Quick answer
Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, current medications in their original pharmacy bottles, about a week of comfortable clothing, basic alcohol-free toiletries, a written list of contacts and a small amount of money. Leave alcohol, drugs, weapons and most valuables at home, and check your program's rules before you pack.
What documents should you bring to rehab?
Paperwork makes admission go faster. Pack these in a folder or envelope you can hand to staff:
- Photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport
- Insurance card and any prescription drug card
- List of current medications, with doses and the prescriber’s name
- Contact information for your doctors, therapist and pharmacy
- Emergency contacts, written on paper in case your phone is held
- Legal or court paperwork, if treatment is related to a court order
- Work leave forms, such as FMLA paperwork your employer needs a provider to complete
If you’re starting residential treatment, the program may also ask for recent medical records or test results. Ask during your pre-admission call.
Have questions about getting admitted or what your plan covers? Call (877) 847-2855 to talk with our admissions helpline. It’s free and confidential.
How should you bring medications?
Bring every medication you take, including inhalers, insulin and birth control. Keep them in the original pharmacy bottles with labels you can read. Staff will check each one, and residential programs usually store and hand out medications at set times.
Some important tips:
- Don’t stop medications on your own. Stopping benzodiazepines suddenly can cause seizures and can be life-threatening. Withdrawal from alcohol can be dangerous too. Talk to a doctor or the program first.
- Bring proof of dosing if you take methadone or buprenorphine. The program will need to coordinate with your current prescriber or clinic. Learn more about medication-assisted treatment.
- Ask about over-the-counter items. Many programs need to approve vitamins, supplements and pain relievers.
If you’re worried about withdrawal from alcohol or benzodiazepines, ask whether you should start with medical detox.
What clothing should you pack?
Comfort matters. You’ll spend time in groups, therapy sessions and activities, and many programs include exercise.
- About 7 days of everyday clothes (laundry is usually available)
- Layers, such as a sweatshirt or light jacket
- Sleepwear and a robe
- Comfortable walking shoes and slippers or shower shoes
- Workout clothes
- Weather-appropriate outerwear
- One nicer outfit for family visits or outings, if allowed
Many programs have dress codes. They often ban revealing clothing and clothes with drug, alcohol or violent images.
Which toiletries are allowed?
Bring the basics, but check labels. Many programs don’t allow products that contain alcohol, since they can be misused.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste and alcohol-free mouthwash
- Shampoo, conditioner and body wash
- Deodorant (often non-aerosol)
- Hairbrush or comb
- Razor, if allowed (some programs store these)
- Feminine hygiene products
- Sunscreen and lip balm
Some programs ask you to bring new, sealed products. Others supply toiletries.
What comfort items can you bring?
Small personal items can make a new place feel less stressful:
- A journal and pens
- Books or puzzle books
- Photos of loved ones
- A favorite pillow or blanket, if permitted
- A watch or simple alarm clock
- Stamps and envelopes for letters
- A small amount of cash or a debit card for vending machines or copays
What should you leave at home?
Most programs prohibit or limit these items:
- Alcohol, drugs and drug paraphernalia
- Weapons of any kind
- Products containing alcohol, such as some mouthwashes or hand sanitizers
- Aerosol cans
- Expensive jewelry and large amounts of cash
- Revealing or drug-themed clothing
- Unapproved supplements or energy drinks
- Video games, and sometimes laptops or tablets
Phone policies vary widely. Some residential programs hold phones at first or allow them only at set times. Outpatient programs usually have fewer limits.
What should you bring to outpatient rehab?
If you’re starting outpatient care, intensive outpatient (IOP) or partial hospitalization (PHP), you’ll go home each day, so you need much less. For your first visit, bring:
- Photo ID and insurance card
- Your medication list
- Any paperwork the program sent you
- A notebook and pen
- A water bottle and snack, if allowed
- A way to get home safely
Ask whether the program expects you to bring lunch for longer PHP days.
Do teens, parents or pregnant people need anything extra?
Some situations call for a few added items or steps:
- Teens: A parent or guardian usually needs to bring ID, insurance information and any custody or consent paperwork. Ask about school assignments or tutoring.
- Parents: Bring the names and phone numbers of the people caring for your children, written on paper.
- Pregnant people: Bring prenatal records and your obstetric provider’s contact information. Stopping some substances suddenly during pregnancy can be risky, so let the program know you’re pregnant before you arrive. Learn about treatment programs for pregnant women.
Rehab packing checklist
| Category | Must bring | Check with the program |
|---|---|---|
| Documents | Photo ID, insurance card, medication list | Medical records, court papers |
| Medications | Current prescriptions in original bottles | Supplements and over-the-counter items |
| Clothing | About a week of comfortable clothes, shoes | Dress code, outdoor gear |
| Toiletries | Alcohol-free basics | Razors, aerosols, sealed products |
| Personal items | Written contact list, journal, small amount of cash | Phone, laptop, pillow |
How can you prepare before you leave?
A little planning can help you focus on recovery once you arrive:
- Tell your employer what you need to. Our guide to rehab and your job covers leave and privacy protections.
- Set up bill payments or ask someone you trust to handle them.
- Arrange care for children, pets and plants.
- Ask how long you’ll stay so you pack the right amount. See how long rehab lasts.
- Plan your ride to the program, and avoid driving if you might be in withdrawal.
- Learn what to expect on day one with our guide to what happens in rehab.
Ready to take the next step?
Packing is one of the last steps before a fresh start. When in doubt, call your program and ask what’s allowed, and focus on bringing what helps you feel safe and comfortable. If you still need to find the right program or check your coverage, call (877) 847-2855 to reach our admissions helpline. If you or someone else is in danger, call 911, or call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my phone to rehab?
It depends on the program. Some residential programs hold phones during the first days or limit use to certain hours, while many outpatient programs have no restrictions. Ask the program about its phone and laptop policy before you arrive.
Should I bring my prescription medications to rehab?
Yes, bring all current prescriptions in their original pharmacy bottles with readable labels. Staff will review them, and in residential settings they usually store and give out medications. Don't stop any medication on your own before admission, especially benzodiazepines, without talking to a doctor.
How much clothing should I pack for rehab?
About a week's worth of comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is usually enough, since most residential programs have laundry. Include layers, sleepwear, comfortable shoes and something suitable for exercise. Many programs have dress codes, so check before packing.
What items are not allowed in rehab?
Programs usually ban alcohol, drugs, weapons, and products that contain alcohol, such as some mouthwashes. Many also restrict aerosols, unapproved supplements, and revealing or drug-related clothing. Your program can give you its specific list.
Can I bring money to rehab?
A small amount of cash or a debit card is usually fine for vending machines, outings or copays. Leave large amounts of money and expensive jewelry at home. Some programs store cash for you.
Should I drink or use before going to rehab?
It's safest not to. Arriving intoxicated can delay admission, and stopping alcohol or benzodiazepines suddenly can be dangerous. Talk with the program about how to arrive safely, and ask whether you need medical detox first.
