Cheap Prison Calls:
Top 5 Gifts You Can Give To A Prisoner

Time in prison can be a lonely and difficult experience, making support from family and friends incredibly valuable. A thoughtful gift can boost a prisoner’s morale and help maintain a connection with the outside world. However prison rules around what can be sent are strict, and not all items are permitted. Before sending anything, it’s essential to check the specific rules and regulations of the prison where your loved one is held.

Many prisons allow certain items like books, personal letters, and commissary funds, while others have restrictions on clothing, personal hygiene products, and even electronics. To help you navigate this, we’ve put together a list of five gifts that are commonly allowed in prisons and can make a significant difference to someone serving a sentence.

Clothing (Including Underwear)

One of the most practical and appreciated gifts for someone in prison is comfortable clothing. Many prisons allow inmates to receive clothes, particularly items like underwear, socks, t-shirts, and other basics. However, there are strict guidelines about what is acceptable. Clothing must often be plain, without logos, hoods, or inappropriate designs that could be linked to gang activity or present other security concerns. Some prisons even regulate colors, preferring neutral tones to avoid affiliations with certain groups.

When sending clothing, ensure it fits within the guidelines of the prison's policies and consider sending season-appropriate items, such as warmer layers in winter or lighter garments in summer. Fresh, clean clothes can provide both comfort and dignity, helping inmates feel a little more connected to life outside.

Footwear

In many prisons, inmates are allowed to wear their own shoes, making footwear a valuable and practical gift. However, like with clothing, there are restrictions on what types of shoes are allowed. Typically, shoes must not have steel toe caps or other hard materials that could be deemed dangerous. Simple trainers, slippers, or soft-soled shoes are usually accepted.

Shoes are essential in prison because inmates often spend long hours on their feet, either working or walking around the facility. Having comfortable, supportive footwear can help reduce the physical strain and provide some relief from the otherwise rigid environment. Always check what’s allowed in the specific prison, as rules vary and some prisons may even have their own options available for purchase within the system.

Grooming and personal hygiene items

Personal hygiene and grooming are often overlooked when considering what might be most helpful to someone in prison. Many prisons provide only the most basic hygiene products, so gifting extra grooming items can offer a sense of normalcy and self-care. Depending on the prison’s regulations, this might include items such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, or shaving kits. Some prisons also allow certain toiletries like moisturizers, lip balms, or combs, though these are generally restricted to non-aerosol and non-flammable versions.

These items can provide a welcome touch of comfort, helping inmates maintain a sense of dignity and routine. However, make sure to avoid banned substances or anything that could be misused. Certain items, such as glass mirrors, metal nail clippers, or even specific types of lotions, may be prohibited due to security concerns. Many prisons also have a canteen or commissary where inmates can purchase such items, so it’s worth checking what’s already available to them before sending any hygiene products.

Photos

Photos are one of the most meaningful gifts you can give to a prisoner. The ability to see loved ones, be reminded of happier times, and maintain emotional connections can greatly impact an inmate’s mental health. Most prisons allow inmates to keep a certain number of personal photographs in their cells, and these are often among their most treasured possessions.

Photos of family members, children, partners, or friends provide comfort and motivation. They remind the inmate of their life outside the prison and serve as a source of hope and strength as they navigate the challenges of incarceration. When sending photos, make sure they adhere to the prison’s rules, as some facilities limit the size or number of photos that can be sent. Explicit images or anything that could be considered inappropriate will likely be rejected. Digital photo services are also sometimes available, where loved ones can upload photos that are then printed and delivered to the inmate.

Hobbies that can make time go quicker

One of the biggest challenges inmates face is filling the long hours of each day. Providing items that help them pass the time and engage their minds can be a great gift. Depending on the prison’s rules, this could include things like books, crossword puzzles, playing cards, or even small board games. Many prisons also allow prisoners to have access to art supplies, which can be a great outlet for creative expression. For prisoners with access to video games or recreational electronics (available in certain facilities), games can be an exciting way to break up the monotony of prison life.

Letter writing and communication with the outside world is another hobby that can make time go quicker. Sending regular letters or cards can help prisoners feel less isolated, and receiving personal notes or written stories from friends and family members can be a lifeline. Keep in mind that most prisons screen all incoming mail, so avoid any content that could be deemed inappropriate or against prison policy.

In addition to these items, certain educational materials, such as self-help books or vocational training guides, can help prisoners improve their skills and prepare for life after release. If you’re considering sending something to support a hobby, always verify the specific prison's policies on what types of entertainment or educational items are allowed.

Banned items and incentive levels

While these gifts can provide comfort, relief, and distraction, it’s essential to be aware of the restrictions in place for inmates. Every prison has its own rules about what is allowed, and these rules can differ significantly depending on the inmate’s incentive level, security risk, and the specific facility. Banned items generally include anything that could be considered dangerous, such as sharp objects, aerosol cans, or anything that could be used as a weapon.

Additionally, some items are prohibited because they could disrupt prison order or present health and safety risks, such as certain foods or electronics. Drugs and alcohol are, of course, strictly forbidden, but even over-the-counter medications or supplements may not be allowed. It’s also worth noting that certain gifts, such as clothing or footwear, may only be allowed for prisoners on higher incentive levels, who have earned privileges through good behavior. Always check with the prison for the most current policies and ask to see their incentive and privilege level guidelines to ensure your gift can be accepted.

In summary, when choosing a gift for a prisoner, it’s vital to consider their basic needs, as well as items that can provide emotional support and help pass the time. Practical items like clothing and hygiene products can offer much-needed comfort, while personal items like photos or hobby materials can provide emotional sustenance. Above all, always ensure your gifts comply with the prison’s rules and restrictions, as sending prohibited items can lead to them being confiscated and can potentially cause trouble for the inmate. With careful consideration, you can help your loved one feel more supported during their time behind bars.