Tricks & Tips for Maximizing Space in Care Packages

 *Remember USPS flat rate boxes are free and ship up to 20lbs for one price. You also get free tracking, insurance and $1off for APO/FPO/MPO addresses. At least thats what I get in California. Make the most of it!

• Individualize - Take all items out of the large packaging, just keep them in individual packets.
• Packing - Larger hard items that don't take shape of its surroundings easily usually go on the bottom. Such as peanut butter jars, Nutella, tupperware with baked goods etc. This is when the good game of Tetris comes in handy. Other smaller hard items come next. After that, you fill the oddly shaped space and crevices with your loose and more "flexible" items. 
• Reduce Chip Bag Size -Bags of chips are what seem to take up the most space. Take out the air and "voilà" you have a much smaller item. The way I take out the air is use a sharp blade or needle and cut a very small slit in the corner on the back of the bag. Once you gently press the air out of the bag you get a small piece of transparent tape and cover the hole. Stays fresh as long as you fully cover the hole. 
• Portable External - I sent a portable external hard drive with tons of movies and full seasons of TV shows. You can avoid sending individual DVDs and send an endless amount of movies, music and shows without using much space with your package.  
• Protein Powder - I once sent my husband about 2 pounds of chocolate protein powder. It came in a 5 pound tub and I sent half of it in large freezer bags. I labeled it in marker, secured the opening with tape and included the tubs label. I can't say that they always allow it because they recommend sending items in its original packaging, but in my individual case he received it with no problems. 
• Seal- Use ziplock bags to seal items that might melt or leak onto other items. (Deodorant, sunblock, toothpaste, etc) You do not want items for hygiene to get all over your food items if  one breaks. Most sites recommend you ship them separately to avoid food tasting like soap, deodorant etc. Final shipping choice is up to you.

I do realize some of this is common sense, but you never know who it will help.
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