What to Bring to Rehab

What to bring to rehab depends on the facility’s policies, but there are items like a valid ID, handwritten emergency contacts, current medications, comfortable clothing, and personal hygiene products that will help you settle into your recovery center. 

Alongside your necessities, there are often prohibited items like weapons, aerosols, and non-prescribed drugs. Rehabilitation facilities may offer guides for both categories, but the best policy is usually to pack light and have more stuff brought in as the need arises. 

There’s really no need to worry as you make this change. This article will help you decide what to carry on this journey so you can be best prepared. 

Common Items Rehabs Recommend You Bring

Packing for rehab can feel overwhelming, but bringing the essentials will make your stay a lot more comfortable. While every facility has its own rules, here’s a guide to help you prepare.

Important Documents

Most rehab centers require certain forms of identification and medical information, including:

• A driver’s license, passport, or ID card.
• Insurance details.
• A list of current medications and necessary medical records.

Personal Hygiene Essentials

You’ll need basic toiletries, but they should be new, sealed, and alcohol-free (including mouthwash). Pack enough for at least 30 days, including:

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Deodorant
• Soap/body wash
• Comb or brush
• Feminine hygiene products
• Shaving cream & razors (check facility rules)

Clothing & Shoes

Stick to comfortable, casual clothing and pack for about 7-10 days since most facilities have laundry services. Essentials include:

• Pajamas & a robe
• Socks & underwear
• T-shirts, pants, or shorts
• Comfortable shoes & shower shoes

For exercise & outdoor activities, bring:

• Workout clothes (gym shorts, tees, sweats)
• Sneakers
• Swimwear (if applicable)
• A jacket, sweater, or rain gear (depending on climate)

Medications

Bring your prescription meds in their original, unopened bottles with clear labels. Many centers store and dispense medications for you. To avoid issues, make a list of:

• Medication names & dosages
• Prescribing doctor’s info
• Pharmacy details

Money & Cards

You won’t need much cash. $50-$100 in small bills should be plenty. Also, bring:

• A debit/credit card
• Your ID & insurance card

Electronics

Rules vary by facility. Some allow cell phones, laptops, tablets, or e-readers, while others limit usage or ban certain devices.

What Healing Items Can You Bring to Rehab?

Packing for rehab isn’t just about essentials—it’s about bringing items that provide comfort, emotional support, and a sense of stability during a major life transition. 

A journal is one of the best tools to bring. Writing down your thoughts, emotions, and progress helps with self-reflection and processing difficult feelings. Journaling can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and help people prioritize their fears and concerns. Penning your thoughts down on paper allows for better emotional regulation and a clearer perspective on recovery.

Books, fiction or non-fiction, can also be a lifeline during this period. They offer mental stimulation, a sense of connection, and shifts in perspective that help you along the road to recovery. 

A familiar item like a cherished plushie, your worn-in blanket or a tiny keepsake can offer a world of comfort. As you stay in the new environment, these small reminders of home can ground you and make the experience less overwhelming.

What to Do if You Have Special Dietary Needs?

Sort out dietary needs before rehab to ensure proper nutrition. Let the facility know about allergies, intolerances, or preferences like vegetarian or gluten-free. A doctor’s note can help reinforce your requirements.

Follow up before admission to confirm accommodations. If options are limited, bring non-perishable snacks, vitamins, or meal supplements (check with staff first). If possible, work with a dietitian on a meal plan.

Label personal food, stay in touch with kitchen staff, and speak up if issues arise. Advocating for yourself ensures you get the nourishment needed for recovery.

What Happens If You Bring Something Prohibited to Rehab?

Realizing you’ve packed something that isn’t allowed can be stressful, but rehab centers have procedures in place to handle this. If you have a friend or family member with you, the facility may ask them to take the item home. If you’re alone, some centers will store the item securely until you finish treatment, while others will hold onto it for 24 hours to give someone time to pick it up. Some facilities don’t store personal belongings at all and may either dispose of the item or require you to remove it before admission.

If you’re flying to rehab, it’s important to call ahead and ask about their policies. Some centers will store prohibited items until you leave, while others may ship them home at your expense. If an item isn’t allowed but isn’t something you can easily throw away, it’s best to know what options you have before you arrive.

The easiest way to avoid issues is to ask questions ahead of time. If you’re unsure about an item, it’s better to double-check than to risk having it confiscated. Keep your packing light and only carry essentials.

Begin Your Journey Toward Recovery

Checking into a good rehab is a fantastic step to starting your recovery. By packing the essentials, you can ease your transition and focus on healing.

Pride Detox offers a well-equipped LGBTQ+ inclusive residential program that offers evidence-based treatments and wellness activities to foster your well-being. By providing a conducive environment for recovery, you can focus on building the strength and skills needed for lasting health.

If you or your LGBTQ+ loved one is struggling with any form of addiction, contact Pride Detox at 562-564-6915, to start your journey to recovery today.