You wake up to find sand in your hair, glitter in places you didn’t even know existed, and someone else’s flip-flops at the end of your bed. The sun’s already blazing through the curtains, your mouth feels like it’s been carpeted, and the thought of standing upright makes your stomach turn. Yep, you’ve officially achieved holiday hangover status. Congratulations, you’ve made it.
Fear not though. Just because last night was epic doesn’t mean today has to be a write-off. With a few clever moves (and a bit of old fashion grit), you can bounce back in time for round two. Whether you’ve got a boat party booked later or just want to make it to the beach without passing out under a parasol, here are the ultimate holiday hangover hacks.
Hydrate or Die-drate
Look, you know this already. But you’ll ignore it anyway and then moan about how your head’s splitting like a piñata. So here’s the reminder. Drink some water. Lots of it. Then drink some more.
On a party holiday your body basically becomes a salt-crusted raisin overnight. That sugary cocktail from last night? Not helping. Neither did the tequila shots. Start your morning with at least a litre of water before you even think about leaving the room. Even better, grab a bottle of something with electrolytes from the nearest shop. Sports drinks, coconut water, or if you’re desperate, salty crisps and a can of Fanta will do the job.
You don’t want to end up keeling over halfway through your boat party in Magaluf because you couldn’t be bothered to drink water. Trust me, falling asleep on deck while everyone else is dancing isn’t a good look!
Feed the Beast
You might not feel hungry, but your body’s crying out for fuel. And no, the kebab you dropped on the pavement last night doesn’t count.
The ultimate hangover cure is a hefty breakfast. If you’re in Spain or Greece, a full English might not be on the menu but there’s always something greasy, salty and life-restoring around. Think gyros in Kavos, a big plate of patatas bravas in Barcelona, or churros and chocolate in Ibiza. If you’re feeling especially virtuous (or just guilty), grab a fruit smoothie or a yoghurt too.
And don’t forget to eat before you start drinking again. You’ve seen that mate who skipped dinner and ended up asleep under a beach bar table by 11pm. Don’t be that guy.
Power Nap & Shade
Let’s be honest, you’re not climbing any mountains today. That’s fine. But there’s no need to waste the whole day either.
Find a shady spot on the beach, stick on your biggest pair of sunglasses, and shut your eyes for twenty minutes. Or retreat to your room, crank the air-con and have a quick kip. You’ll wake up feeling like you’ve been reborn. Well, almost.
And yes, the sunglasses aren’t just for style. No one needs to see those bloodshot eyes in broad daylight.
Sweat It Out (But Don’t Be a Hero)
Some people swear by exercise to sweat out a hangover. Others collapse halfway through their jog and regret everything. If you’re going to move, keep it light.
A gentle stroll along the beach, a dip in the sea, or even just a slow wander to the nearest café can help clear your head without making you feel like you’ve been drop-kicked by a donkey. The sea is particularly magical here. Salty water, cool breeze, and just enough chill to wake you up.
If you’re in Tenerife, consider taking a lazy swim at Playa de las Americas or floating in the calm waters of Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa. Both offer enough space for you to wallow like a happy seal without judgement.
Just don’t sign up for a hike up a volcano today. Mount Teide will still be there tomorrow.
Hair of the Dog? Go On Then
Ah, the age-old debate. More booze as a cure or just delaying the inevitable? Honestly, it depends on you.
A cheeky mimosa or a cold beer on the beach can take the edge off, no doubt about it. But don’t go full send at 11am and end up needing a second hangover cure by lunch. You’ve got a long day ahead and probably a boat party booked later.
If you do go down the “hair of the dog” route, keep it light and sip slowly. Something fizzy and citrusy tends to work better than slamming shots. Save those for tonight.
Water Sports (If You Can Keep Your Breakfast Down)
If you’re feeling brave enough to leave your sun lounger and your stomach’s stopped doing somersaults, water sports are a solid shout.
Jet skiing, banana boats, paddle boarding, even just renting a pedalo. All of them get your blood moving, cool you down, and give you a laugh at your mates falling in. Salt water helps you feel more alive, the sun wakes you up, and the splash means you won’t notice how much you’re sweating.
But, and it’s a big but, if you’re still at the “might hurl at any sudden movement” stage, maybe wait. No one wants to be the legend who vomits off a jet ski or paints the side of the banana boat.
Cold Showers & Ice Baths
If you’re still feeling like a sweaty raisin and nothing else has worked, it’s time to get brutal.
March yourself into the shower, turn the dial as cold as it’ll go, and stand there like a hero. Yes, you’ll yelp. Yes, your flatmate will think you’ve lost the plot. But you’ll come out of it awake, vaguely human, and ready to face daylight without bursting into flames.
If you’re somewhere swanky and there’s a spa, some hotels even have ice baths or plunge pools. If not, no problem, fill the sink or a big bowl with ice and water, then dunk your face in. Feels ridiculous. Works wonders.
There’s just something about cold water that slaps you into the present moment faster than another espresso. Just don’t forget to breathe.
Coffee?
Now, you’re probably thinking “Surely a giant coffee will fix this?”. Well… yes and no.
A strong cup of coffee can help wake you up, sharpen your brain a bit, and make you feel slightly more alive. So, by all means grab an iced latte or an espresso to shake off the morning fog.
But don’t go downing six Americanos in a row like you’re cramming for your A-levels. Coffee’s a diuretic, which means it’ll dehydrate you even more, and dehydration is already why your head feels like it’s been used as a bongo. So pair it with water and maybe a banana to keep yourself from feeling worse later on.
Plan Ahead Next Time
Here’s where you can learn from today’s pain and actually prepare for tomorrow. It’s all well and good rinsing the bar dry but if you want to actually make it through to see another day you’ll want to follow a few simple rules.
- Alternate every drink with a glass of water. Yes, you’ll need to visit the loo more often but your future self will thank you.
- Don’t mix everything under the sun. Tequila, rum, gin, beer, then a mysterious blue thing? Bad idea.
- Eat before heading out. Even just a few chips and a slice of pizza can make a world of difference.
- Keep some painkillers, water and snacks by your bed so you’re not crawling to reception at 9am looking like you’ve seen a ghost.
And if you’re booked on something like a booze cruise in Malia, pace yourself the night before. You don’t want to be throwing up off the side while everyone else is having the time of their lives.
Closing Thoughts
You’ve made it this far. Your head’s stopped pounding, your stomach’s settled and you’ve almost got colour back in your cheeks.
Now all you need is a cold shower, a slap of aftersun, and your loudest shirt. Round two awaits. See you on the strip.