Motion Sickness

​What is Motion Sickness?

Motion sickness is a common travel-related condition caused by a disconnect between the signals your brain receives from your inner ear (which senses motion), your eyes, and the rest of your body. When these signals don’t match—such as when you're reading in a moving car or sitting below deck on a boat—your brain becomes confused, which can trigger a range of unpleasant symptoms.

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Who Gets Motion Sickness?

Anyone can experience motion sickness, but it tends to be more common in:

• Children aged 2–12

• Pregnant women

• People prone to migraines

• Travellers with a history of motion sensitivity

• Passengers not in control of the vehicle (e.g. backseat riders)

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Common Symptoms of Motion Sickness:

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Symptoms can vary in intensity but typically include:

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• Nausea or queasiness

• Vomiting

• Dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo)

• Sweating or clammy skin

• Fatigue and drowsiness

• Headache

• Pale complexion

• Increased saliva or a sensation of needing to swallow frequently

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Symptoms usually improve once the motion stops, but for some travellers, they can persist for several hours.

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Tips for Preventing and Managing Motion Sickness

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Before You Travel:

• ✅ Choose Your Seat Wisely:

  • In a car: Sit in the front seat and face forward.

  • On a boat: Stay mid-ship, where there’s the least motion.

  • On a plane: Choose a seat over the wings.

  • On a train: Sit near the front and face the direction of travel.

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• ✅ Avoid Heavy or Greasy Meals:
  Eat light, bland meals before your journey. Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, and large portions, which can worsen nausea.

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• ✅ Stay Well Hydrated:
  Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol.

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During Travel:

• ✅ Keep Your Head Still:
  Use a headrest or neck pillow to minimise head movement.

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• ✅ Look at the Horizon:
  Focus on a fixed point in the distance to help your body regain balance. Avoid reading or using devices.

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• ✅ Get Fresh Air:
  Open a window or direct air vents toward your face. If you’re on a boat, stay on deck and face the horizon.

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• ✅ Use Distraction Techniques:
  Listening to music, closing your eyes, or practicing deep breathing can help ease anxiety and discomfort.

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Medication & Remedies:

• 💊 Over-the-Counter Medications:

  • Antihistamines like Travelcalm, Sealegs, Dramamine (dimenhydrinate or hyoscine) are effective.

• • Best taken 30–60 minutes before departure. Some may cause drowsiness—check with your pharmacist.

• 🌿 Natural Options:

  • Ginger: Available as tablets, tea, or chews.

  • Acupressure wristbands: Apply gentle pressure to specific points on the wrist and may help relieve nausea in some people

• Vomit bags are good to carry as well. 

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When to Seek Help

If you experience frequent or severe motion sickness, it’s a good idea to speak with our healthcare provider. You may benefit from prescription medications or need advice on tailoring your travel plans to reduce discomfort.

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Our travel health team can offer personalised support and help you prepare with the right medication or strategies for your trip—so you can travel with greater confidence and comfort.