Motion Sickness Hacks Every Traveler Should Know (But Few Do)

Let’s be honest — nothing ruins a dreamy getaway faster than that dreaded wave of nausea hitting just as the journey begins. You’re all packed, your Spotify playlist is ready, the road (or sky or sea) is calling, and boom — you’re clutching your stomach, wondering why your body seems to hate movement so much. If this sounds familiar, welcome to the not-so-fun club of motion sickness. But here’s the good news: with the right hacks, you can outsmart motion sickness and finally enjoy your trip the way it was meant to be. And as someone who’s explored hundreds of destinations across the world — from winding mountain roads in Ha Giang to rocky boat rides in Santorini — trust me when I say, these tips work.

First things first: where you sit can make or break your ride. On a plane, aim for a seat near the wings — the plane’s center of gravity — which feels the least turbulence. On a bus or car, the front seat is your best friend, especially if you’re not the one driving. On a boat? Head to the middle, close to the waterline. The goal is to reduce the amount of motion your body experiences, so you’re not constantly trying to adjust to swaying, bouncing, or tilting sensations.

One of the most underrated tricks is to keep your eyes fixed on a stable point in the distance. When you're reading a book or scrolling through Instagram while in motion, your inner ear tells your brain you’re moving, but your eyes say otherwise — that sensory mismatch is what sends your stomach spinning. Instead, stare out the window, find the horizon, and let your senses sync up.

Fresh air is your silent ally. Whether it's cracking a window, turning on the air vent, or stepping outside for a moment before departure, a good dose of oxygen can work wonders. Deep, steady breaths can calm your nerves and stabilize your body’s response to movement.

Now, let’s talk snacks — yes, snacks matter. Traveling on a full or empty stomach can trigger nausea. Go for something light, non-greasy, and bland. Crackers, bananas, dry toast, or a simple rice ball can be surprisingly helpful. One of my go-to secrets? Ginger. This root has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for nausea. Bring along ginger candies, drink ginger tea, or chew a small piece of candied ginger before departure. It’s a simple fix with powerful results.

Hydration is equally important. Sipping on cool water throughout your trip can help keep symptoms at bay. Avoid alcohol, coffee, or sugary sodas — they tend to dehydrate and upset your stomach. If you need a little fizz, a lemon soda or sparkling water is a safer bet.

For those with a history of motion sickness, taking anti-nausea medication about 30 to 60 minutes before departure can make a world of difference. Common over-the-counter options like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine (Bonine) are effective but may cause drowsiness. So if you’re planning to stay alert and take in the sights, consider non-drowsy formulas or natural remedies.

Speaking of natural solutions, have you ever tried acupressure wristbands? These stretchy bands press against a specific point on your inner wrist (called the P6 or Nei-Kuan point), which some studies suggest helps relieve nausea. While results vary from person to person, many travelers swear by them — and they’re completely drug-free.

In recent years, scientists have begun exploring brain training techniques to help people “reprogram” their sensitivity to motion. Balance exercises, virtual reality simulations, and even specialized motion sickness therapy are showing promise. While these methods require more time and commitment, they could offer long-term relief for frequent travelers.

And then, there’s the magic of sleep. If you can, rest. A quick nap can reset your body’s signals and help ride out any queasiness. Plus, time flies when you’re asleep — before you know it, you’re waking up to a beautiful new destination.

Lastly, the most important tip of all: listen to your body. What works for one person might not work for another. Traveling is deeply personal, and so is how your body reacts to motion. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to find what helps you. The key is preparation and awareness. Once you crack the code, every road trip, boat ride, or long-haul flight becomes infinitely more enjoyable.

So the next time wanderlust calls, don’t let motion sickness stand in the way. With these expert-approved hacks in your arsenal, you’ll be gliding across landscapes, oceans, and skies with ease — and more importantly, with your appetite for adventure intact.