• Choose the perfect Christmas gift for a soldier in IraqChristmas Gift image by Mary Beth Granger from Fotolia.com
  
  Choosing a Christmas gift for anyone is difficult, but the difficulty is multiplied when you're shopping for someone who is thousands of miles away in Iraq. Think about what the soldier is going through when you pick the perfect gift. For example, she might be missing luxuries that she can't get overseas. On the other hand, necessities are also appropriate.
  
  

Phone

• Buy your soldier an unlocked cell phone so she can easily talk to friends and family back home. An unlocked cell phone is one that isn't connected to any cell phone provider. A separate SIM card is required for this type phone. Make sure the salesperson you speak with knows you're buying a phone for use in Iraq so he can help you. If a cell phone is too expensive, choose an international phone card.
  
  

Kindle

• If the soldier likes to read, choose a Kindle eBook Reader. There can be a lot of downtime for troops in Iraq, so this will give him something to do in his spare time. You can pre-load hundreds of books and magazines onto the device before sending it over.
  
  

Video Games

• Another popular entertainment in Iraq is video games, according to website Boots on Ground. If you know he or a friend already has a gaming console, such as a Playstation or an Xbox, then send over a game or two he can play. Many game manufacturers also sell hand-held gaming devices, so consider one of those.
  
  

Treats

• Make some of his favorite homemade treats, such as chocolate chip cookies or brownies with pecans. Wrap the treats in airtight containers so they're still fresh when they make it to Iraq. You could also include store-bought treats that may not be available overseas.
  
  

Toiletries

• His or her favorite brand of deodorant, lotion, aftershave or moisturizer may not be available in Iraq. Send a care package full of toiletries for a practical, yet popular, gift.