Gifts for Long Distance Friends
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Quick answer: Gifts for Long Distance Friends. This guide gives 18 ideas in 4 sections: Light and lovely to post; Keepsakes to remember you by; Do something together, apart; Packing it safely. Budget: Ideas from £3 to £25. Best for: Friends and family who live far away.
- Time: 20 minutes to choose and pack
- Budget: Ideas from £3 to £25
- Best for: Friends and family who live far away
A parcel on the doormat is one of life small joys, and it is even better when it comes from a friend who is far away. It says: I thought of you, and here is the proof.
The best gifts for long distance friends are light, sturdy and personal. This guide covers things to post, keepsakes to remember you by, ways to do something together and clever packing tips. Choose small and flat to keep postage low and avoid breakages.
Top tip: Post early and check the latest last posting dates for your area. Pack fragile items with plenty of padding, and write a short note on the outside to help the parcel recognise itself as a present.
Light and lovely to post
Postage can be the biggest cost, so these ideas are small, light and easy to pack.
- Tea bag sampler: A set of different teas is light and flat. Include a handwritten note suggesting a time to have a cup together.
- Hot chocolate sachets: Single-serve sachets travel well and can be popped into a card. Add a tiny marshmallow bag if you like.
- Pretty socks: A pair of cosy socks can be rolled flat and fits through most letterboxes.
- Hand cream tube: A small tube suits winter weather and can be wrapped safely. Choose a fragrance you know they like.
- Bookmark: A pretty bookmark is perfect for friends who read. It posts for the price of a stamp.
Keepsakes to remember you by
These gifts stay on a shelf or in a bag long after Christmas.
- Photo prints: Print a few favourite pictures of your friendship and tuck them into a card. A set of small prints is flat and personal.
- Friendship bracelet: A simple bracelet is a sweet reminder. Make it yourself with beads for a personal touch.
- Letter writing set: A pack of notepaper and envelopes encourages regular letters. Start the first one yourself.
- Little frame: A small frame for a photo or a quote is easy to wrap and sturdy to post.
- Candle in a tin: A small tin candle is safer to post than glass. Remind them never to leave it burning unattended.
Do something together, apart
Shared activities make the miles feel shorter.
- Matching puzzle: Each of you gets the same small jigsaw and you chat while you build them. A fun video call activity.
- Two copies of a book: Send a copy of a book you both want to read and chat about it. A lovely way to stay in touch.
- Card game: A pack of cards for playing over a video call. Simple and cheap, with plenty of choices.
- Recipe kit: Send a small bag of dry ingredients, like cocoa and spices, and cook the same recipe together.
- Notebook: A pair of matching notebooks to swap ideas and doodles.
Packing it safely
- Bubble mailers: Padded envelopes protect small gifts. Choose a size that fits through a letterbox.
- Tissue paper: Wrap gifts in tissue and ribbon so they feel special on arrival.
- Tape and labels: A roll of sturdy tape and clear labels saves a lot of trouble at the post office.
Helpful links and further reading
A few trusted places to find out more.
- Royal Mail at Christmas: Check the latest last posting dates before you send cards or parcels.
- Royal Mail at Christmas: Check the latest last posting dates before you send cards or parcels.
- MoneyHelper: budgeting: Free, impartial budgeting tools and tips to plan your spending.
Frequently asked questions
When should I post?
Post a little earlier than you think, and check the latest dates on the postal service website.
What should I avoid posting?
Avoid anything fragile, perishable or restricted. Check the rules for the destination before posting.
What if I am sending abroad?
Check customs rules and keep gifts small and flat. Allow plenty of extra time.
More ideas you might like
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