Staying connected with an incarcerated person is one of the most powerful ways to support them. Sending care packages is just one piece of that puzzle. The best inmate care packages bring comfort, routine, and care. Approved snacks, hygiene products, or reading materials are small tokens that often mean a lot to someone with limited resources.
Even though care packages are great, rules can vary by facility. Most prisons or jails don’t allow direct shipments, and sending money may be a more reliable option to give them the flexibility to buy what they need most. With Western Union, you can send money to an inmate and provide support through commissary deposits.
Key takeaways
- Care packages can include hygiene items, stationery, snacks, and books. The best inmate care packages balance practicality with thoughtfulness.
- Always check correctional guidelines before sending anything. Many prisons only accept packages from approved vendors.
- Money transfers may be more flexible than physical packages. Use platforms like Western Union to easily send money to an inmate to buy what they need.
What to send an inmate (and what to avoid)
The best inmate care packages often include everyday essentials. These items improve comfort, health, or morale.
Commonly approved options include:
- Hygiene products like deodorant, toothpaste, and soap
- Non-perishable snacks such as instant coffee, chips, or candy
- Stationery supplies like paper, envelopes, or pens
- Books and magazines from approved vendors
Correctional facilities often prohibit alcohol, tobacco, or electronics. They also ban clothing that hasn’t been supplied by approved retailers. Before you send anything, confirm your chosen items are allowed.
Follow facility guidelines
Each facility sets rules about care packages. Some only accept items from specific vendors, while others limit size, weight, or contents. Knowing what you can send to an inmate begins with reviewing your facility’s policies online or calling the administration office.
Ignoring these guidelines has risks. Your package may be rejected or delayed, and in some cases, the facility may destroy it outright. To avoid disappointment, purchase through authorized care package services when required.
What items can you send to a prisoner?
The best inmate care packages include items you can send (and exclude those you can’t). Some of the common approved categories that correctional facilities allow include the following goods:
Hygiene essentials:• Deodorant (non-aerosol) • Toothpaste and toothbrushes • Soap or shampoo packets • Lotion (small containers) |
Snacks and drinks:• Instant coffee or tea • Chips, cookies, and candy • Ramen noodles • Powdered drink mixes |
Writing supplies:• Paper and envelopes • Pens or pencils (as approved) • Greeting cards (non-glitter, no embellishments) • Postage stamps (if allowed) |
Comfort and entertainment:• Puzzle or activity books • Softcover books from publishers • Magazines from approved distributors • Family photos that meet size and content restrictions |
Facilities often partner with vendors to offer pre-selected packages containing these items. This makes choosing the best inmate care packages easier without breaking rules.
When money may be the best option
Even the most thoughtful care package has limits. Sending funds instead of goods can give your recipient the flexibility to buy exactly what they need, from food and hygiene items to phone time or other goods.
Depositing money into a commissary account is simpler and faster than mailing a package, too. Western Union’s Send2Corrections lets you send funds online or in person at agent locations nationwide.
For many families, this flexibility is just as meaningful as sending a package.
Thoughtful support makes a difference
The best inmate care packages combine practicality with a personal touch to help inmates feel supported while incarcerated. Whether you’re sending approved items or choosing to transfer funds, what matters most is the care and intention behind the gesture.
With Western Union, you have trusted options to send money quickly and reliably, giving inmates the resources they need to manage daily life.
FAQs
The best care packages for inmates are practical items that provide comfort and meet facility rules. Hygiene products, snacks, or reading materials are great ideas, but money for commissary accounts is often the most flexible gift.
It depends on the facility and your loved one’s needs. Inmate care packages are thoughtful but have limitations. Money transfers provide freedom of choice and faster access to essentials.
Most prisons require packages to come from approved vendors. Check the facility guidelines and choose a listed provider. From there, you can pick items that comply with the rules and send your approved care package.
This blog is for general informational purposes only and doesn’t constitute legal advice. While we aim to provide accurate content, details may change over time. For specific concerns, it’s best to consult a legal or professional advisor.
