Being sober doesn’t mean you have to give up the enjoyable things in life. In fact, new experiences become more fun when you are healthy, happy, and emotionally present. For example, sober travel is something to look forward to after you’ve completed addiction treatment.
If you’re ready to experience life free of addiction, call The Bluffs at 850.374.5331 and learn about our addiction treatment programs.
Ideas for Sober Vacations
They say life is about the journey, not the destination. That’s true, but when it comes to sober travel, the destination does matter. If you are still new in recovery or if you just prefer to avoid locations where “partying” is considered to be the main attraction, one of these ideas might provide the best vacation you have ever had:
- Yoga retreat
- Camping or glamping
- Hiking trips — guided hikes in new places are especially recommended
- Wellness centers — think “vacation spa”
- Inclusive group tours — they are low-stress because all details are taken care of for you
- National park visit
Alcohol may be available at any of these listed locations, but vacations that are oriented toward wholesome family fun, wellness, and outdoor adventure attract others who want to have fun without drugs or alcohol.
If you really want to remove all temptation, consider going on a road trip through some of America’s dry counties. There are still many U.S. counties where alcohol is prohibited or strictly limited. You can find dry counties in several states, including Tennessee, Kentucky, South Dakota, and Georgia.
3 Essential Tips for Sober Travel
Wherever you decide to take your sober vacations, getting there and back while remaining on track is a challenge. The stress of travel, plus the other triggers you might encounter along the way, can be a threat to your sobriety if you don’t plan ahead.
1. Prepare for Challenges
All sorts of things can go wrong when you travel, but the unexpected can also lead to some of the best vacation memories if you are prepared to handle things well. Whether you are enjoying a leisurely drive to enjoy some colorful fall leaves or in a hurry to catch a flight, making sure you have healthy snacks, water, phone chargers, books, or other distractions to keep you occupied during long waits is essential.
Start by making a clear, concise itinerary that includes time between events in case of delays. Don’t forget to pack all the little extras that will keep you nourished and energized — and mentally strong enough to avoid triggers — in a small bag that you can carry with you at all times.
2. Plan Morning Activities
Having something to look forward to first thing in the morning not only starts your vacation day off right but also gives you another reason to avoid drugs or alcohol. Being sick and hungover or racked with guilt is no way to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
3. Travel with Support
Whether it’s attending virtual sobriety meetings or checking in with a sober mentor every day, make a plan to take your support network with you as you travel. Consider downloading an app that shows where you can find sobriety support meetings at the destinations you’ll be visiting.
Try to maintain your normal meeting schedule while on vacation. Attending meetings will help motivate you to stick to your plans for sober travel.
Get Support for Sober Travel at The Bluffs
If you are still trapped in the cycle of addiction, the idea of a vacation, sober or not, may seem like a fantasy. You, too, can enjoy making memories with your family or exploring new places alone with the support of an effective alcohol addiction treatment program. Contact The Bluffs today at 850.374.5331 and start your journey to sobriety today.
