Forget the usual bar scene—Gen Z is shaking up the way they unwind.
Instead of traditional alcoholic drinks, many are reaching for trendy new alternatives designed to help them relax without the buzz.
The latest craze? A wave of ‘calming beverages’ infused with CBD or magnesium, taking over TikTok and becoming a go-to choice for those embracing a more mindful lifestyle.
The TikTok Effect on Relaxation Drinks
Social media has played a huge role in the popularity of these drinks, with influencers showcasing their favorite finds.
One brand leading the charge is Trip, a company known for its pastel-colored cans and sleek aesthetic.
TikTok users have been raving about the brand’s benefits, with creators like @xkellywongx sharing their excitement over scoring the drinks at a bargain price.
Another influencer, @smmwithhollymae, described the experience of drinking Trip as pure ‘zen,’ encouraging her followers to give it a try.
Meanwhile, @mumshomeandmore took things up a notch, elegantly sipping the carbonated beverage from a stylish glass, proving that alcohol-free can still be sophisticated.
What Makes Trip Stand Out?
Trip isn’t just about the looks—it’s the flavors and added benefits that are drawing people in.
Their lineup includes unique combinations like Blood Orange Rosemary, Cucumber Mint, Peach Ginger, and Lemon Basil.
The brand has also tapped into the growing wellness market, offering additional products like CBD gummies, sleep drops, and magnesium powders.
Their rise has been nothing short of impressive. Originally a small company, Trip is now the sixth-largest carbonated drinks brand in the UK.
Thanks to the ‘TikTok made me buy it’ phenomenon, it even became the best-selling drink on the app in January.
High-profile fans like model Ashley Graham, actor Paul Wesley, and Made in Chelsea stars Millie Mackintosh and Sophie Haboo have further boosted its status.
Even Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s investment fund has backed the brand, showing just how mainstream these ‘calm drinks’ have become.
The Changing Relationship with Alcohol
This shift towards relaxation drinks aligns with a broader trend—Gen Z’s changing relationship with alcohol.
More young adults are embracing sobriety or at least cutting back on drinking.
A study by pub and brewery chain Greene King found that one in five 18 to 24-year-olds in the UK is now teetotal, a significant increase compared to previous generations.
Dry January, once a popular challenge, is losing relevance among Gen Z.
Many argue that quitting alcohol for just one month doesn’t reflect their overall approach, which leans towards a more flexible and long-term commitment to reducing alcohol intake.
A third of people now believe that social spaces offer better non-alcoholic options than five years ago, and one in four feels less pressure to drink.
Cities Leading the Sober Movement
Certain UK cities are emerging as hotspots for this alcohol-free lifestyle.
Norwich ranks as the most sober city, with 26% of residents choosing not to drink.
Portsmouth, Southampton, and Liverpool are also seeing significant numbers of teetotalers, with other cities like Leicester, Cambridge, and Birmingham following closely behind.
The Future of Social Drinking
The landscape of social drinking is evolving.
With more young people choosing mindful alternatives, brands are responding by offering exciting new options that go beyond traditional soft drinks.
Andrew Gallagher, brand and marketing director at Greene King, recognizes this shift, emphasizing that pubs are now about more than just drinking—they are social hubs where people can connect, whether they’re consuming alcohol or not.
As the demand for alcohol-free options continues to grow, it’s clear that this isn’t just a passing trend.
From social media hype to real-world lifestyle changes, Gen Z is redefining what it means to unwind, one pastel-colored can at a time.