Military deployments are not easy for most military members, their friends, and their families. It’s hard to be separated for months on end and for family and friends, not knowing that your loved one is safe can be heart wrenching. However, the chances of deploying are higher than ever before and this is something that every military member knows when they sign up.

Depending on the deployment, military members may be gone for just a few days to over a year. Some deployments are stateside, while others are halfway around the world. With military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, there are more military members deployed than ever before. This takes a toll on the military members and their families. One way to make these deployments a bit easier is with military deployment gifts.

So, what do you give a military member who is being deployed or is already overseas? One of the first military deployment gifts that military members will tell you they want is a care package. Boxes fill of personal care items, like favorite shampoos, lotions, or deodorants are always appreciated. Many times, our military members cannot find their favorites personal hygiene items in other countries. Snacks, such as packaged cookies, chips, or crackers are also welcome. Candies and sweets are often hoarded, lest they disappear too quickly. Books, magazines, and pictures can also be tucked inside care packages. Consider sending one of these packages to your loved one every couple of weeks or once a month.

Other military deployment gifts might include clothing with the insignia of the military operation the member is deployed in support of. Hats, t-shirts, jackets, and sweats are the most popular. However, you can also find doo-rags, underwear, and cold weather gear, if the weather requires it. You’ll be surprised at how much a few pairs of socks or a new bath towel might be appreciated, as well.

Stationary, envelopes, stamps and calling cards are usually in short supply, as well. These can come in quite handy and are often much cheaper than buying them in the country the military members are deployed to. One thing to remember, though, is that many countries have strict customs requirements for what can be mailed into the country. If you are not sure if something would be confiscated by customs agents where your loved one is deployed, it’s best to ask ahead of time rather than to just mail the package and hope for the best.

In closing, when you’re trying to decide which military deployment gift you should buy, consider where your loved one is deployed. Ask what he or she needs and don’t accept "nothing" for an answer! When all else fails, a care package will always be welcome. Don’t forget that the seasons change, too. What might have been great for 110 degrees won’t be acceptable for below freezing. As the seasons change, the needs of your loved one will change, too.