How do you really stay sober while traveling? For others, this can be a piece of cake. For those who are in recovery, or have just gotten out of rehab, however, the commitment to stay sober can be tested while on the road.
For many of you, travel is a big part of your life. Especially this summer season, many people may be going out of town or out of the country, enjoying the sights and sounds the world has to offer.
For those who are just out of rehab, or those who have decided to lead a sober life, traveling can be difficult. It could bring back many memories, and even the company that you used to travel with could be relapse triggers. Aside from these things, just being out of your comfort zone could also lead you to have a harder time keeping your commitment.
To help you stay sober while traveling, here are some tips.
1. Say “no” to the minibar. You can empty the minibar without actually having to drink it, you know. A fridge full of booze can be a big temptation after a day of navigating a new place on your feet. What you can do is when you get into your hotel, ask the staff to clear your minibar. You may even have an option to have it emptied even before you arrive.
2. Find–or bring–your comfort. Whether it’s a pillow, blanket, knickknack or pet, make sure you have something to comfort you while you’re on the road. They can help you settle into a new place better and remind you of your commitment even if you don’t have your support group with you.
3. Stay connected. Even when you’re away, make sure to stay connected with your support system or recovery buddy. It also helps if you know a group or organization in the place where you’re going that has recovery meetings that you can attend to. This keeps you grounded and away from booze or drugs while you’re away.
4. Be gracious to yourself. Be kind to yourself. Don’t forget that you’re traveling and that you should enjoy yourself–only this time, in a healthy, positive and worthwhile way. Now that you’re sober, you can even better appreciate the place, people, culture, food, and and many other things the new place brings. An added bonus–give yourself a treat while you’re there. Whether it’s sampling a new cuisine, treating yourself to the hotel spa, or just stay in a fancier place, is enough to make you appreciate being sober–and stay sober.
5. Learn the power of “no.” You may have to say it in a different language, but a “no” is still “no” so don’t forget to say it in situations that can put you and your sobriety at risk. And if you think the place or event or the people you’re going to travel with aren’t going to help you stay sober, then you may have to say “no” to yourself too.
6. Set boundaries. Think about this: the things that you wouldn’t do at home should stay the same even when you’re on the road. Even when you’re traveling, you should still keep your sobriety your priority.
7. Listen to your body. Despite the jet lag and maybe the excitement of travel, it still helps to listen to your body to help you stay sober. Remember H-A-L-T and the relapse triggers that could endanger your sobriety. Check in on yourself, make a personal inventory, and reflect. Also, don’t forget to stay grateful.
Do you know someone who is in need of a recovery or rehabilitation program due to drug or alcohol problems? We can help. Call or text us at Bridges of Hope: 09175098826.
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