Gift shopping can be daunting for a variety of reasons. When considering what military service members and their families want and need, the task can become even harder. These individuals have been through a lot defending the country, often facing life-altering experiences. It can be difficult to find the perfect gift that acknowledges their commitment and shows appreciation for all they have done.
But even so, there are quite a few thoughtful gifts that are sure to bring a smile to any service member or veteran’s face. Some are practical and cater to the service member’s specific interests, while others are meant to honour their courage and dedication.
Creative Gift Ideas for the Military Person in Your Life
Given the gruelling conditions service members have to face, showing a modicum of appreciation or recognition can be invaluable to their morale. Sometimes they’re placed in difficult positions, and the dedication required to carry out their duties can be daunting.
Army Toys and Puzzles
Normally, you wouldn’t associate toys with the military, given the seriousness of their work. But truth is, there’s an inherent and unbreakable bond between them that way back. In fact, all of the adorable army toys that we know today have their origins and ties to military life.
For starters, many soldiers take military toys with them on deployment as a good luck charm and a source of comfort. These cuddly additions can offer some much-needed respite during hard times. Whether it’s a stuffed animal, a model tank or a custom ID tag – these toys serve as reminders of the strength and courage that military life is all about.
Additionally, jigsaw puzzles can serve as a fun way to pass the time while waiting between tasks. A puzzle featuring a military scene, such as an aircraft carrier or a battlefield offers a meaningful touch and a great way to connect over shared passions.
Other troops may choose to leave their army toys with their loved ones as a reminder of their sacrifice and bravery. This is often seen as a way to keep the bond alive even when separated. Those at home can look at their treasured toys and think of their loved ones, while the deployed service member can feel a bit more connected to home.
The specific toy in question will, of course, depend on the service member’s individual preferences. Some people are more fond of teddy bears with military patches, while others prefer a toy tank or even a replica of their own rifle. Using their own interests as a guide will make all the difference in finding an excellent item.
Personalised Bracelet
Getting a customised bracelet for your military loved one is a fantastic way to show them how much you care. On the leather or metal strap, you could get their name and rank engraved, as well as any other symbols that they may love. This can serve as a gentle reminder of your love for them and the appreciation you have for their efforts.
You can choose from a number of metals, colours and details that will make the bracelet as unique as your loved one. Some military-inspired designs come with camouflaged straps, whereas others have a more traditional look. Customisable charms or trinkets can also be added to the bracelet for extra meaning and personalisation.
Military-Inspired Home Decor
What better way to show your support for a service member than by spicing up their living space? Home decor items that have a military vibe, such as flag displays or posters of famous battle scenes can be eye-catching and meaningful.
You can also go for items like mugs and coasters with military insignias, or even digital clocks with a soldier-inspired designs. Bedding sets with military logos and designs are also available, offering a great way to show your pride in their service. All of these items may serve as a constant reminder of your unwavering support for the service member.
Tactical Seat Organizer
This is a great gift for any army member who likes to stay organised and on top of their tactical gear for their next adventure. It is basically a bag that attaches to the seat of their vehicle, usually with straps or clips of some kind. This allows them to store items like magazines, medical supplies and even snacks in an easy-to-access way while they are on the move.
Not only is this helpful for keeping items neat and tidy, but it can prove to be very useful in a hurry. With everything conveniently secured and easy to access, military personnel can quickly grab what they need for their next mission or task.
Fitness Tracker Watch
Fitness trackers are the latest craze, owing to the convenience they provide. A fitness tracker’s battery (unlike the fitness app on a smartphone) lasts for several days and accurately measures all body vitals, including sleep.
Soldiers must stay on top of their fitness programmes due to their demanding schedules. These trackers typically come with a smartphone app that provides simple reports on your performance—an ideal gift for a health-conscious soldier.
