When someone you care about is under the weather, sending a get well gift is one of the most thoughtful gestures you can make. 

It won’t clear their congestion—unless it’s a package of Sudafed—but it does say, “I see you,” “I’m thinking about you,” and “I’m here for you,” without requiring anyone to get up and answer the door in their pajamas. But choosing the right gift requires a little more thought than just clicking Add to Cart on a random mug that says “Feel Better Soon.”

Here are some helpful things to consider before you hit send.

1. Know Their Situation

There’s a difference between recovering from a nasty cold and recuperating from major surgery.

For minor illnesses, cozy comfort items or treats can lift spirits. For more serious conditions, practical items like a Mini Buddha Board drawing easel or peppermint tea might be more appreciated. 

2. Keep Dietary Needs in Mind

Don’t pull a “whoops” like sending a cheese-heavy care package to someone who’s lactose intolerant. 

If you’re sending food, check for any dietary restrictions, allergies, or preferences. Healthier snacks, herbal teas, and shelf-stable treats are often great choices, but even these should be chosen with care.

3. Choose Comfort Over Clutter

Being sick usually means lying low and taking it easy, so skip anything that feels like it needs to be displayed or assembled. That’s just too much work when you’re laid up. 

Look for gifts that offer comfort, calm, or entertainment: Self Care coloring book, colored pencils, or aloe infused socks. Bonus points for anything that doesn’t require getting off the couch.

4. Consider the Packaging

We’ve all struggled with impossible-to-open packaging at the best of times.

Now imagine doing that when you’re running a fever or on bed rest. If your gift is too complicated to unwrap, it’s not doing its job. Choose something accessible and easy to enjoy right away, like a Deluxe Zen garden or a message candle that says, “Sending you a warm hug in a jar.”

5. Add a Personal Touch

A handwritten note, a little inside joke, or a warm message goes a long way. The personal touch reminds them that they’re loved, and not just from whoever fulfilled the order. 

It doesn’t have to be long, just something genuine. 

6. Timing Matters

You don’t want to be too early—when adrenaline is still running high—or too late—when the moment has passed. 

The sweet spot? When the initial chaos has quieted down and the reality of recovery is settling in. That’s when a thoughtful surprise can really brighten their day and remind them they’re not going through it alone.

At the end of the day, a get well gift is about thoughtfulness, and that along with a good decongestant can speed up recovery. 

🍵 SHAMLESS PLUG ALERT 🍵

Speaking of the best get well gift ever, check out our Self Care Gift Basket, featuring all the items strategically placed in this blog post! Your under the weather recipient will thank you.

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn.