Care Package Builder
Choose an occasion, pick your items, and get a ready-to-shop list with cost and shipping estimates. Perfect for parents and friends.
Suggested for Homesick
Click to add to your packageAdd something custom
🎁 Your Package
Click items on the left to add them here.
⚠️ Item cost is over your budget cap — swap something out or bump the cap.
*Priority Mail estimate for a medium flat-rate box ($17.40). Actual cost depends on size and destination.
The ↗ links search the item on Amazon — some are affiliate links; we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Check your school's housing rules first
Sending anything with a plug or a flame? Dorm rules apply to gifts too:
- Candles, incense & open flames — banned nearly everywhere, even unlit ones at some schools.
- Halogen lamps & space heaters — fire hazards that most housing offices prohibit.
- Extension cords — many campuses only allow surge protectors with a breaker, never daisy-chained cords.
- Mini fridges & microwaves — usually allowed, but size and wattage limits vary by school, and some rooms come with a microfridge already.
- Hot plates, toasters & air fryers — open heating elements are banned in most dorm rooms (check if your hall has a shared kitchen).
- Pets — typically limited to fish in a small tank.
- Wall damage — nails and strong adhesives (including some LED strip tape) can cost you your deposit; use removable hooks.
Packing tips
Use a medium USPS flat-rate box — everything that fits ships for a flat fee regardless of weight. Wrap fragile items in clothes or bubble wrap. Fill gaps with popcorn or crinkle paper.
Best places to shop
Amazon for bulk snacks and supplies. Target for comfort items and gift cards. Local grocery or bakery for homemade touches. Dollar Tree for fillers and extras.
The best thing in the package
Handwritten notes beat anything you can buy. Include photos, inside jokes, clippings from home — it's the part they'll keep longest.