Traveling to Rehab

Many Veterans face physical and mental health challenges as the result of their service and are more likely to struggle with substance use and addiction than the general population. For Veterans struggling with addiction, finding appropriate treatment can be especially challenging.

Traveling to rehab can be a good option for Veterans who need access to addiction treatment programs. This article will explain how to choose a rehab, treatment option, the benefits of traveling to rehab, and how to check to see if addiction treatment is covered by your VA benefits.

How to Choose a Rehab

One of the more important things about going to rehab is ensuring you find one that is just right for you. The ideal rehab facility is a key component in laying the foundation for your long-term recovery. Some of the factors that are worth considering when making this decision are:

• Cost — The cost of rehab can feel like a barrier to getting into rehab. However, many treatment facilities offer different ways to pay for rehab. Additionally the VA and TriCare cover at least some substance use disorder (SUD) care.
• Features and Amenities — Depending on your individual needs, you want to ensure that the rehab you choose has features and amenities that will make you feel comfortable and safe while in treatment.
• Services — There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction care and you will want to make sure that the facility you choose offers a range of addiction-focused healthcare options that can be used to build a treatment plan that’s right for you.
• Evidence-Based Treatment — Working with a rehab that offers evidence-based addiction therapies will ensure you get the best treatment for healing. You will want to choose a facility that offers proven addiction therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
• Special Programs — Some rehab centers have special programs for certain populations of people. For example, American Addiction Centers (AAC) Salute to Recovery program is designed to help Veterans get on the road to recovery.
• Location — The location of a rehab facility is also a big part of your decision-making process. Sometimes getting away from “people and places” that may have contributed to your alcohol or drug use can be helpful while establishing a foothold in recovery.

Top Reasons to Travel to Rehab

Some top reasons you may decide to get away from your immediate area and travel to rehab include the following:

• People and places: There may be influences and triggers that you need to get away from. Traveling to a rehab facility that’s farther away from your home can aid in the recovery process.
• Open beds: Many treatment facilities have to meet certain provider-to-patient ratios which means that, sometimes, a facility close to home may not have availability when you need it. Traveling to a rehab has availability for you can help you get on the road to recovery when you’re ready.
• Services: Traveling may be necessary to get adequate treatment services.
• Environment: Some areas may have a nicer environment, or the environment is one you prefer better.
• Amenities: There are certain amenities that may be important to you that are not available at the rehabs in your local area.
• Special Programs: Some facilities offer special programs like co-occurring disorder treatment or Veteran-specific treatment tracks.

Can I Drive to Rehab and Be Admitted the Same Day?

There are some facilities that may be able to offer same-day rehab admission if you have an emergency. Please contact our admissions navigators at to discuss your needs and obtain more information about same-day admittance.

How to Prepare to Travel to Rehab

When you’re ready to travel to rehab, it’s important to be prepared. Some tips to help you get ready include:

• Make a plan for your travel. This includes booking your flight and making arrangements to get from the airport to the rehab center, and notifying your employer and family.
• Pack for rehab. When you pack your bags for rehab, make sure to pack comfortable clothes, your toiletries, important documents, and other items you’ll need during your stay. Make sure to check with the facility to ensure that you’re only bringing allowed items with you.
• Except change. Going to rehab is a big change – but a positive one – and it’s important to be ready for it. You may experience withdrawal symptoms, emotional ups and downs, and challenges as you begin your recovery journey. However, you will have the support you need every step of the way, from your treatment team and loved ones.

Other tips to help you get ready to travel to rehab include:

• Get help from your VA benefits counselor. As a Veteran you may be eligible for VA benefits that can help you pay for rehab. Your VA benefits counselor can help you understand your benefits and how to use them to pay for treatment.
• Talk to your insurance company. If you have insurance outside of your VA benefits, your insurance plan may cover some or all of the cost of rehab. Be sure to talk to your insurance company to find out what your coverage is.
• Ask for help from friends and family. Your friends and family can offer emotional support and practical help during your recovery. Be sure to reach out and ask for help when you need it.

Things to Consider When Traveling During COVID-19

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are certain protocols in place to ensure everyone’s safety. As you make your travel plans, keep these considerations in mind:

• Get a Covid test before traveling.
• Wear a mask if flying or using public transportation.
• Ensure you don’t have a fever or other signs of COVID before traveling.
• Ask the rehab facility what safety protocols they have in place.
• Use hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently while traveling.

How Does the VA Help with Rehab Travel Costs?

The Veterans Affairs Department (or VA) does cover travel costs for certain approved and covered treatments.¹ You can contact the VA to check your coverage or talk to the rehab facility directly to find out about travel reimbursement.

Can American Addiction Centers Help Me Get to Rehab?

AAC can help you make travel arrangements and, in certain circumstances, may be able to pick you up from the airport, thus streamlining the travel process. Reach out to an admissions navigator who can help research the best travel options for you. We have listed our treatment centers below — along with information about nearby airports — to give you an idea of what is available.

Getting Home After Rehab

How to get home after rehab is an important consideration when choosing an out-of-state rehab. In many instances, your return trip home can be planned ahead of time, but you can also work with your treatment team to make travel arrangements while in rehab.

• Book your flight.
• Arrange for transportation from the airport.
• Have safe accommodations ready, whether you’re returning to your home, staying with friends or family, or going to a sober living home.
• If transitioning to a sober living home, check in with the facility to let them know you’re on your way.