You’ve booked the shipping.
You’ve packed everything you can think of into your barrel or box.
And then it arrives.
And the first call you get is:
“You didn’t send the thing!”
It happens. All the time.
Here’s what people often forget — and what they probably could’ve left behind.
Things You’ll Wish You’d Packed
1. More Snacks
Tea bags run out. So do crisps. So does the Horlicks.
If it’s cheap and lightweight and you know they like it, send more than you think.
2. School Shoes
Even if they don’t fit yet. Even if you already packed one pair.
The size will change. The season will shift. The backup pair will save someone’s nerves.
3. Vests and Socks
Multipacks are gold. They’re light, needed, and often forgotten.
4. A Birthday or Occasion Card
Even one blank card can go a long way.
It says: “I thought ahead.”
5. Something Just for Them
It doesn’t have to be expensive.
A bottle of perfume. A football magazine. A photo. A note.
Something they didn’t expect — but that only you would have sent.
Things You Probably Didn’t Need
1. 3 Bottles of Shampoo
One or two is plenty. Bulk liquids are heavy and risky.
And shampoo exists on the other end.
2. Unworn Clothes You Didn’t Want
If you wouldn’t wear it, don’t assume they will.
Better to send fewer things they’ll actually use.
3. Random Kitchen Bits
We’ve seen everything from egg timers to half-used frying pans.
Unless it’s a requested item — skip the odd drawer clutter.
4. Over-packed Tins
A few are great. A barrel full? Heavy, awkward, and borderline redundant.
Balance is better.
One Final Tip: Pack With the Person in Mind
The best-packed barrels aren’t the fullest.
They’re the ones packed with purpose.
So ask yourself:
“Will this actually help them?”
“Would I be happy to receive this myself?”
If the answer’s yes — it probably belongs in the barrel.
Need help packing smarter? Read our full guide or call us before your next shipment.