Motion sickness happens when the brain receives conflicting information from the eyes, inner ears and body about movement. It can occur in cars, buses, boats, aircraft, trains, fairground rides and virtual reality environments.
Symptoms
Symptoms often begin with uneasiness, yawning, pallor or sweating and may progress to:
- nausea or vomiting
- dizziness
- headache
- increased saliva
- tiredness or difficulty concentrating
- rapid breathing
Children are commonly affected, and people with migraine may be more susceptible. Symptoms usually improve when the movement stops.
Reducing symptoms during travel
- Look ahead at a fixed point or the horizon.
- Sit where movement is least: near the front of a car, over the wing of an aircraft or near the center of a boat.
- Keep the head still and supported when possible.
- Get fresh air, breathe slowly and take breaks on long road journeys.
- Avoid reading, gaming, scrolling or watching films while moving.
- Eat a light meal and avoid heavy, spicy food and excess alcohol before travel.
- For children, use conversation, music or songs as distraction rather than a screen or book.
Medications
A pharmacist can recommend a suitable travel-sickness medicine. Some work best when taken before the journey. Options vary by country and may include antihistamines or hyoscine preparations.
These medications can cause drowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth or difficulty passing urine and may not be suitable with glaucoma, prostate problems, epilepsy, heart conditions or certain other medications. Do not drive, cycle or operate machinery if a product makes you sleepy.
Ask for professional advice before giving medicine to a child, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in older age, or when taking regular medications. Patches and tablets have different age limits and instructions.
What about ginger or acupressure?
Some people find ginger or acupressure bands helpful, but research results are mixed and they do not work for everyone. Supplements can interact with medications, so ask a pharmacist if you use blood-thinning treatment or have another relevant condition.
When to seek medical advice
Arrange an assessment if symptoms are severe, occur without movement, continue long after travel, or are accompanied by hearing loss, ringing in one ear, fainting, double vision, weakness, speech difficulty or a new severe headache. These features may have another cause.
Repeated vomiting can cause dehydration, particularly in young children and older adults. Seek help if fluids cannot be kept down, urine becomes very dark or infrequent, or there is unusual drowsiness.
Sources
Reviewed: 28 August 2026
Medical disclaimer: This information is general and does not replace advice from a pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional.