Co-ordinating mail-drop care packages

[RWheeler]

I have a few people that want to send me care packages on the trail, so I'm trying to figure out what the good spots to have them send them to would be.

I figured Standing Bear Farm would be a good spot, based on resupply between the Smokies and Hot Springs.

Obviously I'd prefer hostels over just a post office due to hours of availability, and contributing to the economy of the people that help hikers.

So what other hostels should I pretty much guarantee to plan a stop at, and tell people that they can send me a care package there?

My plan is to essentially assign the people a location, so I don't end up with 3 packages at the same spot, which would suck because I wouldn't be able to fully appreciate everything. I'm also looking for advice on how to inform them of what to pack, what not to pack, etc.

Thanks!

[Spokes]

There's plenty of information in previous threads and in the re-supply articles on the home page about this but....

...One suggestion is if people are planning on sending you an envelope or card "general delivery" to a post office along the way be sure to tell that to the postal clerk since cards/letters are normally kept in a separate place instead of on the shelf with the rest of the thru hiker packages.

I discovered this after missing a couple "inspirational letters" friends sent me.

Cheers!

[Serial 07]

standing bear is one place you don't need to send a package...there is a great resupply store there, send that package to hot springs instead...

[mcrainbow]

So many hikers send mail drops to Curtis, but not knowing that he can resupply you to Hot Springs. Once you get to Hot Springs, best to have a box there instead.

[RWheeler]

Alright, I'll send the box to Hot Springs and just resupply at Standing Bear. Probably Bluff Mounain for that location? And then fill out with whatever else I need in town before I head out?

[Chaco Taco]

Alright, I'll send the box to Hot Springs and just resupply at Standing Bear. Probably Bluff Mounain for that location? And then fill out with whatever else I need in town before I head out?
Bluff Mtn also has a solid resupply with a dollar store down the street. All the essentials right there in town. Erwin is a pain to resupply, send it there