Five hacks for navigating a summer holiday sober

Many of us have decided to give up alcohol in recent times as a result of understanding the dangers of the substance, or having endured problems with it. After all, there are an estimated 600,000 people struggling with alcohol across the UK. 

Giving up is no easy feat, though. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication and help from those around you, but get through it and a life in recovery can be truly life changing. It’s a chance to live your life how you want to, enjoying adventures, enjoying healthier and happier relationships and generally being yourself. 

Often, going on holiday after going through alcohol rehab is a first port of call, but that itself can pose challenges, with new environments leading to unwanted stresses, such as navigating an airport terminal, as well as offering an air of uncertainty. Therefore, it’s important to navigate a summer holiday sober carefully.

So, if you’re about to jet off on your holidays, sober for the first time, here are some top tips to help you navigate it and ensure you have a great time.

Plan Alcohol-Free Activities

One of the best places to start is to do a bit of planning prior to departure and ensure what you plan in are alcohol free activities. Going anywhere you’ll find tons of experiences that can be enjoyed in the summer that don’t revolve around alcohol, from the likes of hikes to beachcombing, watersports to meditation and spas, visiting museums, galleries, historical landmarks and more.

If you are with friends and family who perhaps do want a drink, then perhaps suggest some outings that don’t involve alcohol and plan alternatives for yourself when they do want to drink, such as sitting on the beach or even just taking an early night. Ultimately, you want to plan engaging activities that will ensure the absence of alcohol is unnoticed and insignificant.

Craft Your Own Non-Alcoholic Drinks

As part of your holiday, you may well have dinner parties, beach gatherings and other types of events where it might feel natural to have a drink amongst friends. You can navigate this efficiently by bringing your own non-alcoholic alternatives, while if you’re in charge even make it an alcohol free event, instead opting for a range of refreshing summer mocktails instead.

This will still make it feel like a social atmosphere, still offer great drinks and all the while you’ll remain on track and everyone else will be hangover free, ready to wake up refreshed and enjoy the next day.

Establish Your Boundaries Early

Before you head away, make sure you establish boundaries. Whether you’re travelling with friends, family or even on your own, be upfront and committed to your sobriety. It can be important to let others know, especially if they aren’t aware already, which will reduce the chances of them offering you a drink or encouraging you to do so. 

If someone does offer you a drink, have a simple answer prepared that’s both polite and firm. This will make it easier to navigate the challenges, while the people you’re with will also be more considerate and respectful.

Seek Out Sober-Friendly Spaces

As part of your research, you may also want to consider finding more sober-friendly destinations. Look out for the bars and restaurants that have good non-alcoholic options, while you might even find retreats that are completely alcohol free.

For solo adventures, sober retreats can be a great start point for going on holiday as you’ll completely remove the temptation of drinking, while also finding a like-minded community that can provide support, as well as friendship.

Focus on Self-Care and Well-being

Finally, make self-care a priority during your holiday. The decision to stay sober is often rooted in a desire for greater well-being, so ensure your holiday activities support this goal. Start your days with a calming routine, such as yoga, meditation, or a walk along the beach. Pamper yourself with activities that nourish your body and mind, such as spa treatments, healthy meals, or a good book by the pool. Keeping your stress levels low and staying in tune with your needs will help you remain strong in your commitment to sobriety.