How To Avoid Car Sickness
Avoiding car sickness (motion sickness) is all about keeping your brain, eyes, and inner ear in sync — because it usually happens when those systems send mixed signals. Here’s how to stop the nausea before it starts (or manage it fast):
🚗💨 1. Sit in the Right Spot
Position matters a lot:
- Front seat is best — less motion, clearer view
- In larger vehicles: sit near the middle, over the wheels
- Always face forward (never sideways or backward)
Pro tip: If you’re on a bus or van, window seats up front are golden.
👀 2. Fix Your Gaze
Your eyes need to match what your body feels.
- Look at the horizon or something steady in the distance
- Don’t read, scroll, or look down at screens
- No intense texting or games
Looking out the window = good. Looking at your phone = bad.
🧘 3. Breathe + Relax
Anxiety makes car sickness worse.
- Take slow, deep breaths (in through your nose, out your mouth)
- Try peppermint oil under your nose or gum for a soothing scent
- Use calming music to chill your nervous system
🍪 4. Eat Light (But Don’t Go Empty)
Too much or too little food = nausea trigger.
✅ Best:
- Crackers
- Toast
- Bananas
- Ginger tea or candy
- Light protein (like turkey or nuts)
❌ Avoid:
- Greasy, spicy, or acidic foods before or during the ride
- Overeating right before travel
🫚 5. Use Natural Remedies
- Ginger (chews, capsules, tea) — proven to reduce nausea
- Peppermint (tea, oil, gum)
- Acupressure wristbands (like Sea-Bands) — press the P6 point on your inner wrist
💊 6. Try Medication (If Needed)
If you’re really prone to motion sickness:
OTC options:
- Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate) – take 30–60 min before trip
- Bonine (Meclizine) – longer lasting, less drowsy
- Scopolamine patch – prescription, lasts 3 days (good for trips)
Always check with a doctor if you have medical conditions or are giving meds to kids.
🌬️ 7. Fresh Air Helps
- Crack a window
- Use air vents pointed at your face
- Avoid strong perfumes or car air fresheners
🧠 Bonus: Train Your Brain
Believe it or not, your brain can adapt over time.
- Take short rides regularly to build tolerance
- Avoid multitasking in the car — just focus on the ride