The short answer
Ask the program for its own packing list first, because rules differ from one place to the next. In general, bring ID, the insurance card, a list of medications, comfortable clothes for about a week, basic toiletries and contact numbers written on paper. Leave alcohol, drugs, weapons and valuables at home.
The list below is general. It applies mostly to residential care and inpatient detox. For outpatient care or an intensive outpatient program (IOP), your loved one goes home each day, so ask what to bring to the first visit.
What to pack and what to leave
Usually good to bring
- Photo ID and insurance card
- A written list of medications, and prescriptions in original bottles
- Names and numbers for doctors and family, on paper
- A week of comfortable clothes, plus sleepwear and a sweater
- Shoes that are easy to walk in
- A notebook, pen and a book or two
Usually left at home
- Alcohol, drugs and anything used to take them
- Weapons, including pocket knives
- Products that contain alcohol, like some mouthwash
- Expensive jewelry, large amounts of cash and other valuables
- Revealing clothes, or clothes that promote drinking or drugs
- Anything the program’s list says no to
Don’t stop or change any medication to get ready for admission. Tell intake everything your loved one takes, and ask a doctor if you have questions.
Things to ask the program before you pack
A quick call can save you a second trip across town. These are the rules that vary most:
- Phones and laptops. Some programs hold them for a while, and others allow them at set times.
- Medications. Ask how they should be packaged, and who will hold them. Bring all of them, including vitamins and over-the-counter products, so the care team can review them.
- Tobacco and vapes. Rules differ. Ask before you buy anything.
- Toiletries. Many programs prefer unopened items without alcohol in them.
- Money. Ask whether your loved one needs a small amount, and how it is kept.
- Laundry. Ask whether there is a washer, which decides how many clothes to bring.
- Mail and visits. Ask what can be dropped off later, and how it will be checked. Our page on family programs and visiting has more on this.
Expect staff to look through bags at admission. It’s a normal safety step, and it isn’t personal.
Packing for First Coast weather
Our summers are hot and humid, and winter mornings can be cool. Light layers work most of the year, and a sweater helps in air-conditioned rooms. Sandals are fine if the program allows them, but pack closed shoes too. Ask whether there is outdoor time, and whether sunscreen or bug spray is allowed.
Small things that can help
Treatment can feel strange in the first days. A few small comforts from home can steady someone, as long as the program allows them:
- A few family photos, without frames that could break
- A letter from you to read on a hard day
- A prayer book, recovery book or journal
- A list of a few people who want to hear from them
If you are packing for your loved one, ask them what they want. Choosing for themselves can help them feel more in control of a hard decision. Then read what to expect in the first week together, so the first days hold fewer surprises.
The day before
Call to confirm
Ask about arrival time, what to bring and who can come along to intake.
Sort the paperwork
Put ID, the insurance card and the medication list in one place. Our guide to insurance and rehab explains what to check.
Handle life at home
Arrange pets, bills and work. Read what to tell an employer if that is on your mind.
Questions about packing for rehab
Can you bring your phone to rehab?
It depends on the program. Some hold phones for a while, especially in the first days, and others allow them at set times. Ask before you go, and write important numbers on paper.
What should I bring to detox?
Keep it simple: ID, the insurance card, medication list, a few changes of soft clothes and basic toiletries. Most people rest a lot, so comfort matters. Read what happens in detox to know what to expect.
How many clothes should I pack?
About a week of clothes is a common guide if the program has laundry. Ask first. Our page on how long rehab lasts can help you plan, since a stay can change.
Can family bring things later?
Often, yes, but rules differ. Ask how drop-offs and mail work, and expect items to be checked.
What if we forget something?
That’s fine. Most things can be brought later or bought nearby. Call the program and ask. See our other rehab questions for more.