Sober travel has gone from being a dream to a reality.
Years ago, when I was first getting sober, I met with an addictions counselor. I was speaking to her about travel, trying to understand how I’d ever be able to vacation again without drinking. After all, every trip I had taken up until then was essentially a glorified pub crawl, with alcohol fueling the fun.
As I toiled over the thought of sober travel and asked the counselor how it would even be possible, she calmly and reassuringly said, “you’ll be able to.”
I remember staring at her, probably with a look of pure shock, thinking, “you’ve got to be kidding me”. The idea of traveling without alcohol wasn’t just daunting – it felt impossible. How could I ever enjoy a vacation if I wasn’t drinking? Would it even be fun? Would I be missing out?
Now, I’d love to find that counselor and tell her she was absolutely right.
Traveling Without Alcohol: A Whole New World
Sober living doesn’t mean boring living, and I believe sobriety is actually the key that opens many of life’s doors. For me, one of those doors was the ability to travel in a completely new and exciting way.
In my twenties, I was fortunate enough to backpack through Europe six times. Each trip was filled with adventure – or at least, that’s what I told myself. But as I reflect on those experiences now, I can clearly see that my main goal wasn’t to explore the world – it was to escape my life and drink abroad.
I always had the best intentions. I’d research destinations, plan exciting activities, and tell myself that this trip will be different. But once I arrived, the typical pattern of drunken travel repeated itself. Mornings were spent nursing hangovers instead of seeing the sights. Activities got skipped, replaced by afternoons in pubs that turned into nights I could barely remember. I even missed flights because I couldn’t drag myself out of bed. Looking back, I realize I wasn’t truly experiencing those places – I was just drinking in different environments.
Now, in my forties, with years of sobriety under my belt, I’ve discovered a completely different way to travel. In the past few years alone, I’ve been to Asia four times, Europe five times, Hawaii, Las Vegas and I most recently returned from an incredible trip to the Dominican Republic. With all of this I can safely say: the difference is incredible.
I wake up refreshed and excited for the day ahead. I embrace every adventure, whether it’s hiking at sunrise, exploring new cities, or diving into local culture without the haze of alcohol blurring my vision. I never miss a booking, and I never waste a day recovering from the night before. But most importantly, I feel present. I’m fully immersed in my experiences, creating real, lasting memories instead of blurry recollections clouded by drinking.
Tips for Sober Travel
If you’re in early sobriety and wondering if you’ll ever be able to travel without alcohol – just like I once did – let me reassure you that you absolutely can! And not only is it possible, but it’s also far more rewarding than you might imagine. Here are some things that helped me make the transition:
- Shift Your Mindset
Instead of focusing on what you’re “missing out” on, focus on what you’re gaining: clarity, energy, and the ability to fully experience a destination. Sobriety isn’t a limitation, it’s a superpower that allows you to travel with intention.
- Plan Activities That Excite You
When alcohol was at the center of my trips, everything revolved around where I’d drink next. Now, I build my itineraries around experiences that genuinely excite me whether it’s exploring new locations, trying new foods, or hiking in nature. When you fill your trip with activities that inspire you, you won’t even think about drinking.
- Choose Your Accommodations Wisely
If you’re newly sober, avoiding party hostels or resorts with a heavy drinking culture can make a big difference. Opt for places that align with your new lifestyle – boutique hotels, wellness retreats, or even Airbnb’s in quieter areas can help create a more positive experience.
- Find Like-Minded Travelers
Just because you’re sober doesn’t mean you have to travel alone or miss out on socializing. There are tons of people out there who prioritize experiences over partying. Look into sober travel groups, join local tours, or connect with people through online communities that support alcohol-free travel.
- Have a Plan for Social Situations
If you find yourself in a setting where others are drinking, have a plan. Whether it’s ordering a fun alcohol-free drink, setting a time limit for how long you’ll stay, or simply knowing when to walk away, being prepared can help you stay comfortable and confident.
I’ve written a separate article with some additional tips for sober travel. Additionally, Lonely Planet has a great article with some valuable tips.
The Best Trip of Your Life is Ahead of You
If you’re struggling with the idea of sober travel, I want to leave you with this: the best trip of your life isn’t behind you but ahead of you. Sobriety doesn’t take away the joy of travel; it enhances it.
I’ve seen more, experienced more, and remembered more in my sober travels than I ever did when alcohol was in the picture. I no longer stumble through new cities in a daze – I explore them with curiosity, energy, and a clear head.
I promise you, that’s a trip worth taking. Give it a try. Let yourself live!
