Staying sober whilst travelling, socialising and celebrating : 10 tips from my own journey

As someone who has travelled the world and been to weddings in all sorts of places, I’ve had plenty of opportunities to test my sober social skills. From dancing barefoot in Albania to politely dodging champagne toasts in mountainous France, I’ve learned that sobriety and celebration can absolutely still co-exist. However, for a long time in my early days of sobriety I really believed that it couldn’t.

I actually wrote this blog post years ago after I’d had a summer full of weddings in my 2nd year of sobriety I just never hit publish. 

While sorting through my laptop recently, I found it and realised it still resonates. Summer’s almost over in the UK, but wedding season is still going strong in lots of places and the summer is on its way here in oz (wishful thinking). And whether it’s a wedding, birthday, travel, festival, or any celebration, staying sober in social settings is a skill worth sharing.

This year I went to a wedding in Australia where I only knew a few people, and although I thought I was going to struggle socially it was really enjoyable and I was so glad that I could be there and show up for my friends.

At the start of my sobriety I had to plan a lot around social situations where I knew that there would be drink or drugs and it used to frustrate the hell out of me because I just wanted to be normal; I didn’t even want it to be a thing. These days it’s something that doesn’t bother me as much, but I still need to be on the ball; especially when travelling in another country on my own, I mean its easy to lie to myself and say that I am in another country and no-one would know if I had a drink but that’s not the point and I genuinely don’t want to anymore, the thought of a hangover makes me feel physically sick.

When I first came to Australia, I often thought about staying in hostels again to meet new people, like I used to when I first started travelling. But part of me was worried. Australia was where my drinking once really took off. I’m now over four years sober and strong enough to be in these situations, but I’d be lying if I said I never worry about feeling socially accepted which was one of my main reasons to drink. These days, I’m older and a lot more wiser its okay to feel uncomfortable at times.

I bought a van partly as a safety net a way to leave places if I needed and not to get caught up in the backpacker chaos too much. But over time, that safety turned into isolation. And lately, I’ve been craving more connection; the kind you get from laughing with strangers, having deep conversations, and dancing without worrying about how you look.

So, here are the 10 strategies I use to protect my sobriety in all social situations, I am not saying that it will work for everyone, but if it helps at least one person then great!!!

My 10 Go-To Tips for Staying Sober at Events

1. Find Your Safe Person

   Make sure there’s at least one person you trust who will have your back and leave with you if needed.

   
   

2. Be Open About Your Sobriety

   Let people know you don’t drink. It avoids awkward refusals and helps others respect your choice.

   
   

3. Always Have an Escape Plan

   Drive yourself, know your route home, or if you’re away from home map your way back to your accommodation before you go, making sure to avoid temptation.

   
   

4. Keep a Recovery Contact on Speed Dial

   Have someone you can call to vent, get perspective, or check you’re not taking unnecessary risks. It’s a reminder you’re not alone.

   
   

5. Avoid People from Your Past Who May Trigger You

   If someone is linked to your old drinking days and makes you uncomfortable, it’s okay to steer clear.

   
   

6. Know the Venue

   Research where you’re going so it feels less overwhelming when you arrive, especially if it’s in a new place.

   
   

7. Stick with People Who Make You Comfortable

   Be around those you can relax with, instead of slipping into people-pleasing or pretending.

   
   

8. Dance Like Nobody’s Watching (Badly!)

   People might just assume you’re tipsy and leave you to enjoy yourself.

   
   

9. Steer Clear of Old Drinking Spots

   Avoid venues that bring back strong memories or “euphoric recall” of your drinking days.

   
   

10. Take Time Out if You Need It

    Step outside, breathe, pray, meditate; whatever works to reset your mind and ground yourself.

Final Thoughts

Partying isn’t really my scene anymore. I love a good boogie and singalong, but these days I’m happier with quiet evenings, good conversations, and watching sunsets and the stars.

Still, life doesn’t stop just because I don’t drink and I don’t want to miss important moments with the people I care about. Being sober at these events can be an eye-opener. You notice more, you remember more, and sometimes you just feel relieved not to be caught up in the chaos. It also sparks good conversations, people are curious about how I can have fun without drinking, and sometimes it even gets them thinking about their own habits.

There’s something special about feeding off the energy in a room, being fully present, and enjoying it all without needing anything else. Sobriety doesn’t mean missing out it just means showing up as yourself.