Things to Do When Drunk: Safe and Fun Ideas to Keep You Entertained

If you’re searching for things to do when drunk, you’re probably looking for ways to have fun safely while intoxicated or help someone who’s had a bit too much to drink. Whether you’ve had a few drinks at a party, enjoyed a night out with friends, or simply indulged a little too much, knowing what activities are safe and enjoyable (versus dangerous) can make all the difference. This guide will help you navigate those tipsy hours with smart choices that keep you and others safe while still having a good time.

1. Eat Something Substantial

One of the best things you can do when drunk is eat food. Alcohol is absorbed more slowly when there’s food in your stomach, and eating can help you feel more grounded and less nauseous.

Good options include carbohydrates like bread, pasta, or pizza, which help absorb alcohol. Protein-rich foods like eggs, chicken, or cheese can also help stabilize your blood sugar. Greasy food might seem appealing, but it can sometimes make nausea worse, so go for balanced options when possible.

Avoid eating too much too quickly, as this can upset your stomach further. Instead, snack steadily over time. Drinking water between bites helps too. Many people find that eating helps them feel more in control and reduces the intensity of their intoxication.

If you’re at home, simple foods like toast with peanut butter, scrambled eggs, or a sandwich work well. If you’re out, look for late-night diners or food trucks that serve filling meals. Just make sure you’re not driving to get food—order delivery or walk to a nearby spot if it’s safe.

2. Drink Plenty of Water

Hydration is crucial when you’re drunk. Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it makes you urinate more frequently, which leads to dehydration. Dehydration is responsible for many hangover symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

Try to alternate between alcoholic drinks and water throughout the night. If you’re already drunk, start drinking water immediately. A good rule of thumb is to drink one glass of water for every alcoholic drink you consumed.

You might not feel thirsty when drunk because alcohol affects your brain’s ability to recognize dehydration, but trust me—your body needs it. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip regularly.

Sports drinks with electrolytes can also help, as they replace minerals lost through increased urination. Coconut water is another excellent option. Avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee or energy drinks, as these can dehydrate you further and make you feel jittery.

3. Watch Funny Movies or TV Shows

Entertainment is a great way to pass time safely when drunk. Comedies work especially well because laughter feels even better when you’re intoxicated, and it keeps you stationary and safe.

Choose lighthearted shows or movies that don’t require too much concentration. Sitcoms, stand-up comedy specials, or funny YouTube videos are perfect. Avoid complex dramas or psychological thrillers that might be hard to follow or could trigger negative emotions.

This activity keeps you in one safe place rather than wandering around or making poor decisions. It’s also a social activity if you’re with friends—watching something together can create funny memories and keep everyone entertained.

Set up a comfortable viewing area with blankets and pillows. Have snacks and water nearby. If you’re alone, this is a safe way to wind down until you sober up or fall asleep.

4. Listen to Music and Dance (Safely at Home)

Music sounds amazing when you’re drunk. The emotional connection to songs feels amplified, and dancing can be incredibly fun and freeing.

Create a playlist of your favorite upbeat songs or explore music you’ve been meaning to check out. Dancing at home is much safer than going to a club or party when you’re already intoxicated.

Be mindful of your surroundings when dancing drunk. Clear a space so you don’t trip over furniture or knock things over. Avoid jumping on beds or furniture, as coordination is impaired and injuries can happen easily.

If you’re with friends, a home dance party can be hilarious and memorable. Just keep the volume at a reasonable level so you don’t disturb neighbors. Dancing is also light exercise that can help you feel more energized and burn off some of the alcohol’s effects.

5. Call or Text Friends (But Be Mindful)

Social connection feels great when drunk, which is why so many people want to reach out to others. However, this requires caution.

Calling close friends who know you’re drunk and won’t judge you can be fun and safe. Having silly conversations, sharing stories, or just chatting can make you feel connected and happy.

However, avoid texting or calling people you shouldn’t—like ex-partners, work colleagues, or people you have complicated relationships with. Drunk texting often leads to regret in the morning. Many phones have apps or settings that can block certain contacts during specific hours to prevent this.

If you’re feeling emotional and want to reach out to someone you shouldn’t, text a trusted friend instead and explain how you’re feeling. They can talk you through it without the potential consequences of contacting the wrong person.

Video calls can be fun too, but be aware that your appearance and behavior are being recorded or seen, so keep things appropriate.

6. Take a Warm Shower or Bath

A warm shower can help you feel more refreshed and grounded when drunk. The sensation of water and the change in environment can help clear your head slightly.

Be very careful getting in and out of the shower or tub, as balance is impaired when intoxicated. Use non-slip mats and hold onto railings. Don’t make the water too hot, as this can make you dizzy or nauseous.

A shower can also help if you’re feeling sweaty or uncomfortable. It’s a good transitional activity before bed and can help you feel cleaner and more relaxed.

If you’re too drunk to shower safely, stick with washing your face with cool water while sitting down. This provides some of the refreshing benefits without the fall risk.

Never take a bath if you’re very drunk, as falling asleep in water is dangerous. A quick shower is safer.

7. Play Simple Games

Games can be entertaining when drunk, but choose ones that match your current coordination and mental capacity.

Video games with simple mechanics work well—avoid competitive online games that might frustrate you. Party games, trivia apps, or casual mobile games are good choices.

Card games or board games with friends can be hilarious when everyone’s a bit drunk. Games like Cards Against Humanity, Uno, or simple trivia games don’t require intense concentration and create funny moments.

Avoid games that involve physical risk, like drinking games (you’re already drunk), anything involving balance, or activities that could lead to injury.

Online games or apps like Heads Up, trivia games, or drawing games can keep you entertained safely. Just be aware that your skills and reaction times are impaired, so don’t take losses too seriously.

8. Rest or Sleep It Off

Sometimes the best thing to do when drunk is simply sleep. Your body processes alcohol over time, and sleep allows this to happen while keeping you safe.

Before sleeping, make sure you’re in a safe position. Sleep on your side, never on your back, to prevent choking if you vomit. Place pillows behind you to keep you in position.

Set up a trash can or bucket nearby in case of nausea. Keep water within reach for when you wake up. Make sure your phone is charged and nearby in case of emergency.

If someone else is very drunk, never leave them alone to “sleep it off” if they’re dangerously intoxicated. Monitor them regularly, and don’t hesitate to seek medical help if they’re unresponsive, vomiting repeatedly, or showing signs of alcohol poisoning.

Even a short nap can help you feel better and reduce the intensity of your intoxication when you wake up.

9. Have Deep Conversations (If You’re With Trusted Friends)

Alcohol lowers inhibitions, which can actually facilitate meaningful conversations. If you’re with close, trusted friends, this can be a positive experience.

People often open up about feelings, experiences, or thoughts they usually keep private. These conversations can strengthen friendships and create bonding moments.

However, be mindful not to share things you’ll regret later or pressure others to share more than they’re comfortable with. Respect boundaries even when drunk.

Avoid serious arguments or confrontations when drunk, as alcohol impairs judgment and emotional regulation. If a conversation starts becoming heated, table it for when everyone’s sober.

These conversations work best in a safe, private setting where everyone feels comfortable and there’s no pressure.

10. Create Something (Art, Writing, Music)

Many people feel more creative when drunk because inhibitions are lowered. This can be a fun way to express yourself.

Try drawing, painting, writing poetry or journal entries, making music, or any other creative outlet you enjoy. Don’t worry about quality—just express yourself.

Drunk art and writing can be surprisingly interesting to look back on when sober. You might create something genuinely cool or at least something that makes you laugh later.

Keep it simple and safe. Avoid power tools, sharp objects, or anything that requires precision and could cause injury.

Photography (of scenery, not inappropriate selfies) can be fun too. Just don’t post everything on social media—review it when sober first.

Things You Should NEVER Do When Drunk

While we’ve covered safe activities, it’s crucial to know what to avoid:

Never drive or operate vehicles. This includes cars, motorcycles, bicycles, scooters, or boats. Impaired driving kills people. Use a rideshare service, taxi, public transportation, or stay where you are.

Don’t make major decisions. This includes financial decisions, relationship commitments, quitting your job, or making purchases you haven’t thought through.

Avoid swimming or water activities. Alcohol and water are a dangerous combination. Drowning risk increases dramatically when intoxicated.

Don’t go anywhere alone. Stay with trusted friends or in a safe location. Drunk people are vulnerable to accidents, crime, and poor decisions.

Skip the drunk dialing/texting of exes, bosses, or anyone you might regret. Future you will thank present you.

Don’t mix alcohol with medications or drugs. This can be extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.

Avoid getting into arguments or fights. Alcohol impairs judgment and escalates emotions. Walk away from conflict.

10 FAQs About Things to Do When Drunk

1. What should I eat when drunk to feel better?
   Carbohydrates like bread, pasta, or crackers help absorb alcohol. Protein like eggs or chicken stabilizes blood sugar. Bananas provide potassium. Avoid very greasy foods that might upset your stomach further.
2. How much water should I drink when drunk?
   Aim for at least one glass of water for every alcoholic drink you had. Continue drinking water throughout the night and before bed. You can’t really drink too much water in this situation.
3. Can I exercise when drunk to sober up faster?
   No, exercise doesn’t speed up alcohol metabolism and increases injury risk due to impaired coordination. Light dancing at home is okay, but avoid actual workouts, running, or gym activities.
4. How long does it take to sober up?
   Your body processes roughly one standard drink per hour, but this varies by weight, gender, metabolism, and what you’ve eaten. There’s no way to speed this up—only time works.
5. Is it safe to sleep when very drunk?
   Yes, but sleep on your side with pillows supporting you to prevent rolling onto your back. If someone is dangerously drunk (unresponsive, irregular breathing), seek medical help rather than letting them sleep.
6. What are signs I’m too drunk and need help?
   Warning signs include: inability to stand or walk, vomiting repeatedly, confusion or disorientation, slow or irregular breathing, unconsciousness, seizures, or extremely low body temperature. Call emergency services immediately.
7. Will coffee help me sober up?
   No, coffee doesn’t reduce blood alcohol content or speed up sobering. It might make you feel more alert temporarily, but you’re still impaired. It can also dehydrate you further.
8. Should I make myself vomit if I drank too much?
   Generally no—vomiting should happen naturally if your body needs it. Forcing yourself to vomit can be dangerous. If you’re concerned about alcohol poisoning, seek medical help instead.
9. Can I take pain medication before bed to prevent a hangover?
   Avoid acetaminophen (Tylenol) as it can damage your liver when combined with alcohol. Ibuprofen is safer but can irritate your stomach. It’s best to wait until morning and focus on hydration instead.
10. What should I do if my friend is dangerously drunk?
    Stay with them, keep them on their side, monitor their breathing, and don’t let them drive or wander off. If they’re unconscious, vomiting while passed out, having seizures, or breathing irregularly, call emergency services immediately. Don’t worry about getting in trouble—their safety is most important.