Deployment countdown & care package checklist

Homecoming countdown

Pick a homecoming date (and optional time). Add a name if you want the headline to say who you’re counting down to. Then copy a share link for friends and family — or post it on Facebook.

Your countdown is stored in this browser and encoded in the share link (for example ?d=2027-03-15&n=Mike). We do not collect this data on our servers.

Care package checklist

Practical ideas that travel well. Check items off as you pack — progress stays on this device. Always double-check current APO/FPO rules before you ship.

0 of 25 packed

APO / FPO shipping tips

Mail to APO, FPO, and DPO addresses goes through the U.S. Postal Service. Rules and restrictions change, so treat this as a quick refresher — not a substitute for official guidance.

• Use the right address format. Include the full unit and box details your service member gave you. Do not put a foreign city or country on the last line when the address is APO/FPO/DPO.
• Priority Mail flat-rate military boxes are available for many APO/FPO destinations. Ask at your post office which flat-rate options apply to your address.
• Customs forms are required for most APO/FPO packages. Fill them out accurately (contents and values). Incomplete forms can delay or return a package.
• Check prohibited items before you pack. Liquids, aerosols, perishable food, alcohol, and some electronics often have limits or bans that vary by destination.
• Leave room for OPSEC. Do not write deployment locations, unit movements, or sensitive details on the outside of the box or in public posts about the shipment.

Official USPS guidance: usps.com/ship/apo-fpo-dpo.htm

For relationship tips while they’re gone, see our guide on long-distance and deployment relationships.

Send something from home

Sometimes a delivered surprise hits different than a packed box. When you’re ready, these are simple ways to send a little love (affiliate links — we may earn a commission if you buy).

FAQ

Is this free?
Yes. The countdown and checklist are free tools on MilitaryDater.com. No signup.

Will my countdown sync across phones?
Not automatically. Use Copy share link (or Share on Facebook) and open that link on the other device. The date and name travel in the URL.

What happens when the date passes?
You’ll see a simple “Welcome home!” message instead of negative numbers.

Can I use this for training or TDY, not just deployment?
Absolutely. Any return date works.

Where else should I look?
Our guides, date spots near bases, and dating tips are good next stops.