Your admissions team is your best source of truth for what to bring to rehab. Most treatment centers will send you a packing list or review it with you during your pre-admission call. Always follow their instructions first, as policies can vary by state, level of care, and program type.(Source)

In general, you should plan to bring enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and essential personal items for about 7–10 days. Most residential programs offer on-site laundry or laundry service once or twice per week.(Source)

Use the lists below as a starting point, then confirm details with your specific rehab before you pack.

Have these items ready in an easy-to-access folder or small bag for admission:

• A government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
• Your health insurance card and any prescription/medication benefit card
• A list of current medications, including exact dosages and how often you take them
• A list of allergies and major medical conditions (for example, diabetes, seizure history, heart conditions)
• Emergency contact information for family, close friends, or legal guardians
• Any required legal paperwork (such as court orders, probation information, or FMLA/disability forms, if applicable)

Bringing this information in writing helps your care team quickly understand your medical and safety needs and reduces the risk of missing important details during the stress of admission.(Source)

Most rehabs encourage modest, comfortable, and practical clothing. You will spend time in group therapy, individual sessions, meals, recreation, and possibly medical appointments, so pack items that help you feel relaxed but presentable.

Plan to bring:

• About a week’s worth of casual, comfortable clothing (T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, jeans, sweatpants, leggings, modest shorts)
• Sleepwear that is appropriate for a shared living environment
• Underwear and socks for at least 7–10 days
• A light jacket or sweater, and a heavier layer if you are coming during colder months
• Workout clothing for fitness, yoga, or outdoor activities
• A modest swimsuit (one-piece for women; knee-length swim trunks for men, if the facility has a pool or water activities)
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes or sneakers for daily wear and exercise
• Flip-flops or shower shoes
• A hat and sunglasses for outdoor activities (if permitted by the facility)

Avoid clothing with:

• Drug, alcohol, or gambling references
• Violent, sexual, or offensive language or images
• Extremely revealing cuts (very short shorts, low-cut tops, midriff-baring shirts)

Most treatment centers reserve the right to ask you not to wear clothing that could be triggering or disruptive to the therapeutic environment.(Source)

Good hygiene is an important part of feeling better physically and emotionally in early recovery.(Source) Most rehabs allow basic, alcohol-free personal care products, but they must usually be unopened and in their original containers at the time of admission.

Commonly allowed items include:

• Shampoo and conditioner (alcohol-free or with alcohol low on the ingredient list, per facility policy)
• Body wash or bar soap
• Face wash and moisturizer
• Deodorant (stick or roll-on is usually preferred over aerosol)
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss
• Alcohol-free mouthwash (many programs ban mouthwash with alcohol)
• Hairbrush or comb, hair ties, and basic hair styling products
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Feminine hygiene products
• Basic makeup and skincare items, in reasonable amounts

Many programs ask that all cosmetics fit into one quart-sized, resealable plastic bag and all toiletries fit into one gallon-sized, resealable plastic bag to simplify storage and safety checks.

Be sure to:

• Check labels for alcohol content—items with a high percentage of alcohol (especially mouthwash, some toners, and certain hair products) may be restricted or discarded at admission.
• Bring only what you truly need; large or excessive quantities may not be allowed.

If you are unsure about a specific product, ask your admissions team before you arrive.

If you take prescription medications or medically recommended supplements, it is very important to bring them to rehab so your care team can safely continue or adjust your treatment plan.(Source)

Follow these guidelines:

• Bring all current prescription medications in their original pharmacy-labeled bottles or packaging.
• Do not transfer pills into pill organizers or unlabeled containers before admission.
• Include any over-the-counter medications or vitamins you take regularly, also in original, unopened packaging when possible.
• Bring a written list of each medication, dosage, and how often you take it.
• Inform the admissions and medical team about any recent medication changes or side effects.

Once you are admitted, staff will typically:

• Review your medications for safety and potential interactions
• Securely store them in a medication room or pharmacy area
• Dispense them to you at scheduled times, according to the physician’s orders

Some medications may be adjusted, held, or replaced if they are not clinically appropriate or safe to use in a rehab setting—for example, certain controlled substances or medications with high misuse potential.(Source) Never bring illicit drugs, non-prescribed controlled substances, or someone else’s medication; these are strictly prohibited and can affect your ability to stay in treatment.

If you use medical devices (such as a CPAP machine, inhaler, glucose monitor, or insulin supplies), let the admissions team know in advance and bring them with you unless the facility tells you otherwise.

Rehab is about more than medical care—it is also about emotional healing and building new routines. A few personal items can help you feel more at home and supported during your stay.

Commonly allowed comfort items include:

• A small number of printed photos of family, friends, or pets
• A notebook or journal for writing, reflection, and tracking your progress
• Pens, pencils, or highlighters
• A softcover book or two (recovery-related, spiritual, or inspirational titles are often encouraged)
• A small, non-valuable item with personal meaning (such as a favorite keychain or small keepsake)

Some facilities may also allow:

• Basic, non-connected MP3 players or iPods without cameras, Wi‑Fi, or cellular capability
• Simple headphones or earbuds

These devices are usually reviewed at admission, and any device with internet, camera, or messaging capabilities may be restricted or stored for you until discharge.

Avoid bringing expensive jewelry, large amounts of cash, or irreplaceable valuables. While facilities take precautions, they cannot always guarantee the safety of high-value items, and it is best to leave them at home.(Source)

Knowing what not to bring to rehab is just as important as knowing what to pack. Certain items can interfere with treatment, pose safety risks, or trigger other patients. Every facility has its own rules, but the following items are commonly prohibited:(Source)

• Alcohol, illicit drugs, or drug paraphernalia of any kind
• Products containing significant amounts of alcohol, including many mouthwashes and some hand sanitizers
• Weapons of any type (guns, knives, pepper spray, tasers, etc.)
• Aerosol products (such as some hairsprays, deodorants, or cleaning sprays)
• Opened medications, supplements, or vitamins in unmarked containers
• Clothing with explicit language, violent imagery, or drug/alcohol references
• Extremely revealing clothing (very short shorts, low-cut tops, see-through items, midriff-baring shirts)
• Pornographic materials or sexually explicit content
• Candles, incense, or anything with an open flame
• Food and drinks from outside (most programs provide all meals and snacks)
• Wire hangers or items that could be used in a dangerous way

If you accidentally bring a restricted item, staff will typically store it securely or ask a family member to take it home. In some cases—such as alcohol-containing mouthwash—it may be discarded at admission for safety reasons.

Policies around electronics have evolved in recent years, but most residential rehabs still limit personal devices to protect privacy, reduce distractions, and support a focused healing environment.(Source)

Laptops and tablets:

• In most programs, laptops and tablets are not allowed during treatment.
• Some executive or professional tracks may offer limited, supervised access for work-related needs—always confirm this in advance if it applies to you.

Cell phones:

• Many facilities allow you to bring your cell phone, but it is often stored securely during your stay.
• Some programs offer scheduled phone times or supervised use, while others restrict cell phone access entirely until a certain phase of treatment.

Music players and e-readers:

• Simple MP3 players or iPods without Wi‑Fi, cameras, or messaging are more likely to be allowed.
• E-readers may be permitted if they do not have open internet access.

Because technology policies can change and may differ by level of care (detox vs. residential vs. outpatient), ask your admissions team exactly what is allowed before you arrive.

Smoking and vaping policies vary widely between treatment centers and states.(Source)

Common approaches include:

• Some rehabs are completely smoke-free and do not allow cigarettes, vapes, or other tobacco products.
• Others allow smoking in designated outdoor areas and may permit you to bring unopened packs of cigarettes.
• Many programs strongly encourage or support quitting nicotine and may offer nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) such as patches, gum, or lozenges.(Source)

If you smoke, vape, or use other nicotine products:

• Ask your admissions team whether cigarettes, vapes, or smokeless tobacco are allowed.
• If permitted, bring only unopened packs or containers.
• Let the medical team know if you are interested in nicotine replacement or quitting while in treatment.

Being honest about your nicotine use helps your care team support your overall health and comfort during rehab.

Most rehabs do not allow pets; however, there are important legal distinctions between service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs).

• Service animals (such as guide dogs for people who are visually impaired) are generally protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and may be allowed, with reasonable accommodations, in many healthcare settings.(Source)
• Emotional support animals do not have the same level of legal protection as service animals and are usually not guaranteed access to treatment facilities.(Source)

If you rely on a service animal:

• Inform the admissions team as early as possible.
• Be prepared to provide documentation and discuss how the facility can safely accommodate your needs.

If you have an emotional support animal:

• Ask the facility about their specific policy—some may make case-by-case exceptions, while others cannot allow ESAs due to medical, safety, or licensing requirements.

Always confirm animal-related policies well before your admission date so you can plan appropriately.

A simple rule of thumb is to bring one medium or large suitcase or duffel bag with about a week’s worth of clothing, plus a small carry-on or backpack for documents and essentials.

Tips for packing smart:

• Pack for layers: rehab facilities can be cool indoors even in warm weather, and you may spend time outside.
• Use resealable plastic bags for toiletries and small items.
• Label your belongings when possible, especially if items could be easily mixed up in shared spaces.
• Leave irreplaceable valuables at home.
• Bring a small amount of cash if recommended by the facility (for vending machines or small store purchases), but avoid large sums.

If you forget something essential, many programs can help you obtain basic items after admission or coordinate with family members to drop them off, according to facility policy.

Packing for rehab is one of the first concrete steps you take toward a healthier, substance-free life. Feeling prepared can ease anxiety and help you arrive with a clearer mind.

As you get ready:

• Use your facility’s official packing list as your primary guide.
• When in doubt about an item, call or email the admissions team and ask.
• Focus on bringing what you truly need to feel safe, comfortable, and able to participate fully in treatment.

You do not have to have everything figured out before you walk through the door. Your treatment team will help you with the rest. If you have questions about what to bring to rehab or what to expect on admission day, call our admissions team at 855-928-1987 for personalized guidance.