Traveling Sober: 4 Tips for Enjoying Trips Without Alcohol

Traveling while sober?

With summer right around the corner, it’s time to start packing for those weekend getaways, beach vacations, cross-country roadtrips, and your favorite music festivals. Wherever you choose to vacation, chances are alcohol is going to be close by. When practicing sobriety, it can be a bit more challenging to be in an unfamiliar place and out of your regular routine.  Over the years, I’ve found a couple of tips and tricks that have really helped me stay sober while traveling and still enjoy my vacation.

1. Bring something with you that helps you feel grounded 

   
   

This could look like anything from a stuffed animal, your favorite hoodie, or even a little piece of a daily ritual that you do at home. Start each vaca day with 10 minutes of yoga/meditation, or sipping your favorite tea or coffee. Just a little bit of grounding can go a long way to help you move through the day with more ease and comfort. 

2. Plan ahead 

Unfortunately, non-alcoholic options are not always readily available. Pack your own cans of NA beer or seltzers in the cooler. If you're going to a bar, have a “go-to” NA drink that you can order confidently to avoid those awkward moments with the bartenders that we’ve all had. Here’s my personal favorite: “In a rocks glass, muddled orange with soda water and bitters, please.” Which leads to my next point:

3. Don't underestimate the power of the vessel

The vessel: anything that can contain a beverage. Simply holding a drink in your hand that matches the vibe of the function can instantly bring on the feeling of inclusivity and connection. If you're out at a fancy dinner, order your drink specifically in a wine glass or a rocks glass, maybe. Sitting around a campfire, and everyone's got a beer can in their hand? Grab a can of seltzer or pop and throw on a fun koozy. Packing the cooler for the beach? Bring your cute tumbler cup with soda water and pineapple juice, and throw some seasonal fruit in it. When it visually looks the same, the only thing you're “missing out” on is the hangover the next morning. 

4. Don’t be afraid to step away if you're starting to feel uncomfortable 

Maybe it’s getting late, and the group is starting to get too drunk, but you all Ubered to the party together. Stepping away to text or call a friend can really provide support in those situations. Traveling or not, having a good support system while practicing sobriety really is crucial to your success.