What to send my UK friend from the US?
Posted by Independent-Ring-877@reddit | AskABrit | View on Reddit | 608 comments
I made friends with a woman from the UK online through a mutual interest. I’m sending her some merch she can’t order to the UK, and I want to send some little US treats for her along with it. I’ve already asked her if there’s anything she’d like, but she’s too polite to say yes. What are some classic US things I could send along in my care package?
She also has an 8 year old son, so bonus points if there’s something he’d like too!
Number60nopeas@reddit
My 7 year old niece is obsessed with American foods, she would love it if someone sent her some jars of proper american peanut butter and jelly
Secret_Sound_3478@reddit
American with an English boyfriend, here. Yes English people love saying how they hate most American chocolate BUT my friend loves Ghirardelli, especially the caramel squares.
Other requested American items: fruit by the foot, fruit roll ups, American-style baked beans, real lemonade (not sprite, maybe some crystal light mix), tequila, or hidden valley seasoning packets for homemade ranch!
If she likes to cook, I also recommend buying some champagne or prosecco vinegar from the grocery. I never see interesting vinegars in English supermarkets and always bring my own!
JukeGen@reddit
Jiffy pop!!!! We used to get it here but it disappeared a few years ago. It's amazing though and very American
yourefunny@reddit
Real Maple Syrup if that is a thing near you. My wife's uncle always sends us that. We make your style pancakes and slather it on. Great start to the weekend!
A ridiculous box of cereal like lucky charms for the 8 year old. While available here, they are hard to find.
Does the kid like American sports? A baseball cap of a team he is interested in.
ProfessionalEven296@reddit
Good call on the sports wear. Pick your closest team (or one you support), and send him merch.
Timely-Field1503@reddit
Second this, but it doesn't have to be a nearby team. The Rocket City Trash Pandas (a raccoon in a rocket powered garbage can) is always a hit with kids. And any of the AAA Baseball one-off names. They do a name change for a few games as a promotional thing, so you get Chupacabras, or Salt Potatoes....TONS of fun stuff like that.
No-Beginning-5007@reddit
Ex-pat Brit living in the UK and can confirm - baseball caps always a huge hit with nephews and as mentioned, if you can find a crazy team that’s even better. If they don’t know you/where you live, either get the Yankees, Boston Red Sox or the LA Dodgers bec kids have never heard of other places. But if you go minor leagues - anywhere crazy will do. We are the Rochester Redwings but sometimes we are the Garbage Plates after a local ‘special(i)ty!’ Many teams also have alternate Latinx identities at times and again, the minor leagues are where to go for the best logos on caps or tshirts (don’t bother sending anything that’s replica jersey related as kids don’t care about names they’ve never heard and do not wear baseball shirts, so a definite waste of expense!).
Weird candy (not chocolate as many have said already ) and crazy cereal is also always a hit!
My mum also used to love getting g boxes/tubes of Stovetop Stuffing mix - easier and different to stuffing in the UK.
Timely-Field1503@reddit
The San Antonio Flying Chanclas is a great example of a Latinx alternate name - cuts across a lot of cultural lines as well!
No-Beginning-5007@reddit
I absolutely LOVE this one but it would definitely have to be explained every time in the UK. We just have zero connection to Hispanic culture for the most part! When I tell you that ppl STILL have no clue why the Speedy Gonzalez cartoon is racist - that shows how little we know about this culture in the UK. But having lived here 25 years now and our son having had many Hispanic friends (and one Hispanic gf who “chancla’d” him in high school (he prob deserved it lol!) tell him of their fear of the flying chancla I just love that San Antonio went with this! It’s so great for a logo too!
Timely-Field1503@reddit
Lol....i guess the idea of "my mom was so mad she threw a shoe at me" isn't that common?
Lots of other fun ones though!
No-Beginning-5007@reddit
Lol. Other things but not shoes. Had never come across it til moving the US! Two nations divided by a common language as people have said - and several times that has created funny or very awkward and unfunny moments here for me 😁😬
x860x@reddit
Hartford (Connecticut - New England!) Yard Goats! Their alternate “team name” is the Hartford Steamed Cheeseburger 🤷🏻♂️
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Even if that team is notoriously not very good? 🤣😅
No-Beginning-5007@reddit
Ex-pat Brit living in the UK and can confirm - baseball caps always a huge hit with nephews and as mentioned, if you can find a crazy team that’s even better. If they don’t know you/where you live, either get the Yankees, Boston Red Sox or the LA Dodgers bec kids have never heard of other places. But if you go minor leagues - anywhere crazy will do. We are the Rochester Redwings but sometimes we are the Garbage Plates after a local ‘special(i)ty!’ Many teams also have alternate Latinx identities at times and again, the minor leagues are where to go for the best logos on caps or tshirts (don’t bother sending anything that’s replica jersey related as kids don’t care about names they’ve never heard and do not wear baseball shirts, so a definite waste of expense!).
Weird candy (not chocolate as many have said already ) and crazy cereal is also always a hit!
My mum also used to love getting g boxes/tubes of Stovetop Stuffing mix - easier and different to stuffing in the UK.
TabularConferta@reddit
Absolutely! Or pick a sports team near you that are at least competent.
Capital-Wolverine532@reddit
Yes, like GB Packers
---x__x---@reddit
The British love an underdog.
noneedtoprogram@reddit
Maple syrup isn't hard to get on the UK, a larger Sainsbury's usually has at least 2 100% maple syrup, and costco sells their giant bottle/jug. I'd be wary of shipping it and leaking maple syrup on everything too 😆
American candies would be my shout, like nerds, although our Sainsbury's has an American import section with things like nerds and froot loops.
yourefunny@reddit
Don't have a Costco membership. I assumed supermarket Maple Syrup was the fake stuff. We just get a real kick out of the maple syrup from right around the corner from them. Like my 4 year old gets excited that we are eating Uncle Marks present you know. He is an engineer so the packaging is ridiculous!
GooseyDuckDuck@reddit
All of which is available in the UK sorry.
yourefunny@reddit
Yea but coming from the states adds fun.
Theal12@reddit
you can buy real maple syrup in the US and it would be very expensive to mail
smiley6125@reddit
Or even some clothes for the kid. The Ralph Lauren outlets in the US are dirt cheap while it is a pricey brand here in the UK. I’m sure the kid would love a t shirt or two. Same goes for nike.
Pristine-Role2243@reddit
I always bring back some kool aid back.it makes a fun drink with some cool flavours. Just remind them that measurements need to be converted from US to UK
AgeAlternative9834@reddit
Not to be THAT person, but are you sure she is just being polite? And not that it is maybe that she is not interested in American treats? We have American sweet shops here that stock candies, cereals, sometimes sundries but they are very expensive and usually never worth the money. She may just appreciate the merch gifts without the extra bits.
You seem like an incredibly thoughtful person to ask this question! Some posters have suggested other things like maple syrups or BBQ/Hot sauces which would probably be better received options.
ItsLochJess@reddit
Tootsie rolls, Graham crackers, packets of dried ranch dressing powder, cool aid. Theyre inconically American and we don't have them.
tigerz0973@reddit
Grape jelly! Elite on toast, though we call it jam.
andyrocks@reddit
Lots of weird M&M flavours! There always some interesting ones. Reese's cups go down well with us too. How about some well known things like fruit rollups, tootsie rolls, jolly ranchers, candy corn (yum), Swedish fish, hot tamales, that kind of thing.
Avoid chocolate though (except for M&Ms :) as its vile.
TiberiusTheFish@reddit
cigarettes and nylons.
Suspiciously-Kale@reddit
Probably anything Rocky road, my British ex loved that in Cadbury lol or Root beer candy
SignBrief104@reddit
American breakfast cereal! You guys have crazy stuff over there, my 5-year-old's eyes were like saucers in the Walmart cereal aisle in Texas.
Also Butterfingers bars, bisquick, instant grits and salt water taffee.
ScaryButt@reddit
When I (Brit) travel to the US I like to get all the things that are banned over here for health reasons, like peroxide toothpaste and 500 naproxen tablets in a bottle.
Probably not that great as a gift tho.
SingerFirm1090@reddit
Things 'banned' in the UK are less likely to get through UK customs.
DefinitelynotDanger@reddit
I live in the US. I get my mum to ship me motion sickness tablets that are banned here all the time with my yearly care package lmao
InevitablyCyclic@reddit
We will take a bottle of night nurse for US relatives when traveling. And a bottle of more than 16 Ibuprofen when coming back.
I would say that nurofen plus is also a good one to take there but the US are a little funny about good painkillers so probably not a good idea.
DefinitelynotDanger@reddit
It's interesting what is and isn't allowed lol
You can buy huge bottles of naproxen in the US but in the UK it's prescription only. Same with Melatonin.
Meanwhile the US doesn't allow Kwells without a prescription but the UK sells them at the chemist.
I feel like motion sickness tablets are far less dangerous than painkillers of any kind lmao
Annual-Load3869@reddit
You can buy naproxen in boots
DefinitelynotDanger@reddit
Yeah sorry I meant the same dosage in the US is prescription only in the UK.
Sad-Yoghurt5196@reddit
It depends. If those motion sickness pills are scopolamine, taking more than the box says will land you in a deliriant state, similar to that of the South American drug known as burundanga or devils breath, which comes from a tree in the genus Brugmansia, is the source both of burundanga and of the chemical we use. It's a disassociative deliriant, like a super bad fever dream, and you'll be pretty much incapable of doing anything other than having a bad time. Meanwhile you get robbed of everything you own, and can be coerced into using the ATM, while also having absolutely no memory of it after it wears off.
It's on about the same level as Datura, Ergot, Rhododendron and Nutmeg for not fucking with. Even if you get the dosing spot on, you're not going to be having fun. Definitely not recreational drugs, but that's why both the dermal patches and pills containing scopolamine hydrochloride are prescription only in the UK.
InevitablyCyclic@reddit
The US thinks children are to stupid to not eat the huge plastic ball with a toy inside a kinder surprise. Common sense has very little to do with it.
I get the limits on the size of packets of off the shelf pain killers. They are a pain (no pun intended) but I'll put up with some inconvenience if it saves lives.
But some of the other restrictions are just silly and purely for historical reasons.
DefinitelynotDanger@reddit
tbf everyone should think kids are too stupid to keep themselves alive lmao
The dumbest part is thinking the parents are too stupid to supervise their kids with a choking hazard while at the same time thinking said stupid parents are smart enough to not leave a loaded handgun around for their kids to find.
---x__x---@reddit
Am I right in thinking night nurse is banned now?
I only heard about it after moving from the UK to the US and I’m kinda bummed I never got to try it.
Over here we have something called NyQuil and I get the best sleep of my life when I take it. The silver lining to being sick.
InevitablyCyclic@reddit
Still available as far as I know. It's in the same class as neurofen plus, you have to ask the pharmacist for it but don't need a prescription. Makes it harder for kids to get hold of and they have a duty to refuse to sell it if they think you are showing signs of addiction or drug seeking.
---x__x---@reddit
Might have to ask my mum to ship me some then!
wosmo@reddit
It doesn't even need to be banned - one thing I really miss from the states, is being able to buy paracetamol or aspirin for like $5 for 500, instead of packs of 12.
Nana-Cool@reddit
I got a knuckle duster stuffed in a teddy bear a few years ago 😂
ScaryButt@reddit
Good point, I've never had an issue but then they've just been in my luggage, not posted separately. I wonder if it'd get through in a larger care package.
Chainmaille-Witch@reddit
I like to do the same, things like melatonin, teeth whitening products, big bottles of OTC painkillers, etc.
Also things like sweets we don’t have here, I like the grape flavour they have instead of blackcurrant, and apple instead of lime.
Id be delighted to receive a big pack of melatonin gummies or some crest peroxide toothpaste as a gift lol!
Pacific1944@reddit
lol the opposite for me - I always stock up on black currant flavored anything when I’m in the UK. I love it so much!
---x__x---@reddit
When I immigrated to the US I had taken a pack of blackcurrant strepsils.
I remarked to my wife that I’d be sad when they’re gone as you can’t really find much blackcurrant anything here.
Later that week she had gone out of her way to go to some world foods place and found some blackcurrant lozenges for me.
Dlogan143@reddit
It was illegal to grow Blackcurrants in the US for many years so it never really caught on as a flavouring over there
Loudlass81@reddit
That's interesting. I need to read more about that. It does explain the blackcurrant/grape dichotomy for the flavour of 'purple' between US & UK. Was it to do with it being an invasive species or something? I'm intrigued to know more lol.
Why is it that UK 'green' flavour is almost always lime, and it's usually apple in US? When limes grow in some states in America, that baffles me. Maybe sailors got used to it from eating limes to combat scurvy? Interesting subject matter to do a deep dive on at some point.
Pacific1944@reddit
Cool, I didn’t know that. I find the reason for different flavor profiles in different regions fascinating!
OK_LK@reddit
DYK that green haribo gummy bears are apple flavour and the white bears are pineapple?
Kactuslord@reddit
I live for the white ones
downlau@reddit
I thought the green ones were strawberry?
Chainmaille-Witch@reddit
Is that in the UK too? I’ll have to get some!
OK_LK@reddit
Yep!
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Thank you! I had wondered about stuff like this, but I don’t know what it is and isn’t available there. I’ll mention of few of these types of things to her!
Mental_Body_5496@reddit
If her son is autistic/adhd and doesnt sleep she will love you forever for sending melatonin gummies !
Otherwise koolaid sachets are a great treat in our house
I love reeves pieces if not allergic to peanuts obviously.
Welch's grape jelly for proper PBJ sandwiches
If you are in the Carolina's I would sell my kidney for Cheerwine !
TacoBoutBullshit@reddit
Cheerwine and a Dr. Pepper
UserCannotBeVerified@reddit
The thing with taking melatonin though it that it suppresses your bodies natural response to creating melatonin, so you quickly become dependent on the supplements.
1northfield@reddit
That’s American ingenuity for you /s
Mental_Body_5496@reddit
Nope not at all - if my body isn't creating it ! My son doesn't create any he didn't sleep more thsn an hour at a time until he was about 8 ! Melatonin creates the sleep signal he wasnt getting and it retrained the body somewhat. Now 19 he doesn't take it but only has to get up early for college 2 days a week. So just sets alarms and pushes through. Their natural sleep pattern is 2am to 11am which is great when we lived in caves and someone had to be on late shift !
thermalcat@reddit
Also if they have ADHD, be mindful of the colourings. USA uses colourants that are rarely used in the UK sweets industry now. E102 (tartrazine) E104 (quinoline yellow) E110 (sunset yellow FCF) E122 (carmoisine) E124 (ponceau 4R) E129 (allura red) all have a noted effect. Even as an adult my husband can't have sunset yellow.
Mental_Body_5496@reddit
Fair point 👉
Scary-Zucchini-1750@reddit
I'm the same.
The medication aisles in American supermarkets has to be seen to be believed!
We have a section of an aisle. They have about 4 aisles dedicated to any ailment you could imagine, and some you couldn't.
I always come back from America with all kinds of medication 😂
romoladesloups@reddit
Take Omeprazole as well if you're using Naproxen.
Theal12@reddit
you can’t easily buy peroxide at all in the UK, I order from Amazon
Forya_Cam@reddit
Huh? To me buying something on Amazon is easier than going to the shops.
snajk138@reddit
A friends mom, who is a doctor, always bought sleeping pills and cough syrup when in the US since those require a prescription here, or are outright banned. Her son bought Kava Kava, since that's illegal here.
SiteWhole7575@reddit
Kava isn’t illegal here at all, it’s just not allowed to be sold in any way representing it as a “food supplement” or “tea”, it’s fine to buy it as plant food though… 🤷🏻♂️
C2H5OHNightSwimming@reddit
This is the answer. Cold and flu products that actually work and CBD candy that actually contains enough that you'd notice but doesn't cost 4 million quid.
God I wish I knew an American to post me things!!
Shannoonuns@reddit
Oh my god naproxen!
I used to have a prescription for endometriosis and I was so shocked when I went to a walgreens in florida and they were just on the shelf. There were so many prescription meds and medical equipment you'd have to go through the doctor to get here just on shelves free to pick up.
GooseyDuckDuck@reddit
Just buy the 16 at a time FFS
Kcufasu@reddit
There's usually very good reasons they're banned, but eaxh to their own
VolcanicBear@reddit
Aside melatonin. No logic on that one. Not actually banned though I guess.
funkball@reddit
I get about 80 a month...
lyn90-@reddit
I lived in the US for a year and really missed sauce for buffalo wings when I came home and good Ranch Dressing.....not the Paul Newman one.
CharacterCareer509@reddit
Someone sent me a box full of tootsie roll things once, the chocolate ones were a family favourite, even the dog went crazy for them, and the lollypops.
My friend just got a 1lb bag of mixed tootsie things, and a bag of another mixed candy that had sweet tarts and laffy taffy and things in.
Grape kool aid was popular too although I was pretty shocked at the amount of sugar you have to add.
Just think about things that will travel well and not get crushed.
UK customs did open and test the tootsie rolls but I was fine with that and wonder if they tried 1
HumorPsychological60@reddit
'too polite to say yes' is the most British thing ever 😂
I'm not gonna lie, American chocolate is infamous over here for being terrible. So maybe some sweets instead of like a novelty Oreos flavour or chips flavour. Maybe even jerky or a really good BBQ or hot sauce? Or something like peanut butter pretzels etc
Unusual-Thing-7149@reddit
I took some Hershey's kisses to my staff once and all eight said they were disgusting and would I be offended if they threw them away. The same people could live on chocolate lol
emax4@reddit
There's an ingredient specifically in Hershey that has a vomit-y taste that's not in European chocolates. Even the Reese cups made there in the UK have a different peanut butter filling. I learned this from this sub as I'm in the US.
anabsentfriend@reddit
Hershey's sticks to your teeth. It's like wax.
DepravedCroissant@reddit
It genuinely is like wax!
Suspiciously-Kale@reddit
Is the uk Cadbury different than the US version as it also has a waxy texture, NGL
Gnarly_314@reddit
You need to purchase the British-made Cadbury chocolate as there is an agreement in place to not change the UK recipe. All other locations have been able to adapt the recipe. Check the back of the wrapper to see where the return address is. Bournville, Birmingham is the good stuff.
Bretty315@reddit
It is completely different, when Kraft Foods bought Cadburys out, they changed the recipe and their sales dropped massively! 😂
ThomasRedstone@reddit
Are we due it's like wax?
Maybe it is wax...
spikewilliams2@reddit
Been calling it brown wax for years. I'd rather have baking chocolate.
End6509@reddit
I love baking chocolate... Hershey's now, don't think I can call that stuff chocolate
johnthomas_1970@reddit
Butyric Acid is the vomit tasting enzyme in American Chocolate. European chocolate also has a higher cocoa content and lower sugar content compared to American chocolate which has opposite levels.
emax4@reddit
Huh, I didn't know that. Are there European brands you can recommend avoiding?
johnthomas_1970@reddit
Lindt chocolate had a recent issue. You're better off eating Cadbury's, even though it is now owned by an American company(Mondelez)
emax4@reddit
Lindt?!? NOOOO! I love my mint chocolate Lindor balls.
johnthomas_1970@reddit
Lindt admits its chocolate isn't actually 'expertly crafted with the finest ingredients' | Fortune Europe https://share.google/Bgcq96YAR34KSe3oj
tazbaron1981@reddit
Bituric acid
HistoricalResort6299@reddit
YES I have always hated hersheys chocolate for its vomity flavor
ConstantPineapple@reddit
IT IS A VOMITY TASTE!!! On the head with that one there
Sudden-Requirement40@reddit
Same with Reeses my husband gets a Reeses chocolate egg every year because he likes peanut butter cups and even the kids reject it! It's like synthetic chocolate 🤮
Butlerian_Jihadi@reddit
Butiric acid, iirc.
WillNotBeAThrowaway@reddit
The reason it tastes like vomit (or the aftertaste of vomit) is because vomit contains butyric acid.
emax4@reddit
Yes, that was the other one. Someone else mentioned it before but I forgot the name, Thank you!
jr0061006@reddit
I think it’s butyric acid.
emax4@reddit
Correct!
Sea-Situation7495@reddit
It's Rennet. It smells like vomit, because it's made from the contents of the stomach of new born calves.
So - that chocolate is also not suitable for vegetarians: extracting rennet is not done to living new-born calves.
Littleleicesterfoxy@reddit
Just a add on here. As mentioned below it’s butyric acid, not rennet, which is butter derivative. Also rennet is used to make cheese but it is manufactured without the intervention of new born calves.
stealthykins@reddit
Some cheeses do still use traditional rennet (rather than the lab produced alternative), especially hard cheeses from the mainland.
Cilfaen@reddit
They do not add rennet to hershey chocolate.
The shared chemical that's found in both vomit and Hershey's chocolate is butyric acid, and it's created from the milk solids as part of their production process, not explicitly added to the mix.
StrawberryBlind@reddit
It's not rennet. It's butyric acid from the production process, but it is not rennet.
emax4@reddit
Thank you for this! It makes me wonder if Hersheys makes a Rennet-less variant for easier consumption (for more refined tastes).
HumorPsychological60@reddit
Just unlocked a memory form when I was a kid and my dad bought some back from America. Even tho I didn't really like them I ate the entire pack.
Miserable_Mission_55@reddit
haha i had the exact same memory. huge bag of vomit tasting Hershey kisses that i ate until became actually sick despite not liking them😂
HumorPsychological60@reddit
At the age it's just the novelty of being given a treat I think 😂
notquitehuman_@reddit
Especially a treat from a strange and foreign land! (Kids have no perspective).
abstractraj@reddit
Good American chocolate is something like Ghirardelli
lyricoloratura@reddit
And Europeans would still think it’s waxy tasting.
abstractraj@reddit
Really? It doesnt contain butyric acid which is what makes Hershey’s taste weird
lyricoloratura@reddit
It’s what makes Hershey’s taste like 🤢, but Ghirardelli is still really waxy in texture. I don’t know that there’s a nationally produced chocolate that is what I’d consider good enough to send to foreign friends, tbh
Rapturerise@reddit
Hershey’s Kisses taste like feet.
lyricoloratura@reddit
I don’t think I’m brave enough to ask how you know
cinejam@reddit
Cookies & Cream ones are acceptable but yes all other Hersheys tastes like vomit
Kactuslord@reddit
This is the only Hershey's I like
NiceyChappe@reddit
Can confirm, bought some Hersheys because of how much Americans seem to love it. Horrible, threw it away.
_hammitt@reddit
Weirdly I think we're stuck with it rather than loving it. I've never met anyone whose favorite chocolate it is, it's just cheap and available.
Separate-Web247@reddit
The only exception to this is the peppermint candy cane Hershey’s kisses that come out at Christmas
Everything else sucks
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Is jerky and BBQ American? I feel so uncultured. I’ve even been to the UK believe it or not. 😅😭
Agreed on the American chocolate thing though!
Sin_nombre__@reddit
I think jerky was around in the Americas before european colonisation/genocide.
Lavender_dreaming@reddit
Chex mix, really good and very difficult to get here at a reasonable price. Graham crackers - mentioned so much in media they might be curious about what it tastes like.
lyricoloratura@reddit
Y’all don’t have graham crackers? That’s crazy talk. 😂
Lavender_dreaming@reddit
Nope no Graham crackers here, I’ve been to the states but I keep forgetting to try them.
lyricoloratura@reddit
Laughing because I read this too quickly and saw “I keep trying to forget them.”
Graham cracker trauma is clearly underreported 😂
Lavender_dreaming@reddit
Haha I’m sure they aren’t that bad, we do get Le petit beurre- which my husband (he’s American) assures me are kinda like Graham crackers but better. They do make pretty awesome s’mores though 🤤
OrangeRadiohead@reddit
Grits Corn Dogs
Also, any carbonated drink with zillions of addititives /s
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
lol at “corn dogs”. I do love a good corndog, but can’t imagine how I’d ship that. 🤣
Sweaty-Peanut1@reddit
Can you buy packets of corn dog outside mix? That she could then just use the closest to whatever goes on the inside of a corndog to make her own (is it just a hotdog? I dunno I’m veggie). But those kinds of packet mixes for things are pretty good as they’re lightweight and the bulk of the ingredients get bought here. I’d add sloppy Joe mix to that because it’s really not something that has made it over here, plus biscuits and gravy because it’s so confusing to British people who are like ‘why do my scones have bread sauce on them?’ lol. We have a pretty good selection of tex mex stuff here now but anything more niche we might not have - certainly tacos, fajitas, enchiladas form a whole aisle of the supermarket now unlike the 90s when my house was THE place to come for dinner with all the tex mex stuff brought over.
Also, I do not believe it is possible to get velveta in the U.K. generally, I would say American cheese should not be classified as such but I have such strong memories of my dad making a dip by melting that and adding it to salsa…. Although I assume it would be heavy to send and we do have kind of similar cheesy nacho dips.
For the kid - grape flavoured sweets. Personally I think grape flavoured stuff is absolutely vile, and realistically most Brits would probably agree. But it’s not a flavour we have here much at all so at least is a fun thing for him to try. Don’t just do grape in case he hates it though! Those fuzzy peach rings are 👌🏻. Proper jelly beans (jelly belly?) are pretty expensive here still too - especially the ones in the boxes which come with the little ‘menus’ of how to mix your flavours to make eg strawberry daiquiri with a rum and a strawberry one (no idea if daiquiri is rum ha. Also fairly unlikely to be a problem if something like that was referencing an alcohol flavour even for a young kid in a way it might be more in the US). Getting those boxes with the menus is another childhood memory though.
Also kool aid. Bonus points if it’s a shade of blue illegal in the UK haha. Although again, watermelon is not a flavour that tends to be suuuuper popular here so not that. Am I right that there are some that colour change? Any kid would love that.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
“Corn dog outside mix” 💀
Yes, that’s a thing! And someone else mentioned it too, we call usually call it “jiffy mix” and you use it to make cornbread (which I’m realizing is also an American thing), and yes, it’s just a hot dog inside! It’s coated in a cornbread (cornmeal and other typical batter ingredients) batter and then deep fried! They’re so bad for you, but so so good when they’re made fresh!
Thanks for your help! You’ve given me a ton to work with!
Packet mixes is a great idea, I’ve already got ranch powder on the list! I like to cook, so making sloppy joes or biscuits and gravy from a packet feels illegal, LOL. But, for this purpose, I could let it go.
Sweaty-Peanut1@reddit
Yes the ‘corn’ in ‘corn dog’ should have probably given that away but ….you got what I meant 😂.
I was actually just about to come back (again…) and say cornbread mix! We really don’t see cornbread here and that stuff is delicious (and also, weirdly I absolutely loved the potato bread there and would eat that for lunch every day whenever I was out. Not that you’d be able to ship that haha). Although it absolutely is available, you also don’t see buttermilk available in all supermarkets so then you start having to think about twatting about with trying to make your own too.
And yes I agree ….packet cooking isn’t really cooking, especially for something as easy as sloppy joes. I make sloppy joes quite a bit still - but it’s some offensive bastardised version where I’ll make a spag Bol mince for one day and dump a load of ketchup, sugar and American mustard in it and call it ‘sloppy joes’ the next day haha. But, if you have no idea what any of these things are meant to taste like, or the consistency it should end up like you still might end up a way off or just feel a bit out of your depth. American food tends to taste very sweet to UK palettes so I think if you had no experience of sloppy joes and made them yourself you might think you had gone really wrong and made a ‘I wasn’t supposed to put peas in the trifle’ dish. But if it’s come from a packet you can trust the process and realise it’s great! I will say though I have not been able to find proper American cheese singles in years - all we can get now are the dairylea ones which just aren’t right. I’d probably provide serving suggestions for any packet food you send too, or what seems obvious to you might not be to her!
Sloppy joes are also just a great kid dinner and especially being able to whip it up quickly after school when you’re tight on time is a bonus. Plus those packets of seasoning are cheap, light and travel well so a great way of sharing some of the classics even if you wouldn’t even actually use them!
Can I ask what the mutual interest/merch is?
Loudlass81@reddit
For the cheese singles - buy either the supermarket own brand, or for greater similarity to US cheese slices, go for the economy brand the supermarket does. All my American mates can't tell the difference between UK & US cheese slices if you get the economy supermarket version...just trust me & try it once, they're usually under a quid for 10 lol. Cheap mistake if it doesn't work...
Sweaty-Peanut1@reddit
No you literally can’t get them where I am! I think it’s probably a central London problem because we don’t have the giant megastores so they tend to prioritise the brand name stuff - which means the dairylea ones seemingly. Or if I go back to my mum’s house the supermarket there is Waitrose so they also aren’t selling £1 own brand plastic cheese singles!
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
This is super helpful, thanks! I’m not sure if we have gluten free jiffy mix, I’ve never looked for it, but I definitely will because now I’m curious, lol.
The mutual interest is a movies and TV podcast called Streaming Things! The merch she ordered was a hoodie they made for their coverage of the show “Yellowjackets”, which if you haven’t seen, was excellent for one season, and has slid a little further downhill every season since, lol.
FoolishDancer@reddit
How to post corn dogs, please?
OrangeRadiohead@reddit
I have no idea, I've never seen one.
zezblit@reddit
I'd be thrilled with mexican chillies (or other) that are hard to get in the UK, we have great home grown ones like scotch bonnet, and my local the dorset naga, but very hard to get the relatively mild but flavourful ones. It's either bell peppers or birdseye chillis for the most part, even just habaneros are pretty rare to see. Further, interesting hot sauce would go down a treat, but these all assume they like spicy food, but most brits do
BBQ is great but I don't know that you could bring anything that we can't get here anyway (it's mostly the process itself that makes it?).
Suspiciously-Kale@reddit
Send the dried chiles so much flavor and definitely hatch chiles.
Lavender_dreaming@reddit
Dried meat and BBQ aren’t American, many other countries do something similar to both but America jerky and BBQ is very different style to other places. FYI Biltong South Africa’s dried meat equivalent is sooooo much better
sarahsazzles@reddit
We have jerky but it can be expensive. And bbq we have but I have no idea if it’s the same taste if you mean crisps
PathAdvanced2415@reddit
American sweets are mostly illegal here- they still use the Southampton six e numbers. I’d go for lime tortilla chips, local honey or fancy teabags.
Free-Ambassador-516@reddit
American here and can confirm our chocolate is horrific & every time I visit the UK, I am leaving with as much chocolate as I think I can get past CBP without being an issue. Ironically American chocolate is also significantly more expensive.
MissBandersnatch2U@reddit
Dove chocolate isn't bad, or you could try a local brand like See's
Smart-Run3611@reddit
Our chocolate went downhill just before your companies like Kraft bought them out. Too much palm oil makes it waxy.
AlternativePrior9559@reddit
It’s the chocolate smuggler again Jim. Wave ‘em through before they melt
---x__x---@reddit
I’m British living in the US and in my opinion this is mostly hersheys being terrible and some people extrapolating that into “this is what all American chocolate tastes like”.
A “Milky Way” in the US is basically indistinguishable from a mars bar in the UK.
I recently tried some chocolates from a Boston chocolatier called Phillips and it was some of the best chocolate I’ve ever tried.
Smart-Run3611@reddit
Reese’s are pretty good.
Complex_Move6465@reddit
But, but.... 'Milky way' exists in the UK as a completely different chocolate bar that SHOULD be distinguishable from a Mars bar!
---x__x---@reddit
Yeah I kinda miss em.
Zusi99@reddit
Bounty's are delicious if you like coconut. I, however, do not like coconut.
ZealousidealAd6382@reddit
Isn’t a bounty just a poor Mounds?
User-1967@reddit
I agree Bounty is delicious
Alexander-Wright@reddit
The dark chocolate ones, yes. The others are just too sweet.
PerfectCover1414@reddit
LOL I go to my local Indian or ethnic shop to get imported UK chocolates :)
---x__x---@reddit
There’s a few British import stores locally but you pay a hefty premium. $2.50 for a really small pack of custard creams for instance.
I miss those huge packs for like 30p in Tesco lol.
tanbrit@reddit
There’s an online store called Britishfoodsupplies which isn’t terribly priced, and they have a weekly sale
---x__x---@reddit
Thanks, I'll check it out.
PerfectCover1414@reddit
Tell me about it! Sadly I get migraines when I eat something highly processed so most US things are out for me. But I have found some stuff I don't react badly to. Canola oil is a no-no especially as it's a respiratory aggressor. Or flavored crisps so it's mostly really simple stuff. My body just isn't innoculated enough as I'm not native.
HumorPsychological60@reddit
Huh, interesting. I may be lying there one day as my partner is in Michigan so it's good to know there's a lot of good stuff out there! And I'm totally with you on the bounty front 😋
WorkingStiff6957@reddit
Jerky may be problematic. Technically,you can send it, but only if it meets specific regulations.
tr0028@reddit
Dark chocolate pretzels! Jerky if you're allowed. Smokehouse or dill pickle almonds. Ingredients for s'mores (plus instructions)
Successful-Treacle70@reddit
The American companies are slowly trying to get a foothold into the UK confectionery but we're just not that keen as it is soooooo sweet.... there are always hundreds of reeses eggs left after Easter for example...I probably wouldn't do food TBH maybe a toy for her son that we can't get here.
ChardonnayCentral@reddit
Yes, DON'T send American chocolate, whatever you do. Just about anything else is acceptable.
metal_jester@reddit
As someone who's partner who fly's out to la and NYC one a quarter.
USA colleagues loves our chocolate, hates our gummies. So reverse that and it goes down a treat.
HumorPsychological60@reddit
Weirdly my partner lived in Michigan and when she came here she said the chocolate didn't taste much different??
MomoTessa@reddit
This one’s weird. My mom sends her best friend Joffy corn bread mix and grape jelly. He tells her that’s what he misses the most from living here for a short time during their college years lol
Desperate_Tax8711@reddit
Trust my experience and stay away from mailing chocolate in the summer. It is best to choose something that your city or state is famous for.
IllustriousNeat6597@reddit
Definitely not American chocolate it is gross. I have no idea what you guys put in it but it’s truly awful 😀. Sorry appreciate this isn’t helpful 😀
MinimumGarbage9354@reddit
Goober grape and peanut butter.
SnapDragon2525@reddit
milk duds -Junior caramels
Might be heavy but a nice candle or special edition hand wash from B&BW?
Sheckles@reddit
A machine gun.
HatOfFlavour@reddit
Twinkies. We don't have them here.
Flange1312@reddit
You can get them. Big Tesco stores often have them.
Foetus_Eating@reddit
Twinkies.
Flange1312@reddit
Ha ha My old American boss used to say Twinkies would survive nuclear war.
BlueberryLeft4355@reddit
Dual US/ UK citizen here. These are the things that always go over well when I send them to family in the UK:
-- Secret deodorant (seriously! Pretty much any fem hygiene--UK has terrible lady products imho) -- Anything cowboy or western/ wilderness themed, such as Wrangler shirts or national park memorabilia -- handmade Quilts -- Anything related to soul food, especially spices and hot sauces -- Peanut butter pretzels or any similar wacky peanut butter item -- Wild breakfast cereal like Frankenberry, the weirder the better -- Random baseball caps or shirts with local stuff on them, like "Randy's Bait Shop, Tuscaloosa AL", or some such -- Basically anything made in Texas (cowhide coasters, etc) -- ** Anything CARHARTT (huge hit every time!!!)* -- Good quality US-made cotton clothing of any kind -- Fruity candy
Stuff to AVOID: chocolate, beer/ alcohol, dream catchers or any fake Native stuff, anything made in China, anything they will have to pay duties/ tax on, anything Disney (or movie themed), electronics, most books, anything too heavy or breakable
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Thank you!! This is a great list!
It’s funny you mention “fake native stuff”, we are Native American, lol. I might send something (not a dream catcher, maybe jewelry) but it would be something handmade by my Native American dad. It’s kind of cool that I can send the real deal, so the fake Chinese made crap looks as bad as it is.
BlueberryLeft4355@reddit
This is great! I used to work with our local Native community, so I've been able to buy some small real-deal items to send to my nephew. He loved it and still has them in his living room. Basically anything authentic or handmade goes over well, esp if it relates to cultures or experiences they don't have in the UK. Jewelry made my your family member would be really special and appreciated, esp if you give her info about it to tell her friends when she wears it.
But seriously, if you just went to Ace Hardware and got her a Carhartt purse and sent her son a little Wrangler shirt, plus maybe a good bottle of Cajun hot sauce, they'd prob lose their minds, lol.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I’ve seen a lot people talk about Carhartt, and that’s hilarious to me because I’m in the Midwest, and Carhartt is everywhere. I wear an old Carhartt ball cap pretty much everyday, and all my favorite hoodies are Carhartt. Never would have guessed that would be a hot item over there!
BlueberryLeft4355@reddit
It's really hard to find fabrics like that in the UK (at normal people prices)! All my aunties obsess over Carhartt purses, and my nephews want the jackets.
Flange1312@reddit
Ooh how about something from bath and body works for your friend? Its so expensive here as main supplier in the UK is Next so they hike the prices.
Flange1312@reddit
What about an LL Bean hat for the son? We have 'beanie'hats here but not many kids know LL Bean was the original.
Smooth-Resource5792@reddit
fridge magnets. no, seriously, ive been collecting them for years. If it's of an iconic location where you live, the kid might dig it and want more for his collection
FranScan1997@reddit
I also collect fridge magnets! My other collection is postcards
Flange1312@reddit
Me too! I go crazy for a fridge magnet. Gutted I didn't buy a Nashville and Graceland one and a Florida one.
GiraffeCalledKevin@reddit
I am in the states and I will absolutely send you some fridge magnets!
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Why are you the second person to say fridge magnets? This is so funny to me, I thought they were just being weird lol. I’m learning so much from this thread!
anabsentfriend@reddit
If your friend has a built-in fridge like me there's nowhere to put them. Friends bring them back as souvenirs and they go in a drawer. I'm not really a fan of nick nacks.
Goldf_sh4@reddit
Microwave?
Andagonism@reddit
To add to this, we dont really have bumper stickers either. So that might be another idea.
johnthomas_1970@reddit
In the UK, we can now get everything from American Candy Shops(albeit very expensive).
Don't include Jolly Ranchers as they are being banned in the UK for having the ingredient MOAH in which is a Genotoxic Carcinogen(can give you cancer).
See; https://share.google/TkBE2sgvVeCVRsCMX
American food products don't meet the same standards as European and UK Food standards, so sending snacks over may be an insult to your English Friend, especially if she's more Organic in her food choices.
OtherwiseAd1045@reddit
Zarbees Children's Sleep sweets with melatonin! Oh, what I wouldn't do for a lifetime supply.
Smart-Run3611@reddit
Don’t get involved in these sort of relationships. They never end well.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
What do you mean?
ambergriswoldo@reddit
Not Hersheys. It tastes like vomit to us.
Smart-Run3611@reddit
Even Reese’s?
ambergriswoldo@reddit
No but then the Reese’s in the UK has different ingredients. I bought a load of Hersheys Kisses last time I was in the US - I’d never tried them before and all the different flavours sounded good - ended up throwing almost all of them away 🤢
pineapplewin@reddit
Try Ghirardelli
Suspiciously-Kale@reddit
Second this
ambergriswoldo@reddit
But does it taste like sick 😭
PerfectCover1414@reddit
Not like sick but VERY sweet and a bit chalky. I'd say it tastes brown, dumb as that sounds the cocoa just has no distinctive choccy aroma.
ChanceStunning8314@reddit
From a British chocolate website: Why Does American Chocolate Taste Like Sick?
The perception that American chocolate tastes "like sick" can be attributed to butyric acid in some American chocolate recipes.
Butyric acid, a compound found in milk products, is also present in rancid butter and vomit, so that it might evoke a "sick" taste association.
Some American chocolate manufacturers add butyric acid during production to give the chocolate a longer shelf life.
n3m0sum@reddit
Hershey's doesn't add it and it doesn't appear in the ingredients list. But it's definitely there, and they don't deny its presence.
It can be generated in production from the milk products. We know exactly how to do that (lipolysis), and exactly how to avoid it. So it's apparently deliberate.
BadgerDeluxe-@reddit
Hershey's did it on purpose to increase the shelf life so that it could be shipped to GIs in WW1 and WW2 (IIRC). The GI's got used to the vomit taste and associated it with a treat, so they kept producing it that way during peacetime to keep that market. In the process they managed to condition the whole USA to like that stuff.
ChanceStunning8314@reddit
And it’s absolutely 🤮 to Brits! (Signed, an ex Brit chocolatier..)
Fellowes321@reddit
…. but it only needs a longer shelf life because it tastes like vomit?
Tygria@reddit
Lots of us hate it, too. :(
gia-walker@reddit
How much are you thinking of spending? My son in law became my favourite person in the world when he sent me some real cowboy (girl) boots He also can get some amazingly cool t-shirts that we would have to order
notquitehuman_@reddit
Does she have any interests you could tell us about? Sometimes, the UK market can be limited for certain hobbies, and paying US shipping costs is painful.
For example, Im a fan of sleight of hand magic. With the exception of bicycles, it's hard to find good USPCC playing cards in the UK market.
If there are any hobbies or interests specific to her, this would make the gift more personal too.
Cat_Lover_Yoongi@reddit
I enjoyed bringing back the everything bagel seasoning, dark chocolate coated cherries/mints and tote bags from trader joe’s from a recent trip to the US
Realistic-Celery3317@reddit
Dark chocolate covered cherries from Forest Feast are amazing. Check supermarkets, I’ve brought them in Waitrose, and I saw mini packs somewhere recently can’t remember where
IndependenceTasty666@reddit
You can get the sewelnknt and dark chocolate cherries here btw if you need a restock (amazon / Ocado)
EddieIzzardOnToast@reddit
My husband and I always request Peanut Butter M&Ms if someone’s going to to the US. American chocolate sucks but they did something right with Peanut Butter M&Ms.
jonathananeurysm@reddit
I can't speak to your friend's preferences so I'm just gonna list the things I like that aren't widely available here: Cheez-Whiz, cinnamon flavoured chewing gum, Old Bay Seasoning, canned clam chowder, a good quesadilla spice mix, Jif peanut butter, ranch/blue cheese dressing, a good Cajun meat rub/spice mix.
More_Sense6447@reddit
Old bay seasoning is available in the coop
jonathananeurysm@reddit
What? That's amazing thank you.
Parking-Loquat69@reddit
The ONLY good candy in America. Peanut butter m&ms!
Sure_Locksmith741@reddit
I asked my American friend to send me Ranch seasoning as it’s hard/impossible to get here.
BG3restart@reddit
Some graham crackers, marshmallows and instructions to make s'mores.
pizzaosaurs@reddit
I'd just send the crackers. US marshmallows are weird... Send over the instructions though. Same for canned pumpkin and pumpkin pie recipe. We can get pumpkins over here but they aren't as good apparently that even the tinned us stuff is better. A pumpkin pie recipe for a good pumpkin pie and us imported cans is a great way to get over the import tax stuff but also give a really cool gift that will give her a real slice of us pie.
You have to remember we have smaller houses but love a good bake off attempt... Also a snack for the tea alarm.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Love this idea! Would be fun for the kid too! ❤️
BlueberryLeft4355@reddit
Don't do American chocolate. It doesn't travel well and it tastes bad to Europeans
Andagonism@reddit
The Marshmallows, it's not worth fees / space in box, as we have that here.
But definitely send the crackers and instructions.
Aidan8912@reddit
I’m late to the party but a bottle of buckfast never goes wrong
JazzlikeWorld3095@reddit
Cosmic brownies, oatmeal cream pies Java monster. That’s what my now ex wife used to send me between stays
lyricoloratura@reddit
I don’t think I’m brave enough to ask how you know
Apperley70@reddit
Apologies for voting Emperor Cheeto in.
TheAmazingSealo@reddit
I heard you guys have different Mars Bars, Snickers and milky ways from us, and you have a '3 musketeers' bar that is what we call a milky way here. A US Snickers, Mars Bar, Milky Way and a 3 Musketeers bar isn't too expensive or extravagant but provides a nice surprise, can be shared with the kid, and the differences between the US and UK versions of the same bar would be a cool talking point.
Or maybe that's just me that finds this interesting lol
wordgirl@reddit
IBC root beer would be great if you can find a way to get it there still fizzy and not flat.
mad_king_soup@reddit
Root beer tastes like mouthwash. Please don’t give that to British people, they’d pour it down the drain!
More_Sense6447@reddit
Tastes like germolene 🤮
coeurdelamer@reddit
Don’t send the chocolate - they’re gross. Just came back from the most amazing road trip stateside and had a bag of the minis. Threw the lot out - ew. And I love chocolate!
gribisi@reddit
Major difference (imo) to the snickers/mars bars/etc. Is the chocolate..
spikewilliams2@reddit
I remember the us mars bar being more like dark chocolate with a white nougat, although I also remember Hershey's as worse than baking chocolate. This was early 90s.
gribisi@reddit
Worse than baking chocolate is still accurate..
PerfectCover1414@reddit
Nay lad, the UK Cadbury's is going down the crapper after it got bought. Notice how sweet and chalky it is now? It's still better than the US stuff but I'm noticing the taste is changing. I wonder if they did something to it.
FranScan1997@reddit
The US company Kraft (as in Kraft Mac and Cheese), bought Cadbury’s a few years ago and changed the recipe
TheAmazingSealo@reddit
No it's not that, I'm not talking about the quality of chocolate.
Their mars bar has nuts like our snickers, their milky way has caramel, like our mars bar, their snickers, I don't even know what the deal is, and the 3 musketeers is what we call a milky way. Also the logos and designs are different.
PerfectCover1414@reddit
Don't forget that Temu Bounty also known as Almond Joy.
Fyonella@reddit
Who cares what’s inside when the chocolate tastes faintly of vomit?
TheAmazingSealo@reddit
Evidently, me.
gribisi@reddit
That too, but the chocolate 😃
spikewilliams2@reddit
You could brush your teeth with germolene as a root beer substitute.
Missdebj@reddit
Cinnamon Toast Crunch is widely available as Curiously Cinnamon here in the UK
TheAmazingSealo@reddit
whaaaaat I never knew that's what it was, thanks friend
solarflares4deadgods@reddit
I wish Golden Grahams were still something we could get here. Haven't seen them anywhere in years.
TheAmazingSealo@reddit
yeah I know! Strange how they disappeared but we still got cinnamon graham's, even though its a different name.
Maybe the golden ones were a victim of sugar tax or something?
solarflares4deadgods@reddit
Quite possible since I’m pretty sure the golden aspect was straight golden syrup, lol
SiteWhole7575@reddit
And Smarties…
TheAmazingSealo@reddit
oh wow those are just an entirely different thing too!
Loudlass81@reddit
Proper American Cheeto's. Those things are lick feckin CRACK, and are really hard to get hold of. The Brit recipe ones taste too much of...real cheese lmfao...
coeurdelamer@reddit
I’d be more inclined to send her local things from your area - interesting postcards and stuff like that. I’m a Brit and we can get most American candy etc here. It would cost you a load to ship.
If she returns the offer, request a small jar of Marmite. You’re welcome.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I’ve had Marmite, and if she sends me that I might just have to block her number. 🥲🤣
coeurdelamer@reddit
😂😂😂 My American OH says similar. Was a childhood staple for me! Love the stuff.
KatVanWall@reddit
We don't find many grape-flavoured sweets over here, so maybe some of those! (Our purple candy is usually blackcurrant.)
spikewilliams2@reddit
Yes grape sweets and drinks. I always wanted a jar of grape jelly too, closest I've got was a jar of Goober brand peanut butter and grape jelly somewhere has as a limited time special.
auntie_climax@reddit
Oooh yeah grape jelly!! Send grape jelly!!
Heavymetal73@reddit
We have pepper jelly in the states (or at least in Texas). Do y’all have that?
spikewilliams2@reddit
What kind of pepper? We have chilli jam chutney and relish. The jam would be closest unless yours is peppercorns.
Heavymetal73@reddit
Two I’ve had recently are a jalapeño and mango habanero. I smoked some cream cheese and scooped some of the jelly over the top, and served with crackers. It’s really good.
dessskris@reddit
Takis! Oh and with regards to avoiding import fees, if you're declaring it as a gift it has to be under £39 in value (roughly $53.57, do $50 to be safe)
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
A lot of people are warning about the fees without specifics (which I totally understand because it can be pretty confusing to look into) but I super appreciate this comment because it validated what I had thought when I did try to look, lol.
This_Rom_Bites@reddit
No suggestions, but a cautionary note - a friend of mine in the US sent me a bunch of stuff from Hot Topic that I wasn't expecting, and I had to pay about £60 in customs fees for it.
Insult to injury: when I got it home and opened it, I found that it was crap that I didn't want and ended up passing straight to a charity shop!
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Ahh bummer! I was thinking of what the best way to approach this would be. I’m going to try to do some research and see if I can’t figure out the cost ahead of time and send it to her. Whatever I find, I’m going to make sure I find a way to cover that cost for her.
Yorks_Rider@reddit
Just be aware that there is currently a ban on the import of certain food products to the UK because of an outbreak of food and mouth disease. Your packet might be seized by customs and destroyed, if you send banned things.
JorgiEagle@reddit
Foot* & mouth disease
cybot2001@reddit
You could never send meat or dairy products from the USA, the current ban is in relation to EU countries where you could.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I’m going to try to be as prepared and well researched as I can, but just in case, I’m going to send her merch separately from any food products.
Sad-Yoghurt5196@reddit
Make sure it's marked as a gift, and it shouldn't cost them customs fees on delivery.
cybot2001@reddit
Keep the declared value of the goods on the customs form under $45-50 (£39) per package as that is the gift exemption. If it's under that they won't have additional charges.
EmzyM@reddit
Label it as a gift & you won't pay tax
Doogerie@reddit
I got some sweets from the US and Ice Brakers would be good get her the green sour ones as they They taste the best I would avoid Hersheys if you want to keep her as a friend .
Commercial-Dog4021@reddit
Goo Goo Clusters, although they might melt. Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, any Chef Pauls seasonings. I saw you were already aboard the ranch packet train. Your state flag. Goldbacks, you can get different ones for different states….they look cool, they’re collectable, you can get 5 for about $40 (1/1000th oz) and they’re made out of gold, which is always nice. State quarters. I have a feeling there would be some kind of hellacious tax on the currency, though.
WorthSpecialist1066@reddit
just check how much the customs charges are because she’ll have to pay duty.
treaclepaste@reddit
I loved Swedish fish when I was there and I love gummy sweets here too but never found one I thought tasted similar to the Swedish fish.
I also second a hoody/jumper of a local baseball or basketball team for the kid, my 8 year old would love that and probably never take it off.
Less_Coyote7062@reddit
Stop with the chocolate stuff you know what it is you like what you’re used to so we grew up with her shoes we like it. You grew up with something else you like that.
Additional_Snow3917@reddit
Just be mindful that whatever she receives may likely incur import tax that she will have to pay herself. I don't wish to put you off the idea but most US things can be bought in the UK anyway.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I’ve been looking into this, and I’ll either keep the value low enough to avoid extra fees, or send her enough money to cover those fees when I send the package! Appreciate the heads up!
Comcernedthrowaway@reddit
Just label the package as a gift on the customs form. Gifts don’t incur vat.
letmebeyourfancybee@reddit
3 things I’d love to get:
Salt water taffy Bath & Body works (especially Autumn or Christmas items) A big jar of ibuprofen!
j23barb@reddit
Red solo cups.
SwordTaster@reddit
Goldfish. I'm not even kidding, my sister-in-law is a hairdresser in Cambridge, she has a couple of American clients who've given her goldfish before, both her and my nieces are ADDICTED. They really want me to send some when I can since I moved to the US
Terrible_Beautiful50@reddit
Bushes beans. The brown sugar ones are great
funkball@reddit
If she likes peanut butter, butterfingers, they are hard to find here and incredible.
Terrible_Beautiful50@reddit
Came for this answer. Butterfingers are god tier
pinklewickers@reddit
Thoughts and prayers so we don't end up like the US
BlackberryDramatic24@reddit
A baseball glove and ball for the kid
EfficientAge6675@reddit
Send Cajun seasoning!
yellowpages2k8@reddit
Friend of mine in the US asks me for care packages all the time of stuff here, he always asks if there’s anything I want him to send and genuinely … no.
Unless he could send me a chick fil a and a Dr Pepper, no offence but your snacks and treats are quite inferior to ours imo
btec-gamer@reddit
Goldfish Crackers! When I lived in the States, I couldn’t get enough of them (I may be projecting though)
50h9j12@reddit
There's honestly nothing good from the US. A lot of American food is banned over here because it is not assessed as safe.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Well there are definitely good things from the U.S., because I am from the U.S.
I’m begging you to live a little. 💕
50h9j12@reddit
Unless you are food you don't qualify. My wife is from the US and she makes food but isn't food. I'll avoid the obvious joke.
SallyNicholson@reddit
A Donald MAGA cap. There's nothing in the world more American than that.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
There’s an unusually high number of people suggesting this and I can’t tell if it’s a joke anymore. 😅
Melodic-Tutor-2172@reddit
Jolly ranchers! You can get them here occasionally.
Forsaken_Snow_1176@reddit
Caramel M&Ms
Elegant_Tear8475@reddit
I love pretzel m&ms and you can't get them in the UK!
TheGeordieGal@reddit
Girl Scout cookies? We don’t have them here.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
This is brilliant, I’ll definitely keep it in mind, but it is unfortunately not Girl Scout season here. 🥲
sleepy-popcorn@reddit
Graham crackers and pepperidge farm goldfish- you also can’t get them here and they are great. Also I feel like they travel fairly well (we bring them back whenever we go to USA)
vario_@reddit
Those Keebler elf ones are also great! I scoffed an entire box of them in a couple of days when I last visited.
PerfectCover1414@reddit
Oh you are seriously dark! Those things taste like plastic plus rather high in the glyphosates and heavy metals.
TheGeordieGal@reddit
I’ll take your word for it lol. I’ve only tried the Canadian ones (their vanilla and chocolate packs are nice!).
temporary_bob@reddit
Canadian girl guide cookies are nothing like American girl scout cookies. Totally different and amazing. (Just like Canadian Oreos are vastly superior). (-Canadian expat in the States who still doesn't understand the attraction of thin mints or any of the others really)
TheGeordieGal@reddit
Closest I’ve come to trying any is someone I know spent a year there for Uni and bought some. Her housemates stole them before she could bring them back.
temporary_bob@reddit
Yeah I didn't make it past brownies. Looks like a nightmare I want nothing to do with. My daughter is busy enough with the insanity that is US soccer... Plus she's allergic so she can't eat the damn things so we just ignore them. I do get on on them when I get home to visit friends in Camada.
Zealousideal_Trip661@reddit
Oh you magnificent bastard. I’m an American who has lived in the UK for a dozen years and I can go months without having the Do-Si-Do Girl Scout cookie dreams …
Strange_Ad854@reddit
Oh my god, yes. I so desperately want to know what a thin mint is.
Rapturerise@reddit
I’m very partial to Take 5 bars.
IrishLady92@reddit
When I was a teenager and had rich friends who went to the US for holidays, some would bring me back these pizza pretzel things. You can't get them here.
They came in small bags like crisps (chips to Americans!) but were theses pretzel bits with like a pizza filling inside. The bag was red, white and green like the Italian flag.
Anyway, they were incredible and I still think about them sometimes when I want a snack like that.
If your UK friend likes her snack food, that could be a shout either for her or her son!
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Combos! Delicious! ❤️
IrishLady92@reddit
Yessss! They were great and not something we get here 😄 also, such a lovely thing you're doing - hope your friend loves it ❤️
Extreme_Meaning_7566@reddit
Just wondering if this is still the case, but I have bought things from Etsy from the US and the seller marked as a gift when posting. I never got charged import duties.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I’m pretty sure there’s no fees up to a certain value amount. I’ll double check it before I send anything, but I’m pretty sure it was anything under €39, which should be pretty easy to stay under!
Extreme_Meaning_7566@reddit
The sellers on Etsy I have bought from just mark it under the import duty value and when asked at the mail office say it’s a gift. Never had any issues.
Vince0803@reddit
If her son is into sports, a little knick-knack from a local team might go down well.
Ok_Cucumber_5017@reddit
Send her both a large-ish map of the USA (showing major roads/freeways, railways and airports) and maybe a large fold up street map of NYC or your nearest huge US city. Pretty sure the 8 year old will be putting both of them up on their bedroom wall almost as soon as the package arrives!
supercharlie31@reddit
Peanut butter m&ms. You can't (easily) get them here but they're fucking marvellous
Fit_ashtray252@reddit
I loved chewy bars
Aware-Conference9960@reddit
American biscuit mix, melatonin gummies, root beer, grape sweets, hot tamales, mexican coke
No_Succotash473@reddit
Don't send melatonin. It's a prescription only item here. But hell yes to Hot Tamales.
solarflares4deadgods@reddit
Melotonin gummies might not be the best idea if customs decides to open the package for a random inspection since melotonin is a controlled substance over here. Also they might melt in transit during the summer months.
hatakequeen@reddit
Mexican coke is amazinggg and if u have friends in southern states sometimes there’ll be Mexican shops where they have other treats. But do y’all have olipop over there?
Tanglefoot11@reddit
Mexican coke isn't as much of an improvement over UK coke as it is over US coke.
Mexican voke uses cane sugar, UK coke uses beet sugar, American coke uses high fructose corn syrup.
Coke varies country to country, but generally elsewhere in Europe Coke uses cane sugar like Mexican coke. I can't taste much of a difference between Beet & cane sugar cokes & I'm pretty sensitive to sweet stuff and drink far too much if it ;þ
---x__x---@reddit
Lol Mexican Coke is just Coke with sugar instead of corn syrup.
Aka the same stuff you buy in the UK.
Andagonism@reddit
No Root beer. Morissons sells it for 80p, Home bargains' sell it for 70p, Lidl or Aldi (Cannot remember which) also sell it.
ApprehensiveTop3133@reddit
Pickles for SURE.
Sad-Engineer1922@reddit
This is wholesome 😊
cat_naps33@reddit
Peanut butter M&Ms (you can get Peanut ones here but not Peanut butter ones)
vusiradebe85@reddit
Mint Oreos.
lfreyn@reddit
PEANUT BUTTER PRETZELS. You don’t get them here and they are amazing.
I also think about Tate’s cookies regularly and always get a pack whenever i come to the US.
DinkyPrincess@reddit
The big chocolate covered hard pretzels. Absolutely delicious
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I love chocolate covered pretzels! Didn’t realize that was a US thing!
DinkyPrincess@reddit
I forget the brand but one of my workmates lives here but his wife is from Philadelphia. They always bring them with them and they’re amazing.
RaggamuffinTW8@reddit
Not chocolate.
Potato chips or other non-chocolate candies.
CanaryWundaboy@reddit
Peanut butter M&Ms. We can’t get them here because of dangerous additives or some such nonsense. Send at least 2 family bags. They’re better than crack.
calicoki77@reddit
Definitely be careful sending food items ,we have strict rules on import of food , candy with colours not approved ,and meat & dairy products. Also as mentioned previously ,check customs charges , sometimes they are much more than that parcel itself . I know of someone who imported an item that cost less than $30 ,customs charge to release it was £110 .
halfgaelichalfgarlic@reddit
Percy Pigs
Extreme_Meaning_7566@reddit
Definitely Jelly Belly jelly beans. Also I don’t know if they are popular with Americans but I love those Combo snacks, like a cracker with yummy filling. Tootsie Rolls, the cinnamon Wrigleys, Milk Duds. What about some breakfast cereal? Sounds strange but first time I visited the states I wanted to try Fruit Loops. Look on an UK American candy site and you will get an idea of what we can’t get. No Hersheys though!
Gloomy-Example-1707@reddit
Maybe some quality skincare / cosmetics that aren't imported to UK?
I personally would ask for US versions of glossier, their formulas are worse in Europe due to regulations. Especially the perfumes.
Severe_Chip_2559@reddit
I often use the 1lb or 2lb bags of Jelly Belly jelly beans as little gifts for people. You can't get them over here anymore because of the colorings in them, but they're incredibly tasty and very appreciated.
1stviplette@reddit
The red m&ma - peanutbutter
IainwithanI@reddit
Guns and bacon.
spikewilliams2@reddit
The bacon is just streaky bacon though.
IainwithanI@reddit
British and American bacon are entirely different, but both are excellent.
BabbyPotato@reddit
This really made me lol
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Yee Haw 🤠
Inevitable_Piece4259@reddit
When I went to the US I was hooked on corn nuts crunchy cheetos and life savers. Also loved fish tacos but wouldn’t recommend sending those
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I call corn nuts “armpit nuts” because my husband eats the ranch ones and they smell like armpits 😭😂
Inevitable_Piece4259@reddit
I liked the taco ones :P
microdemons@reddit
when i went to the states, everyone asked me to bring jolly ranchers back
Barangaroo11@reddit
Trader Joe’s snacks.
Ok-Neighborhood7967@reddit
Maybe some children’s books too
Ahleanna-D@reddit
Things I can think of that I’ve missed since moving from the US to the UK pretty much in order of priority:
Combos (the pretzel ones with either pepperoni pizza or cheese)
Nutter Butters
Soft batch cookies
Pecan spinwheels
Chex Mix
Oatmeal cream pie
Saltwater taffy
citygourmande@reddit
Trader Joe’s
cochlearist@reddit
A massive bag of peanut butter m&m's!
They're bloody delicious, I don't know why you can't get them here.
SilverellaUK@reddit
If someone was sending me something, I would want Pistachio flavoured instant pudding.
me_thisfuckingcunt@reddit
I always pick up ‘Butterfingers’ when I’m in the states, the only chocolate bar that doesn’t taste like other American chocolate to me. Gerber multitools are about twice the price in the UK and ‘Camel Crush Silver’ since menthol fags have been outlawed in Europe for some time now.
NemiVonFritzenberg@reddit
Trader joes spices and seasonings.
NobleRotter@reddit
I'd focus on something for the kid. Most UK adults won't be impressed with us quality treats, but the kids will probably love the novelty.
Try to find something without too many banned substances if you think this is something the mother will look as at (although in reality none will be an issue as a one off thing)
llamageddon01@reddit
Butterfingers and Stacy’s Cinnamon Pita chips.
Inner_Farmer_4554@reddit
I had a friend in the 90s who brought back cinnamon flavoured sweets. They were very small and chewy. Bloody lovely! Don't know if they still exist...
No-Structure-8125@reddit
If it were me, I'd want Takis. We can get them in England, but they're ridiculously expensive.
Probably best to find out if she likes spicy food first though.
No_Statistician1002@reddit
I’m in wales and I can get a bag of takis same price as a bag of walkers at the corner shop they weigh the same aswel have you tried little corner shops think it’s a premier
No-Structure-8125@reddit
Yeah, the only place I've seen them in England is small convenience stores, and they're always like £6 a bag 😫
selim871nodnoL@reddit
It looks like they're being sold properly now, I've seen them in Iceland/food warehouse
No-Structure-8125@reddit
Oh really? I'll have to look around more! I shop in Tesco but I've never seen them in there.
Andagonism@reddit
Morrisons sell them in their foreign aisle.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Geez! 😭
AlrightLove75@reddit
Agree with this! My American friend sent me a whole load of chips (crisps) in different flavours that are harder/more expensive to find here.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Could I trouble you for a short list of some of those flavors? Or what you already have perhaps? This is a great (and cheap) idea!
AlrightLove75@reddit
Oh and ranch flavour! She also sent me a box of cheddar bay biscuit mix which I haven't used yet.
selim871nodnoL@reddit
Tesco sell Newman's own Ranch sauce, for some reason. And our Doritos cool original, is just renamed from the us cool ranch.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Theres been an unusually high number of “ranch powder” suggestions, and I’m in the Midwest, so that’s definitely happening!
Also, those cheddar bay biscuits are delicious, definitely make those! 😋
Sweaty-Peanut1@reddit
We don’t get sour cream flavour here, and we don’t have Cheetos. But crisps really don’t travel well is the only thing - she might just have crisp crumbles by the time they get to her end.
Also, rather than making another comment because I have commented about 7 times now… is she in to makeup? If so, you guys tend to get ‘drug store dupes’ of popular things is a way we don’t so much. Just check YouTube or TikTok or something I guess for what would be ‘in’ right now and you can always ask back here if we have it.
AlrightLove75@reddit
Mine came in a cardboard box and the crisps were in perfect condition!
AlrightLove75@reddit
Well I really like spicy things so she sent me a few different types, like Takis as mentioned above. Buffalo sauce flavour. Some cheesy/sour cream flavours and Funyuns. It was a great snack box and didn't last very long!
GooseyDuckDuck@reddit
We have them here at normal prices, FFS just go to Tesco.
jlangue@reddit
Whitman’s Sampler or creme eggs.
Tootsie rolls, Fritos, Payday, Sugar Babies, Junior Mints, Mike and Ike, et al. You can find them here but they are not common.
orlanthi@reddit
If she collects US paper products, letter sized page protectors. While you can get them here, it's a ball ache to find them.
SuspiciousNinja5369@reddit
Most non-Americans would tell you stick your US chocolate up your Hershey’s highway!
Gullible_Wind_3777@reddit
Well herseys is a big no no. Well most of your sweet treats. bloody foul. 😂 If the son is into pokemon, or something similar, that would be a major plus!! Not a lot of pokemon stuff over here, unless we have to order. ( sorry no help for the mother, but I have an almost 8 yr old son, ideas! 😂 )
ExampleMediocre6716@reddit
Too polite to say yes is honestly a no. Not being rude, but the only things you can get in the US but not the UK are things like chlorinated chicken, breakfast cereal with the banned carcinogenic coloring, and hand guns. You can buy most American brands there.
It's a nice thought, but I wouldn't overdo it. British confectionery > American.
The only things I could imagine would be appropriate and appreciated would be something fairly cheap and local to you, that's not a liquid or easy to spoil.
selim871nodnoL@reddit
You know what, almost anything shelf stable or a weird flavour would be good. Odd stuff (to us) like cheese in an aerosol can, peeps, twinkies, the popcorn flavoured with soda. Grape flavouring. Something unnaturally red.
For ideas for snacks and stuff there's a good YouTube series called food wars, where they show the differences between UK and US fast food and snacks. It would take too long to actually watch, so just go to the exclusives section.
Status_Accident_2819@reddit
Do NOT send chocolate whatever you do.
SignalFirefighter372@reddit
Apple and cinnamon Cheerios, Marsh Mallow Fluff and a box of Twinkies.
This_Investigator523@reddit
I (USA) am planning to relocate to the UK and have been there 7 times in the past few years. While most UK supermarkets have some American brands in their international aisle, there are things that I cannot find in the UK:
Kraft Mac & Cheese Southern style biscuits (like they sell at KFC) - a box of Jiffy mix or Cheddar Bay mix from Red Lobster? Don’t send Hershey chocolate - it’s not well respected in the UK. Ghirardelli is a better option for chocolate as it is made in San Francisco. Most UK households don’t have coffee makers if you were thinking about sending coffee. One thing I will miss is Bigelow Mint Medley tea. A lot of the mint tea options in the UK are very peppermint heavy. I haven’t been able to find a comparable blend. My partner’s kids always ask for Jolly Rancher hard candies and M&Ms. (Acceptable option from Hershey.) My partner loves to bring home peanut butter cookies (the chewy kind with peanut butter chips) and “exotic” varieties of Pringles that are not offered in the UK. Oh, Twinkies were recently requested by my partner’s daughter. Takis are another treat that is common to this side of the pond. Are there any regional specialties in your area? Maybe share a recipe for how to prepare something that uses common ingredients? Instant pudding is “not a thing” in the UK. Canned pumpkin is not common in the UK nor is pumpkin spice. The “mixed spice” that they use is a completely different thing. Exotic Oreo flavors would be cool - the original and golden ones are common over there.
Roseallnut@reddit
Jolly Rancher assorted pack?
SidHid@reddit
Melatonin. We need a prescription for it here?’b
BabbyPotato@reddit
Yes ! My friend gets it me from Poland but I want the gummies
Pat00tie@reddit
Big Red gum!
BabbyPotato@reddit
Oh yes ! I bought loads when I was on holiday there
DazzlingBee3640@reddit
You can pretty much get a lot of American stuff here now (along with the warning stickers on the products! Especially sweets that say they’re not suitable for children due to banned e-numbers) One thing that people seem to like is ranch seasoning though, and I’ve not seen that anywhere.
BabbyPotato@reddit
I had to order my daughter ranch off the internet and it cost a tenna lol
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I almost asked her if ranch was as rare there as the internet has led me to believe, I’m from the Midwest lol
pineapplewin@reddit
Send the powder version.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Which is already better if you’re using it to make ranch, but yes, this is the plan since it will be much easier (and cheaper!) to ship.
Sweaty-Peanut1@reddit
I’ve left you a longer comment as someone who grew up with a parent in each country but for packet stuff like that I would say sloppy joes, biscuits and gravy, maybe grits but more as a point of curiosity because I don’t know if they would actually be enjoyed haha, also possibly one of those pot roasts in a bag although we may have something very similar (I haven’t eaten meat since I was just a teen) and I vaguely remember my stepmom having some kind of all purpose seasoning that she put on ….everything really. If you have any idea what that might have been I can tell you if I think we have it here now. You can also get bay seasoning on Amazon but not in supermarkets so unless you knew to go looking for it then you’d be missing out.
If you go on to Tesco online and check out what you can get in shwartz packets that will give you a good sense of what we can get here in that format.
DazzlingBee3640@reddit
Some “American” restaurants have a version of Ranch. It’s usually awful. I don’t actually know what the real stuff is like.
BabbyPotato@reddit
Pop tarts. When I went to the us my 8 year old was obsessed with the amount of different flavours. We only have a few flavours here
Competitive_Sea8684@reddit
Dr. Pepper from the U.S. My kid in the UK always asks me to bring some when I come.
Any other snack things actually made in the U.S. Our different regulations on food ingredients allow things that are WAY more unhealthy, yet tasty.
wosmo@reddit
Not a specific suggestion, but I'd always go with something local. If it's something you can get on the other side of the country just as easily, you can probably find it in the UK too. Something local makes it more "hello from whereverville" and less "do you guys even get snickers?".
Ok_Tie7354@reddit
Bass pro shop hat. A duck call from duck dynasty. Something from the freedom factory of Cletus. Redneck scientists from Weston.
liisliisliisliisliis@reddit
hidden valley ranch (powder)!
no ranch dressing in UK
Kactuslord@reddit
Things I'd want:
Novelty flavoured Oreos Grape flavoured sweets/candy Root beer Herrs jalapeno flavoured cheese curls (my face from all the American candy stores here) Decent bubblegum Hot tamales
Things to avoid:
Regular Hershey's (cookies n cream is fine) Twizzlers (I've tried to like them but they legit just taste like waxy plastic with no flavour?!)
_hammitt@reddit
As an American with many UK friends, the hits I always get asked for are:
- Trader Joe's snacks of all kinds
- TJ's Everything But the Bagel spice
- Girl Scout Cookies
- Packets of ranch seasoning (easier to ship than bottles of the dressing)
presterjohn7171@reddit
There is not much that Is available to you that isn't available to use. Make sure whatever it is, is exclusive to your country and well known. What's your version of Harrods, would it be Tiffany's or something?
Independent-Ad-3385@reddit
Triscuits. These are genuinely yummy and I don't understand why they've never made it over here when horrible crap like Hershey's and Reece's is everywhere.
rhrjruk@reddit
The last 4 US request I’ve had from my Brits are: 1. Overstuffed Oreos (weird flavors) 2. Beef jerky (weird flavors) 3. Listerine breath strips 4. Williamsburg Peanut Shop peanuts
So go figure
Round_Minimum_5709@reddit
Melatonin
Key-Twist596@reddit
M&Ms. We have chocolate, peanut, brownie and crispy over here. I believe you have lots more flavours like peanut butter and jelly, ice cream Sunday, pretzel, etc.
Same with Oreos. We just have original, double stuff, blonde and chocolate covered. You could send mint, toffee, birthday cake flavoured, etc.
InformalTrifle9@reddit
Takis and Cheetos
misterbooger2@reddit
Not chocolate. Your chocolate tastes like ass
Useful-Plum9883@reddit
Baby Ruth and butterfingers are good
thisismisty@reddit
Weird m&ms are always appreciated (pretzel,pb). Some kind of fun snack cakes, maybe oatmeal pies?Don’t send chocolate, uk folks think us chocolate tastes of vomit. M&ms and Reese’s are the only even acceptable ones.
Trying to think of what I really miss…things like ro-tel and grits and flaming hot Cheetos lol
ShihPapa@reddit
Why not send something from your state. IE Texas could be a Big Red and some Buc-ee’s Beaver Nugs, Tennessee is RC Cola and a MoonPie. Is there some kind of candy or local item you could share too?
Imaginary_Square5171@reddit
AR-50. Guns are really hard to get here.
Acrobatic-Shirt8540@reddit
Don't be sending any sweets (candy). Yours are all pish, and in some cases poisonous (Jolly Ranchers). Seriously.
emmarollo7@reddit
Peanut butter m&ms gutted we don’t really have them here. Not even in the huge London flagship store. Just the same old flavours in there so pointless.
actualinsomnia531@reddit
Pearl milling co. Pancake mix and maple syrup! Nothing from the UK tastes right and that stuff IS diner pancakes for me.
And I miss your root beer, but most people in the UK think it's awful (and are, obviously, incorrect).
TabularConferta@reddit
Do not send Hershey. It's crap. A friend just gave me a packet of Reese's cookie mix though that I'm excited to make with my kid.
BillOrmePersonal@reddit
One thing I always appreciate from the US is a tub of Melatonin pills as you can’t get them here
Any-Hippo-1930@reddit
Grape flavour sweets, we don’t really have those in the UK… and Swedish Fish!
Gold_Dragonfruit_180@reddit
American Jelly Beans, yes I know we can get some here but they always go down well.
Ecstatic_Hamster_765@reddit
Proper Mountain Dew!!
CuteFactor8994@reddit
Dill Pickle Pringles? I'm not sure if the UK sells this flavor.
IndependenceTasty666@reddit
You can increasingly get pickle flavour crisps but less common and often without the dill
Candid-Enthusiasm-56@reddit
People in our UK office always bring back peanut butter or other flavored nut butters. Target has some really fun ones.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
See, Google told me peanut butter is readily available in the UK. Is it different there or did the internet lie to me? 😅
IndependenceTasty666@reddit
Readily available in a million variations - definitely wouldn’t bother with peanut butter. The one thing we have less of is the overly processed with a bu ch of additives stuff
Candid-Enthusiasm-56@reddit
I think it's different.
romoladesloups@reddit
Forget the food, send Sea Monkeys!
ausernamebyany_other@reddit
Things I got asked to being back on my last trip were girl scout cookies, Jolly Ranchers, and pretzel M&Ms. Giradelli chocolate was also always a fave gift from family.
Jackson_Polack_@reddit
There's many great Canadian products that are easily accessible in the US but not so much in Europe.
AuroraDF@reddit
Girl scout cookies. They are not a thing here.
Twinkies. Also not a thing.
Flavours of things we don't have here. If your friend likes cinnamon, go for cinnamon flavours. I love cinnamon, and while you do get things here, it's not nearly so common as in the US and it's milder. For example cinnamon bears, hot tamales, cinnamon roll pop tarts, snickerdoodle flavoured things.
Capital-Wolverine532@reddit
A can of biscuits.
Ben_jah_min@reddit
Edibles
pathetic9000@reddit
When I first visited the US in the 90s my gran had given me some spending money & I spent it all on; different flavours of Skittles, Red Vines, Airheads & about 6 packs of Pop Tarts (we only had chocolate & strawberry ones). My parents weren’t happy but I loved it. I’m sure the kid would too!
Nowadays I bring back Old Bay, Tajin & melatonin.
veritasmeritas@reddit
I miss real coca cola. We have a ridiculous sugar law here that makes even non diet sodas use synthetic sweeteners, so yeah, a case of coke
Tanglefoot11@reddit
Proper coke (non diet, non zero) is easily available (coke addict here & HATE the taste of the sweeteners used, so it HAS to be proper coke).
It might be an interesting comparison, but most people seem to rate the taste of Coke made with proper sugar far higher than coke made with high fructose corn syrup that they hve in the US.
veritasmeritas@reddit
I stand corrected. This was just my paranoia speaking. As you say though, they use sucrose in the UK and that sweet, sweet high fructose corn syrup in the US. That appears to be the only significant difference in terms of sweetener.
Cancel my coke order and pick me up a MacBook.
tiggleypuff@reddit
My sister is going to the US and I asked her to buy me plastic straws for kids drinks. I can’t find a reusable one and those paper ones are just not workable for a 2yo
dazwales1@reddit
Chips ahoy I think are much better than British cookies
OrbDemon@reddit
Avoid chocolate.
Real_Run_4758@reddit
this was a much easier question to answer two decades ago, as there were certain things (Reese’s, jelly belly) that were either much harder to get or prohibitively expensive.
maybe a selection of things that we don’t have here (or aren’t common), even if you don’t personally like them. idk root beer, for example.
charlston chew!
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
See, I just don’t know what is and isn’t available there! I had no idea root beer was a US thing, lol! Thanks for the suggestions!
RepresentativeWin935@reddit
You could use a random UK postcode and go on a Tesco or Asda website to get a feel?? Both tend to have decent sized American isles (Asda is owned by Walmart I believe)
Theal12@reddit
look at Amazon uk to see what’s available in the Uk before you mail anything
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Great idea, thanks!
Theal12@reddit
I’m an American immigrant to the UK, it sometimes amazes me what I can find on Amazon here 😊
No-Structure-8125@reddit
Root beer is a good call. I love root beer, and it's very difficult to come by in England.
Andagonism@reddit
Aldi and Lidl sell Root beer too in the Uk
https://www.reddit.com/r/rootbeer/comments/1f4ylhx/aldi_uk_root_beer/
Andagonism@reddit
EVERY Morrisons store sells it,
https://groceries.morrisons.com/products/tropical-sun-american-style-root-beer/110336074?srsltid=AfmBOor4l1K5Cm--7OzNx7ZR9t27H-d4xSuz3Gh91wVYDjGp1gy_BpzC
Andagonism@reddit
Every Morrisons store sells it.
neverendum@reddit
Is American root beer the same as what they used to have in UK McDonald's? I was excited to try that in the late 80s but it tasted like mouthwash, revolting.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Do you have sassafras candies? Root beer is made from sassafras as well.
No-Structure-8125@reddit
I have no idea I'm afraid. I was born in the 90s and I've never seen root beer at McDonald's.
But I'm going to guess not, I find it to be like a vanilla cola kind of taste.
neverendum@reddit
That sounds more like what we used to have in the UK but was called American Cream Soda, they probably don't have it any longer. I'm in Australia now and they have stuff called chinotto and sarsaparilla which reminds me of that Root Beer from McDonald's.
Andagonism@reddit
We do have root beer here.
Supermarkets such as Morrisons sell it. As do either Lidl / Asda, Home bargains etc.
Real_Run_4758@reddit
it can seem very random what does and what doesn’t make it across the pond. growing up, friends was huge here (to the point that channel 4 was essentially ‘the friends channel’ for a decade or so), while seinfeld never had the same cultural impact (despite being the superior product).
things are changing though; once upon a time ‘american fast food’ over here was basically the triumvirate of mcdonalds, burger king, and kfc, but in the last decade or so we have started getting a lot more of the bit players, five guys, taco bell, popeyes etc.
i think partly because the way online media works, there’s a lot more peer-to-peer interaction with americans, without any ‘suits’ or producers acting as gatekeepers, which builds awareness of brands and allows companies to gauge interest before making a leap - it’s safer to open your first popeyes in london when you have 5 terabytes of social media monitoring data etc. that tells you how many potential customers you have etc.
honestly i’d err on the side of savoury. in my experience, american chocolate products can be a disappointment, but any kind of super-cheesy mega-salty, like, illegal-in-the-EU-level-cheesy, snacks go down well. idk like doritos quatroformaggio or something.
Defiant-Yellow-2375@reddit
I need a Charleston Chew. Get it? Got it? Doubt it.
TheCrabbyJohn@reddit
well it may seem minor but skittles as theirs don't have grape
RepresentativeWin935@reddit
Crunchy Cheetos are my thing whenever anyone goes to the USA. Other than that, I'd want the crest whitening strips but I recon that might be a bit insulting if she didn't ask for them!
Does she have any special interests or hobbies??
BillyD123455@reddit
Not chocolate
albertohall11@reddit
A Corvette. We can get them in the UK but they’re very marked up.
Wild_Wolverine9526@reddit
Some of the different flavoured m and m. I love the pretzel ones and coconut ones, I’ve not seen them in the UK (granted I haven’t been to the London shop, so it may depend where she lives). Cheese popcorn. They briefly sold it here in the 90s, and on a very rare occasion Aldi or Lidl do it, but it’s few and far between.
NOT HERSHEYS: Hersheys has butric acid in it. UK chocolate does not. Most British people only come across butric acid when they vomit, as a result Hersheys tastes of sick.
PerfectCover1414@reddit
The thing is most UK food snacks are exempt of chemical additives and dyes etc that are in US cereals and sweets. So it's a bit tricky BUT there are some other things that might work well.
- an artisanal taffy or something similar as we don't have that
- some pretzel type snacks
- even the Pepperidge Farms cookies which are different and tasty would go down well, lots to choose from there
Frodo34x@reddit
Hidden Valley Ranch powder
ThankUverymuchJerry@reddit
Ghiradelli chocolate, especially the malt balls, but definitely not hersheys or any of the other pukey ones. She would be too polite to say no, but they would go straight in the bin.
snakeskinpumps@reddit
I lived in England for a year and missed cornbread. My moment me 12 boxes of jiffy mix. Maybe different cornbread mixes.
Fromasha@reddit
A MAGA hat 💯. For her son, definitely some wwe merch (my son loves it but the merch is expensive and limited over here)
Fyonella@reddit
Pepperidge Farm Goldfish
Neosporin Antibiotic Cream/Ointment American Band Aids
Cortizone-10 hydrocortisone cream
That is all!
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
You guys don’t have goldfish? A childhood staple! Definitely sending some of those!
Fyonella@reddit
No, and it makes me very sad! We have little cheesy snack biscuits aplenty but nothing comes close to Goldfish!
Sweaty-Peanut1@reddit
Oooohhhh yes definitely goldfish! I think the multicoloured ones were a fun novelty when I was a kid
ShoshPaddington@reddit
Twinkies
GodKnowsHowPetsSound@reddit
I did an exchange with a US friend once and they sent me some mystery flavour Oreos and Ghirardelli chocolates. From US import shops here, I really liked Milky Way Midnight, 3 Musketeers (which is like a Flyte bar or how Milky Way used to be in the 1980s) and fun flavour M&Ms. It might depend if they have any dietary issues, but if I was you, I'd go for some fun size chocolate bars and maybe just a couple of bits & bobs.
Sometimes when people overdo it with gifting, it can leave the recipient feeling obliged to return the gesture, when you don't necessarily know if they can afford it. I know that probably sounds like I'm being miserable, but I'm not - I'm sure they'll appreciate the effort you're going to!
Railuki@reddit
Hot tamales. I love them can’t find them here. They may be too hot for her son, but he might find it fun to try one. They are sweet spicy
I like Mike & Ikes too
Curious-Term9483@reddit
Goldfish, flavoured m&ms, hot sauce, maybe packet mixes to make biscuits and gravy so she can see what you actually mean by that? 🤣
DubiousDandelion@reddit
Big Red gum
Andagonism@reddit
Jolly Ranchers. We dont get these in the UK.
Soda, for example we get things like the basic flavours of Dr Pepper, but the ones such as Cream Soda Dr Pepper, isnt sold here (unless it's been imported).
S'mores. Although we could probably make them ourselves, S'mores are not sold over here.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
We don’t have pre made s’mores either, we have to make them! Over a campfire specifically if you ask me, lol.
Sweaty-Peanut1@reddit
As we’re just coming in to the summer it’s getting to bbq time. We can get the chocolate and marshmallows anywhere but we have nothing that is truly a like for like replacement for Graham crackers. I think probably digestive biscuits would come closest. I think most Brits know what smores are though because they feature in so many American films/TV. The biggest issue is just if they’ll be smushed on arrival.
---x__x---@reddit
If you can ship cans of soda, the UK doesn’t have Mtn Dew Baja Blast.
I think that would be a real treat.
Electric_Death_1349@reddit
MAGA cap
Tanglefoot11@reddit
Or a bag of kindling. Same result, cheaper to purchase.
EightLions539@reddit
Sour skittles. I adore the American ones and they’re so difficult to get over here
Jack-Rabbit-002@reddit
Really !? That might be where you are They've always got them in the local shop and high street by me I live in South Brum!
The thing is though with US sweets etc aren't they produced differently per market!? Was just curious because I know pretty recently loads of sweets shops were hit hard and told not to sell certain US sweets due to things they contained
EightLions539@reddit
If you’re talking about the sugar coated version, then I’m very jealous!
Tanglefoot11@reddit
The ones in a green bag? I see them a-plenty.
Jack-Rabbit-002@reddit
Oh no sorry just the green packet like
EightLions539@reddit
Aha all good! Honestly it’s been my mission for years to find them in a shop over here, they’re like crack to me
Strange_Ad854@reddit
Flavoured Coffee Mate. I've only ever seen the plain one here but American Fizz have many variants that I can't justify spending £6.99 on.
Cloudinthesilver@reddit
I have to ask… are you American or British? Because my American friend tries to get me onto coffee mate. And it’s the same as chocolate. British is better because we use proper milk. So I’m intrigued if you’re a Brit who likes it!
Strange_Ad854@reddit
British; Scottish to be exact. I'm not fond of coffee mate myself but my friend (English) likes it and so does my son. I drink both coffee and tea black, so probably not the most reliable source, although I will make an American recipe for pumpkin spice creamer in the autumn because the Starbucks one is too sweet and gives me the squits.
Publandlady@reddit
We don't really get saltwater taffy over here.
Cloudinthesilver@reddit
Authentic American stuff…..
Proper ingredients for s’mores. We don’t get decent marshmallows or proper grahm crackers.
That onion soup flavouring people add to sour cream to make dip. It’s delicious.
No I don’t want chocolate or creamer. The reason ours is better is because for both we use proper milk!
Sweets. The good ones with the e numbers that may or may not give you cancer.
Sauce. So many good hot and bbq sauces.
Also I don’t know if such a good idea for the postman, but I recently tried pecan smoked streaky bacon, and immediately rescinded my claim that streaky bacon is shit. I can only get it from US bases in the UK though, and my American military contacts went home, so I’m thoroughly disappointed that I’m no longer having that experience.
Sharp_Success_7937@reddit
I tried saltwater taffy when I was a kid and I’ve not stopped thinking about it since. (UK, 34) I’d suggest that
Vespa_Alex@reddit
Most US chocolate is awful (for a UK audience) but Hershey’s Kisses cinnamon crunch are amazing.
So buy those.
Dizzy_Guest8351@reddit
Tootsie Pops are the only American thing I crave, and still don't exist in the UK.
Strange_Ad854@reddit
They definitely do, they sell them in the 24 hour garage across the road from me.
Dizzy_Guest8351@reddit
Nice! I've never seen them here. Even when I'm in the US, I wish you could get bags of just the red ones.
PinkElanor@reddit
The thing I always want is peanut butter m&ms. Not the peanut ones, we have those, and not reese's type things as we have some of those and they're only ok, but peanut butter m&ms are my crack cocaine. Also Fifth Avenue bars.
jenangeles@reddit
I would have thought more people would have this answer since it’s always the request in my office for people coming over from the US.
TheHolidayArtist@reddit
I've always been curious about candy corn. You always see it on TV. I've never seen it here in the UK. It's obviously not good for people, but it might be fun to send them a small amount to try
Westsidepipeway@reddit
It's gross but I love it. My friend brings me some everytime she's back to see her family in the autumn.
wonkychemistry@reddit
Press n’ seal!!!
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Are you my grandmother?? 🤣❤️
wonkychemistry@reddit
It is FAR SUPERIOR to our stuff! It will revolutionise your friend’s life!
WhiskyKitten@reddit
What is it.?
Emotional_Shift_8263@reddit
Get something from your state. I live in MD and got a some old bay seasoning for my daughters host when she went to Spain for six weeks ( and other things don't worry lol)
I also second maple syrup. Real stuff is a treat. Getting local stuff is always good, some locally made quality chocolates, maybe a bottle of wine or some beer from a local brewery, crafts, soaps, etc
Gullible-Tie7535@reddit
Don’t send hersheys chocolate, over here we have far superior chocolate, your stuff tastes like cooking chocolate
edi_blah@reddit
I would say cooking chocolate tastes better!
samandde@reddit
Proper full throttle, toothless redneck, possibly radio active Mountain Dew...not sure if they still do the throwback real sugar but if they do...that! We have mtn dew over here but it's not the same 😢
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Someone else mentioned coke and your sugar laws! Interesting, but sad. We do have the real sugar Mountain Dew, literally everywhere lol.
samandde@reddit
Awesome the Kroger card will still get some use next time I visit😂 On the candy front id suggest fruit lifesavers, jolly ranchers, tootsie rolls, I've also found Babe Ruth's and Musketeer bars as acceptable to the British chocolate palette 😲
Shannoonuns@reddit
Id want Grape flavored sweets and the freeze dried banana and raspberry trufru.
Tired-of-this-world@reddit
Make sure there is no import tax to pay on what you send or she might end up with a nice bill from customs.
DefinitelynotDanger@reddit
It's a tough one. Things in the UK are hard to find in the US but stuff in the US isn't really that hard to find in the UK unless it's like regional stuff.
Id never seen puppy chow in the UK before so that was a fun one to try. Maybe different kinds of jerky if you can send that legally?
Shackled-Zombie@reddit
You can send jerky, however it will be heavily examined by HMRC, you may even need an animal health certificate and common veterinary entry document. These kind of meat products will exclude them from the low value threshold and also be subject to import duties around 15%. I’d avoid sending meat products tbh.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
This short circuit my brain. No meat, got it lol.
Shackled-Zombie@reddit
Do your research for UK customs to avoid your friend getting taxes. https://www.gov.uk/browse/business/imports
Typically goods valued under 135 GBP won't attract taxes due to the low value relief https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/hmrc-impact-assessment-for-the-vat-treatment-of-low-value-parcels/hmrc-impact-assessment-for-the-vat-treatment-of-low-value-parcels
But just be careful what you send. Meat, tobacco, live animals, alcohol... all a no no. If you have any question you can ping me a message mate. Far from an expert but I can point you to the right area.
DefinitelynotDanger@reddit
Ah fair play
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I also live in Michigan, ha! I could tell you were midwestern even before that part. 😂
Puppy chow and beef jerky are two things I absolutely can do! Thanks so much!!
Fellowes321@reddit
Michigan? Send some pop. :-)🥤
I think shirt of a sports team would go down well for kids, but probably not the massively oversized ones.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Root beer is already on the list, but I think I’ll add a tigers cap! Thanks!
Mickleblade@reddit
Hersheys chocolate, it'll make your friend appreciate European choccy so much more!
Real23Phil@reddit
I tried your sweets and biscuits. Knowing what I know now about the tastes, I wouldn't want anything. 10 years ago, I would ask for Lucky Charms and Mike & Ikes
Andagonism@reddit
If you want Mikes and Ikes, go to Farm foods
litfan35@reddit
Yeah I can't think of a single thing from the USA that I'd want tbh. Their food quality is so subpar, and these days you can get most everything else online anyway
Affectionate_Ad6864@reddit
You can get both these things very easily in the UK now
Wild_Battle_8798@reddit
I always buy Native shower gel to bring back and loads of BBQ rubs and flavourings and whatnot.
Oh and the intensive moisturising Vaseline.
GooseyDuckDuck@reddit
All of which is readily available in the UK.
Wild_Battle_8798@reddit
Where do you get Native shower gel from in the UK?
GooseyDuckDuck@reddit
Sorry, replied to the wrong post. No idea where I’d get Native Shower Gel outwith Amazon.
Wild_Battle_8798@reddit
Oh no worries, I thought you had a secret supplier. You can get one scent on Amazon, but it's so expensive.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Why Native? They just don’t sell it there? My husband uses that. I’m surprised!
I use the Vaseline Intensive Moisture myself funny enough, great stuff!
I’ve seen a ton of spices or seasoning recommendations, I think it’s so funny that of all things, that’s what seems to be uniquely American.
Wild_Battle_8798@reddit
I just love the fragrances and the naturalness of Native. We stayed with a friend in the US last year and she had it in her guest bathroom and I loved it so much. Tried to get it here and just can't. So when we went back in Jan I stocked up.
The vaseline I can get here, but it's way more expensive. I found it invaluable when we were in Nevada, that place is soooo dry!
MillyMcMophead@reddit
If it was me I'd be very happy to receive fridge magnets, I love fridge magnets.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Oddly specific, lol
MillyMcMophead@reddit
I'm an odd person!
monkeychewtobacco@reddit
Fentanyl quite hard to get here
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I’m in more of a methamphetamine area. 😅
monkeychewtobacco@reddit
😂
Routine-Cicada-4949@reddit
I'm a Londoner in the US & send my niece various flavoured Oreos.
Andagonism@reddit
We have quite a lot of different flavour Oreos in the Uk now.
I doubt it's as many, but I know there is about 10 different flavours now.
False-Strawberry-319@reddit
Nothing screams Septic like a MAGA cap. And they come in smaller sizes for the kid!
Solved.
Icy-Payment-3168@reddit
The Holiday M&Ms - the Green, white and red mint ones. Impossible to get here and fantastic. I try to fill a case with them every Thanksgiving
damapplespider@reddit
This sounds ridiculous but do take a look at the UK guidelines for sending gifts so your friend doesn’t get hit with VAT and customs duties. Things like wrapping her son’s gift separately gives some extra allowance for example so long as it’s listed out separately.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Already looking into this, thanks! I want to make sure it’s as cheap as possible, and I’m also trying to find out if I can determine the cost ahead of time so I can pay her what it costs or something.
Embarrassed-Yak-6087@reddit
a baseball cap for each of them - maybe with your home town/city on the badge...
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
This a great idea! We have season tickets to the state baseball team lol.
PurplePlodder1945@reddit
If they like peanut butter, some large bags of peanut butter m&ms. I always have to ask people visiting America to buy them for me
Fuzzy_Appointment782@reddit
Almond Snickers bars, which are not generally available here.
GooseyDuckDuck@reddit
Finally an actual answer.
Brilliant-Cicada2863@reddit
Rice crispy treats, Cinnamon Toast Crunch powder, ranch powder, bbq sauce, team merch/local t-shirt or cap
Sheepfeetboy@reddit
Payday bars! If she doesn't like them, she can drop them at my house!
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I’ll let her know! 🤣
CaracusUK@reddit
Hope!
MrsTyranitar@reddit
I'm in the UK and have long been curious about Peeps, so I'd say send some of them!
SweetMysterious524@reddit
Gun shaped dildo
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
🦅🇺🇸
Carelink41@reddit
Taffey
Optimal_Collection77@reddit
Despair ?🤣
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I do have lots of that to give! 🤣😭
FancyMigrant@reddit
The promise that once Trump dies (sometime this year, hopefully) you'll return the USA to The Empire. You lot can't be trusted with it anymore.
FoolishDancer@reddit
I buy powdered Ranch seasoning when I’m in the US. What about a box of Jiffy cornbread mix?
gootbh@reddit
HONEY BUNS
PeteUKinUSA@reddit
Grape Kool Aid for the kid. I had an American friend when I was a kid and his gran used to bring that when she visited. I was bonkers for that stuff.
Miserable_Mission_55@reddit
A cap for her son from your local football team or something. Sweets that are big with influencers like Mr beast are also good for the 8yo (my daughter was obsessed with Feastavals, Swedish Fish and other nonsense like that lol
equally i got a baseball cap from the Cincinnati Bearcats College football team which was one of the most pleasant surprises ever (I've only worn it twice but i lived it all the same!)
PlentyOne@reddit
Be careful with the valuation on the custom declaration as if it's over a certain amount (it was around £25 & above but this might have changed) your friend will have to pay a UK customs charge plus the costs associated with collecting that charge from the UK delivery service.
Last_Ear_5142@reddit
The USA has applied import tariffs to goods coming into the USA. Your kindness could leave her with money to pay customs.
I sent my daughter some stuff and the clearance and customs fees were huge.
Snap-Crackle-Pot@reddit
Hot air. Seems like the US has more than it needs atm as there’s an excessive amount of huffing and puffing going on. I’m not suggesting your British friend wants any US hot air though in fact quite the contrary - you should check none has escaped into the package before you send it
Growling_Salmon@reddit
Send them Kweir Starmer
Snowie_drop@reddit
Try and get them on sale because you have to list the price on a customs form and the threshold is low. She’ll probably have to pay duty on them.
Motor_Train4316@reddit
Can I give you a list of things I want? Lol. In all seriousness it will be the thought that counts.
wakeywakeybigmistaky@reddit
My all time favourite US treat is trader joe’s peanut butter cups, so assuming they’re not allergic that’s my vote!
lonely-dog@reddit
Swedish goldfish.
WelshBathBoy@reddit
Butterfingers, lots and lots of butterfingers!
MissKLO@reddit
Candy corn? Apparently it’s very popular in america and I don’t think we really know what it is
Ok-Sir8025@reddit
I'm a Brit living in Canada and let me tell you that Candy corn is the sweets version of crack, so addictive 🤣
negligiblespecies@reddit
Good BBQ sauce, not Sweet Baby Rays; they have it here. I think maybe some of those boxed "movie theatre" Candy. My husband said good n plenty, but not everyone likes liquorice. Maybe like swedish fish or snow caps. However, it's been kind of hot here, so chocolate could get all gross and melty. Pretzel combos or maybe something with ranch, not doritos. Dill pickle chips would be an interesting one for them. My husband loves those andy capp hot fries.
emax4@reddit
Go to Five Below and take photos of the candy and snack displays. Point out what each candy is like, ask which ones they don't have there and which ones he's curious about, then check the customs to ensure the candies and snacks you want to send are allowed in the country.
crimpinpimp@reddit
Root beer/diet root beer. Chewy jolly ranchers. Lucky charms. Saltines!! Where are the saltines here
englandkeepmyb0nes@reddit
I always ask for cheezits/whales/goldfish when my family come over to the US, candy corn around Halloween, dried peppers and other mexican groceries as well don't have a big Mexican population where I live now.
Boxed mixes like from cracker barrel or red lobster and whatever freaky flavours Oreo are putting out now always go down a treat!
qualityvote2@reddit
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tinabelcher182@reddit
Coming out of left-field to say send some corn tortillas. They're SO hard to find in the UK. But if your friend isn't into cooking or Mexican food, maybe there's little point.
I used to to live in the US and I remember being shocked by how expensive it was to mail even a small bundle of gifts, so be wary of the size or weight limit if you want to send lots of stuff.
I used to send Jolly Ranchers and Lifesavers back home since we don't have them in the UK. Tootsie Rolls, although they're horrible. Unique M&M flavours you can't get in the UK (same for Oreos, if you happen to find any smaller packets of them). Twinkies. Even American versions of the same candy you get in the UK, like Mars bars, KitKats, Snickers etc just because the chocolate used is different, so it's interesting for Brits to try it. Cookies and Cream Hershey's always goes down a treat.
If you want any non-food things then any local football/baseball/basketball/etc team merch is always fun. Something small like a beanie hat or socks or a tshirt if you have space.
ProfessionalEven296@reddit
"corn tortillas"
Otherwise known as 'Corn dust' once they've been through customs! Pretty fragile...
Critical_Pin@reddit
https://www.coolchile.co.uk/c/tortillas/corn-tortillas does good corn tortillas in the UK
User-1967@reddit
Well I’d like a greenleaf Garfield dolls house, so maybe your friend would too
AlGunner@reddit
And they they bought and ruined Cadburys, the bastards.
luffy8519@reddit
Cadbury's is still significantly better than American chocolate though.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
I had to google that, but wow! They are beautiful. I wish I was that good of a friend! 😂😅
TheOriginalGR8Bob@reddit
Nothing with preservatives or artificial flavourings in.
Maybe mug toasters for when she has hot drink.
caruynos@reddit
different m&m flavours are fun. we have regular, mini, pretzel, and a few others. but the more seasonal ones that come out have been fun to try w family. same with oreo flavours although we do have some now. you could always look on ‘asda’ website to see what is stocked by grocery stores here to see. maybe some lollies like dumdums (i think that’s the name) for the kiddo.
pinklepickles@reddit
I love to get Zatarains dirty rice when I go to the US, I can’t get it here in the UK.
Princes_Slayer@reddit
Purple pack of Skittles I believe are different to ours (and bloomin lovely). Our purple sweets are typically blackcurrant whereas I thinks yours are commonly grape.
FrauAmarylis@reddit
A US National Park t-shirt, especially the ones with the checklist of all of them on the back.
Cowboy style is popular here in London. So anything like that.
Something with a yellow school bus on it, or a bison or a Letterman jacket.
Graham crackers, root beer, peanut butter butter, marshmallows (theirs are weird here), Big League chew, etc.
Independent-Ring-877@reddit (OP)
Perfect list! Thanks so much!
LaVidaLemur@reddit
Peeps! I have a friend who has a US friend, they exchange packages and she sometimes brings extras to our games nights. Peeps are amazing. And girl scout cookies - I’m obsessed.