Why taking regular breaks helps

Don’t be afraid to give yourself a break, no matter how hard you try to avoid motion sickness, the best cure is ultimately to be stationary. On longer journeys, taking frequent breaks can minimise the chances of symptoms worsening — and also gives you a chance to take in some fresh air. Use this chance to grab a drink or a light bite to eat, too.

Why fresh air and good ventilation helps with motion sickness

Just like any kind of sickness, breathing fresh air will do wonders to help. Open a window to let it circulate around the car, and have the air conditioning on to keep the cabin well-ventilated and well-cooled.

Why closing your eyes and taking deep breaths helps car sickness

Sometimes, it’s easier to just pretend you’re not travelling. Closing your eyes can shut off the visual cues of motion that can freak your brain out, while focusing on your breathing will distract your mind from everything else.

Why staying hydrated helps if you feel sick

Sipping cold water, or even a carbonated drink, will help keep you hydrated and reduce the feeling of nausea whilst you’re moving. Avoid caffeinated beverages, like coffee, tea and fizzy drinks containing caffeine, as these can decrease hydration and make you feel worse.

Why eating small amounts of food frequently can help with sickness in a car

If you’re prone to car sickness, eating a heavy meal or drinking alcohol before getting into the passenger’s seat, or even while sitting there, could heighten your discomfort. Eat and drink well in advance of your journey, and pack light snacks for the trip if you’re in need of something to eat.

You want to avoid any foods that are heavy or greasy as well as anything too acidic, because they’re slow to digest, they can make you feel worse.Some great options to nibble on frequently without heightening your motion sickness are cereals, apples, bananas, bread or other grains.

Why hard sweets can help if you feel motion sick

Hard sweets last a while and as well as distracting you from feeling sick, they’ll give your digestive system something to do plus a much needed energy boost. The best options are those that contain ginger or chamomile, as these are known to reduce the feeling of nausea on their own.

Why you shouldn’t smoke if you suffer with motion sickness in the car

If you can, taking a smoking break while travelling has been proven to reduce the effects of motion sickness.

Why you should put the book or phone down if you feel car sick

While distracting yourself can help with motion sickness, some ‘distractions’ will only serve to make it worse. Fixing on a static object in the car can mess with your senses, so avoid reading or colouring a book or using your phone for extended periods of time in the car.

Why distracting yourself with some music can help with motion sickness

Listening to music, chatting to other people in the car or playing a game like ‘spot the yellow Mini’ could help focus your attention away from how ill you feel.

When to seek medical assistance

No matter how hard some try, car sickness just won’t go away. In this case, it’s worth speaking to your doctor or a pharmacist, who may prescribe you with appropriate medication to ease the symptoms.

Swansway Blog - Car Sickness

Swansway Blog

How to avoid car sickness