how to not get car sick

That queasy, dizzy feeling can turn a much-anticipated road trip into a miserable experience. Motion sickness, often called car sickness, happens when your brain gets conflicting messages. Your eyes see the stationary interior of the car, but your inner ear senses the motion, leading to a confusing sensory mismatch. The good news is that you don’t have to just suffer through it. Learning how to not get car sick is entirely possible with a few simple adjustments.

Choose Your Seat and Sightline Wisely

Where you sit makes a world of difference. The front passenger seat is often the best spot. It allows you to see the road ahead clearly, helping your eyes confirm the motion that your body feels. Focus on the horizon or a distant, stable point. If you’re in the back, try to sit in the middle so you can see through the windshield. Avoid reading or looking at your phone, as this focuses your eyes on a stationary object inside the moving vehicle, which is a primary trigger for nausea.

Keep the Air Fresh and Your Body Cool

Stuffy, warm air can quickly worsen motion sickness. Crack open a window to allow fresh air to circulate. Directing the car’s air vents toward your face can also provide relief. It’s helpful to keep your body cool, so consider removing heavy layers. Some people find that the scent of essential oils like peppermint or ginger can be soothing, but strong, artificial smells can have the opposite effect.

Mindful Eating and Drinking Before You Go

What you consume before and during the ride plays a big role. Traveling on a completely empty stomach can be just as bad as traveling when overly full. Aim for a light, bland meal about an hour or two before you leave. Salty snacks like crackers are often easier on the stomach than greasy or sugary foods. Stay hydrated with small sips of cool water. Many people swear by ginger in the form of tea, chews, or candies to help settle their stomach naturally.

A Practical Guide on How to Not Get Car Sick

For persistent cases, a few more strategies can help. Over-the-counter medications like dimenhydrinate or meclizine can be very effective, but they often need to be taken about an hour before travel. Acupressure bands, which apply pressure to a point on your inner wrist, are a popular drug-free option. If you start to feel unwell, if it’s safe to do so, ask the driver to pull over for a few minutes. Stepping out, walking around, and breathing fresh air can reset your senses.

By being proactive about your seat, your focus, and your comfort, you can significantly reduce the chances of feeling sick. With these tips in your toolkit, you can look forward to a smoother, more pleasant journey ahead.