How to Prevent Motion Sickness in a Car (and Enjoy the Ride)
I used to think motion sickness was something that happened to other people. You know – kids on school buses, or adults trying to read in the back seat on winding roads. Not me.
But yesterday, on a highway I’ve travelled countless times, I started to feel it. A dull headache, creeping queasiness, and that strange dizzy feeling that makes your body feel slightly out of sync with itself. I wasn’t reading or staring at a screen – just sitting in the passenger seat, looking out the window. And still, my brain decided something was off.
Apparently, that’s all it takes. When your eyes and inner ear start sending mixed signals about movement, your body doesn’t love it. Sometimes it shows up as nausea. Sometimes it’s a headache. Either way, it’s not ideal.
If motion sickness has ever caught you off guard, or if it happens often and you’ve just learnt to tolerate it, this post shares what helps – simple, natural ways to prevent car motion sickness. Just small things that make travel more bearable. Or even comfortable.
Let’s start with the quick fixes – and then go deeper into prevention and longer-term solutions.
Immediate Relief: What to Do When Motion Sickness Hits
Sit in the front seat. If you're not driving, sitting in the front seat is often the best option to minimize motion sickness. It gives you a clearer view of the road, which can reduce sensory conflict and ease nausea. Being in the front seat also generally provides a smoother ride, as it's less bumpy than the back.
Take over as driver. If you're able to drive, taking the wheel can be even more effective. When you're in control of the car, your movements align with what you're seeing, helping to synchronize the sensory input and reduce the feeling of nausea.
Find the position that works best for you. This is where personal preference plays a big role. Some people feel better sitting upright with support for their head, while others prefer to lie flat if possible. Experimenting with positions can help you figure out which one eases your symptoms most effectively.
Focus on the horizon. Locking eyes on a distant, stable point (like the horizon) can help your brain make sense of the conflicting sensory signals. It’s a simple yet effective way to calm nausea and regain control of the situation.
Crack a window. Fresh air works wonders when you’re feeling queasy. Open a window (just a crack) to let cool air in and avoid that stuffy feeling that can exacerbate nausea.
Smart Travel Habits to Prevent Car Motion Sickness Before It Starts
Close your eyes and sleep. When motion sickness hits, sometimes the best thing you can do is close your eyes and rest. This minimises the sensory overload and helps your body reset.
Listen to music. Music can be a good distraction, and it’s a way to ease your mind from the motion you're feeling. However, keep it soothing – too much upbeat or bass-heavy music could worsen the feeling of motion sickness.
Stay hydrated (but skip caffeine). Hydration is key when fighting nausea. Water or electrolyte drinks can help keep you balanced, while caffeinated beverages should be avoided since they can dehydrate you and make things worse.
Nibble on something light. An empty stomach can make you feel worse. Try simple, light snacks like crackers, toast, or bananas to keep your stomach settled.
Control temperature & ventilation. Adjusting the car’s temperature and ventilation is a simple yet effective way to reduce motion sickness. Keep the air cool and fresh to avoid stuffiness that can contribute to nausea.
Take breaks on long drives. On long journeys, taking breaks is essential. Stop every hour to stretch, get some fresh air, and give your body a chance to reset. This can prevent motion sickness from building up over time.
Natural Remedies for Long-Term Motion Sickness Prevention
Chew ginger candy or sip ginger ale. Ginger has natural anti-nausea properties. Whether you prefer ginger candy or ginger ale, it’s a great way to alleviate nausea quickly.
Aromatherapy tricks. Essential oils like peppermint or lavender have calming effects and can help reduce nausea. Carry a small bottle of your favourite calming oil and use it when needed.
Stay hydrated with electrolytes. Coconut water or low-sugar sports drinks are excellent sources of electrolytes that help keep you hydrated and reduce nausea.
Wear acupressure bands. Acupressure bands target the P6 pressure point on your wrist, which can help reduce motion sickness. They're easy to wear and a non-invasive option for long-term relief.
What NOT to Do (Common Mistakes That Make It Worse)
Slouching. Slouching can worsen motion sickness by misaligning your body and making things feel more disorienting. Sit up straight to minimize discomfort.
Reading or staring at phones/tablets. Focusing on something in your hands, like a book or phone, can intensify the feeling of motion sickness. Avoid reading or staring at screens while in motion.
Eating heavy fast food before or during the ride. Heavy, greasy meals can upset your stomach and worsen nausea, so stick to light, easily digestible foods. Avoid fast food, which tends to be high in fat and difficult to digest.
Ignoring early nausea signs. If you start feeling a little queasy, don’t wait for it to get worse. Address symptoms early, whether by changing positions or taking a break, to prevent them from escalating.
Final Tips & Takeaways
The best strategies for preventing motion sickness involve experimenting to find what works for you. Try different seats, hydration methods, and natural remedies to see what keeps you feeling your best.
If motion sickness becomes a frequent issue, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor for advice or treatment.
Every person is different, so take the time to discover your ideal approach and keep adjusting until you find your best solution.
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