What To Pack For Rehab In South Carolina

Medically Verified: 2/1/24

Medical Reviewer

Chief Editor

All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

Getting ready to go to an addiction treatment center is a stressful and overwhelming task. Not only are you probably fearful of giving up drugs and alcohol for good, but you’re probably also nervous about going to a new place. However, by knowing what to pack for rehab, you’ll feel a lot more prepared. Most rehab centers have varying policies on which items are prohibited and what is allowed. They always allow for the bare necessities, but anything extra varies based on the facility.

Most treatment centers will provide a list of what is not allowed. When you first arrive at our rehab facility in Simpsonville, SC, you will go through the admissions process during which all of your personal belongings will be inspected to ensure that you don’t bring in anything prohibited. Some facilities also take pictures and keep a log of everything you bring in to make sure you don’t forget it at the end of your stay.

So, what should you bring to rehab? Let’s look at a few pointers.

Bring Weather Appropriate Clothing

The weather in South Carolina changes based on the seasons. The time of year that you are starting your program will determine what you should pack. Plus, activities will vary on a day to day basis. Most treatment centers include outings and outdoor activities, but there is also a significant amount of time spent sitting inside through long therapy sessions. No matter when you leave for rehab, you should always consider comfort first and fashion second.

It is also important to review your drug or alcohol treatment center’s dress code before packing. Many treatment centers have strict rules on the length of dresses and shorts. Tank tops are another clothing item that is often prohibited unless is it worn underneath a cardigan or sweater.

Winter

While winters in South Carolina are mild compared to other regions, temperatures are usually in the 40’s F. In addition to the basic t-shirts, socks, and underwear, these are some important items to bring with you for the chilly weather:

• Sweatshirts or sweaters
• Jeans
• Sweatpants
• Long-sleeved shirts
• A jacket
• Boots
• Sneakers
• Pajamas

Autumn And Spring

Autumn and Spring brings warmer weather to the Greenville/Simpsonville area. Days are mild and pleasant, but nights can still get cooler. So, it’s important to think layers to keep yourself comfortable. Things to pack for these seasons are:

• A light sweater
• Shorts
• Sneakers or tennis shoes
• Lightweight sweatpants
• T-shirts
• Raincoat
• Pajamas

Summer

South Carolina has a sub-tropical climate with hot and humid summers. They also experience hurricane season, during which they get a lot of rainfall. It’s safe to say, you can leave the jeans at home if you’re going to rehab in South Carolina during the summer. Instead, make sure you’re equipped with these items:

• Shorts
• Sneakers or tennis shoes
• Waterproof shoes
• Raincoat
• T-shirts
• A light sweater (to wear inside if the air conditioning gets too cold)
• Pajamas
• A hat
• Sunglasses

In addition to clothing, there are many other essentials you won’t want to forget.

What Beauty and Personal Hygiene Items Are Allowed

Picking appropriate toiletries is difficult when packing for rehab. After all, many shampoos, body washes, and other skincare products contain alcohol as one of the first few ingredients. Drug and alcohol rehab centers prohibit any items with alcohol listed as the main ingredient, so it is important to review your program’s policy on beauty products containing alcohol as some are more relaxed than others.

Some programs will allow products with alcohol as long as it is not in the first three ingredients, while the stricter ones require them to be entirely alcohol-free. Also, remember that all treatment centers ban the use of aerosols and most prohibit perfumes. Remember to bring a thirty-day supply of all your necessities, including:

• Deodorant
• Body wash or bar soap
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Face wash
• Moisturizer or lotion
• Sunscreen
• Hair-styling products
• Hairbrush or comb
• Shaving cream and razor
• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Makeup

Extra Items To Pack

This list can vary between treatment centers, but most allow the items on this list. Some of the items are kept under lock and key for most of your stay, but others are important to keep with you throughout your stay.

Electronics

Electronics are usually tightly regulated, but some programs will allow access to the following items:

• Cell phones and laptops (if they are allowed, you are typically only permitted to use these items during designated times and while monitored by staff)
• A watch
• Headphones
• Portable radio or mp3 player (with no internet access)

If a treatment center does not allow cell phones or laptops, they will provide a phone for you to call family and friends at scheduled times.

Other Items

• Address book with names and phone numbers of families, friends, and your sponsor if you have one
• A small amount of cash
• Cigarettes or e-cigarettes (unopened)
• Prescription medications
• Vitamins or supplements (unopened, sealed bottles only)
• Stamps and envelopes
• Insurance cards
• Credit card, debit card, or checkbook.
• Pictures of loved ones

If you are unsure of what to bring or what is allowed, be sure to consult your treatment center’s website or give them a call and ask first. If you do bring any prohibited items, don’t worry! Unless it is drugs or alcohol, which are prohibited at all treatment centers, the program will usually store any other banned items for the duration of your stay or mail them to your house.

Getting Help Today

If you are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, it is important to get help immediately. Our treatment center in Greenville, South Carolina provides you with all the resources you need for a successful recovery. Contact us today to get started.