We Level Up Packing List. What To Bring To Rehab. What Can I Bring To Inpatient Rehab?

This We Level Up packing list teaches what to bring to rehab and what to leave at home.


What To Bring to Rehab & What Not To Bring for Treatment

Getting ready to spend the next few weeks in a rehab facility can be a bit frightening and exciting at the same time, but preparing ahead can make the transition a lot more manageable. Behavioral health treatment centers have strict policies about what you can bring to treatment.

We Level Up Packing List

The We Level Up packing list is designed to remove the stress from beginning your inpatient rehab experience. While it may vary slightly from facility to facility, this is an excellent place to start packing the things you should bring to rehab and learn what you shouldn’t.

Knowing what you can and cannot take is essential for safe, high-quality care and more comfortable treatment

Potential patients can be lost if treatment is not immediately available or readily accessible. [1] Get ready with your rehab experience with the We Level Up packing list.
Potential patients can be lost if treatment is not immediately available or readily accessible. [1] Get ready for your rehab experience with the We Level Up packing list.

What To Bring To Rehab?

Each rehab center has different guidelines for allowed and prohibited items. Some rehab facilities are stricter than others. Ask the admissions team for the We Level Up packing list as you prepare for rehab. For the most part, it’s recommended to bring the following:

What to Pack?

Clothing: 2 Weeks’ of Clothing

  • Comfortable & seasonal clothing.
  • Outdoor activities attire.
  • Slippers, sandals, flip flops, sneakers.

Electronics: Internet-accessible, and camera devices are not permitted. However, you may pack:

  • Mp3 Player.
  • Ipod.
  • E-Reader.

Nicotine Products: State age restrictions apply for unopened cigarettes, disposable vapes, and unopened cans of chewing tobacco.

Valuables:

Limit to personal ID, insurance card, credit/debit card, and small cash.

Toiletries: Unopened or untampered with products only, including shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothbrush, etc. Hairbrush, blow dryer, flat iron, beard trimmer, etc.

Medications (please discuss medications during the admissions process):

  • Prescribed Medications (with review
  • Non-Narcotic Medications Only

Other:

  • Stamps and envelopes FMLA Paperwork
  • Contact Information for Doctors List of written Emergency Contacts Makeup.
  • Books for reading (please keep to a minimum) Menstrual products as needed.

What Not to Bring to Rehab

Clothing: Inappropriate clothing like:

  • Low-cut shirts.
  • Spaghetti strap shirts.
  • Tank tops.
  • Short skirts or shorts.

We Level Up Packing ListClothing that exposes garments

Electronics: Internet-accessible, and camera devices are not permitted.

We Level Up Packing ListPhones will be locked up after admission.

We Level Up Packing ListNicotine Products: State age restrictions apply. No open or loose tobacco, black & milds, and cigars.

Valuables (please leave valuables at home). Do not bring:

  • Jewelry.
  • Large amounts of cash

Toiletries: Unopened or untampered with products only. Do not pack products with alcohol in the first five ingredients. Aerosol hairspray or hair dye for example.

Medications (must be pre-approved). Exclude:

  • Narcotics and alcohol.
  • Over-the-counter medications and vitamins

Other items not to bring:

  • Pets gum.
  • Pornographic Materials.
  • Guns, Knives, Chains, Razor Blades, etc.

This list is not all-inclusive. Any items that may be questionable will be assessed upon admission into the facility.

What Can I Bring To Inpatient Rehab?

  • A list of names, addresses, and phone numbers of those you wish to have involved in your treatment (loved ones, friends, family members, healthcare professionals, 12-step sponsors, etc.).
  • Leave valuable items at home.
  • An alarm clock that does not have a radio.
  • Your current prescription medication must be in the original pharmacy bottle with the information label intact. Any liquid medications must be new and sealed. You should also bring a list of all your medications and dosages.
  • A small amount of cash ($50 to $100 in smaller bills for store runs, vending machines, etc.).
  • Your checkbook, credit card, or debit card to pay for medication-assisted treatment.
  • Your insurance cards and identification (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
  • A notebook or journal.
  • Pictures of your loved ones to keep in your room or wallet.
  • Your rehab will likely provide reading materials for you. They must be recovery, self-help, or spiritually oriented if you want to bring your own. TIP: get paperback books as they’re easier to carry around than hardcovers.

The Basics: Rehab Clothing To Bring

It’s a good idea to call your rehab facility to learn what they recommend packing for your stay so that you’ll know what not to bring. Most facilities are more than happy to provide all incoming clients with a list of recommended items.

Your essential clothing items should be modest, comfortable, and appropriate for the climate and weather where the rehab facility is located. Pack pieces of clothes that layer well so you can adapt quickly to areas that are too warm or cool and so you’ll be comfortable during outdoor activities.

How much clothing to bring also depends on how long you’ll stay in rehab. Remember that the space in your room may be limited, so don’t go overboard. Also, you’ll have access to a laundry room, so don’t worry about running out of clean underwear and other items.

Make sure you double-check with your chosen facility before packing something questionable.
Make sure you double-check with your chosen facility before packing something questionable.

You should plan on packing the following from your wardrobe:

  • At least a few long-sleeved and short-sleeved t-shirts.
  • A few sweaters, pullovers, or jackets for layering. Even if it’s the middle of summer, there may be areas of the building where the air conditioning makes you chilly.
  • Jeans, sweats, chinos, and other comfortable casual pants
  • Underwear and undergarments
  • Socks
  • Swimwear if your rehab facility has a pool.
  • Sleepwear, slippers, and a robe.
  • Comfortable footwear such as sneakers or walking shoes—you may be on your feet doing chores such as cleaning or tidying up or participating in physical activities.
  • Flip flops for the shower.
  • Shorts for a warm weather stay (check with the facility first to ensure they’re permitted.)
  • Fitness and outdoor clothing that stretches wicks away moisture and moves with you when you do, mainly if the facility offers adventure therapy and other physical activities.
  • One or two more formal outfits that you can wear for family night or other occasions where loved ones visit.
  • Sunglasses and a hat to shield yourself from the sun.

If you’re entering rehab in a cold climate during the winter, you’ll want to bring warm winter accessories such as a coat, gloves, water-resistant boots, and a hat in case you venture outside.

Generally, it’s a good idea to avoid bringing clothing that’s too tight or revealing or that displays alcohol or drug paraphernalia. The imagery can remind others of what they’re battling, even if you’re not entering an inpatient drug treatment or alcohol rehab.

Ryan Zofay forming a circle and hugging friends.

Get Your Life Back

Find Hope & Recovery. Get Safe Comfortable Detox, Addiction Rehab & Dual Diagnosis High-Quality Care.

Hotline(844) 597-1011

What To Bring To Rehab – Personal Hygiene And Beauty Products To Pack

Substance abuse treatment is not a fashion show, and your looks will not be under scrutiny, but you need to be relaxed, comfortable, and feel at home in your new environment. Check with your chosen rehab center before completing your packing list, but this is an excellent place to start finding what should be allowed. 

It is important to remember that most rehab centers will instruct you to bring alcohol-free products for obvious reasons. The amount needed will depend on the length of stay, but it is a general rule to pack enough of something for a 30-day stay. 

  • Deodorant and perfume/cologne
  • Soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner
  • Hairstyling products as needed
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Sunscreen lotion
  • Lotion, facewash, or similar products
  • Makeup, and lip balm as needed

While packing your toiletries, be sure to check the labels for alcohol. If alcohol is in the main ingredients of the product, then leave it at home. Believe it or not, products like hairspray and hand sanitizer are high on the what not to bring list. These banned items contain denatured alcohol, which is ethyl alcohol before it’s chemically modified. During alcohol detox, people have been known to drink spray gel, perfume, or even face wash when the cravings become too overwhelming.

Can I Smoke Cigarettes In Rehab?

Most rehab facilities will allow you to bring cigarettes if you smoke. While smoking rules will vary based on where the rehab center is located, complete smoking bans in rehab facilities are rare. If your treatment center allows cigarettes and you bring them to rehab, make sure that the package you bring is unopened and that you pack enough to last the duration of your stay.

Can I Bring My Cell Phone To Rehab?

While some rehab facilities allow the use of cell phones, others have banned them altogether. Others fall somewhere in the middle and will enable the use of cell phones for certain activities.

Treatment centers that allow personal cell phone use emphasize the importance of contact with friends and family throughout rehab. On the other hand, facilities that don’t let the clients use their cell phones and keep their clients focused on their recovery and free of distractions from outside influences.

If bringing your cell phone to rehab is crucial to you, rest assured that there are treatment centers that allow clients to use their phones. Additionally, make sure you clarify the cell phone policy with your treatment center before arriving on-site, so there are no surprises.

Can I Bring My Pet To Rehab?

Unfortunately, finding treatment centers that accept clients and their furry companions can be difficult. Most rehabs have no-pet policies for legitimate reasons, including licensing issues, potential liabilities, and sensitivities to other clients’ allergies.

Clarify the pet policy with your treatment center before arrival and make other housing arrangements for your pet before leaving for rehab that doesn’t allow animals. While your pet may not understand why you’re going for a few weeks, remember that you’re getting sober to build a better life for you and your animal companion.

Packing for rehab back be tricky when you’re not sure what you’re allowed to bring. While most treatment centers will provide clients with a list of approved items, don’t be scared to ask questions and seek clarification on what you’re allowed to have with you in rehab.

First-class Facilities & Amenities

World-class High-Quality Addiction & Mental Health Rehabilitation Treatment

Rehab Centers Tour

Renowned Addiction Centers. Serene Private Facilities. Inpatient rehab programs vary.

Addiction Helpline(844) 597-1011

Proven recovery success experience, backed by a Team w/ History of:

15+

Years of Unified Experience

100s

5-Star Reviews Across Our Centers

10K

Recovery Success Stories Across Our Network

  • Low Patient to Therapist Ratio
  • Onsite Medical Detox Center
  • Comprehensive Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
  • Complimentary Family & Alumni Programs
  • Coaching, Recovery & Personal Development Events

We Level Up Packing List – What Should You Not Bring To Rehab?

All rehabs prohibit certain items and have strict rules. They do so to ensure your safety and create an excellent recovery environment. What to bring to drug rehab varies by center, but the following items are almost always banned:

  • Drugs and alcohol
  • Narcotics or prohibited prescriptions
  • Weapons
  • Razors, scissors, knives, or other sharp tools
  • Pornography
  • Food or drinks
  • Toiletries and beauty products contain alcohol (mouthwash, perfume, etc.)
  • Electronic cigarettes
  • Unapproved or previously opened OTC medications
  • Nail polish, polish remover, or synthetic nail-related products
  • Video games and DVDs
  • Sporting equipment
  • Revealing clothing (tank tops, sleeveless shirts, midriff-bearing tops, etc.)
  • Aerosols
  • Cleaning supplies (bleach, ammonia, etc.)
  • Electronics (televisions, gaming consoles, etc.)
  • Games and playing cards
  • Candles and incense
  • Clothing with profanity or references to drugs, alcohol, or violence

You’ll also find that outside food and drinks are banned because many centers maintain a moderate sugar and caffeine environment. Three meals a day, snacks, and beverages will be provided to you. If you have special dietary needs, notify your rehab before you’re admitted.

World-class, Accredited, 5-Star Reviewed, Effective Addiction & Mental Health Programs. Complete Behavioral Health Inpatient Rehab, Detox plus Co-occuring Disorders Therapy.

CALL(844) 597-1011

End the Addiction Pain. End the Emotional Rollercoaster. Get Your Life Back. Start Drug, Alcohol & Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Treatment Now. Get Free No-obligation Guidance by Substance Abuse Specialists Who Understand Addiction & Mental Health Recovery & Know How to Help.

What To Bring To Inpatient Rehab Quick Summary

What Can I Bring To Inpatient Rehab?

Clothing: 2 Weeks’ Worth of Clothing
Seasonal Clothing
Outdoor Activities Attire
Slippers, Sandals, Flip Flops, Sneakers

Electronics:
You may bring an Mp3 Player, iPod, or E-Reader

Valuables:
Personal ID and Insurance Card
Credit/Debit Card, Small Amounts of Cash

Toiletries: Unopened or untampered with products only.
Shampoo, Conditioner, Deodorant, Toothbrush, etc.
Hairbrush, Blow Dryer, Flat Iron, Beard Trimmer, etc.

Medications:
Prescribed Medications
Non-Narcotic Medications Only

Other:
Stamps and envelopes
FMLA Paperwork
Contact Information for Doctors
List of written Emergency Contacts
Makeup
Books for Reading (keep to a minimum)

What To Not Bring?

Clothing: Inappropriate Clothing
Low-cut shirts, spaghetti strap shirts, tank tops
Short skirts or shorts
Clothing that exposes garments

Electronics: Internet-accessible and camera devices are not permitted.
Phones will be locked up after admission

Valuables:
Jewelry
Large amounts of cash

Toiletries: Unopened or untampered with products only.
Products with alcohol in the first five ingredients.
Aerosol hairspray or hair dye

Medications:
Narcotics and alcohol
Over-the-counter medications and vitamins

Other:
Pets
Gum
Pornographic Materials
Guns, Knives, Chains, Razor Blades, etc.

We Level Up Packing List PDF

Experience Transformative Recovery at We Level Up Treatment Centers.

See our authentic success stories. Get inspired. Get the help you deserve.

We Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis TherapyWe Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis TherapyWe Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis Therapy

Hotline (844) 597-1011
Voluntarily testimonials from the We Level Up Treatment Center network vary. Not intended as a guaranteed treatment or outcome as each person's journey is unique.

Start a New Life

Begin with a free call to an addiction & behavioral health treatment advisor. Learn more about our dual-diagnosis programs. The We Level Up Treatment Center Network delivers recovery programs that vary by each treatment facility. Call to learn more.

  • Personalized Care
  • Caring Accountable Staff
  • World-class Amenities
  • Licensed & Accredited
  • Renowned w/ 100s 5-Star Reviews

We’ll Call You


If you or a loved one made the life-changing decision to get help, that is the first step.
If you or a loved one made the life-changing decision to get help, that is the first step.

What To Bring To Inpatient Rehab We Level Up Packing List

Treatment varies depending on the drug type and the client’s characteristics. Matching treatment settings, interventions, and services to an individual’s particular problems and needs is critical to his or her success in returning to productive functioning in the family, workplace, and society. Potential patients can be lost if treatment is not immediately available or readily accessible. As with other chronic diseases, the earlier treatment is offered in the disease process, the greater the likelihood of positive outcomes.

A more promising future is waiting for you at We level Up. Deciding to come to treatment is step one. Packing correctly for rehab is step two. Use the We Level Up Packing List guide for what to pack and what items should be left behind. Please contact our admissions team for answers and more information if you have questions about what to bring to rehab. or for any concerns.

Sources: