Send some smiles via snail mail with these fun care package ideas
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Looking for the perfect “thank you” gift or just a way to brighten someone’s day? A care package says it all—bonus points if it’s filled with snackable goodies. The best care packages bring a little dose of cheer when things get tough and show your loved one that you’re thinking of them.
We rounded up the best options for everyone on your list, including build-your-own boxes, monthly subscriptions and curated gift sets. Ideas for specific occasions—like gifts for new moms, soup gift baskets for an under-the-weather friend and ideas for crafters—totally bucks the myth that ready-made care packages aren’t personal.
Treat your loved one to something special with a pick from our editors’ favorite care packages.
For the College Student
College Care Package
Whether they’re spending the season far from home or heading back to campus in January, make sure they’re stocked up with a care package full of soup, cookies, a note of encouragement and more little comforts that will keep them warm and focused.
“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.”
And it’s not just the perfect cold-weather care package for college students, Spoonful of Comfort also offers cozy food care packages for housewarmings, get-well wishes and more.
For the ice cream lover
Holiday Ice Cream Box
Sending a care package to someone who screams for ice cream? Jeni’s is a favorite with its high-quality ingredients and fun flavors, like those in this holiday box. The collection includes classic holiday flavor profiles like white chocolate peppermint and boozy eggnog.
Our editors are huge fans of the new holiday flavors, especially the pistachio macaron. Send the Grand Holiday Collection to the frozen-treat fanatic in your life and give the gift of gourmet ice cream this season.
for the holiday cookie fanatic
The Naughty List Cookie Box
Sometimes the best way to show you care is through a warm, gooey cookie. Fifteen seconds in the microwave and these cookies from Last Crumb taste like you just baked them in the oven, not like they arrived at doorstep.
The Naughty List has a half dozen festive flavors—each with creative names like “Lump of Coal” and “Ooh, Baby.” Plus, sealed cookies stay fresh on the counter for two weeks or in the freezer for two months, so your giftees can enjoy them throughout the entire holiday season.
for the one who always stops to smell the roses
Farmgirl Flower Delivery
Brighten their dark winter days with a stunning farm-fresh bouquet from Farmgirl Flowers. This just-right-sized bouquet features roughly two dozen blooms wrapped in lush, protective foliage. Roses, roselilies, delphinium, limonium and more create a dreamy palette of whites and creams with specks of beiges and sands mixed. It’s a breath-taking gift that instantly lifts a cold-weather 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.”
for the one who needs a little pampering
Best Wishes Shower Set
Wish them a berry Merry Christmas with this festive shower trio featuring a citrusy Cranberry Soap, Golden Pear Shower Gel and a rich body lotion that leaves skin silky smooth. All of it comes wrapped in cheerful red and green packaging. We love Lush for their vegan, cruelty-free, handmade products—and this set is no exception.
for the hot pot enthusiast
Hot Pot Starter Set
If your friend considers hot pot a lifestyle, they’ll be sure to appreciate this package that provides everything they need for hot pot at home. The set from Fly By Jing comes with flavorful soup base and, of course, the pot for cooking.
“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.”
For the Meat Eater
Steak It Easy Box
You might know ButcherBox for its meat subscription service, but the brand also offers gift sets and one-off boxes like this Steak It Easy Box.
Inside, they’ll find sirloin tips, filet mignons, ribeyes, flat iron steaks and New York strips. Every cut is easy to cook and sourced from high-quality, humanely raised meat with no antibiotics or added hormones. For the steak lover who wants big flavor without the fuss, this gift box truly brings the sizzle.
MARY HENN FOR TASTE OF HOME
for the home cook with style
The Holiday Hosting Gift Set
This holiday hosting set from Brightland is all decked out in MacKenzie-Childs plaid and complete with a dipping dish in the iconic Courtly Check print. The dipping dish is not only adorable, it’s wonderfully versatile. Use it in the kitchen, keep it on your desk or repurpose it as a little jewelry catch-all.
For the home cook with good taste (in every sense), this set includes two Brightland best-sellers—Alive Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Rosette Garlic Olive Oil—along with a beautiful gold spout for each bottle.
For the Tea Drinker
Tea Gift Package
Tea is a timeless way to show someone you care, but this collection is in a league of its own. Each blend is single-origin and sourced from farms around the world, delivering bold, vibrant flavors that just might make them say, Oh, that’s what tea is supposed to taste like.
Tester David-Christopher Galhea—an expert tea enthusiast—was pleasantly surprised by this box. He says it’s ideal for both new and experienced tea drinkers.
Note that this comes as a 3-, 6-or 12-month gift. Each month delivers different teas.
For the Swiss confection enthusiast
Legacy Gift Box
Chocolate makes everything better because it’s the ultimate comfort treat. This Legacy Gift Box from André’s Chocolates delivers comfort in the form of chocolate orange peels, chocolate almonds, caramels and more. It’s easily one of our favorite chocolate gift baskets. And with its striking red and white packaging, it’s the perfect pick-me-up for a friend who could use a chocolatey good vibes.
For the friend who needs rest
Blanket Starter Bundle
It’s not your typical care package, but this blanket bundle from Lola Blankets is pure cozy comfort in a box. The throw blanket is one of the softest blankets we’ve ever tested, and the matching pillow is just as buttery. It’s the perfect package for anyone who could use a giant warm hug.
For the office buddy
Winter Wonderland Box
This beautifully wrapped gift box is filled with a few quality wintertime essentials, including luxe fuzzy socks, Touchland hand sanitizer, top tier tasty treats, a gold pen and a journal. The box arrives with a personalized handwritten card, and there’s never a packing slip or pricing included.
BoxFox also has build-your-own boxes where you pick the contents. From candles and tea to gourmet snacks and puzzles, there’s everything you need to build a custom care package.
For the Mom-to-be
Custom Maternity Gift Box
New motherhood is full of incredible moments—along with a few tough ones. Show the expecting mother you care by sending a care package with premium maternity and postpartum items. This custom maternity gift box offers thoughtful, comforting gifts from mom-loved brands like Earth Mama, Cuddle + Kind, Kitsch and Boobie.
Nurtured 9 has everything from pregnancy books, maternity robes and sweet treats to practical essentials like compression socks and perineal spray. As a relatively new mom, I’m genuinely impressed by the selection. A custom box like this would have been such a treat to get, and it’s definitely going on my list for future gifting.
For the First-Time Parents
New Parent Package
Once baby and family are home, this care package offers goodies for the whole family. Soup and rolls mean one less meal for the new parents to worry about, and a half dozen cookies offer sweet comfort. There’s a few baby gifts, too, including bibs, swaddles and an adorable fox plushie.
for the one who pairs every cup with a sweet bite
Coffee & Cookies Gift Box
Cookies and coffee make the perfect gift for anyone on your list! This Maman cookie box includes either eight of their classic nutty chocolate chip cookies (celebrated on Oprah’s Favorite Things) or eight assorted seasonal cookies, paired with an 8-ounce bag of whole bean Methodical Coffee, roasted right in Brooklyn.
Since 2014, Maman has grown from a trendy SoHo bakery into a beloved café chain across the Northeast. Now their signature cookies and gift boxes ship nationwide, making it easy to send a little sweetness to anyone, just about anywhere.
for the friend who doesn't want to cook
Three Days of Entrées
If your friend would rather rest or enjoy a little self-care than spend time in the kitchen, Elephants Delicatessen has them covered with three days worth of made-from-scratch dishes.
This set includes three classic favorites: mac & cheese, beef pot pie and Swedish meatballs. Each dish comes frozen in a 32-ounce tray, and all they’ll have to do is heat it up! It’s a thoughtful, time-saving gift for anyone who could use a break from cooking.
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For the ultimate seafood aficionado
The Ultimate Tinned Fish Gift Pack
Want a care package that’s a bit out of the ordinary? This tinned fish box is a fun, adventurous pick for seafood enthusiasts ready to try something different. Fishwife’s Ultimate Tinned Fish Gift Pack includes 10 curated premium tins, all packaged in colorful, artful boxes housed in a blue and gold ready-to-gift box.
For the wine sommelier
12 Nights of Wine
If their love language is wine, Vinebox’s 12 Nights of Wine will have them saying cheers all season long. This year’s sommelier-curated collection pours in flavors from Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Washington and elsewhere.
Not sure what they love? The Bright Collection is a fun mix of distinctive reds, whites and rosés—perfect for sipping, sharing and discovering new favorites.
for the artist at heart
Free People Stationary Kit
Skip the snacks and give your artsy friend a gift they can really make their own. This Free People block printing kit comes with hand-carved wooden blocks, handmade paper and five non-toxic inks—plus an easy guide to get them started. It’s the perfect way to slow down, get creative and craft something beautifully personal.
For the one who can't decide between flowers and sweets
The Sweet Classic
Can’t decide between flowers or sweet treats? This UrbanStems box gives you both. It pairs the signature peach and pink Margot Bouquet with Levain Bakery’s 8-pack of classic cookies.
We’ve tried them both—our editors can’t get enough of Levain’s thick, gooey cookies, and UrbanStems crafts stunning arrangements with partially and fully bloomed stems, making it one of the best flower delivery services around.
For the Budding Baker
Signature Bakery Assortment
Emily sampled Harry & David’s Signature Bakery Assortment, which is overflowing with cakes, baklava, galettes, cookies and a cinnamon swirl.
“Everything looks fresh, and upon opening the box it smelled absolutely lovely, like a local bakery,” Emily says. “Excellent variety—there’s a little something for everyone whether you’re a fan of fruity cookies and cakes or prefer chocolate.”
For the Coffee Connoisseur
Atlas Coffee Club Legendary Destinations Gift Set
We tried Atlas Coffee Club, and find it to be a fun way to try incredible single-source beans. Their Legendary Destinations gift sets are an excellent way to introduce the coffee lover in your life to this rich and flavorful brand—no subscription required!
For the Chocoholic
Ethel M Chocolates
As one of the best box of chocolates, Ethel M. tops the list as one of our favorite options for gifting. Between the pretty hatbox and delightfully delicious handcrafted confections, your giftee will feel beyond spoiled.
For the Traveller
Aeropress Brew Anywhere Kit
Emily has four Aeropress brewers in her home, and for good reason. These handy, fast espresso-on-the-go tools are travel-friendly and adorable. Snag your favorite coffee lover a ticket to their own delicious brews with this clever kit from Bean & Bean, which includes everything needed to get started.
KATIE BANDURSKI FOR TASTE OF HOME
For the One-of-a-Kind Friend
Happy Box Care Package
Thanks to Happy Box, sending your BFF a custom care package has never been easier. Start with a package, then add as many gifts as you’d like. (There are many fun selections, including sweet treats, socks, candles, bath bombs and stickers). Finish your gift with a card and custom note. Read our Happy Box review for all of the details.
For the Cheesehead
Cheese Lover's Charcuterie Package
It’s official: Boarderie charcuterie boards are the prettiest food gift you can send for any occasion. And this Ciccetti Cheese Board is what dreams are made of. Not only does this charcuterie gift basket include artisan cheeses, dried fruits, nuts, chocolate and jam, but it also arrives fully arranged inside a keepsake acacia wood board. Talk about genius cheese board gifts!
For the Sweet Tooth
Sugarwish
No matter the occasion, a Sugarwish fits the bill. This genius service makes it easy to gift someone candy, cookies or popcorn without guessing their favorites. Once you select the box size you wish to send, Sugarwish sends a code asking giftees to choose their goodies. How sweet! Get the full scoop in our Sugarwish review.
For the Snacker
Bokksu Snack Box
If you truly want to wow loved ones, we can’t recommend a Bokksu snack box enough. Packed with more than 20 authentic Japanese snacks, sweets and tea (an impeccable value, if we may add), it introduces adventurous eaters to a whole new world of treats.
Each box is expertly curated to include new seasonal treats every time, and every purchase supports Japanese family businesses. Read our full take and learn more about our favorite snack subscriptions.
For the Busy Bee
Dinnerly Meal Kit
When feeling under the weather, the last thing your loved one needs to worry about is cooking dinner. Dinnerly comes to the rescue with quick, easy and delicious meal kits. It’s a more comforting alternative to eating out when the last thing you want to do is cook. Customize their plan and cancel at any time. Read our Dinnerly review for the full scoop.
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For the Candle obsessed
Candle Care Package
Sometimes, lighting a candle and enjoying a few restful moments of deep breathing is the best care we can give ourselves. Vellabox is one of our favorite candle subscriptions for gifting. Send your friend or family member a box curated to their scent preferences and look forward to extras like leather luggage tags, hand creams, herb strippers and other fun items. Because it’s so customizable, it’s easy to forget you didn’t send it yourself.
For the Movie Goer
Popcorn Care Package
Movie lovers and snack fiends alike will appreciate receiving this popcorn care package in the mail. Apart from the super cute popcorn pods that fire up delicious kernels on the stovetop, each box comes with an assortment of corn-themed goodies like stationary and stickers. The six popcorn pods included butter flavors and fun blends like cinnamon sugar or kettle corn.
For the Dough Nut
Donuts & Coffee Gift Pack
Whether your college student is studying for a big exam or is simply tired on a Tuesday, this Stan’s Donuts gift box is a delicious pick-me-up. It includes a half-dozen donuts, one bag of Stan’s whole bean coffee and a ceramic mug. If you’re looking for more caffeinated goodies, check out these coffee subscription boxes and coffee gift baskets, too.
For the Muncher
Moose Munch Gift Tin
Warning: Giftees won’t be able to stop snacking on this sweet care package once it arrives on their doorstep. The mouthwatering gift includes four decadent varieties of Harry & David’s famous Moose Munch popcorn. It’s perfect for family movie night! And if you’re looking for more “thinking of you” gift ideas—we’ve got you covered.
For the Fancy Pants
Caviar Gift Set
Shopping for someone who enjoys the finer things in life? For those with hard-to-impress palates, look no further than this caviar gift set. Choose from eight different types of caviar, paired with crème fraîche and gourmet blini, along with two caviar spoons for the ultimate happy hour. Yes, it’s out of the ordinary, but that’s the beauty of it!
For the Carb Lover
New York Bagel Delivery
Anyone who’s ever visited or lived in New York will delight at this Essa-Bagel box showing up at their door. These massive, hand-rolled delights are worth the wait. Choose up to four bagel flavors, add cream cheese and then get ready to spoil your friend with breakfast heaven. Bread bakers and beyond will appreciate this sweet gift.
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For the Crafter
DIY Embroidery Kit
Crafty friends will be delighted by this thoughtful embroidery kit. It’s perfect for beginners and anyone looking to hone their craft—literally. Choose from eight nature-inspired patterns. Find more gifts for crafters they’ll love.
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for the mental health hero
Therapy Care Package
Start them on a self-care journey with TheraBox. Each package arrives brimming with up to eight full-size self-care and therapy-related products. Picks range from self-help workbooks to scented candles, beauty items and tons of other great goodies. Sure, it’s no replacement for therapy—but it is much cheaper.
FAQ
What is usually in a care package?
Care packages typically include a mix of comforting food and drinks, personal care items, and useful accessories like cozy socks or small gifts like candles.
While it’s perfectly possible to procure your own items for a custom care package, snagging a readily curated package is much easier than building one yourself—and far more fun than a gift card.
What should you look for in a care package?
When thinking about a care package for friends, consider what your friends enjoy. While a box of chocolates may be a delightful option, it’s not exactly the perfect present for folks cutting back on sugar. Also, think about any dietary restrictions or allergies before making a purchase.
Why You Should Trust Us
Many care packages have one thing in common: food. At Taste of Home, we know food and treats can show those you love that you care. Several of the care packages above were tested and vetted by our shopping editors. Testing efforts for this piece were made by product tester Madi Koetting, as well as Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski, Shopping Editor Emily Way and Shopping Editor Mary Henn.
