‘Zebra striping’ drinking method has been changing people’s nights out as freshers week approaches

'Zebra striping' is a new method widely used by students and other party-goers and it's been said to change everything we know about nights out.

Beware if you're looking to nip out for a few pints in the next few days, as fresher's week is starting up and down the UK.

Whether it's this week or the one after, be prepared for the streets to be running wild with fresh-faced students ready to paint the town red.

But one thing they have over students of years past is a drinking method to last longer into the night before feeling the overwhelming urge to order a kebab or the need to chunder into a bush.

It's called zebra striping, and once you hear about it, you'll be wondering why people have been kept in the dark about it for decades.

Our condolences to you if you live near any popular bars during Fresher's week (Getty Stock Image)

Zebra striping involves the pattern in which you drink, but it doesn't involve swearing off alcohol for the night, unlike other methods which will guarantee a headache-free morning.

It consists of alternating between a drink and a glass of water, so you can (somewhat) purify your body in between the chugging of pints and/or cocktails.

This allows you to stay out for a longer period of time without getting too drunk and lowering the chances of you waking up with a less-than-convenient hangover which hopefully doesn't last anything more than a day.

Apparently, zebra striping has long been the standard health advice given to those going out for drinks, keeping you hydrated while you drink because as we know, alcohol dehydrates your body.

A 2024 study into Brits and their drinking habits revealed that one in three trips to the pub don't involve alcohol, while over two and a half million fewer adults are now drinking on a weekly basis compared to three years prior to the study.

Around a quarter of Brits claim to be 'zebra striping' already, while two thirds claimed they even put non-alcoholic drinks into their sessions.

Zebra striping could prolong your night and reduce the effects of a hangover (Getty Stock Image)

Medical professionals have urged people to chase alcoholic beverages with water, not just for hydration's sake, but also to combat any warmer or dry weather which can sneak up on you before winter hits.

Data has confirmed in recent years that young people nowadays are simply drinking less than past generations - whether that be due to COVID or being clued up on the dangers of alcohol, the numbers are down.

All you need to do is have a look at the number of clubs shutting in student towns across the nation.

If you're still apprehensive about zebra striping, experts have claimed that it can act as a palette reset, allowing you to enjoy each drink more to make your night out more enjoyable.

Please drink responsibly. If you want to discuss any issues relating to alcohol in confidence, contact Drinkline on 0300 123 1110, 9am–8pm weekdays and 11am–4pm weekends for advice and support.