More than 23 million Americans have struggled with substance abuse at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, only 25% seek professional help.
What about you or your loved ones? No matter what type of addiction you have, your best chance for recovery from addiction is in rehab.
The question is:
What should you pack? Keep reading and we’ll guide you on what to bring (and what to leave at home) when you go to rehab.
Essential Clothing & Personal Items
Your “essential” packing list should look something like this:
- Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing for seven days
- Reasonably comfortable shoes (i.e., sneakers, sandals)
- Bathrobe
- Pajama
- Deodorant
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Comb and brush
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Hair styling products
- Shaving cream
- Lotion
- Sunblock
- Feminine health products
Keep in mind that rehabilitation centers may have a specific dress code. Be sure to follow their rules regarding appropriate attire (for example, cropped tops or shirts with offensive language may not be allowed).
Also, any toiletries you bring with you must be unopened and alcohol-free.
Optional Items to Carry
Modern rehabilitation centers such as Hope Rising Center for Recovery has all the comfort and convenience you could want. Still, you may want to bring a few items that remind you of home.
These may include:
- Framed photos of your family and pets
- ID photo
- Essential medical equipment (i.e., CPAP machine, contacts, glasses, hearing aids, or dentures)
- Prescription drugs and supplements
- Sentimental jewelery (i.e., wedding rings or watches)
- Your favorite pillow or blanket
- Notebook or journal
- Cellphones and laptops (if permitted), along with charging cables
- Postage and envelopes for sending letters
- Contact information of family members and loved ones
- Small amounts of cash ($50-$100) for vending machines or other small purchases
What Not to Bring When You Go to Rehab
Each center will have its own rules about what is allowed and what is not. In general, you should leave the following items at home:
- Excess baggage
- Electronic devices
- your personal vehicle
- Towel
- Blanket
- Camera
- Straight edge razor blade
- Weapon
- Mouthwash
- aerosol
- Nail clipper
- Open drugs, vitamins, or supplements
- Food and beverage items
- Candle
- Incense
- Excessive makeup products
- Pornographic material
- Gambling device
- Your pets (even if they are emotional support animals)
It’s a good idea to leave expensive or valuable items, such as jewelry or electronics, at home. You also may not be allowed to carry any clothing or items that contain profanity or promote drug and alcohol use.
Go to Rehab: Your Complete List
Going to rehab is a big decision—the first step toward addiction recovery and optimal health!
To make the transition as easy as possible, use this packing checklist to make sure you have everything you need to be successful. In just a few weeks or months, you’ll be healthier, happier, and ready to succeed.
What is the best rehabilitation center in your area? What types of addictions can you treat when you go to rehab?
Our site has answers like these (and more), so stay tuned and keep exploring.
