For many people, summer is the season of sun, adventure, and long-awaited vacations. But if you’re in recovery from addiction, travel can also bring unique challenges. Whether you’re planning a beach getaway, a cross-country road trip, or a relaxing staycation, staying sober while traveling takes a little extra thought and intention.
But here’s the good news: recovery doesn’t have to mean saying goodbye to fun. Some of the most rewarding and joy-filled travel experiences happen because you’re clear-minded, grounded, and fully present. With the right planning, you can enjoy summer to the fullest, without compromising your progress or putting your sobriety at risk.
Challenges You May Face While Traveling in Recovery
Traveling always takes you out of your routine. And while that’s part of what makes it exciting, it can also make things feel a bit shaky when you’re in recovery. Here are some common challenges you might encounter:
- Lack of structure. You’re away from your usual support system, schedule, and daily routines. That lack of structure can leave space for old habits or cravings to creep in.
- Triggers. From airport bars to beachfront cocktail lounges, summer travel often puts alcohol and other substances front and center. These can be powerful triggers, especially in early recovery, and increase the risk for relapse.
- Peer pressure. If you’re traveling with friends or family who drink or use substances, it may be harder to stick to your boundaries. Even well-meaning people can encourage “just one drink” without realizing how harmful that can be for you.
- Loneliness or boredom. If your travel companions are drinking or partying and you’re not, you might start feeling left out. Or if you’re traveling solo, the lack of connection can amplify cravings. Loneliness or boredom can be dangerous companions when traveling this summer.
- Stress or anxiety. Even fun trips come with some stress. Circumstances such as delayed flights, unfamiliar places, and unexpected hiccups can all be stressors that can act as relapse triggers if you’re not prepared.
What to Look for When Planning a Sober-Friendly Summer Vacation
Fortunately, you can plan a trip that minimizes triggers and maximizes joy. Here’s what to consider when choosing where to go and what to do:
- Choose locations with natural beauty. Nature is grounding and healing, perfect for those in recovery. Think national parks, mountains, beaches, or quiet lakeside retreats. These spots offer serenity, exercise, and inspiration without relying on substances for fun.
- Look for wellness-focused accommodations. Consider retreats or resorts that offer yoga, meditation, spa treatments, or healthy eating options. These environments tend to attract people who are focused on self-care and mindful living.
- Stay close to support. If you’re in 12-Step recovery, such as AA or NA, or another support group, look for places where you can attend meetings. Having a meeting to anchor your day can be a powerful safeguard.
What to Avoid
Knowing what to avoid can be just as important as knowing what to look for:
- Avoid party-centric destinations. Places that are known for nightlife or spring-break-style partying—think Las Vegas, certain beach towns, or cruise ships with unlimited drink packages—can pose a major threat to your sobriety.
- Don’t overcommit. Trying to do too much can lead to exhaustion and irritability, both of which can increase vulnerability to relapse. Build in downtime, and don’t be afraid to say no to activities that don’t feel safe or enjoyable.
- Avoid traveling with people who don’t support your recovery. If someone doesn’t respect your boundaries or is constantly drinking around you, they may not be the best travel companion—at least not for this stage of your journey.
How to Have Fun While Staying Sober
Now for the most important part: how to truly enjoy your trip while staying rooted in recovery. It’s more than possible—it can be amazing. Here are some tips to make it happen:
- Create your own version of fun. Remember, recovery is about rediscovering joy in a real and meaningful way. Seek out activities that energize and excite you. That might be hiking, paddleboarding, visiting local art galleries, taking cooking classes, or diving into a new book on the beach.
- Bring your tools with you. Pack a journal, download guided meditations, bring your favorite recovery podcast, or save a list of virtual meetings. Having your tools handy helps you stay grounded no matter where you are.
- Reach out to your community. Before your trip, look up local recovery meetings or online groups you can attend while you’re away. It can feel empowering to know you’re not alone—recovery is everywhere.
- Plan your days. Structure is your friend. It doesn’t have to be rigid, but having a loose plan for each day (a morning walk, a sightseeing tour, a local event) can help you avoid idle time that could lead to cravings.
- Stay connected. Keep in touch with your sponsor, therapist, or support group while you travel. A quick text or call can make a huge difference when you’re feeling vulnerable.
- Set an intention for your trip. Why are you taking this trip? Maybe it’s to relax, reconnect with family, or celebrate a milestone in your recovery. Keeping that intention in mind helps you stay focused on what really matters.
We Are Here For You
If you need extra support before or during your trip, we’re here for you. Whether you’re just starting your recovery journey or navigating sober travel for the first time, our team at Mountain Laurel Recovery Center in Westfield, Pennsylvania, is ready to help. Please reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support you this summer and beyond.