If you’re “sober curious” or cutting back on alcohol, you might be wondering how to travel with others without feeling like every social moment revolves around booze.
As a travel writer for more than a decade—and someone who’s been alcohol-free for the past three years—I’ve embraced the burgeoning trend of sober travel, exploring Italy, staying at an all-inclusive in Mexico, and cuising the Caribbean with a friend, all without a drink in hand. I can assure you that good times can be savored no matter what you’re drinking. Even better, you’ll wake up hangover-free, ready to soak in the memories and tackle your next adventure.
Here’s how to make your alcohol-free travels feel sociable and celebratory.
1. Seek zero-proof drinks
Gone are the days when your only alcohol-free options were water or soda. Zero-proof cocktails—booze-free versions of classic drinks—are becoming increasingly common menu additions and can feel just as special as the originals. Hotel bars and cruise lines are getting on board, too.
Tempo by Hilton properties, for example, have introduced “Free-Spirited” cocktails that mirror their alcoholic counterparts in look, taste, mouthfeel, and sophistication—just without alcohol. Carnival Cruise Line recently launched the “Cheers! Zero Proof” beverage package, a premium alcohol-free add-on that includes high-end coffees and teas, handcrafted NA (nonalcoholic) cocktails, smoothies, alcohol-free sparkling wines, energy drinks, and more.
If mocktails aren’t listed on the menu, don’t hesitate to ask for a virgin mojito or sparkling water served in a fancy glass.
2. Say ‘no, thanks’ when alcohol is offered
Keep it simple. “There’s no need to explain or justify your choices,” says Eric Lucas, a travel journalist who has been exploring the world sober for 42 years. “Almost everywhere I've been, this simple approach is gracefully accepted—restaurants, banquets, private homes, even artisan breweries and such. No problems in China, Argentina, Romania, Ireland, Britain, Italy, and many other famous drinking cultures.”
3. Tap into moments that aren’t centered on alcohol
Look for experiences that invite connection in more meaningful (and memorable) ways. Savor new-to-you cultural traditions, local entertainment, and culinary adventures such as food tours, cooking classes, or browsing local markets.
“Shared social moments often end up being the most memorable part of the journey,” says Kaelhub Cudmore, director of Culinary Strategy for Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury train operator known for scenic rail journeys through Western Canada and the American Southwest. “The train experience immerses guests in incredible landscapes and engaging stories, no matter what is in their glass.”
4. Raise your spirits outdoors
Getting your adrenaline pumping outdoors can lift the mood and give you a fantastic buzz—no alcohol required. Try ziplining, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, surfing, hot-air ballooning, or snow tubing. The great outdoors can be as serene as stargazing or chasing waterfalls, or as adventurous as paragliding and snowboarding.
5. Indulge in naturally alcohol-free experiences
Many authentic European experiences are built around connection, not cocktails. Amber Youell, senior product lead at Tauck River Cruises suggests lingering along the riverbanks in Paris with crêpes instead of cocktails or dipping into the thermal baths in Hungary. Afternoon teas, chocolate tastings, and gelato strolls are great ways to quench your thirst for culture through local indulgences.
6. Connect with like-minded travelers
“Alcohol-free meetups are popping up in many cities,” says Teresa Bergen, sober author and tour leader. “I lead sober hikes up an extinct volcano in Portland, Oregon, with a tasting of Pacific Northwest-made, nonalcoholic products on top,” says Bergen. “If you want to hang out with alcohol-free locals, look for events like these.”
Wherever you’re headed, checking out local sober events or interest-based groups is a great way to meet people who share your sober travel lifestyle—and still enjoy the social side of travel.
7. Sleep better, feel brighter
Better sleep is one of the many benefits of shelving the booze, and it’s especially important when you’re hopping time zones. One of the best parts of vacation is waking up truly rested. Plus, when you’re well-rested, you’re more present, engaged, and able to connect more deeply with fellow travelers—and actually savor those conversations.
After three years of sober travel, I’ve learned not to focus on the fact that I’ve given up alcohol, but that I’ve gained clearer mornings, stonger presence, and deeper connections. The best buzz comes from the joy of adventure, not what I’m drinking.