Hangovers suck. If you've ever had one, you know that. If you've had many of them, you've probably sworn that you'll never drink again, every single time. You don't have to become a total teetotaler, though. Exercise moderation, make sure you drink water as you drink, don't drink to get drunk, and try a few of these incredible concoctions the next time you're having drinks. Don't pound them back all night or anything, but if you're out to get tipsy and don't want to feel like death warmed over the next morning, these drinks should help!
1. Vodka and Soda
This one's so simple you don't even need a recipe. Vodka doesn't usually result in monstrous hangovers, especially if you mix it with water – even soda water – or another mixer. Just remember – more mixer, less vodka!
2. Brewed Tea with a Shot of Liquor
When you feel chilly, have a cold, or simply want a soothing drink, this will give you a warming buzz without getting you drunk … or hungover.
3. Light Rum, Coconut Water, and Pineapple Juice
Mix this however you like, as long as you only use a little rum. The combination of coconut water and pineapple juice works wonders when it comes to preventing a hangover.
4. Vodka, Decaf Coffee, and a Splash of Milk
Milk, coffee creamer, soy milk, almond milk – you get the idea. What a little extra buzz? Don't use decaf coffee!
5. White Wine
White wine is generally pretty gentle. If you down several bottles, yeah, you'll still end up with a hangover, but if you go easy, you might wake up without a headache.
6. Sea Breeze
How to make it: foodnetwork.com
Sea Breezes are so good! Be careful you don't drink too many, but if you have a few drinks on Friday night, you should be fine.
7. Bacardi on the Rocks with a Dash of Ginger Beer
This is like a boozy, bitter ginger ale, and it's kind of … kind of amazing, actually.
8. Tom Collins
How to make it: allrecipes.com
Has anyone ever actually gotten blitzed from drinking a Tom Collins?
9. Gin and Vermouth
Classic combo! Moderate your intake and you'll feel like a million bucks the next morning.
10. Light Beer
I mean, if you like light beer, go for it. Your head will thank you. Maybe your waistline, too, I don't know.
11. Rum Sour
How to make it: esquire.com
I know, right? Rum! But truly, if you make this your next go-to drink, you'll suffer through fewer hangovers.
12. Tequila over Ice with Lime Juice
Seriously, though. Go easy on the tequila.
13. Bloody Mary
How to make it: liquor.com
This is practically healthy. I mean, it has tomato juice and vegetables!
14. Lemon Drop Martini
How to make it: food.com
Be careful! It's so easy to sit there and drink these hand over fist.
15. GIN RICKEY
How to make it: drinksmixer.com
Lime juice, gin, and soda water. That sounds like the perfect drink for me!
16. GIN-GIN MULE
How to make it: epicurious.com
This drink does have a bit of sugar in it, but if you cut it down, it shouldn't give you a bad hangover.
17. Honey Cider
How to make it: natashaskitchen.com
This one has Wild Honey vodka, apple juice and a bit of cider. The perfect combination!
How 'bout you? Is there a special drink you go for when you want to avoid a hangover?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some drinks that won't give me a hangover?
- There are drinks like vodka soda, gin and tonic, and light beers. These drinks usually have fewer congeners, which are chemicals that can make hangovers worse.
- Why do some drinks cause worse hangovers than others?
- It has a lot to do with congeners, which are chemicals in alcohol that can make hangovers worse. Darker drinks like whiskey or red wine have more congeners than lighter drinks.
- Can I really enjoy alcohol and not get a hangover?
- Yes, you can! The key is to drink in moderation, stay hydrated with water, and choose drinks that are less likely to cause hangovers.
- Are mixed drinks better for avoiding hangovers?
- They can be, especially if they are made with clear spirits and mixed with non-sugary mixers like soda water. Just be careful about sugary mixers or too many different alcohols.
- Does drinking lots of water help prevent a hangover?
- Absolutely! Staying hydrated can make a big difference. Try to drink a glass of water between each alcoholic drink and a big glass before bed.