The world is full of exciting places to visit, but if this is your first time planning a sober vacation, the idea of a getaway without alcohol or controlled substances can be intimidating. If you follow several helpful tips for planning ahead, taking good care of yourself while traveling, and making sure that your friends are supportive, you’ll have the best vacation you’ve ever experienced.
- Pick the Right Destination
Picking the correct destination is crucial to an enjoyable vacation. You don’t want to be in a place where you feel tempted to revert to old behaviors. Choose somewhere where no one knows you, and you are free to be your authentic self.
Places like Vegas might not be the best idea. Take some time to find places off the beaten path that offer plenty of fun things to do. Outdoor activities are always a safe option if you want to avoid the opportunity to indulge in bad habits altogether. Additionally, pick a destination with good weather for the time you plan to travel; no one wants to be stuck inside during their vacation.
- Spend Time With Other Sober Friends
If you will spend time with others during this vacation, make sure you have friends who will be sober with you. If they aren’t willing to stay sober or attend substance-free events, you may want to reconsider. Ultimately, you know where you are on your journey and where to draw the line.
- Plan Lots of Fun Activities
The top tip for planning a sober vacation is to plan many fun activities. Remember that this is your vacation; you should do things that you enjoy! Go hiking or swimming and visit museums or natural landmarks. Don’t forget about sports games and concerts, too! The more variety of fun things you can find to do on your vacation, the better.
Check the event locations ahead of time and avoid activities that would expose you to temptations.
- Make the Most of Your Time Away From Work and Responsibilities
Pick locations that allow you to relax and enjoy yourself, taking you far from your everyday responsibilities. Make sure you plan an itinerary of things to do that don’t involve alcohol or drugs. Don’t worry about what will happen when you return to your job or other obligations; instead, focus on enjoying the moment and being present in our beautiful world.
- Set Healthy Boundaries for Yourself and Others
Don’t worry about what others think of your choice. Everyone has different needs regarding sobriety and recovery; there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Your needs may change over time as well. Keeping an open dialogue with those around you is an important part of staying sober, especially while traveling or trying something new. Maintaining healthy boundaries will help everyone feel comfortable when making these decisions together.
Vacation is a great chance to relax and recharge, but it can also be a trying time for sobriety, depending on your environment. With these tips, you are fully prepared to plan a much-needed getaway and get the most out of your next vacation. These adventures should be all about having fun and enjoying life to the fullest. In fact, you can reap many fantastic advantages simply by traveling. So go ahead and book your next trip, knowing you have the tools in place to stay on top of your goals.
