Chapter 1: The New Trend of Alcohol-Free Travel

The trend of avoiding alcohol while traveling is gaining momentum, and it's easy to see why.

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While vacationing in Maui with my husband, we stayed in a beautiful condo overlooking the ocean, mere steps from a lively Tiki Bar we frequented daily, sometimes even twice. Our afternoons were often spent enjoying Pina Coladas or Daiquiris when we weren't out exploring or engaging in exciting activities.

One afternoon, after indulging a bit too much, I suggested we take a beach stroll. Tempted by the glistening blue-green waters and radiant sunshine, I impulsively decided to take a dip. In mere moments, I was submerged—was it the current, the tide, or my own swimming skills?

The truth was, I was intoxicated. Completely inebriated. I had no business being near the water at all. Thankfully, my husband managed to rescue me, leaving us both shaken.

Yet, this incident didn’t deter our drinking habits—though it did make me think twice before getting into the water after a drink.

Fast forward a few years, and we found ourselves at an all-inclusive resort in Cabo San Lucas, eager to experience what many touted as the ultimate vacation for cocktail lovers. While it was true that drinks flowed freely, I realized I didn’t enjoy it as much as I expected. The focus on drinking among fellow guests was overwhelming; many spent their days at the swim-up bar or lounging by the beach, consuming cocktails constantly. By night, the scene became unappealing, with most guests noticeably intoxicated.

Now, with over five years of sobriety under my belt, I’m excited to witness the growing trend of alcohol-free vacations and the broader shift towards a non-drinking lifestyle, even at home.

Traveling without the influence of alcohol allows for early mornings spent watching sunrises or taking walks along the beach. For those who enjoy sports, you'll be in prime condition for activities like sailing, hiking, and surfing—things that are hard to do when recovering from the previous night’s drinks.

Photo by Rafael Leão on Unsplash.

Parents are now sharing how much they appreciate not drinking during vacations. This change has fostered deeper connections with their children, allowing them to engage more actively rather than sitting idly on the beach while their kids play. Families have reported that these alcohol-free trips have been the most enjoyable and fulfilling experiences they’ve had together.

A few statistics highlight this shift: Gen Z (born 1997–2012) is opting out of alcohol in unprecedented numbers. The concepts of mindful drinking and “sober curiosity” are becoming the norm for this generation. According to Gallup, only 21% of Gen Zers drink regularly, compared to 42% of Millennials (typically born between 1981–1996).

Gen Z has even coined the phrase “dry tripping,” prioritizing creating memories over the fleeting pleasures of excessive drinking. They prefer to invest their hard-earned money in unique experiences rather than on alcohol.

Airlines and hotels are also adapting to this trend. JetBlue became the first airline to offer non-alcoholic beer, followed by Alaska Airlines. Additionally, Hotels.com reports that 40% of customers express interest in booking "detox trips." Hyatt has introduced a program called “Zero Proof, Zero Judgment” in select hotels, which features a menu of flavorful, alcohol-free cocktails. Tempo by Hilton has also embraced this trend, offering “free-spirited” drinks.

Many bars and restaurants are now catering to this demand with dedicated mocktail menus. While these drinks might come at a premium, the benefits of avoiding a hangover are well worth it.

Photo by Chen Mizrach on Unsplash.

Younger generations have observed the toll that alcohol can take, including diabetes, cancer, and heart disease, in previous generations. They are committed to living healthy, fulfilling lives, free from such diseases.

Many, including myself, believe that abstaining from alcohol can significantly enhance the quality of life. Personally, I've found that alcohol detracts from the excitement and freedom of traveling, hindering the discovery of new adventures and possibilities. In essence, alcohol can diminish the joy of experiences.

Are you prepared to join the movement and embrace “dry tripping” on your next vacation? Let’s align ourselves with the vibrant, health-conscious generation and commit to an alcohol-free lifestyle—always.