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April 10, 2025

Can I Bring Personal Items to Rehab?

Congratulations on making the courageous decision to enter rehab. When preparing to enter an in-patient center, you might wonder: What can I bring? Is there anything that’s not allowed? Any recommended items?

 At Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), we understand how overwhelming this process can feel, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. So, what should you bring? Below, we have an extensive checklist to help you determine what to pack—and what to leave at home or with your loved ones.

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What Can I Bring To Treatment?

At our treatment center, you will get dressed every day for therapy. However, this generally means wearing comfortable clothing that you feel safe and secure wearing. Additionally, you’ll want to bring personal toiletries and may want to consider other items. So, here’s your checklist:

Clothing Recommendations

Certain facilities may have dress codes, so it pays to be aware of these. However, generally, here is the clothing list you’ll need:

☐ Athletic or softsole shoes
☐ Comfortable, athletic clothing
     ☐ T-shirts
     ☐ Sweatpants
     ☐ Shorts
     ☐ Leggings
☐ Any clothes you would wear at home 
☐ Underwear
☐ Socks
☐ Pajamas
☐ A bathing suit
☐ Coat/jacket
☐ Sweater
☐ Slippers
☐ A hat

Toiletries

Most centers require you to bring your own toiletries. In extreme cases, we may be able to provide some of these. But, if you have them, bring them.

☐ Personal hygiene products
     ☐ Deoderant
     ☐ Toothbrush
     ☐ Toothpaste
     ☐ Feminine hygiene products
     ☐ Shaving cream
     ☐ Lotion
☐ Hairbrush/comb
☐ Shampoo
☐ Other hair care products
☐ Makeup
☐ Denture adhesive and cleaner (if needed)
☐ Sunscreen

Other Items

Some of these may not be applicable for everyone, but most are necessary to bring with you:

☐ Hearing Aids
☐ Glasses
☐ Splints/braces/walking aids
☐ Name and phone number of primary physician
☐ List of medications you’re taking
☐ Prescribed medications
☐ ID cards
☐ Jewelry
☐ A small amount of cash for vending machines or store runs
☐ Credit card or debit card
☐ Emergency contact phone numbers

Items to Consider

Some items that aren’t necessary but may help guide your recovery include:

☐ Notebook or journal
☐ Pictures of your loved ones
☐ Any reading materials
☐ Laptop (if allowed)
☐ Any other materials for activities you enjoy

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What Not To Bring

Most centers prohibit the following items. But make sure you check with your individual rehab treatment center if you have questions or concerns.

☐ No sharp objects (nail cutters, razors, etc.)
☐ Perfume or scented products
☐ Large amounts of cash
☐ Valuables
☐ Cigarettes (can vary)

Category Item Notes
Packing Checklist: Clothing Athletic or softsole shoes, T-shirts, Sweatpants, Shorts, Leggings, Everyday clothes, Underwear, Socks, Pajamas, Bathing suit, Coat/jacket, Sweater, Slippers, Hat Comfortable and therapy-appropriate attire
Packing Checklist: Toiletries Deodorant, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Feminine hygiene products, Shaving cream, Lotion, Hairbrush/comb, Shampoo, Hair care products, Makeup, Denture products, Sunscreen Bring personal hygiene items; some may be provided if necessary
Packing Checklist: Other Items Hearing aids, Glasses, Splints/braces/walking aids, Physician contact info, List of medications, Prescribed medications, ID cards, Jewelry, Small amount of cash, Credit/debit card, Emergency contact numbers Essential items for health, ID, and minor purchases
Packing Checklist: Items to Consider Notebook or journal, Photos of loved ones, Reading materials, Laptop (if allowed), Hobby supplies Helpful for emotional support and recreation
Prohibited Items Sharp objects (nail cutters, razors), Perfumes or scented products, Large amounts of cash, Valuables, Cigarettes (varies by center) Check with center policies; prohibited items returned after treatment
Important Reminders Pack light, Avoid bringing valuables, Bring comfort items, Ask if unsure about any item Call FRC at 804-635-3746 for packing questions

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If I Bring a Prohibited Item, Will I Get It Back?

If you’ve accidentally brought a prohibited item, don’t fret; you’ll get this back when you leave the center. Alternatively, we may also send the items home with a loved one, if applicable.

As a general rule of thumb, try to always pack light! This will allow you to worry less about your items and focus fully on your recovery.

When it comes to personal items, you’ll not want to bring anything valuable. Unfortunately, things can go missing in shared accommodations, which is why we don’t recommend this. At the same time, bringing allowed comfort items, such as photos of your loved ones, can help you through the tough times.

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Determining What’s Allowed…

Unsure if what you packed is good to go? At Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), our team is happy to answer your questions and concerns. Call us at 804-635-3746, and we can ensure your packing goes as smoothly as possible! Your best days are just ahead of you, and recovery is within your grasp.

Reviewed

Medically and professionally reviewed by Freedom Recovery Center

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