How to Survive a Booze-Free Weekend Away with Friends: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making the decision to give up drinking is a significant step, especially when many of your social events revolve around alcohol. Whether it’s the 40th birthday season or just a long-awaited getaway, weekends away with friends often mean endless rounds of drinks, late-night parties, and recovery sessions. If you’ve decided to embrace an alcohol-free lifestyle, the thought of facing these weekends without a drink might seem daunting. But don’t worry—you can still have an amazing time, enjoy your friends’ company, and leave the weekend feeling refreshed and proud of your decision. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate a booze-free weekend with friends, no matter who you’re travelling with.

1. Get Your Mind Right Before You Go

Before the weekend kicks off, take some time to mentally prepare for the experience. Picture how the weekend will unfold, and imagine yourself enjoying it without alcohol. Remind yourself why you chose to give up drinking in the first place—whether it’s to improve your health, gain mental clarity, or achieve a specific goal. Keep those reasons at the forefront of your mind as you head into the weekend.

Tip: Create a list of positive affirmations or goals for the weekend, such as “I will enjoy quality time with my friends,” “I get to hang out with my mates, go running and feel great with NO hangover,” or “I will have the same energy levels on Monday as I do today!”

2. Plan Activities That Don’t Involve Alcohol

One of the keys to enjoying a booze-free weekend is to focus on all the other fun activities available. Do some research ahead of time to find local attractions or activities that you can do—or just go for a nice run or walk. Don’t feel that you have to stay as a single group the whole weekend. No one will care if you sneak off for a run or do your own thing for a while. You might be surprised when others want to join you. By planning activities that don’t revolve around drinking, you’ll ensure that everyone can have fun, whether they’re drinking or not.

Tip: Stick to your regular training plan and just get up and go. Don’t feel bad that you are abandoning the group. Everyone needs to do their own thing sometimes.

3. Bring Your Own Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Just because you’re not drinking alcohol doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a delicious drink. Pack some of your favourite non-alcoholic beverages—whether it’s an AF beer, flavoured sparkling water, a cold brew coffee, or a tasty mocktail mix. Having something special to sip on can help you feel included when everyone else is enjoying their drinks.

Tip: Consider bringing a batch of your favourite mocktail to share with the group. It’s a great way to show that going booze-free can still be fun and flavourful.

4. Be Open About Your Choice

If the topic of drinking comes up, be straightforward with your friends about why you’re not drinking. There’s no need to make it a big deal—just let them know you’re focusing on your health, achieving a goal, or whatever your reason might be. Most friends will respect your choice and might even be curious about how you’re finding life without alcohol.

Tip: Keep the conversation positive. Instead of emphasising what you’re avoiding, focus on the benefits you’re experiencing—better sleep, more energy, or improved focus.

5. Focus on the Social Aspect

Remember, the primary reason for the weekend is to spend quality time with your friends. Whether you’re gathered around a campfire, playing a game, or just chatting, focus on the connections you’re building and the memories you’re creating. By being fully present, you’ll find that alcohol isn’t necessary to have a good time. If the booze starts to take over the group, you can sneak off to bed, have a great night's sleep, and feel that you’ve had your social fix and still feel amazing.

Tip: If you start feeling tempted or out of place, take a moment for yourself. Step outside, go for a quick walk, or check in with someone who supports your decision to stay alcohol-free.

6. Reflect on the Experience Afterwards

Once the weekend is over, take some time to reflect on how it went. Did you have fun? Did you feel more connected with your friends? How did your mornings compare to how they used to be after a night of drinking? Reflecting on these questions can help you reinforce your commitment to staying alcohol-free and provide valuable insights for future social events.

Tip: Consider journaling about your experience. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you process the weekend and solidify the positive aspects of your alcohol-free journey.

7. Celebrate Your Achievement

Successfully navigating a booze-free weekend away with friends is an accomplishment worth celebrating! Treat yourself to something special—a new book, a massage, or even just some time to relax and recharge. Recognising your success will strengthen your resolve and build confidence for the next time you’re in a similar situation.

Tip: Share your experience with a supportive community (Run Naked!!), whether online or in person. Hearing others’ stories and sharing your own can provide encouragement and inspiration for your ongoing journey.

Final Thoughts

A booze-free weekend away with friends doesn’t have to be a challenge—it can be an opportunity to reconnect with yourself, deepen your relationships, and enjoy life in a new and fulfilling way. By preparing mentally, planning engaging activities, and focusing on the social aspect, you’ll not only survive but thrive in these situations. Most importantly, you’ll return home feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and confident in your choice to live an alcohol-free life. So pack your bags, bring your favourite non-alcoholic drinks (and your runners!!), and get ready to enjoy a memorable weekend with friends—no booze required!

Sober curious and want to try life without alcohol? Run Naked is launching a 28-day Alcohol-Free Running Streak. Get a taste of an alcohol-free life and achieve your first or fastest 5 km run in just 28 days!

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