In my first year of university, I woke up to the doorbell ringing. I was battling fresher’s flu, a violent hangover, and had to the-floor-is-lava my way over an obstacle course of clothes, papers, and goodness-knows what on my floor. The postman handed me a box which I swiftly opened (the joy of getting mail never fades) to reveal a care package from my family.
I had never been so happy to open up a shoebox filled with objects such as cleaning supplies, hair ties, ear plugs, hand sanitiser, and Berocca. Everything I never knew I needed was there, and thoughtfully stacked together with a note wishing me well at uni.
Care packages are a great way to send a little bit of love to your family member or friend at university. For someone who is most likely living on their own for the first time, getting a parcel from someone thinking about you is a lovely treat. But what should you put in it? Let’s take a look…
Tea bags/coffee/hot chocolate
There is nothing better than a yummy hot drink in bed in the evening, and sometimes being a student means that you can’t afford to pick up the tea bags you like, or nice coffee. Sending something like this, which is an easy way for someone to take care of themselves and take a moment to relax, is a thoughtful idea.
Snacks
Students love snacks. Actually, scratch that, EVERYONE loves snacks. Throwing in a collection of their favourite snacks such as crisps, chocolate, and sweets, is a sure-fire way to make their day. Don’t forget that if it is hot, hold back on anything that can melt!
Pictures from home
Always a classic. Home sickness effects so many uni students, and getting pictures from home is an instant pick-me-up. Chuck in some poster tape (blue tack is a no no!) so they can put them on their walls and feel at home all year round.
Fluffy socks
Again, this is a great item to add to give a student some extra comfort, especially in the winter.
Essentials
Some of the best things to include in a care package for a university student are items that they may not think to buy for themselves, and that will come in useful. For example: tea towels, make up wipes, rubber gloves, painkillers, ear plugs, hot drink flask, hair grips, a pot noodle. One of the best things I got sent was a pack of earrings backs!