So, you’re wondering what to bring to rehab. The idea of going to residential treatment (let alone coming up with a packing list for inpatient rehab) may bring some unknowns right now, but it’s a big leap in the right direction on your road to recovery. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), only 13% of people with drug addictions ever get any treatment. The fact that you’re committing to treatment means you’re one step closer to overcoming what has held you back all these years.
As a holistic addiction and mental health treatment facility based in Nashville, TN, we’ve helped all kinds of people at Integrative Life Center navigate their rehab successfully. And to start things off well, you need to know what to take to rehab. That’s why we’re sharing the essential rehab packing list here so you can begin making your preparations to succeed. You’ve got this!
What to Bring to Rehab: The Big Picture
In considering what to bring to rehab, you need to take a different approach to your packing list than you would for a vacation. Most treatment facilities have policies about the items you can bring to rehab and those you can’t. These policies—like ours here at Integrative Life Center—are in place to protect you and other patients, too.
When you come to residential treatment, the last thing we want is for something you bring to cause your addiction or mental health disorder to get worse. Rehab should be free of temptations, triggers, and distractions that would get in the way of your ability to heal. For these reasons, we (and most facilities) may inspect your belongings when you arrive. Don’t take this personally; we just want to make sure everyone attending rehab has the absolute best experience possible. If you’re unsure if something should be on your rehab packing list, feel free to give us a call.
Key Must-Haves on Your Rehab Packing List
When you’re admitted to inpatient rehab, it’s best to limit your belongings to one main suitcase. Because you only have so much space to work with, make sure you have these items on your rehab packing list:
- Government-issued photo identification (such as a driver’s license or passport)*
- Insurance card*
- Toiletries: shampoo, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, contact lens solution & case, glasses, etc.**
- Medications (these need to be in original prescription bottles or bubble packs)
- Paper prescription card
- Cell phone, laptop, iPad, etc. (and chargers)***
*We make copies of these upon admission
**If you bring mouthwash, it must be alcohol-free
***Integrative Life Center permits technology at our facility, unless our clinical team determines it is a barrier to your recovery. Each facility is different, so it’s a good idea to double check before packing these items
What to Bring to Rehab: Clothing
Integrative Life Center doesn’t have a specific dress code policy, but it’s always best to dress comfortably while in rehab. This means packing weather-appropriate clothing. Nashville truly gets all four seasons, so think through the time of year you’ll be here and what temperatures historically occur. You’ll also want to bring active wear to participate in recreational activities and various forms of experiential therapy. We have an onsite washer and dryer at each residence, and laundry detergent is provided.
Clothing Packing List for Inpatient Rehab
- Casual clothing (T-shirts, pants, shorts, layers)
- Sneakers or comfortable shoes
- Socks, undergarments, and pajamas
- Jacket or coat
- Active wear for yoga and other recreation
What to Bring to Rehab: Money and Optional Items to Consider
Many rehab programs provide time for individual reflection, so bringing your own journal or diary may be helpful. We’ve also found that many patients like to bring their own pillows, photographs, or other items that make them feel at home or assist in their personal recovery. These are certainly welcome.
There are also occasions where you may have the opportunity to go shopping or participate in a weekend outing, so having some spending money on hand can be a good idea. However, instead of cash, it’s best to bring prepaid gift cards. You’ll also be responsible for paying for your own medications as needed.
Items You Should NOT Add to Your Rehab Packing List
Like we said earlier, we have policies in place to keep our space safe and supportive for everyone in treatment. That means there are certain items that are prohibited at the treatment facility. If you have questions about prohibited items (or what to do if you accidentally bring something), just get in touch with our admissions team. These are the items that you should NOT add to your rehab packing list:
- Drugs or alcohol
- Clothing with profanity, alcohol, or drug paraphernalia graphics
- Cash in large denominations
- Laundry detergent
- Sheets, linens, or towels
Ready to Start Your Rehab Journey? We Can Help
With an idea of what to bring to rehab, you’re making progress on your journey towards healing. That progress brings you closer to the reclaimed life you deserve. And if you’re still exploring your rehab options, we encourage you to reach out to us at Integrative Life Center. From substance abuse and eating disorders to mental health struggles and intimacy disorders, our treatment programs are here to help you achieve lasting recovery. Contact us now to get started.
