Traveling with a Sober Companion: How to Maintain Recovery Away from Home
Traveling, for most people, means stepping outside your normal, structured routine. It’s exciting, but it’s filled with uncertainty. For people in recovery, traveling means being away from all the normal support systems - meetings, sponsors, sober friends, and familiar places. It can feel vulnerable; especially if you have a history of relapse. Stress, social pressure, and unfamiliar environments can all trigger old habits, making it difficult to stay on track with recovery. For those who want extra support while traveling, a sober companion can provide invaluable guidance and accountability.
Why Travel Can Be Risky for People in Recovery
At home, you likely have a routine that keeps you grounded—whether that includes attending meetings, checking in with a sponsor, exercising, or simply staying in an environment that feels safe. The moment you step outside of that routine, the structure that has kept you sober can start to unravel.
One of the biggest challenges of traveling while in recovery is the lack of familiarity. You don’t know where to find an AA meeting, have limited access to your support system, and feel isolated in an unfamiliar city. The risk of relapse increases.
Travel often comes with stressful situations which can be emotionally taxing. Additionally, alcohol and substance use are often normalized in social situations while traveling, whether at work conferences, destination weddings, or even casual vacations with friends. Without proper preparation and support, it’s easy to fall back into old habits.
What It's Like Traveling with a Sober Companion
Traveling with a sober companion is akin to traveling with a personal assistant whose job it is to hold you accountable and provide the sober support you need. Unlike a chaperone, a sober companion is there to aid you, not control you. Their level of involvement can vary depending on what you’re comfortable with and how much support you need. Sober companions are discreet and professional, blending into social situations naturally.
Clients often remark on how valuable it is to have someone to assist in finding local 12-step meetings, establish an away-from-home routine, and work through issues as they arise in real-time. They’re there to offer immediate support, ensuring that your recovery remains intact, no matter where you are.
Is Traveling with a Sober Companion Right for You?
If you have a history of relapse, struggle with being out of your comfort zone, or find that certain environments and situations challenge your recovery, traveling with a sober companion might be a good decision.
Whether you’re traveling for work, a family event, or simply for leisure, having a sober companion can give you the confidence to enjoy your trip without putting your sobriety at risk. If you’ve ever found yourself struggling while away from home, consider how having professional support could change your experience. With the right guidance, travel doesn’t have to be a trigger—it can be a rewarding, sober adventure.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Your sobriety doesn’t have to take a backseat when you travel. With a sober companion, you can explore new places, attend important events, and experience all the world has to offer. You got sober to enjoy life - so get out there and enjoy it!