Preparing for addiction treatment is a significant step toward recovery. Knowing what to bring can help ease anxiety and ensure you have everything needed for a comfortable, focused stay. This guide outlines essential items to pack for your rehab experience at Swift River in Western Massachusetts.
Appropriate Clothing Choices
When packing clothes for treatment, consider both comfort and Massachusetts’ variable climate:
Seasonal essentials:
- Summer (June-August): Lightweight shirts, shorts, sundresses and a light jacket for cool evenings
- Fall (September-November): Layerable clothing, medium-weight jackets and closed-toe shoes
- Winter (December-February): Heavy coat, gloves, hat, scarf, thermal underwear and waterproof boots
- Spring (March-May): Light jackets, long-sleeve shirts and rain gear
General clothing recommendations:
- 7-10 days worth of everyday, comfortable clothing
- Athletic wear for fitness activities and outdoor recreation
- Sleep attire (pajamas, robe)
- Undergarments and socks (10-14 pairs)
- One semi-casual outfit for family visits or special programs
Remember that all clothing should be modest and free of references to drugs, alcohol or inappropriate content. Laundry facilities are available, so extensive wardrobes aren’t necessary.
Personal Care Items
Allowed toiletries:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss
- Shampoo, conditioner and body wash in new, sealed containers
- Deodorant (non-aerosol)
- Basic makeup items (without mirrors or glass containers)
- Prescription glasses or contact lenses with solution
- Razor (will be stored by staff when not in use)
- Hairbrush, comb and hair styling products without alcohol
Items typically not permitted:
- Products containing alcohol as primary ingredients
- Mouthwash with alcohol
- Aerosol products
- Perfumes or colognes
- Nail polish or nail polish remover
Note that restricted items vary by facility. Swift River will provide a detailed list of permitted and prohibited items during your admissions process.
Comfort Items to Ease Your Transition
Personal items can provide emotional support during treatment:
- Family photos in non-glass frames
- Journal or notebook (without spiral binding)
- Inspirational or recovery-focused books
- List of important phone numbers and addresses
- Small blanket or comfort item
- Stationery, envelopes and stamps for correspondence
- MP3 player without recording capabilities or internet access (check facility guidelines)
These items can help maintain connections to loved ones and provide comfort during challenging moments in your recovery journey.
Important Documents and Finances
Remember to bring:
- Photo ID
- Insurance card
- List of current medications
- Medical history information
- Small amount of cash for incidentals ($50-100 recommended)
- Credit card for medication co-pays or additional services
How Swift River Supports New Arrivals
Swift River understands that entering treatment is stressful, and details sometimes get overlooked. The center provides:
- Essential toiletries for clients who arrive without them
- Access to local stores for purchasing necessary items
- Storage for valuables and prohibited items
- Clear guidelines about what items are permitted
- Assistance in obtaining prescription medications
- Weekly shopping trips for personal needs
The admissions team is available to answer specific questions about permitted items before arrival. Staff members conduct thorough inventories upon check-in and can address any concerns about specific items.
Preparing for Your Recovery Journey
Packing appropriately for rehab allows you to focus on what matters most – your recovery. The items you bring should support comfort, reflection and healing while eliminating potential distractions or triggers.
If you have questions about preparing for treatment or want to verify what items are permitted at Swift River, contact our admissions team at 888-451-5895. We’re here to help make your transition into treatment as smooth as possible and support you throughout your recovery journey.
