How to Prevent Motion Sickness Naturally: 15 Proven Methods

Motion sickness affects up to 90% of people at some point, turning exciting trips into miserable experiences. Whether you're prone to car sickness, seasickness, or airplane nausea, these 15 natural prevention methods will help you travel comfortably without relying on medication that can cause drowsiness or side effects.

Understanding Motion Sickness

Motion sickness occurs when your brain receives conflicting signals from your inner ear, eyes, and body position sensors. This sensory mismatch triggers nausea, dizziness, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Common Symptoms

• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Cold sweats
• Pale skin
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Increased salivation

Risk Factors

• Age 2-12 (children most susceptible)
• Women (especially during menstruation or pregnancy)
• History of migraines
• Inner ear problems
• Anxiety about travel
• Poor ventilation
• Strong odors

Pre-Travel Preparation (Start 24 Hours Before)

Method #1: Dietary Preparation

Foods to eat before travel:

• Ginger: Take 1-2 grams 30 minutes before travel
• Light, bland foods: Toast, crackers, bananas
• Small, frequent meals: Avoid traveling on empty or overly full stomach
• Plenty of water: Stay hydrated but avoid overdrinking

Foods to avoid:

• Heavy, greasy, or spicy foods
• Dairy products (can worsen nausea)
• Alcohol and excessive caffeine
• Strong-smelling foods

Method #2: Sleep and Stress Management

• Get adequate sleep night before travel
• Practice relaxation techniques
• Reduce travel anxiety through preparation
• Plan route and stops in advance

Optimal Seating and Positioning

Method #3: Strategic Seat Selection

In cars:

• Always sit in front seat if possible
• Face forward (never backwards)
• Crack window slightly for fresh air
• Adjust seat to comfortable, upright position

On planes:

• Choose seat over the wing (least turbulence)
• Window seat for visual reference
• Avoid seats near galley or bathroom
• Face forward, never backwards

On boats:

• Stay in center of vessel (less motion)
• Choose lower deck (closer to center of gravity)
• Stay on deck for fresh air when possible
• Face direction of travel

On trains/buses:

• Sit near front of vehicle
• Choose forward-facing seat
• Sit over wheels if possible (less swaying)
• Window seat for visual reference

Visual and Sensory Techniques

Method #4: Horizon Focusing

1. Look at distant, stationary objects
2. Focus on horizon line when visible
3. Avoid reading or looking down
4. Keep eyes on stable visual references

Why it works: Provides consistent visual input to match inner ear signals

Method #5: Fresh Air Circulation

• Open windows or air vents
• Use overhead air vent on planes
• Stay on deck of boats when possible
• Avoid stuffy, enclosed spaces
• Remove strong perfumes or scents

Method #6: Avoid Triggering Activities

Don't do these while moving:

• Reading books or screens
• Looking at phone or tablet
• Playing handheld games
• Looking backwards or to the sides
• Watching scenery whip by

Natural Remedies and Supplements

Method #7: Ginger (Most Effective Natural Remedy)

Forms and dosages:

• Ginger capsules: 500-1000mg, 30 minutes before travel
• Ginger tea: Drink 1 cup before departure
• Crystallized ginger: Chew small pieces during travel
• Ginger candy: Suck on ginger lozenges
• Fresh ginger: Chew small piece of raw ginger

Research shows: Ginger is as effective as medication for many people

Method #8: Peppermint

• Peppermint tea before travel
• Peppermint essential oil on wrists
• Peppermint gum or mints
• Inhale peppermint oil from tissue

Method #9: Acupressure Points

P6 (Nei Guan) point - most effective:

1. Locate point 3 finger-widths below wrist crease
2. Between two prominent tendons
3. Press firmly for 1-2 minutes
4. Repeat on both wrists every 15 minutes

Acupressure wristbands:

• Sea-Bands or similar products
• Wear 30 minutes before travel
• Position plastic button over P6 point
• Keep on throughout journey

Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

Method #10: Controlled Breathing

4-7-8 breathing technique:

1. Inhale through nose for 4 counts
2. Hold breath for 7 counts
3. Exhale through mouth for 8 counts
4. Repeat 4 cycles
5. Use when feeling queasy

Method #11: Progressive Muscle Relaxation

1. Start with toes, tense for 5 seconds
2. Release and feel relaxation
3. Work up through body systematically
4. Focus on releasing tension
5. Finish with deep breathing

Mental and Psychological Strategies

Method #12: Distraction Techniques

• Music: Listen to calming or upbeat music
• Conversation: Talk with travel companions
• Mental exercises: Count backwards, recite poems
• Visualization: Imagine being on stable ground
• Podcasts: Listen to engaging audio content

Method #13: Positive Mindset

• Expect to feel well during travel
• Visualize comfortable, smooth journey
• Use positive self-talk
• Focus on destination excitement
• Avoid negative motion sickness discussions

Emergency Relief Techniques

Method #14: Immediate Nausea Relief

When symptoms start:

1. Stop reading/looking down immediately
2. Focus on horizon or distant point
3. Get fresh air if possible
4. Sip cold water slowly
5. Apply cool cloth to forehead
6. Practice deep breathing
7. Press P6 acupressure point

Method #15: Recovery Position

If possible:

• Recline seat or lie down
• Close eyes and rest head
• Keep head still and supported
• Focus on breathing slowly
• Stay calm and patient

Type-Specific Prevention

Car Travel

• Drive yourself if possible (rarely get car sick when driving)
• Take frequent breaks every 1-2 hours
• Avoid reading or screen time
• Keep windows cracked for air flow
• Choose smooth routes when possible

Air Travel

• Book morning flights (less turbulence)
• Avoid alcohol and heavy meals
• Use overhead air vent
• Request aisle seat if claustrophobic
• Chew gum during takeoff/landing

Sea Travel

• Stay on deck as much as possible
• Watch horizon, not the water
• Avoid going below deck when rough
• Choose larger vessels (more stable)
• Consider cabin in ship's center

What to Pack for Travel

Motion sickness emergency kit:

• Ginger capsules or candy
• Acupressure wristbands
• Peppermint oil or gum
• Cool compress or towel
• Water bottle
• Plastic bags (just in case)
• Crackers or bland snacks

Long-Term Prevention Strategies

Habituation Training

• Gradual exposure to motion
• Start with short trips
• Increase duration slowly
• Practice relaxation during motion
• Build confidence over time

Balance Training

• Yoga and balance exercises
• Vestibular rehabilitation
• Standing on one foot practice
• Head movement exercises
• Professional balance therapy if severe

When to See a Doctor

Consult healthcare provider if:

• Motion sickness is severe and frequent
• Natural methods don't provide relief
• Symptoms persist after travel ends
• You have underlying inner ear conditions
• Motion sickness significantly impacts life quality

Natural vs. Medication

Advantages of natural methods:

• No drowsiness or side effects
• Safe for children and pregnant women
• Can be used long-term
• Often as effective as medication
• Teach coping skills

The Bottom Line

Motion sickness is preventable with the right combination of preparation, positioning, and natural remedies. Start with ginger and proper seating, then add other techniques as needed. The key is to begin prevention strategies before symptoms start and maintain them throughout your journey. With practice, even the most motion-sensitive travelers can learn to travel comfortably using these natural, proven methods.