high-quality meat without a trip to the grocery store. This gift box features the founder’s top picks, including steaks, pork chops and bacon.
Former chef and James Beard Award nominee Allison Robicelli tested this meat box and was absolutely blown away. “Each cut was deeply flavorful and cooked up beautifully. The steak browned nicely using a reverse-sear method, and the bacon was meaty—well worth the calories,” she says.
This care package for a sick friend can be sent one-time or as an ongoing monthly subscription; the latter includes an additional assortment that changes with each delivery. The pasture-raised meat in this meat delivery service comes from small farms throughout the country.
For the Mom-to-be
Custom Maternity Gift Box
New motherhood is beautiful, but it can also be challenging. This custom maternity care package offers thoughtful, comforting gifts from mom-loved brands like Earth Mama, Cuddle + Kind, Kitsch, and Bobbie. Choose from a wide range of premium maternity and postpartum items—from robes, pregnancy books, sweet treats, and tea to practical essentials like compression socks and perineal spray. There are even goodies for baby, including a personalized top-knot hat from Copper Pearl.
As a relatively new mom, I’m genuinely impressed by the selection at Nurtured 9. I would have loved receiving a custom box like this—and I’ll definitely be keeping it in mind for future gifting.
For the friend who needs a little comfort in a cup
Soup Care Package
The ultimate comfort food, delivered straight to their door—no frills. This Hug in a Mug gift box is packed with slow-simmered soup—choose from classic chicken noodle, creamy tomato, broccoli cheddar or vegetarian lentil—plus fresh rolls, brownies and a special mug. Complete with a “Rest, Heal & Feel Better Soon!” card, it’s the perfect package for anyone who needs a little extra comfort and warm vibes.
For the First-Time Parents
New Parent Package
Baby’s home—and this care package provides support and treats for the whole family. Soup and rolls mean mom and dad don’t have to worry about cooking some nights, and a half dozen cookies offer a sweet pick-me-up. There’s plenty of baby gifts for the new kiddo, too, including bandana bibs, swaddle wraps and a cute fox plush toy. It comes with a note card, so you can write them a personal message congratulating them!
For the no-nonsense friend
Comfort Cookies and Blanket Gift Set
Get straight to the point with this care package that has all the essentials for a feel-good boost: cookies, hot tea and a cozy blanket.
The signature treats from beloved Levain Bakery keep things simple too, featuring classic flavors like chocolate chip walnut, dark chocolate chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin and dark chocolate peanut butter chip. Perfect for someone having a tough week or feeling under the weather, this bundle delivers comfort and emotional support in one thoughtful gift.
For the one who should stay off their feet
Three Days of Entrées
If your friend would rather rest than cook while recovering, Elephants Delicatessen has them covered with made-from-scratch comfort food that nourishes body and soul.
This set features three classic dishes: mac & cheese, beef pot pie and Swedish meatballs. Each dish ships frozen in a 32-ounce trays, and preparation couldn’t be easier. Just heat and enjoy! It’s a thoughtful, time-saving gift for anyone too tired or unwell to cook.
For the one who never skips a crossword
Thinking of You Basket
Give the gift of lighthearted distraction to friends, family or colleagues who need a break or uplifting get-well wishes.
This thoughtful gift box, features a coloring book, mini colored pencils, snacks, tea, playing cards, crossword puzzles and more. It’s the perfect recipe for a little mental relaxation.
For the one who swoons at scones
Feel Better Gift Basket
Send a little comfort and encouragement with this gift basket full of baked delights. Inside the keepsake rope basket, they’ll find two fruit-filled loaf cakes, three varieties of scones, strawberry preserves, two packs of English muffins, apple butter, soothing chamomile tea and cookies—all wrapped with a “Feel Better Soon” box. It’s the perfect remedy for lifting spirits.
For the one who believes variety is the spice of life
Get Well Snack Basket
This all-in-one basket is pure feel-good magic. Packed with tea, chocolates, sweets and more, there’s a little bite of happiness in every corner of the box. Plus, Sudoku and word search puzzles add a touch of fun—great for relaxing at home or passing the time in a waiting room. Even better? It all comes packaged in a bright, bubbly “Get Well Soon” box.
For the One Fighting Off a Cold
Doctor's House Call Kit
Just what the doctor ordered! This care package will get them on the mend in no time, with classics like lemon & ginger tea and chicken noodle soup, along with butterscotch candy buttons and kettle corn for a little extra sweetness. Of course, recovering from a cold isn’t just a matter of tea and soup. This gift basket also includes games to keep them occupied, like a word search and a deck of cards.
For the wellness-focused friend
Healthy Snack Gift Basket
That lovely middle ground of tasty and healthy snacks, this gift basket sets them up with nibbles that are on the better-for-you side to aid with recovery.
With a mix of salty and sweet, it’s a great food gift for someone who’s getting better but could use some of their favorite snacks as they get back on their feet. This care package for a sick friend also comes with flavored water to boost their hydration.
For the One Who Loves Gourmet Snacks
Cheese Gift Box
It’s hard not to feel better when gourmet cheese shows up at your door, and this cheese basket features an expert-curated collection features five cheeses from around the world—think nutty Swiss cheese, a savory French sheep’s milk variety and a Spanish goat wedge in red wine. It’s a gift that’ll delight anyone who loves exploring the world through food. You can even add extras like crackers, prosciutto and cheesepaper bags for storage if you like.
Want to send them a new selection each month? Try a cheese-of-the-month club instead!
For the One Who Needs a Hug
Premium Delights Gift Box
If you can’t be there with them in person, this premium sweets gift box is like a hug for a sick friend. The beautiful green box contains gourmet popcorn, chocolates and cookies to raise their spirits as they recover. The chocolate gift basket includes Moose Munch Popcorn, raspberry galettes, chocolate-covered cherries, chocolate mini mints and a variety of chocolate truffles.
For the One Who Eats an Apple a Day
Fruit Gift Basket
An apple a day keeps the doctor away, but what about pineapple or kumquats? This gift basket filled with exotic fruits sends them eight pounds of bright, delightful fruits that they may not usually encounter. Depending on the season and availability, they’ll receive produce like coconuts, starfruit, tamarillos, passion fruit and much, much more in this fruit box.
For the One Whose Love Language Is Sugar
Sweets Assortment
If they have a sweet tooth, nothing boosts moods better than a gift box full of a wide range of baked treats (which Martha Stewart has ordered, so you know they’re good). They’ll receive 24 cookies in a variety of flavors, from caramel to chocolate to coconut, brownie edges and truffles. That adds up to more than 40 different treats in this gift basket, and they can be frozen for up to three months for ongoing decadence.
For the Friend who is Ready to Unwind
Spa Set
This box of spa goodies helps them find serenity as they recover. It includes a body wash, a candle, bath soap and an oversized soap brick, all made from precious ingredients. Beautifully packaged in a luxurious green gift box, the soothing scents foster relaxation. It reminds them that you’re thinking of them while encouraging them to integrate some well-deserved self-care into their days.
For the Breadhead
English Muffin Gift Box
Is there anything more comforting than English muffins slathered with jam? This gift box evokes comfort with five different types of English muffins, with flavors like San Francisco-style sourdough and cinnamon raisin.
The muffins are paired with two types of preserve—strawberry and blueberry—along with a breadbox tin for easy storing. It’ll make for easy, delicious food gift when they’re not feeling that hungry or don’t have the energy to cook.
For the One Who Knows the Proof Is in the Pudding
Best of Magnolia Bakery Sampler Pack
If they know that sweets are the antidote to sickness, this Magnolia Bakery sampler pack brings an iconic NYC treat to their house. It features the chain’s famous banana pudding, as well as four blondies and four brownies. It’s the kind of food delivery gift that sparks joy, especially if they’re a long-time fan of the brand or if a little sweetness always makes them smile.
For the One Who Loves to Season
Indoor Herb Garden
Even if they aren’t feeling their best, this indoor organic herb kit lets them exercise their green thumb without too much effort. It includes everything they need to get started, including non-GMO heirloom seeds for sweet basil, thyme, and Italian parsley, among other herbs. The herbs will fill their kitchen with color and delicious scents, and the herbs’ health benefits could help boost their immunity in the future.
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For the One Who's Tired of Netflix
Blind Date With a Book
Books are the perfect companion when under the weather, and this gift box takes a creative spin on a typical present by pairing a surprise book with teas, cozy socks and snacks customized to the text. You can select the book’s genre, so you know they’ll get something they’ll enjoy, and it will awaken their imagination while they sip a warm cup of tea.
For the Gourmand
Flavored Olive Oil Set
This collection of four extra virgin olive oils is made in the Aegean, bringing the vibrancy and robust flavors of the Mediterranean to their kitchen. Even if they’re not feeling up for cooking right now, this gourmet olive oil collection adds a little spark to simple meals (I love the garlic or chili over avocado toast) as they get better. When they’re feeling 100%, the oils are on hand to elevate everything from pastas to roasts to salads.
FAQ
How to make a care package for a sick friend?
For quick illnesses, you can get them comforting items like a fleece blanket or their favorite candy. If you have someone in your life who is dealing with a more serious condition, you can give them a card with kind and positive words, a heating pad (or cooling bag) and things to occupy them while they’re in treatment. Most of all, it’s important to let them know that they’re supported and you’re there for them.
What are some care package gift ideas for a significant other?
It depends on what your significant other likes, but anything cozy is a good idea. Some of our most comforting suggestions include soup, new pajamas, a puzzle, a book, supplements and fuzzy socks. You can also give them your login to their favorite streaming service, like Netflix or Hulu!
How to help a friend who is ill?
It’s always better to say something than stay quiet. Show them that you’re there for them and respect their boundaries. Call them to check in, ask if they’re okay or if they need anything and accompany them to appointments if they need it.
What is the best gift for a bed-ridden friend?
Pre-cooked meals and entertainment-based gifts (video games, books and puzzles) are always good options. You can also offer to spend time with them or help with housekeeping, errands or care for their pets or children.
Why You Should Trust Us
Many of gift baskets here share a simple foundation: food. And at Taste of Home, we know food can bring comfort in times of need. Several of the care packages above were tested and vetted by our shopping editors, who sample consumables for a living. Testing efforts for this piece were made by Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski, Shopping Editor Emily Way and Shopping Editor Mary Henn.
