Step 4 · What to Pack
Pack practical, pack light.
One small suitcase or duffel is usually plenty. Plan for 7–10 days of clothing; we handle laundry mid-stay. Bring what makes the first week easier, not what you might use someday.
Bring (essential)
The must-haves.
- Photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
- Insurance card (front and back)
- List of current medications + prescribing physicians
- Original prescription bottles with labels
- Phone + charger
- 5–7 days of comfortable, climate-appropriate clothing
- Pajamas / sleepwear
- Underwear and socks (7–10 days worth)
- Closed-toe shoes (one pair walking, one pair indoor)
- Toiletries (alcohol-free versions where applicable)
- Eyeglasses / contacts + supplies
- Personal medication you take regularly
Bring (helpful)
The small things that help.
- Journal or notebook
- Pen / pencils (no sharp art tools)
- Photos of family or loved ones
- Personal book(s)
- Comfort items (a favorite blanket, pillow, small photo)
- Letter or card from someone who matters to you
- Cash or debit card for vending / store (most facilities have one)
- Insurance / financial paperwork copies
- Quitting-smoking aids (gum, lozenges) if relevant
Don't bring (restricted)
What gets checked at intake.
- Anything containing alcohol (mouthwash, perfume, hand sanitizer, some lotions)
- Weapons of any kind
- Sharp objects (beyond standard grooming items)
- Drugs of any kind, including OTC medications not pre-disclosed
- Vaping/e-cigarette products (allowed at some facilities, check)
- Excessive jewelry or valuables
- Outside food or drink (during early treatment)
- Anything that could be used in self-harm
- Pornography or media that violates facility code
- Tobacco products (allowed in designated outdoor areas at most facilities)
The honest version
Pack lighter than you think.
Most people overpack the first time they enter treatment. The instinct is to prepare for every possible scenario, and what you end up with is two suitcases full of clothes you don't wear, books you don't read, and items you forget you brought.
The actual truth: the first week is mostly stabilization, programming, sleep, and food. You wear comfortable clothes, eat the meals provided, do the work that's structured for you, and sleep more than you have in months. Most people use maybe 30% of what they bring.
The small things that DO matter: a photo of someone who loves you, a journal you'll actually use, a book you've been meaning to read. The grounding objects matter more than the gear.
If you forget something or realize you need it, family or friends can bring or ship items mid-stay. Most facilities have a small store or vending for basics. You won't be stuck without what you need.
FAQ
Common questions.
How much should I pack?
Plan for the level of care you're entering — detox is short (5–10 days), residential is typically 30 days as a starting point and can extend to 60–90. Most people pack for 7–10 days and we handle laundry mid-stay. Don't overpack — storage space is finite and you can always have family bring more if needed.
Can I bring my own toiletries?
Yes, with one caveat: anything that contains alcohol (mouthwash, hand sanitizer, some perfumes, aftershave, even some lotions) is checked at intake. Some facilities require alcohol-free versions of these items. Bring what you use; we'll work through the specifics on arrival.
Can I bring my phone and laptop?
Phone, yes — SILC's policy is your phone stays with you. Laptop is case-by-case depending on the facility and the level of care. For professionals or business owners who need limited work contact, this is workable in most settings. Talk to admissions about your specific situation.
What about medications?
Bring all prescription medications in their original bottles, including the name of the prescribing physician and pharmacy. Our medical team reviews each medication on intake and decides what's continued, adjusted, or paused. Don't stop a medication unilaterally before arrival — let our team handle the transition.
Can I bring books, journals, or art supplies?
Yes to books, yes to journals, yes to most art supplies (some facilities restrict certain materials). Personal items that ground you — a photo of family, a small object that has meaning — are welcome. Glass-framed items get repackaged into something safer; we'll handle that on arrival.
What can't I bring?
Anything containing alcohol or other intoxicants is restricted (including the toiletry items mentioned above). Weapons of any kind, sharp objects beyond standard grooming, drugs of any kind (including OTC items that aren't pre-disclosed), and items that could be used in self-harm are not permitted. Most facilities also restrict outside food during the early treatment days for medical reasons.
What about clothes that won't fit later?
This is a real thing — many people in early recovery experience significant weight changes (often weight gain after sustained substance use). Pack clothes that fit you now, and don't worry about clothes you'll grow into. Mid-stay shopping is workable with family help.
Do I need to bring bedding or towels?
No. SILC facilities provide bedding, towels, and basic linens. If you have a specific pillow or blanket that helps with sleep, you can bring it — most facilities accommodate.