Photo: Gabrielle Union
A night out with friends is a fantastic way to unwind, socialize, and create lasting memories. But let’s be honest, the prospect of a fun night can be overshadowed by anxieties about preparation or the dreaded hangover the next day. Fear not, fellow reveler! This guide will equip you with everything you need to prepare for a smooth, enjoyable, and hangover-free night out with your crew.
Pre-party prep: Be the organized one
- Plan ahead: Decide on a venue, activity, or rough itinerary in advance. This helps avoid last-minute scrambling and ensures everyone’s on the same page.
- The outfit: Choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable, but also consider the venue’s dress code. Don’t forget comfortable shoes; your feet will thank you later!
- Essentials arsenal: Pack a small bag with the essentials: phone charger, ID, cash (some places may not accept cards), a safety pin for wardrobe malfunctions, a small mirror for touch-ups, and any necessary medications. For the ladies, consider bringing lipstick, loose powder, and blotting papers.
- Fuel up: Don’t skip dinner! Eat a well-balanced meal before heading out. This will provide your body with energy for the night and help with alcohol absorption, reducing the hangover risk.
- Hydration is key: Start pre-hydrating by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can worsen hangovers, so stay ahead of the curve.
- Set a budget: Decide on a realistic spending limit for the night and stick to it. This can help avoid financial woes later.
- Transportation: Plan your transportation beforehand. Consider designating a sober driver, carpooling, or using ride-sharing apps.
The art of drinking (and avoiding a hangover)
- Pace yourself: Sip your drinks slowly, savor the flavors, and alternate alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic beverages. This helps prevent dehydration and intoxication.
- Know your limits: Be honest with yourself about how much alcohol you can handle. There’s no shame in saying no to another drink.
- Choose your drinks wisely: Darker liquors tend to cause worse hangovers. Opt for lighter drinks like vodka or clear liquors mixed with water or soda. Beer and wine are also reasonable choices in moderation.
- The food factor: Snacking throughout the night helps slow down alcohol absorption and keeps your blood sugar levels stable. Choose healthy options, like vegetables and fruits.
- Hydration hero: Keep a glass of water at hand and alternate every alcoholic drink with a glass of water. This helps flush toxins and keeps you hydrated.
Beyond the drinks: Making the night memorable
- The power of presence: Put your phone away! Be present in the moment and enjoy the company of your friends. Capture memories with mental snapshots instead of relying solely on your phone.
- Embrace new experiences: Be open to trying new things, whether it’s a different bar, activity, or even just striking up a conversation with someone new.
- Be kind and respectful: Treat everyone with respect, including servers, bartenders, and other patrons. Remember, you’re there to have a good time, and making others feel uncomfortable isn’t part of the plan.
- Have fun: This is the most important element. Let loose, laugh with your friends, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
The day after: The hangover antidote (kind of)
- Hydration resurrection: Rehydrate, rehydrate, rehydrate! Water with electrolytes will help replenish lost fluids and minerals.
- Breakfast of champions: Eating a healthy breakfast will help kickstart your metabolism and combat fatigue. Opt for foods rich in vitamins and minerals like eggs, whole-wheat toast, and fruits.
- Rest and recuperation: Your body needs time to recover. Get plenty of sleep and prioritize relaxation. Light exercise, like a walk in the park, can also help you feel better.
- Painkillers (use responsibly): Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with headaches, but use them sparingly and according to the recommended dosage.
Bonus tip: Consider taking a multivitamin before or after a night out to replenish essential vitamins and minerals.
Featured image: @gabunion/Instagram
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