Deciding to enter rehab is a life-changing step towards healing and recovery. While the decision comes with hope and positivity, the idea of having to put your life on hold temporarily, while also preparing for your time in treatment, can be stressful and overwhelming.
As you can imagine, packing for rehab is unique. It’s not like packing for vacation or even a typical hospital stay. Residential treatment centers, such as Cypress Lake Recovery, can have strict rules and regulations about what people are and are not allowed to bring with them. This is both to ensure the safety and integrity of the facility (and those in it) and to create an environment conducive to healing.
While bringing the wrong items with you may land you in trouble and even potentially get you expelled from the facility, bringing the right items can make your experience more comfortable as well as help support your mental and emotional well-being.
Essential Items for Rehab
There are certain items that, while you are preparing to go to rehab, are required in order to stay at the facility. While many of these items may seem like no-brainers, it’s still important to ensure that they’re not forgotten. This is especially true if you are packing for rehab in a rushed or stressful manner.
In order to be admitted into rehab programs like those at Cypress Lake Recovery, you must make sure you have the following documents upon entry:
- A valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
- Health insurance information or payment method for your stay
- Admission paperwork, if you received any prior to your arrival
- A written list of emergency contacts (i.e. family members, close friends, healthcare providers, or sponsors)
These documents help with the intake process, verify your identity quickly, and ensure that the staff can reach your support network in case of an emergency.
While this one also may seem like a no-brainer, it’s important you are bringing not just clothing but the right kind of clothing for a rehabilitation program. It’s important to note that while you may have access to laundry facilities, you will still want to make sure you pack enough clothes so that you have something to wear for 7 to 10 days.
When packing clothes, make sure to focus on things like:
- Comfortable shirts, sweatshirts, and long-sleeved shirts
- Sweatpants, leggings, jeans, or casual pants
- Undergarments and socks
- Pajamas or other sleepwear
- A light jacket or sweater, especially if it’s suitable for layering
- Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes
- Shower sandals for shared bathroom areas
You will want to make sure to avoid clothes that are restrictive or suggestive, as well as anything with possibly offensive graphics/logos or depictions of drugs or alcohol. We offer a number of physical activities such as walking, yoga, or fitness classes, so you will want to make sure you bring appropriate clothing for those activities.
Obviously, you will want to make sure you bring toiletries and personal hygiene items with you. But it’s important to make sure to pay attention to what you are bringing.
When packing, make sure to bring:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, etc.
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, or soap
- Deodorant (non-aerosol is preferred)
- Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
- Hairbrush or comb
- Razor
- Contact lens and/or eyeglass supplies
Before packing any item, make sure to check the label or ingredients. Anything that has alcohol in it is not permitted under any circumstances. In addition, try to avoid bringing anything with a strong fragrance.
If you are currently taking any prescription medications, it’s okay to bring them. However, make sure that they are in their original bottles and labeled. This allows the medical staff to manage your medications safely. You will need to make sure to bring enough medication for 35 days. If necessary, renew any and all prescriptions BEFORE you come to the facility.
If you are taking any over-the-counter medications or supplements, make sure those are brought into the rehab facility in the original, sealed containers. All medications and supplements will be administered by medical staff as needed.
If you use eyeglasses, hearing aids, mobility aids, or medical devices, bring them along with any necessary accessories (batteries, cases, chargers, etc.). It may be helpful to bring backup items when possible, such as an extra pair of glasses or a spare battery for your hearing aid.
We recommend you bring up to $200 in cash with you, should you need anything while you are staying in the rehab facility.
Optional (But Still Helpful) Things to Bring to Rehab
Everything listed above are items that are either required or strongly recommended. But there are also items that, while not required, you may want to bring with you to make your stay more comfortable . They can also help to support your recovery.
Writing can be a powerful tool for reflection and emotional processing. It may also be a component of many of the different therapies that you may participate in during your time in treatment. As a result, many find it helpful to keep a daily journal during their stay.
Consider bringing inspirational or recovery-focused books, such as:
- Recovery guides or AA/NA literature
- Mindfulness or meditation books
- Motivational non-fiction
Avoid bringing fiction or media that may contain triggering content.
Despite being surrounded by others who are supporting you and your journey, rehab can feel lonely at times. Even though you are doing something that will improve your overall life, you may find yourself missing those closest to you. Bringing one or a few small photos can remind you of why you’re working toward recovery and provide comfort when you feel vulnerable.
Since cell phones aren’t allowed on the property, you may want to bring stationery and stamps so that you can write letters to correspond with friends, family, and loved ones
If you have specific personal items that you like, such as a specific blanket, pillow, or even a watch that you like wearing, feel free to bring them with you.
While we at Cypress Lake do allow individuals to use cigarettes, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, and other smokeless tobacco products, those products are only allowed to be used in designated areas. Cigarettes must be brought still sealed in the packaging, and a 35-day supply is recommended. E-cigarette juice is also allowed in sealed containers. Should you want to have any e-juice shipped to the facility, it must be shipped directly from the vendor.
At Cypress Lake Recovery, we support holistic wellness, and staying hydrated plays a role in mental clarity and physical stability. Staying hydrated is critical, especially in early recovery when your body is detoxing. A sturdy, spill-proof water bottle helps you stay comfortable and alert throughout the day.
What Not to Bring to Rehab
Just as important as required items is knowing what items not to bring to rehab. This list includes:
- Drugs, Alcohol, or Related Paraphernalia: Absolutely no alcohol, illegal drugs, or drug paraphernalia (such as pipes, syringes, lighters, or rolling papers) are permitted in rehab.
- Electronics with Internet or Camera Access: Cell phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, and e-readers with Wi-Fi are all prohibited. This helps to minimize distraction and protect privacy.
- Weapons or Dangerous Items: Knives, firearms, scissors, or any items that could be used as weapons are strictly forbidden.
- Expensive Jewelry or Valuables: This is more for personal protection, so a person doesn’t lose or damage expensive or sentimental items.
- Outside Food or Drinks: Food brought from outside may violate dietary restrictions or trigger cravings.
- Unapproved Medications or Supplements: Bringing unapproved pills or supplements can interfere with medical care.
- Inappropriate Reading or Media: No violent, sexually explicit, or substance-use glorifying materials are permitted.
Should any of these items be found on you or in your room in rehab, it may result in your expulsion from the facility.
Need to Know What to Bring to Rehab? Cypress Lake Recovery Can Help
Packing for rehab might seem daunting at first, but preparing well can set a positive tone for your entire recovery experience. Focus on comfort, safety, and items that support your healing. Leave behind anything that could interfere with your or others’ progress.
Recovery is a journey. Every step you take, including packing thoughtfully, is a step toward a healthier, sober future. If you have any questions while packing and preparing for your stay, contact us for help.
