For individuals in addiction recovery, summer vacations can evoke mixed emotions. On one hand, travel offers a refreshing escape and a chance to explore new places. On the other, it may present unfamiliar challenges that can test your commitment to sobriety. With a little preparation and the right strategies, you can enjoy a fulfilling, safe, and sober vacation. You can easily enjoy a vacation while avoiding triggers and maintaining your sobriety.

Are you or a loved one struggling with depression, anxiety, mental health, or substance abuse?

For example, you can call different hotels before booking to see if they have accommodations for people who don’t drink alcohol, such as alcohol-free drinks in the minibar. You can also ask the reception desk to suggest activities and spots you can tour without coming into contact with alcohol and other drugs. Knowing the atmosphere of the place you’re going to is also key to anticipating potential triggers. For example, what crowd usually frequents the hotel you’ve booked? What Halfway house kind of nightlife should you expect within the hotel and nearby town? Research happy hours, open bars and clubs in your destination so you know the areas to avoid during your trip.

Sober Travel New Jersey: Recovery-Friendly Vacations & Getaways

Many different social, environmental and emotional challenges can act as addiction triggers. You will not always have control over what’s going on around you. But you can expect mishaps and prepare constructive ways to work through them, such as removing yourself from the vacationing in recovery situation, speaking with someone you trust, or practicing breathing exercises. Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed health care provider. Always consult your health care provider before beginning any new treatment, or if you have any questions regarding your health condition.

• Additionally, people who don’t understand addiction or support your commitment to sobriety can pressure you to use drugs while on holiday.
• Danielle has many years of experience in both outpatient and residential recovery settings.
• As a result, you may tell yourself that drinking a glass of wine with dinner or popping some pills in a club can be a vacation-only activity that will stop once you get back home.

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Enjoying a well-crafted mocktail can provide a sense of celebration and indulgence without compromising your sobriety. It also allows you to participate in social drinking situations without feeling left out or drawing unwanted attention to your choice not to consume alcohol 4. In today’s digital age, technology offers a wide range of communication options that can help you stay connected while traveling. Platforms like Skype or FaceTime allow you to have face-to-face conversations with loved ones, even when you’re far away.

Create a specific savings account dedicated to vacation spending. Compare prices, do your own research, hire a travel planner to help you navigate the costs. Be wary of travel organizations that advertise impossibly low rates — often they tack those costs onto the end of a sale. Many people report better sleep, increased energy, and reduced anxiety when they travel sober.

Flash back a few years and this would never be possible as an active addict. I was either incarcerated, therefor unable to attend any sort of vacation, and was even considered to some people that I was already on one. Or I would have to scramble around trying to gather enough heroin to sustain me for the trip.

Plan Activities That Nourish Your Recovery

• Shared language and mutual support can deepen both the experience and the friendship.
• But how easy is it to stay sober when you are on vacation with your party mode on?
• Tiring yourself out early in the day leaves time to take a long nap or lounge lazily by the pool in the afternoon instead of using drugs to relax.
• Also, if you know certain places might trigger you, avoid them.

If a certain pillow, for example, makes you feel a heightened sense of security, bring that pillow with you on the road. Being in recovery doesn’t mean you should nitpick or be overly concerned with packing light. The contents of this website, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on this website, are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice.

You’ll also find it easier to get back into your routine when you get home if you include elements of it in your travel plans. Staying sober can be easier when you use the tools that technology provides for staying connected to people who provide you with support. For instance, you might be able to call your sober coach or counselor at the first sign that you are thinking about having a relapse.