What to Bring to Rehab: Complete Packing List & Guide
Everything you need to know about packing for drug and alcohol treatment—what to bring, what to leave at home, and how to prepare for your stay.
Preparing for Your Stay in Rehab
Deciding to enter drug or alcohol rehab is a brave first step toward recovery. As you prepare for treatment, knowing what to pack can help ease some of the anxiety about this new chapter. The right items will keep you comfortable, while leaving prohibited items behind ensures a smooth admission process.
Every treatment facility has its own policies, so always contact your specific facility for their packing list before you leave. This guide covers the essentials that most rehab centers allow and the items typically prohibited at treatment facilities.
At Nova Transformations, we want you to focus on your recovery—not worry about what you forgot to pack. Here's everything you need to know.
What to Bring to Rehab
1Essential Documents
2Clothing (7-10 Days)
3Toiletries (Alcohol-Free, Unopened)
Important: All toiletries must be alcohol-free and typically sealed/unopened. Bring enough for 30 days. No aerosol products—use pump sprays or roll-ons.
4Medications
Note: Over-the-counter medications and supplements may need approval. Bring them unopened and inform the medical team during intake.
5Personal & Comfort Items
6Items to Ask About First
These items may be allowed at some facilities but prohibited at others. Always check with your treatment center:
What NOT to Bring to Rehab
Treatment centers have strict policies about prohibited items to ensure everyone's safety and create an environment focused on recovery. Your bags will be inspected at admission—don't worry if you accidentally pack something prohibited; staff will store it or arrange for pickup.
XProhibited Items
Why Are These Items Prohibited?
Electronics: Phones, laptops, and internet-connected devices can be major distractions from treatment. They also allow contact with people who might not support your recovery or could provide access to triggering content.
Alcohol-containing products: Even products not meant for consumption (like mouthwash) can be misused. Facilities provide alcohol-free alternatives.
Revealing clothing: Treatment is about focusing inward, not outward appearances. Modest clothing helps maintain a respectful, professional environment.
Pro Tips for Packing for Rehab
- Call ahead: Every facility has different policies. Contact admissions for their specific packing list before you leave home.
- Pack light: You'll have access to laundry facilities. A week's worth of clothing is usually plenty.
- Label everything: Write your name on clothing tags and personal items to prevent mix-ups with other residents.
- Check ingredients: Read labels on all toiletries and products—alcohol can hide in surprising places.
- Leave valuables at home: Expensive jewelry, large amounts of cash, and sentimental items are better left in a safe place.
- Bring comfort items: Photos of loved ones can provide motivation during difficult moments in treatment.
- Prepare for weather: Check the climate where your facility is located and pack appropriate layers.
- Keep receipts: Save receipts for items you purchase specifically for rehab—some may be tax-deductible medical expenses.
What to Expect at Admission
When you arrive at the treatment facility, staff will guide you through the admission process:
Bag Inspection
- All belongings will be searched
- Prohibited items will be stored or sent home
- Medications will be collected for medical review
- Personal items may be catalogued
Initial Assessment
- Medical evaluation and health screening
- Review of medical history and medications
- Mental health assessment
- Development of your treatment plan
Orientation
- Tour of the facility
- Introduction to staff and peers
- Review of rules and expectations
- Daily schedule overview
Getting Settled
- Room assignment and unpacking
- Setting up personal space
- First meal with peers
- Beginning your treatment journey
Ready to Start Your Recovery Journey?
Nova Transformations offers PHP and IOP programs in Matthews, NC. Our admissions team will provide a detailed packing list and answer all your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Download Your Packing Checklist
Print this page or save it for reference as you prepare for treatment.