Winter Aid to Ukraine 2026: What to Send and How to Help Wisely?

Ukraine is enduring one of its toughest winters since the outbreak of the full-scale war. Constant attacks on energy infrastructure mean millions of people are facing power outages lasting many hours a day. Residents often lack access to stable heating or running water. In this situation, a package from abroad is more than just material aid. It is a lifeline and a signal that the world remembers them. 

Whether you are sending a care package to family or transferring equipment to friends, the effectiveness of your support depends on good planning. Here is a comprehensive guide on what is truly needed, what to avoid, and how to safely deliver aid this winter. 

What to Send: A Winter Survival Kit 

In winter, energy failures and heating problems are the most serious challenges—both in large cities and in the provinces. The contents of your package should address these specific, urgent needs. 

Sources of Heat and Energy 

When the lights go out, these items become indispensable: 

• Power banks: Key for charging phones and maintaining contact with loved ones. 

• Generators and power stations: Allow home appliances to keep running (note: special customs rules apply here, which we discuss below). 

• Flashlights, LED lamps, and candles: Simple but reliable sources of light. 

Warm Clothing and Textiles 

Preserving heat when radiators are cold is a priority: 

• Jackets and sweaters: Bet on high-quality insulating materials. 

• Thermal underwear: A mandatory layer that helps retain heat close to the body. 

• Blankets and sleeping bags: Essential during cold nights. 

• Hot water bottles: A simple way to provide localized warmth. 

Winter Essentials 

Small things that make a big difference in everyday life: 

• Thermoses and thermal mugs: Allow for keeping tea or food hot for many hours. 

• Dry food with a long shelf life: Canned goods, instant meals, and energy bars work best. 

• Hygiene products and first aid kits: Basic medical supplies are always in demand. 

What Not to Send: Most Common Mistakes 

Not every product will be valuable help. To ensure your package arrives without legal issues and actually helps, avoid: 

• Prohibited goods: Alcohol, tobacco products, flammable materials, or items requiring special licenses. 

• Perishable food: Avoid products with short expiration dates and food of unknown origin. 

• Damaged items: If you are sending used items, make sure they are in very good condition. Worn-out clothes or broken appliances are a burden for the recipient, not help. 

Sending Power: A Guide to Devices 

In many regions, power outages are everyday life. Therefore, stable energy sources are worth their weight in gold. Sending power-generating equipment from Poland is one of the most real ways to help. 

Modern logistics allow for the convenient purchase and shipment of inverters, portable power stations (such as Bluetti or EcoFlow), and voltage stabilizers directly to Ukraine. 

Which Devices are Worth Buying? 

If you want to improve the energy security of your loved ones, consider these options: 

1. Inverters (voltage converters): Convert voltage from a 12V or 24V battery to standard 230V. Ideal for those who already have a battery (e.g., a car battery) and want to power home appliances. 

2. Power stations (Bluetti, EcoFlow): These are ready-made mobile "power plants" with a built-in battery. Great for apartments in blocks of flats—they are quiet, portable, and can often be charged by solar panels. 

3. Voltage stabilizers (AVR): Protect sensitive electronics (computers, refrigerators, boilers) from voltage surges, which happen very often in the Ukrainian grid. 

Exemption from Duty and VAT on Energy Equipment 

Good news: To facilitate aid, private packages containing energy management devices are often exempt from customs duties if they meet certain conditions: 

• Value limit: The total value of goods in the package cannot exceed 1000 EUR. 

• Weight limit: The package cannot weigh more than 30 kg. 

• Declaration: You must correctly declare the item in the carrier's system (using appropriate abbreviations, e.g., "BLU..." for Bluetti or "GEN..." for generators) to benefit from the exemption. 

How to Send a Package with Meest Post? 

Meest Post offers proven solutions for both regular aid packages and specialized equipment. You have three convenient methods to choose from: 

1. InPost Parcel Locker Ideal for those who value flexibility. You register the package on the meestpost.com website, pay for it online, and receive an SMS code. Then you take the package to any parcel locker at any time (24/7). 

2. Meest Post Drop-off Point For those who prefer personal service. Go to a partner point where an employee will weigh and measure the package and help with formalities. Just remember to check opening hours. You can find the list of drop-off points at the link. 

3. Courier The best option for large and heavy packages. A courier will pick up the package from your doorstep (usually the next business day). You fill out the form online, and the courier handles the label. 

Important Tips When Sending 

• Delivery time: Transport from Poland to Ukraine usually takes min. 4 business days. However, remember that difficult weather conditions, prolonged customs clearance, or the situation in the region may extend this time. 

• Packing: Use sturdy cardboard boxes. Fill empty spaces with newspapers or film so the contents don't rattle inside. Seal everything tightly with strong tape. 

• Original packaging: Energy devices (generators, stations) are best sent in factory boxes—this facilitates transport and customs verification. 

• Customs declaration: Fill it out in detail. Customs officers must know what is inside and how much it is worth. Remember: ordinary private packages are exempt from duty up to 150 EUR, but for energy equipment (provided there is a correct declaration), this limit is as much as 1000 EUR. 

A Signal of Support 

By sending the right items—whether it's a warm sleeping bag or a modern power station—you are doing more than just providing material aid. You are helping the residents of Ukraine survive the winter with dignity. You are letting them know that they are not alone. Take advantage of simplified customs procedures and reliable shipping methods so that your support reaches where it is needed most.