What Items Are Allowed in Prison?
When someone enters prison, one of the first questions their loved ones ask is, “What can they have inside?” While rules vary slightly depending on the prison and security level, there are general guidelines in place across the UK. Items are split into two broad categories: what a prisoner can have on them (known as “in possession”) and what can be kept in storage or sent in later, subject to approval.
What Can Prisoners Keep With Them?
Prisoners are usually allowed to keep certain personal items in their cells, especially if they’ve earned privileges through good behaviour. These typically include:
- Basic toiletries – such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and a toothbrush
- Underwear and socks – often a set number, depending on the prison
- Books and magazines – as long as they’re not banned material
- Letters, photos, and legal paperwork
- Religious items – such as a Bible, Quran, or prayer beads
- Stationery – pens, paper, envelopes (often from the canteen)
Each prison has a list called an “allowed items list” or “facilities list”, which outlines what’s acceptable. Prisoners are given this when they arrive or can request a copy later. The list may vary slightly between establishments.
Clothing Rules in Prison
In most UK prisons, inmates start off wearing prison-issue clothing. However, over time—and depending on their behaviour—they may be allowed to wear their own clothes. This is more common in Category C and D prisons than in high-security facilities.
Personal clothing must meet the prison’s rules. For example, hooded tops, clothing with offensive slogans, or items with cords or metal parts may be banned. Most prisons allow up to a set number of items like:
- 2–3 pairs of trousers or jogging bottoms
- 2–3 t-shirts or long-sleeve tops
- 1 jumper or sweatshirt (no hoods)
- Underwear and socks (usually up to 7 sets)
- 1 pair of trainers or shoes (non-metallic)
Clothing is subject to checks, and anything deemed inappropriate or unsafe will be refused or confiscated.
Can You Send Items Into Prison?
Some prisons allow families and friends to send in items by post or hand them in during visits. However, this is becoming less common, with many establishments now requiring all items to be ordered through approved suppliers.
If a prison does allow hand-in items, they’ll typically ask for:
- A list of requested items in advance
- All items to be new and in original packaging
- Receipts or proof of purchase
Some prisons operate a “property drop” system during visits. It’s best to check the rules of the specific prison before attempting to send or bring anything in. You can contact the prison directly or check the UK prison finder for up-to-date guidance.
What’s Not Allowed?
There are strict rules about what prisoners cannot have under any circumstances. These banned items include:
- Mobile phones and SIM cards
- Drugs or alcohol
- Weapons or anything that could be used as one
- USB drives, memory cards, or storage devices
- Pornographic material
- Large sums of cash
Trying to send or bring in banned items is a criminal offence. Both prisoners and visitors can face serious consequences, including prosecution and a ban on visits.
Approved Catalogue Orders
Most prisons work with approved catalogues or suppliers for things like clothes, books, and electrical items. Prisoners can place orders through these channels using money from their prison account. Items are checked on arrival and either approved or refused based on the prison’s policies.
This system helps keep things fair and secure, reducing the risk of contraband entering the prison.
Conclusion
While prison life comes with restrictions, inmates are still allowed certain personal items that help maintain their dignity and wellbeing. From basic hygiene to books and clothes, what's allowed can vary—but the rules are there to balance comfort with safety.
Always check directly with the prison for their most up-to-date list of approved items. For more advice and guides on life inside, visit the Prison Guide homepage.
