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509 Lake Forest Dr La Vergne, Tennessee 37086

How to Stay Sober While Traveling or on Vacation

Travel can be a wonderful way to unwind and explore, but for those in recovery, it often brings unique challenges. New environments, disrupted routines, and social pressures can test even the strongest commitment to sobriety.

At Tennessee Detox Center, we believe your recovery should empower you to enjoy life fully—including vacations. Here’s how to stay grounded and sober while traveling in 2025.

🛫 Plan Your Trip With Recovery in Mind

Where and how you travel matters. Opt for destinations and activities that align with your sobriety:

  • Wellness-focused vacations like yoga retreats or spa resorts

  • Outdoor adventures such as hiking in national parks

  • Cultural trips centered on history, art, or food

Pro Tip: Research local recovery meetings before you leave. Apps like Meeting Guide or Sober Grid can help you connect globally.

🎒 Pack Your Recovery Tools

Prepare for your trip with essentials to support your mental and emotional health:

  • A journal or sobriety app (like I Am Sober)

  • Headphones for meditation or calming music

  • Contact list of sponsors or recovery friends

This toolkit keeps you anchored during unexpected stress.

👥 Build a Support Network for Your Travels

Talk openly with travel companions about your commitment to sobriety. If traveling solo, schedule regular check-ins with a trusted friend or sponsor.

🌐 Consider joining virtual recovery meetings—most are accessible 24/7 worldwide.

🛑 Recognize Triggers and Plan Ahead

Airports, resorts, and group activities may involve alcohol. Visualize how you’ll respond:

  • Practice polite “no thanks” responses
  • Identify safe spaces or activities to retreat to
  • Plan alternative beverages like mocktails or sparkling water

🌱 Practice Self-Care

Recovery thrives when your body and mind are balanced. Prioritize:

  • Healthy eating and hydration
  • Plenty of rest
  • Stress management through exercise or mindfulness

🌟 Remember: Sobriety Is Freedom

Staying sober while traveling allows you to fully enjoy your experiences. You return home refreshed and proud—without the setbacks of relapse.

FAQ: Staying Sober While Traveling or on Vacation

What are some practical tips for staying sober while traveling?

Plan ahead by identifying sober-friendly activities, bringing supportive contacts with you, packing distractions like books or workout gear, and setting clear intentions for your trip. Anticipating challenges can keep you focused on your recovery goals.

How can I handle social events where alcohol is present during a vacation?

Use strategies like ordering a non-alcoholic beverage, rehearsing responses to offers of drinks, and identifying supportive travel companions to help you navigate situations where others are drinking.

Should I create a routine while traveling to help maintain sobriety?

Yes — keeping healthy habits like consistent sleep, regular meals, exercise, and moments for self-reflection can provide stability and make it easier to resist urges during a break from your normal environment.

How can I prepare for travel triggers that might threaten my sobriety?

Recognize common triggers like stress, boredom, or certain social situations. Map out coping tools (journaling, meditation, reaching out to a support person) and avoid high-risk environments when possible.

What should I do if I experience an urge to drink while on vacation?

Pause and use your coping skills: take a walk, practice deep breathing, call a friend, or attend a virtual support meeting. Reminding yourself why you chose sobriety can strengthen your resolve.

Can setting intentions before a trip help with staying sober?

Absolutely — deciding ahead of time how you want your trip to feel and what behaviors you’re committed to can serve as a compass when faced with choices that might challenge your sobriety.

Are there ways to enjoy travel activities without involving alcohol?

Yes — seek out activities like hiking, sightseeing, local cuisine (without drinks), wellness classes, museums, and cultural experiences that align with your interests and support a sober lifestyle.

Tennessee Detox Center Is Here for You

If you’re anxious about staying sober on an upcoming trip—or if you’ve experienced a relapse—we can help.

At Tennessee Detox Center, we offer compassionate care and personalized detox programs to support your journey, wherever it takes you.

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Blog Content Disclaimer – Educational & Informational Use

The content published on Tennessee Detox Center blog pages is intended for general educational and informational purposes related to addiction, substance use disorders, detoxification, rehabilitation, mental health, and recovery support. Blog articles are designed to help readers better understand addiction-related topics and explore treatment concepts, but they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or individualized treatment planning.

Addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions are complex medical issues that affect individuals differently based on many factors, including substance type, length of use, physical health, mental health history, medications, age, and social environment. Because of this variability, information discussed in blog articles—such as withdrawal symptoms, detox timelines, treatment approaches, medications, relapse risks, or recovery strategies—may not apply to every individual. Reading blog content should not replace consultation with licensed medical or behavioral health professionals.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 immediately or go to the nearest emergency room. Emergencies may include suspected overdose, seizures, difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe confusion, hallucinations with unsafe behavior, loss of consciousness, suicidal thoughts, or threats of harm to oneself or others. Tennessee Detox Center blog content is not intended for crisis intervention and should never be used in place of emergency care.

Detoxification from drugs or alcohol can involve serious medical risks, particularly with substances such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, and certain prescription medications. Withdrawal symptoms can escalate quickly and may become life-threatening without proper medical supervision. Any blog content describing detox, withdrawal, or substance cessation is provided to raise awareness and encourage safer decision-making—not to instruct readers to detox on their own. Attempting self-detox without medical oversight can be dangerous and is strongly discouraged.

Blog articles may discuss various addiction treatment options, including medical detox, residential or inpatient rehab, outpatient programs, therapy modalities, medication-assisted treatment, aftercare planning, and recovery support services. These discussions reflect commonly used, evidence-informed approaches but do not represent guarantees of effectiveness or suitability for every person. Treatment recommendations should always be based on a comprehensive assessment conducted by licensed professionals.

Information related to insurance coverage, treatment costs, or payment options that appears within blog content is provided for general informational purposes only. Insurance benefits vary widely depending on the individual’s plan, carrier, state regulations, and medical necessity criteria. Coverage details may change without notice, and no insurance-related statements on blog pages should be interpreted as a promise of coverage or payment. Tennessee Detox Center encourages readers to contact our admissions team directly to verify insurance benefits and eligibility before making treatment decisions.

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Blog content may also include general advice for families or loved ones supporting someone with addiction. While these discussions aim to be supportive and informative, every situation is unique. If there is an immediate safety concern—such as violence, overdose risk, child endangerment, or medical instability—emergency services or qualified professionals should be contacted right away rather than relying on online information.

Use of Tennessee Detox Center blog pages does not establish a provider–patient relationship. Submitting comments, contacting the center through a blog page, or reading articles does not guarantee admission to treatment or access to services. Recovery outcomes vary, and no specific results are promised or implied.

If you are struggling with substance use, withdrawal symptoms, or questions about treatment, we encourage you to seek guidance from licensed healthcare providers. For personalized information about treatment options or insurance verification, you may contact Tennessee Detox Center directly. For emergencies, call 911 immediately.

→ Contributors
Dr. Vahid Osman

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Vahid Osman, M.D.
Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Addictionologist

Dr. Vahid Osman is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Addictionologist who has extensive experience in skillfully treating patients with mental illness, chemical dependency and developmental disorders. Dr. Osman has trained in Psychiatry in France and in Austin, Texas. Read more.

Josh Sprung

Clinically Reviewed By:

Josh Sprung, L.C.S.W.
Board Certified Clinical Social Worker

Joshua Sprung serves as a Clinical Reviewer at Tennessee Detox Center, bringing a wealth of expertise to ensure exceptional patient care. Read More

→ Sources
  • Alcoholics Anonymous. (n.d.). Welcome to AA. Retrieved July 29, 2025, from1 rel=”external noopener noreferrer”2 https://www.aa.org/
  • American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Trauma and PTSD resources. Retrieved July 29, 2025, from https://www.apa.org/topics/ptsd
  • Associated Press. (n.d.). AP News. Retrieved July 29, 2025, from1 rel=”external noopener noreferrer”2 https://apnews.com/
  • Crisis Text Line. (n.d.). Get help now. Retrieved July 29, 2025, from https://www.crisistextline.org/
  • Harvard Kennedy School – Belfer Center. (n.d.). Programs on international security and diplomacy. Retrieved July 29, 2025, from https://www.belfercenter.org/
  • Harvard Program in Refugee Trauma. (n.d.). Training and research for conflict-affected populations. Retrieved July 29, 2025, from https://hprt-cambridge.org/
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  • International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies. (n.d.). About ISTSS. Retrieved July 29, 2025, from https://www.istss.org/
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HIPAA Compliant – Ensures all patient health information (PHI) is protected and managed in accordance with strict federal privacy and data security standards.

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ASAM Member – Tennessee Detox Center is a proud member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), reflecting a commitment to science-driven and evidence-based treatment standards.

Rutherford Chamber

Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce – Membership signifies active participation in the local community and support for regional growth and civic collaboration.

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What Our Patients Say: Stories of Hope and Recovery

Real Testimonials

Hear directly from those who have walked the path to recovery. Our patients’ stories highlight the compassionate care, effective programs, and life-changing support they’ve experienced. Let their journeys inspire you as you take your first steps toward healing.

Anthony K. profile picture
Anthony K.
19:17 27 Jan 26
The entire staff was amazing. Robert, Destiny, Chelsey, Marshal, Blake, Amanda, Melissa, all the nurses, practitioners, guest speakers, chefs, and anyone I have inadvertently missed not on purpose. Compassionate is the key word. Unconditional love to suffering sick patients that aren’t always the easiest to deal with. Yet they are patient and understanding meeting each of us uniquely where we are at on our journey. I could not give them any higher praises!
gene W. profile picture
gene W.
23:28 26 Jan 26
The experience helped me out a lot . The staff and providers were very friendly and caring The therapist was very knowledgeable and explained things in a manner that anyone could understand Highly recommend if you need help getting back on track.
Kenneth T. profile picture
Kenneth T.
14:51 21 Jan 26
This place is Amazing the staff goes above and beyond to accommodate any needs that you have. The meetings and group sessions really are effective. I came in with a negative mindset but they really changed that for me. You can be open and upfront with any issues that you have. It’s just an amazing place is all I can say
Heather W. profile picture
Heather W.
03:13 17 Jan 26
Tomorrow marks my 500th day sober and it all began with TN Detox Center. If it hadn't been for the amazing staff and beautiful facility, my journey wouldn't have been the same, for sure. Their patience and kindness, as well as dedication and support, allow for anyone who is ready to heal, a chance to start anew. I would absolutely recommend to anyone looking to beat addiction, and take back their life, to trust that TN Detox is truly the winning choice. I will forever be grateful for my time there and the wonderful staff that got me through it all.
Jacob W. profile picture
Jacob W.
17:53 09 Jan 26
Journey Pure was a life changing and life saving experience from start to finish the medical staff was par to none they made detox as comfortable as anyone could ask for I had to detox from methadone and fentanyl and they were always kind non judgemental everyone is at different points in their recovery and the staff at journey Pure always reassured me that I was going to be ok when people come in at their worste you can leave knowing that you can be your best self again if you want it. This place saved my life though I have been clean since 9/15/2025 and my fiance has been clean since June of 25 we both went to journey Pure and we since have gotten a vehicle a home and are both working in professional establishments I am in car sales and am currently leaning finance life isn't perfect but we are happy and have our confidence back and our family trusts us and wants us around !!!!!! Prayers to all who are still suffering this battle never give up love you all
Dusty B. profile picture
Dusty B.
13:23 07 Jan 26
ROCK HARD
Derrick R. profile picture
Derrick R.
14:06 06 Jan 26
It's been perfect
Jonah profile picture
Jonah
14:14 05 Jan 26
This place is absolutely wonderful. They show more attention and support than anything anyone could ever ask for. You can learn a lot in a short period of time. I definitely recommend Tennessee detox center for people struggling.
Jerry S profile picture
Jerry S
14:16 29 Dec 25
This place is amazing!!! Very nice facility with comfortable beds, chef cooked meals, snacks and drinks readily available, a yard to sit outside in. My favorite thing about TN Detox Center is THE STAFF!!! I couldn’t of asked for a better group of people to help me through my journey!! Understanding, compassionate, and frankly just out right care about you as a person! They also do their jobs very well, anytime I needed or wanted something they got right on the ball to helping me the best they could. THE STAFF IS AMAZING!!
Ben P. profile picture
Ben P.
12:14 29 Dec 25
What an amazing facility! Staff was excellent, environment was excellent, food...also excellent!!! I highly recommend this place for anyone who is, or knows someone going through any type of addiction struggle.

Thank you all so much!
Miguel J. profile picture
Miguel J.
19:13 19 Dec 25
Excellent staff really learned a lot about myself good food to..
Bradford H. profile picture
Bradford H.
23:04 17 Dec 25
They took me and me in and made me feel like family. Will always do all I can for them. They made me whole again
Tiffany B. profile picture
Tiffany B.
19:43 01 Dec 25
All of the staff is very caring(special shout out to Robert!) the beds are amazing and the food is top notch by two very amazing chefs.
Roger M. profile picture
Roger M.
23:04 25 Nov 25
The staff is amazing and caring! Food is delicious. I learned more at TDC than previous facilities. Highly recommend.
Ethan P. profile picture
Ethan P.
14:37 22 Nov 25
Great experience, All staff great very welcoming and helpful. Highly recommend
Doel P. profile picture
Doel P.
14:40 17 Nov 25
Great staff and awesome nurses they’ll get you on track to succeed in life love this place highly recommend 👍❤️
Richard L. profile picture
Richard L.
02:33 11 Nov 25
Staff is awesome. Medical staff and counselors are top notch. Looking forward to using the skills they taught me in this new journey of life!!!
Jon L. profile picture
Jon L.
21:54 04 Nov 25
Overall great experience
mike L. profile picture
mike L.
18:40 08 Oct 25
It was a great experience to go there i learned alot and they really helped with my detox needs
Nic C. profile picture
Nic C.
14:46 01 Oct 25
Amazing staff… this place absolutely saved my life. Best rehab/detox in Tennessee!
Jacob A. profile picture
Jacob A.
13:57 24 Sep 25
Beautiful facility
David S. profile picture
David S.
13:44 23 Jul 25
Great staff got me off Kratom 7-oh. If you need to get off substance this place is great. Dan is amazing
Gary F. profile picture
Gary F.
13:29 25 Jun 25
TDC is an awesome place to go for your recovery!! The staff makes you feel very comfortable from checking in to checking out. The entire staff is very friendly, professional and really cares about you the entire time you are at TDC!! The food is incredible!! I would highly recommend TDC to anyone seeking help. Gary F
Alvin B. profile picture
Alvin B.
13:26 25 Jun 25
Great Detox center staff is awesome! Best place if you need to detox off a substance or alcohol. Marshall is a very great therapist and help. He helped me so much and lifted a weight I’d carried for 20 years.
Jeremy profile picture
Jeremy
01:15 10 Jun 25
Awesome place. Great recovery coaches and therapist. Great food. I feel very blessed to have gotten to experience this place. I'm certain that I am stronger than ever in my recovery for going through this program. Thanks to every one involved.
Justin B. profile picture
Justin B.
19:34 23 May 25
This facility was outstanding.. staff was wonderful... the cooking is awesome.. recommend thus facility if you are looking for help. A+ ratting from me...
Myra C. profile picture
Myra C.
02:30 05 May 25
TDC facilities was perfect for me. Learned more there in 40 years of addiction than I ever have. Living quarters, food, and staff was the best I’ve ever. Thank you for showing me a new life.
Candice P. profile picture
Candice P.
19:11 30 Apr 25
This place changed my life. The staff are amazing and so helpful. This is the place to go to get the help you need and deserve to have a beautiful life. I am so grateful for this opportunity that i have been given to come here. Thanks for everything!!
Zac A. profile picture
Zac A.
15:26 20 Feb 25
This is the place to go if ya need it
Amy R. profile picture
Amy R.
19:08 02 Jan 25
I've been to several detox centers in the last year and hands down TN Detox was the BEST. Everyone from the staff was wonderful. I couldn't have found a better place to stay. The are very accommodating and also props to the chefs there. They work hard to make great meals for the patients. The techs are amazing people! I was very comfortable in this detox center. Highly recommend TN Detox. Chris my case manager was super helpful and kind.
Josh S. profile picture
Josh S.
20:15 05 Sep 24
Life changing 🙌. Great staff and wonderful patients there to connect with and share stories. Thank you to Jacob for the amazing talks and being such an inspiration. Love you all (summer, Christine, Chris, Ronnie, ect.)
Chelsea G. profile picture
Chelsea G.
18:12 19 Aug 24
Best place hands down. The staff truly cares about you and your journey to recovery, not just physically but mentally as well.
Tyler B. profile picture
Tyler B.
21:05 16 Jul 24
The staff at Tennessee Detox are great! A lot of them have there own personal journeys in recovery and can relate. They have a beautiful facility that’s newly updated and provides great medical care to make the experience as painless possible. I’d recommend friends and family if they need support in the first step of getting clean and sober!
Evelynn W. profile picture
Evelynn W.
23:39 25 Jun 24
Tennessee Detox Center is a phenomenal facility. Upon arrival, the staff exhibits a high level of professionalism, compassion, and dedication. The team is highly knowledgeable, ensuring that the detox process is safe, comfortable, and closely monitored 24/7.

The facility itself is clean, well-maintained, and equipped with all the necessary amenities to provide a serene and supportive environment.

What truly stands out is the personalized approach to care. The team developed a treatment plan tailored to my specific needs, incorporating both medical and holistic therapies. This comprehensive approach not only addressed my physical withdrawal symptoms but also supported my mental and emotional well-being.

The counselors and therapists offer a range of therapies that helped me understand the root causes of my addiction and develop effective coping strategies. Group therapy sessions provided a safe space to share experiences and gain insights from others on similar journeys.

Overall, my experience with this medical detox program was life-changing. The compassionate and skilled staff, combined with the personalized treatment approach, provided me with the foundation I needed for a successful recovery. I highly recommend this facility to anyone seeking a safe and supportive environment for detox and recovery.
Daniel J. profile picture
Daniel J.
16:06 08 Jun 24
Listen, I know how tough it can be to face addiction head-on. But Tennessee Detox Center, they get it. This place feels like a warm embrace, not a sterile hospital. It's a cozy house with comfy furniture, natural light pouring in through the windows, and an atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.
But it's the people who make this place truly special. The staff, they've been there, they understand the struggle. No judgment, just support, encouragement, and a genuine desire to help you heal. They treated me like an old friend, even though I was just visiting for my buddy.
They've got a whole range of therapies to help you on your journey – individual counseling, group sessions, and even a fitness center to get you moving again. It's not just about detox. It's about rebuilding your life from the ground up.
My friend, the owner, he's living proof that this place works. He poured his heart into creating a haven for those seeking recovery, and his passion shines through in every detail.
So, if you're ready to take that first step, this is the place. Trust me, they'll walk beside you every step of the way.
Zack B. profile picture
Zack B.
18:44 06 Jun 24
Tennessee Detox Center is the place to go if you are looking for a detox facility. The staff is great, you can tell that they care for the clients as individuals, and make an effort to get to know people when they walk through the door. They have top tier amenities that help make the clients comfortable for the duration of their stay. I would gladly send any of my loved ones here when they are ready to make a change.
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