Once again, we’ll go beyond letters to camp…. Now that you’ve mastered the basics of care packages (see my last post), it’s time for the “remedial” class on “careless packages.” This is the part where you get lazy and decide to have someone else make your “care” package for you. Ah, the joys of parenting!
Now, I know what you’re thinking… We’re all busy, don’t have time, want to show we care but don’t know what to do… blah blah blah. If you can’t spend time building your kids’ care package, just how much care does that show anyways? Is it possible to substitute an expensive package from some giant corporation for “care”? Only you’ll know for sure. And who knows, maybe your kid won’t care. Heck, I’m not sure mine would care – they just want packages. But I just wouldn’t feel right having someone else make it for me. Yeah, right!
But I digress… Following is a list of companies that will gladly have you pay them to build “careless packages.”
NOTE: This is not a recommendation or endorsement of any of these online stores.
#1: Food Stuff
Most camps do not permit food so make sure to check your camp policies on food before sending. IMPORTANT: some of these contain peanuts, which your camp may not permit due to allergies. Make sure to check camp rules on peanuts.
- The Popcorn Factory – Popcorn in all sizes and flavors – sure to be a kid favorite.
- Oh Nuts – Kosher treats. Beware of the peanuts if your camp has a peanut policy. Looks tasty.
#2: Foodless “Care” Packages & Individual Stuff
Stuff, stuff, stuff. A wide variety of choices.
- Beyond Bookmarks – Their site states “Our care packages are in compliance with summer camp rules and are a favorite of camp directors.” Lots of interesting packages with varied themes. From the looks of their prices, it you must have to pay extra for camp director approval. $$$$
- Fearless and Freckles – This shows up in Google under “Bunk Junk”! Need I say more? Individual items and “care” pails (as opposed to packages). The pails seem expensive to me but they have lots of reasonable individual items. $$
- Fuss Budget – Lots of interesting stuff – mainly individual items rather than care packages. Reasonable price. $$
- Gift Baskets – A few choice care packages. Reasonable prices. $$
- Just4Camp – Stationery, pillows, games. Seems a little pricey. $$$
- Sealed With a Kiss – “The original camp care package company since 1984” Ready-to-go packages start at $20 but they’ll also do individual items and custom care packages. Web site is very easy to use. Yikes, these guys sent 7,000 “care” packages last year alone! $$
- Send A Smile Gifts – Lots of reasonably priced care packages. You can also order advance delivery. $$
- The Wrinkled Egg – Custom “care” packages. $$$$
#3: Outdoors/Camping Supplies
- Campbound – Check out the summer camp store. Not much in the way of “care” packages but they are a business affiliate of the American Camping Association.
#4: Necessities
- Minimus – Small sized toiletries etc. Most camps sell necessities – check with camp before sending.
#5: More ideas – The Find
For additional care package ideas, check out The Find shopping site. The Find is just an aggregator site so you’ll have to assemble these items yourself from different online stores featured. Here are a few searches to get you started.
Ah, summer camp… the ideal opportunity to make new friends, develop new skills, and grow – all in a more natural environment removed from the electronic stresses of modern life such as Facebook, texting, and cell phones.
Letters to Camp 
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