Can I Send This to Basic Training?

Check whether an item is usually allowed, restricted, or not recommended before mailing anything to a recruit in basic training.

Basic Training Item Checker

Type an item below, such as “protein bars,” “cookies,” “letters,” or “photos.”

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Common Items People Ask About (29+ Items)

Use this quick reference table before mailing anything. Basic training package rules can vary by branch, training location, unit, and current instructions, but these are some of the most common items families ask about.

Item	Usual Status	What to Know
Letters	Usually allowed	The safest and most encouraged way to support a recruit.
Greeting cards	Usually allowed	Keep the message simple, supportive, and appropriate.
Postcards	Usually allowed	A simple postcard is usually safer than a package.
Family photos	Usually allowed	Use appropriate photos that will not embarrass the recruit.
Stamps	May depend	Can be useful, but check whether the recruit can keep them.
Stationery	May depend	Writing paper and envelopes may depend on current unit rules.
Protein bars	Usually restricted	Food items are commonly restricted and may be confiscated.
Granola bars	Usually restricted	Treat them like food items unless official guidance says otherwise.
Cookies	Usually restricted	Homemade or packaged cookies are usually not recommended.
Brownies	Usually restricted	Baked goods can create inspection and storage problems.
Candy	Usually restricted	Candy is still food and is usually risky to send.
Chocolate	Usually restricted	Chocolate can melt and may be confiscated.
Chips	Usually restricted	Snack foods are usually not recommended during basic training.
Beef jerky	Usually restricted	Even shelf-stable snacks may be restricted.
Trail mix	Usually restricted	Food mixes are usually risky unless specifically allowed.
Gum or mints	Usually restricted	These may seem small, but they are still commonly discouraged.
Energy drinks	Usually not allowed	Avoid drinks, stimulants, and caffeine-heavy products.
Coffee or tea	Usually restricted	Caffeine products are usually not a safe basic training item.
Protein powder	Usually not allowed	Supplement-style products are risky and may be confiscated.
Creatine	Usually not allowed	Do not send supplements unless official guidance clearly allows them.
Vitamins	May depend	Medical or supplement items should be confirmed first.
Tampons	May depend	Basic hygiene needs may vary by branch and training location.
Pads	May depend	Confirm current guidance before mailing hygiene items.
Deodorant	May depend	Extra toiletries may not be needed or allowed.
Toothpaste	May depend	Only send if requested or listed in official guidance.
Foot powder	May depend	Can be useful later, but basic training rules may restrict it.
Books	May depend	Books may be considered distractions during training.
Magazines	May depend	Often not recommended because entertainment items can be restricted.
Puzzle books	May depend	Crossword or sudoku books may not be appropriate during basic training.
Playing cards	May depend	Games and entertainment items may be treated as distractions.
Phone or electronics	Usually not allowed	Do not mail phones, tablets, earbuds, or other electronics.
Gift cards or cash	May depend	Valuable items can be risky and are usually unnecessary.