Staying sober on vacation is easier said than done, especially if the purpose of your getaway is to relax and enjoy yourself with good friends. For some, staying sober means avoiding overdoing the wine with dinner, but for others, it means consciously abstaining if they’ve struggled with addiction. If you’re looking to stay sober on your next vacation but are unsure how best to go about it, then make sure you’ve got plenty of strategies to help you say no to the booze and limit your risk of being tempted to have a drink. If you’re choosing to enjoy your vacation without alcohol, then there’s still plenty to keep you entertained.

Choose the Destination Wisely
If you’re trying to stay on the wagon, then you’ll have to think carefully about where you’re going to go. It’s not in your best interests to choose a party destination famed for its wild bars and clubs. Think about where you want to go and consider the likelihood of being tempted to indulge. If there is more temptation than not, then choose another destination. If you’re receiving treatment as part of a drug rehabilitation program, then be sure to ask for advice and have a professional review your travel plans.

Stay Busy
Alcohol doesn’t need to dictate how much fun you have on vacation, so make sure you fill your days with activities and experiences to keep your mind occupied. Be sure to book excursions and days out while you’re away so that you can see and do as much as you possibly can. If you’re planning a relaxing vacation and you want to mostly lounge on the beach, then make sure you’ve got a great book to read and plenty of water to drink. Additionally, if you're worried about the morning-after consequences of indulging in these festive libations, consider setting up a hangover IV station at your party. Hangover IVs are becoming increasingly popular for their quick revitalizing effects, helping guests bounce back and enjoy the holiday cheer without the dreaded aftermath. Plus, it adds a unique and thoughtful touch to your event, ensuring everyone can fully savor the festivities without worrying about the next day. Choose cold drinks to enjoy outside instead of alcohol, and if you’re ordering out then ask for a mocktail. This way, you can still enjoy a tasty cold drink, but you’re having fruit juice in the place of alcohol.

Remind Yourself Why Sobriety Is Important To You
Before you leave for your vacation, tell yourself why you’re staying sober and why sobriety is important to you. If you’re managing to piece your life back together after addiction, then reflect on how far you’ve come and tell yourself that no sip of alcohol is worth spiraling back into addiction once again. Remind yourself of how well you’re doing and how strength and determination has already got you to a better place. If you need a physical reminder, treat yourself to a coin outlining your time of being sober.

Exercise
Exercise gives your body a natural high, so make sure you take some suitable running shoes with you. If you’re staying sober, then you could do with a distraction from drinking alcohol. Try and run in the morning and take pleasure in seeing the morning sky of your destination. You’ll be making moments to remember while simultaneously improving your fitness and health. Running causes your heart rate to increase and your body to release endorphins. These chemicals are responsible for making you feel happy.

Travel with Supportive Friends and Family
Staying sober is going to be less challenging if you travel with people who respect and support your decision to leave alcohol out of the equation. When it comes down to planning and booking your time away, make sure that you’ve got those you trust around you and won’t encourage you to have a drink.  

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