Why packing matters more than you think
What to bring to a psychedelic retreat is the most practical question
you will face in preparation. It is also the question retreats answer
worst. Most send a brief list that misses half of what people actually
need.
Good packing does two things. It removes friction on arrival day so
you can settle. It also gives you tools — eye mask, journal, blanket —
that shape the ceremony itself.
Ceremony essentials
These are the items that actively shape your experience. Pack them
first.
- Eye mask — non-negotiable for classic psychedelics. Blocks outside visuals so attention turns inward.
- Two blankets — body temperature swings during ceremony. One for warmth, one for weight.
- Pillow or bolster — most retreats provide one mat; bring your own pillow.
- Warm socks — extremities go cold during the peak.
- Reusable water bottle — at least 32 oz.
- Journal and pen — paper, not digital. Capture insights between sets and the morning after.
- One photo or small object — a person, place, or symbol that anchors your intention.
- Intention card — your final one-line intention, written by hand.
Clothing for the retreat
Layers. Always layers. Temperature changes during ceremony are real
and unpredictable.
- Ceremony clothing — loose, comfortable, no zippers or tight bands. Many people choose white or earth tones.
- Two pairs of sweatpants or soft pants — one for ceremony, one for after.
- Three to four soft tops — t-shirts and a long-sleeve.
- One warm sweater or hoodie — for the ceremony space.
- Indoor slippers or thick socks — most retreats are shoes-off.
- Outdoor walking shoes — for grounding walks and integration time.
- Rain layer — even in summer.
- Bathing suit and towel — if the retreat has pools, hot tubs, or natural water.
Comfort items
Things that help you regulate between sessions.
- A favorite tea — chamomile and ginger are common picks.
- Unscented lip balm — mouth and lips dry out.
- Hand cream or body lotion — unscented if the retreat asks.
- Earplugs — for group settings.
- A simple book — fiction or poetry, not heavy theory.
- A wristwatch or small alarm clock — phones get surrendered.
- Sunglasses — eyes can be light-sensitive the next day.
- Tissues — bring a small pack into ceremony.
Body-prep supplies
Disclose every supplement to the retreat at check-in. See our
body prep guide for the
full nutrition plan.
- Any prescription medication (with prescriber clearance) — original bottles, full disclosure.
- Electrolyte packets — for hydration without sugar load.
- Magnesium glycinate — many integration practitioners recommend for the days after.
- A simple protein bar or two — for the descent if blood sugar drops.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, basic toiletries — unscented if possible.
Pack the tools you will use after the ceremony, not just during it.
- A printed copy of the 14 intention prompts — from our intention setting guide.
- A printed copy of the 30-day integration journal — from our 30-day journal.
- Your therapist's contact info — written on paper. Book a session for 2–3 days after you return.
- One book from our integration reading list — for the post-ceremony days, not before.
What to leave at home
- Phones and smartwatches — most retreats collect them. Bring a small alarm clock instead.
- Work laptops — even if "just in case." Especially if just in case.
- Alcohol — banned at almost every reputable retreat.
- Recreational drugs — cannabis included.
- Caffeine pills or strong coffee — most retreats serve herbal tea only.
- Strong perfumes, colognes, scented lotions — overwhelming in a small ceremony space.
- Unapproved supplements — anything not cleared by the retreat or your prescriber.
- Jewelry you cannot easily remove — sweat and metal mix poorly.
- Tight clothing or anything with zippers near pressure points.
Extra items for international retreats
For ayahuasca, ibogaine, or 5-MeO-DMT retreats abroad (Costa Rica,
Peru, Mexico, the Netherlands), add:
- Passport with 6+ months remaining
- Travel insurance with emergency evacuation
- Printed copy of your medical and medication history
- Cardiac clearance documentation if doing ibogaine
- Bug repellent for jungle locations (often required by the retreat)
- Modest swimwear and quick-dry layers
- Cash in local currency for tips and small purchases
Frequently asked questions
What should I bring to a psychedelic retreat?
Bring blankets, an eye mask, comfortable layers, socks, a journal, a reusable water bottle, and any approved supplements. Most retreats provide mats. Always check the retreat's own list — they vary on whether to bring food, towels, or yoga gear.
Should I bring my phone to a psychedelic ceremony?
Almost no reputable retreat allows phones in ceremony. Most ask you to surrender phones and smartwatches at check-in. Bring a paper journal and a basic alarm clock instead.
Can I bring my own medication?
Yes, but disclose every medication and supplement at check-in. The retreat may secure them or ask you to take them on a schedule. Never hide a medication you are still taking.
What should I leave at home for an ayahuasca retreat?
Caffeine, alcohol, recreational drugs, work laptops, and any food not on the dieta list. Strong perfumes and scented products are also discouraged in most ceremony spaces.
Final notes on what to bring to a psychedelic retreat
The right packing list for what to bring to a psychedelic retreat is
always the one your specific retreat sends. Use this guide as the
backbone, then layer their notes on top. Pair it with our
14-day
preparation timeline so the whole runway is covered.