It's Back-to-College and campuses are full of new and returning students, trying to balance their time between classes, work and self-care. I remember my parents preparing fantastic care packages for me while attending Rutgers U. They were filled with lots of my favorite snacks and foods, many of which were not available at the campus dining halls. Here's a short list of some of the much-coveted snacks and things you can ship to your favorite co-ed:
Nuts - Pistachios, almonds, cashews are all loaded with protein and healthy fats. They need no refrigeration so definitely include them.
Steeped Coffee - These neat little coffee pods brew up like tea bags! I've brewed them in a thermos full of hot water for coffee-to-go. Delicious bistro-style blends including Blk & Bold Espresso. www.steepedcoffee.com
Tuna & Sardines - Full of protein and omega fatty acids, fish is often lacking on the campus menu. It's a shame because fish is brain food and makes the perfect snack for cramming for those exams.
Ramen - Now don't come at me on this one! Students love ramen because it is quick and easy to prepare with just a microwave which most dorms have. Send them something exotic like this Potato Ramen to change things up.
Water Bottle + Hydration Packets - Water is great but you can amplify the hydration benefits with these little packets that add electrolytes and minerals often lost in sweat. No need for a huge Stanley Cup either. A smaller water bottle with the school name is much cooler!
What about some health, beauty and personal care support? The little on-campus canteens often offer very little variety. How about sending over some of these goodies?
DVF Sleep Mask - Perfect for that roommate who stays up late studying...with the light blasting the eyes. A silky sleep mask like this is both fashionable and functional. Perfect for getting some much-needed rest.
J.R. LIGGETT's Natural Personal Care Products - These offerings from Liggett's are not only handmade and effective but the packaging is genius in helping to cut down excess waste. An example is the Bar Shampoo and Conditioner. No worries about spilling bottles in the shower or wasted product. The mini-shampoo sampler is great as you can try all the varieties. The Body Oil in a Bar is also pure luxury and a great idea as it comes with its own little wooden stand. The lip balms are also an essential for staying moisturized on the run. Check them out at www.jrliggett.com
Utama Spice Cocoa Love Body Butter - Leaves you smelling like a rich, dark chocolate bar. Perfect for pampering those rough elbows, knees and soles of your feet especially. A co-ed will appreciate a tin of this. www.utamaspice.com
Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin - Sheer Glow Tint is a hydrating foundation stick that is actually good for your skin and for when you don't have hours to apply layers of makeup. I've been using a natural, stick foundation (Ogee) now for about a year and it is quick and easy to get on. The skin-loving Hyaluronic Acid and castor oil makes this a moisturizing formula better suited for cooler, dryer winter months. Made in Italy. www.charlottetilbury.com
PlaneAire Hands Hand Sanitizer Spray - Recalling my days of strep throat as a college freshman, forewarned is forearmed. Living in close proximity to other students as in dorm-life and just getting run down due to a crazy schedule of catching the campus bus, (or a flight), can wreck one's immune system. This hand sanitizer offers a pleasant, easy to use mist and kills 99.99% of germs. www.planeaire.com
Airborne Effervescent Tabs offers Vitamin C and 13 minerals, vitamins and herbs. Really delicious and easy to pack, I take one of these fizzers at the first sign of a sore throat, cough or cold. Incredibly effective. www.airbornehealth.com
So, whatever you choose or whatever you can send will be much appreciated by the recipient. If you are shipping to a student on campus at a post office address, be sure to use a flat-rate Priority Mail, Box. That way you can pack it with as many things as you like for one rate.
