More care package tips

Don’t include instant food items
While you may have visions of your student surviving off of Ramen noodles and EasyMac, there’s no need to send these. They’re available for purchase with meal points from the campus c-stores.

Try instead...
Homebaked goods or Goldfish crackers. Remember perishable foods may take some time to arrive, so choose the fastest shipping possible.

Coffee
All academic building cafes and campus c-stores have fresh brewed coffee for purchase with meal points.

Try instead...
Starbucks giftcard. For the times your student’s studying in the Union or on-the-go near Kirkwood Avenue.

Febreze
You might be afraid your student’s not doing laundry, but Febreze is sold in the c-stores, too. They also sell detergent, dryer sheets, bleach and other cleaning supplies.

Try instead...
Tide-to-Go pens for stains, or a bottle of your student’s favorite cologne or perfume.

Deck of cards
You guessed it — sold in the c-stores.

Try instead...
Uno, Catch Phrase or Cards Against Humanity.

Alcohol, weapons, unmarked prescription medicines
All things that can get your student in trouble in the residence halls. Just leave them out!

Too busy to build your own care package? Try these options Instead
Shari’s Berries
Send a half dozen giant chocolate-dipped strawberries to share. berries.com

NutsOnline
Give your student extra energy to earn those A’s with nuts, dried fruit, trail mix and more. 

Magnolia Bakery
Celebrate a birthday with a sweet treat — this New York classic will mail fresh-frozen cupcakes to any dorm address.

Flowers
Congratulate your student for an accomplishment with a bouquet or vase of flowers. Any online or local florist will deliver to the residence halls.