The Sober Traveler's Checklist

Practical tips to enjoy your vacation fully without alcohol or substances.

July 29, 2025

The Sobriety Daily Newsletter
July 29 2025 | Stay Connected, Stay Sober

Last week, we explored top sober-friendly destinations perfect for travelers in recovery—from Bali’s wellness retreats to Portugal’s vibrant sober scene. This week, we’re diving deeper into how to travel sober, whether you’re in recovery, sober-curious, or simply seeking a clearer-headed journey. While alcohol-free travel may seem challenging in a world where cocktails on the beach are the norm, with the right preparation, it can be your most rewarding trip yet.

Sober travel isn’t about missing out—it’s about fully experiencing every moment, free from substances. From setting intentions to managing triggers, these strategies will help you stay grounded while exploring new places. Remember: Your sobriety is non-negotiable, but adventure doesn’t have to be!

7 Essential Tips for Sober Travel

  1. Set Clear Intentions
    Before booking, visualize your trip substance-free and define your goals (e.g., relaxation, adventure). Discuss your plans with a therapist or recovery buddy to ensure your motivations align with sobriety. Clarity now prevents regrets later.

  2. Communicate Your Needs
    Inform travel companions about your sobriety upfront—this sets boundaries and builds accountability. If solo, share your plans with a support group back home. True friends will cheer you on, not tempt you.

  3. Research Your Destination
    Look for sober-friendly hotels, alcohol-free activities (e.g., hiking, museums), and local support groups. Familiarity reduces anxiety, and knowing your options empowers you to avoid high-risk scenes.

  4. Pack Your Recovery Toolkit
    Bring journals, meditation apps, recovery literature, or prescribed medications. Treat sobriety like any health priority—would you leave insulin or an inhaler behind?

  5. Stay Active Daily
    Exercise boosts endorphins and reduces cravings. Aim for 30 minutes of movement, whether a sunrise yoga session, city walking tour, or swim in the ocean.

  6. Eat Mindfully
    Balance indulgent treats with nourishing meals to stabilize mood and energy. Hydrate often—dehydration can mimic cravings. Pro tip: Share dishes to enjoy flavors without overeating.

  7. Consider a Sober Retreat
    Early in recovery? Try a structured retreat blending adventure, therapy, and community. These safe spaces offer transformation without compromising your progress.

5 Common Triggers to Anticipate

  1. Travel Stress – Missed flights, language barriers, or lost luggage can spike anxiety. Pause, breathe, and lean on healthy coping tools.

  2. Dining Out – If companions order alcohol, request fancy mocktails or excuse yourself briefly. Many menus now feature creative alcohol-free options.

  3. Celebratory Events – Weddings or parties may pressure participation. Plan an exit strategy or bring a sober buddy.

  4. Family Dynamics – Old tensions resurface during family trips. Schedule alone time to decompress.

  5. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) – Remember: You’re not missing drinks—you’re gaining deeper connections and memories.

Today’s Mantra

“I travel present and proud!”

Sobriety News

  1. Multnomah County is transforming a former RV dealership into a 38-unit sober shelter with strict substance-free policies, set to open in winter 2025-26, featuring private pods, green spaces, and on-site support facilities. The project, near two schools, responds to community input and recovery needs, with demolition starting August 4th and a Good Neighbor Agreement process underway.

  2. A Phoenix man, Corey Dion Beckhum, was sentenced to 3.5 years in prison for illegally profiting from placing vulnerable patients in unlicensed sober living homes. The Arizona Attorney General’s Office condemned the scheme as exploitative "patient brokering," highlighting the dangers of predatory practices in recovery communities.

  3. Gen Z is driving a cultural shift toward sober living—prioritizing mental clarity, financial savvy, and authentic social connections over alcohol, with social media and alcohol-free products fueling the movement. Their choices reflect intentional living, not deprivation, making sobriety a symbol of self-respect and modern wellness.

  4. Lincoln City Council approved doubling capacity (4 to 8 residents) for a sober living home despite neighbor concerns over safety, citing Fair Housing Act protections. While residents argued the home provides critical recovery support, opponents cited past incidents and proximity to a school as reasons for opposition.

  5. A Colorado Springs woman transformed her home into "No More Excuses Recovery Residence," a strict but supportive sober living house helping women rebuild their lives after addiction—like resident Cassandra Townsend, who’s regained family ties after 19 months sober. The founder aims to expand by creating homes for mothers with children and men, turning personal loss into community hope.

Upcoming Events

Tip of the Day

Pack a 'Sober Survival Kit' - include emergency contacts, favorite herbal tea, recovery mantras, and a list of local NA/AA meetings at your destination. When cravings hit, you’ll have instant support.

Treat your sobriety like your passport – never leave without it

Reader’s Corner

Q: How do I handle airport bars when everyone’s drinking?
A: Airports are limbo—nobody cares what you drink. Grab a coffee & claim a gate.

Join Our Community

Our Sobriety Facebook Groups alone amount to over 650,000 members and we’re giving you the chance to be apart of a solid community of sober individuals, so come join us over on our Patreon and become a part of the Sobriety Daily family and here’s what you’ll have access to:

  • Facebook Group Chats (These chats are released daily and very active)

  • Discord Community Chat

  • Whatsapp Community Chat

  • Extra Newsletter Coverage

  • Merch Discounts

  • Access to a solid army of sober individuals

Stay Strong, Stay Inspired.
The Sobriety Daily Team