LDS Missionary Gifts: 12 Personal Farewell & Care Package Ideas

The best LDS missionary gifts are rarely the biggest or most expensive. They say, “We know you, we are cheering for you, and we want to make everyday missionary life a little easier.” Whether you are planning a farewell, filling a care package, or welcoming someone home, choose something practical and encouraging.

A good rule: make it useful, easy to pack, and personal. Check current mission guidelines, climate, luggage space, and the missionary’s preferences. A small package they can use beats a box full of extras.

Missionary service is about becoming, not just going. It is a season of stretching, serving, learning, struggling, and growing stronger through faith. At WEAK THINGS, we believe the little reminders we give each other can help us keep moving forward—especially when the road gets hard. So whether you’re sending someone off, cheering them on from home, or welcoming them back, here are a few gift ideas that say more than “good luck.” They say, “We believe in you. Keep going. You’ve got this.”

How to choose LDS missionary gifts they can use

Think about the missionary’s actual day: walking, studying, teaching, writing home, and adjusting to new places. The most helpful missionary farewell gifts support one of those rhythms without creating clutter.

Choose a mix of practical and personal. A favorite snack, handwritten note, water bottle, and photo from home say both “we thought this through” and “you are loved.”

Here are 12 LDS care package ideas and gift ideas to tailor to the person you love.

1. A comfortable faith-inspired tee

A soft tee can be an easy off-day, preparation-day, travel-day, or exercise option when it fits mission guidelines. Choose a design that feels encouraging rather than overly formal—something they will be glad to wear long after their service ends.

“Forward, Pressing Forward” makes a fitting send-off for someone beginning at the MTC or preparing for a new assignment. “Pray. Study. Lift. & Chill” is a lighthearted option for the missionary who appreciates faith and a little personality. WEAK THINGS shirts are $24, with free U.S. shipping on three or more shirts.

2. Letters for different kinds of days

Write several short letters and label them: “Open when you feel homesick,” “Open after a hard day,” “Open when you need to laugh,” or “Open when you see an answer to prayer.” The letters do not need to be long. A memory, a scripture, a few words of love, or an update from home can be exactly right.

Invite grandparents, friends, ministering brothers or sisters, and youth to contribute a note. Put each note in its own envelope so the missionary can save them for the moments they need them.

3. A small photo set

Printed photos are compact and comforting. Include family, a favorite place, a pet, a temple visit, or a candid moment that makes them smile. Add names or a short note on the back.

Skip bulky frames. A small envelope or a few laminated photos travel best.

4. Favorite snacks—with a practical plan

Snacks are classic LDS care package ideas for a reason. Familiar treats can brighten a long day. Choose sealed, shelf-stable items that travel well, and be mindful of allergies, customs rules, and local mail restrictions. A few excellent favorites are better than a giant assortment that gets crushed or goes stale.

If the missionary is serving stateside, consider rotating snacks from home with local favorites they mention in emails. For international service, confirm what can be mailed before putting together the package.

5. A scripture-study kit that stays simple

A new set of highlighters, pencils, sticky tabs, a sturdy notebook, or a small scripture-reference bookmark can be useful without taking over a suitcase. Ask whether they prefer paper tools, digital tools, or both. Personal preference matters more than having every possible accessory.

A shirt such as “Book of Mormon Scripture Power” can make a fun companion gift for a missionary who loves study time and Book of Mormon stories. It is an everyday reminder of the book they will be sharing.

6. A refillable water bottle or travel mug

Long days and changing weather make hydration important. Choose a lightweight, leak-resistant bottle that is easy to clean and fits the bag they already carry. For colder climates, a simple insulated mug can be equally welcome.

7. A tiny comfort item from home

Think small: a favorite lip balm, a good pair of socks, a compact hand lotion, a familiar tea, or a sleep mask for a bright apartment. These are not glamorous gifts, but they can make daily life more comfortable.

The key is restraint. Missionaries move, transfer, and carry their own things. One well-chosen comfort item is thoughtful; an extra bag of stuff can become a burden.

8. A service-ready gift card

For missionaries serving in the United States, a modest gift card can give them flexibility for a needed item or a preparation-day treat, subject to mission guidance. Restaurant, grocery, or general retail options can be especially practical. If you are not sure what is allowed, ask a parent or the missionary before sending it.

Pair it with a note that puts no pressure on them to spend it a certain way. The freedom to choose is part of the gift.

9. A playlist of memories—shared the right way

Music rules vary by mission, so do not assume a playlist can be used. Instead, make a written list of songs, hymns, or family musical memories to enjoy when appropriate after service. It says, “We know what brings you joy,” without conflicting with guidelines.

10. A gratitude and encouragement jar

Fill a small, lightweight container or envelope with folded notes: reasons you appreciate them, scriptures, funny memories, and reminders of people praying for them. Keep each message brief so there are many to open over time.

“You Are Like a Star Shining Brightly” carries a similarly warm message and works well as a gift for a missionary, a sibling, or a friend who needs to remember their light matters.

11. A homecoming memory book in progress

For a missionary who is nearing the end of service, begin a simple homecoming book. Leave room for photographs, favorite stories, names of companions, lessons learned, and answers to prayer. You do not need to fill it in for them; the gift is a place to preserve what they want to remember.

This also makes a meaningful group gift. Friends and family can add welcome-home notes before the missionary arrives.

12. A tee that speaks to the next chapter

Homecoming is joyful, but the transition can be tender. A gift that recognizes both faith and forward movement can be a kind way to welcome someone back. “The Best Is Yet To Come” is a hopeful choice for the next season, while “Live a Little Stronger” celebrates steady growth rather than a finish line.

Pack care into the details

The most personal LDS missionary gifts communicate attention. Include the snack they love, a note from someone who knows their story, or a useful item they would not buy for themselves. Regular letters, sincere prayers, and patient support are gifts, too.

Ready to put together a farewell, care package, or homecoming surprise? Browse the WEAK THINGS collection for faith-inspired tees that are easy to gift, easy to wear, and made to carry encouragement into everyday life.