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The Best Motion Sickness Remedies, According to a Travel Writer with Chronic Nausea

From ginger gum to peppermint oil, here’s how I prevent motion sickness from ruining a trip.

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Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

As an avid traveler that gets queasy even in elevator rides, I’ve developed quite the toolbelt for combating nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. A recent run-in with choppy seas and a tiny catamaran boat in Greece reminded me how important it is to embark on a trip prepared for anything, so I’m providing you with all the remedies I keep in a pouch when I leave home — or as a like to call it, my anti-barf bag.

From over-the-counter medication to natural remedies, I like to keep a variety of options on hand depending on the type of sickness I’m feeling. Of course, it varies by person, but it never hurts to have multiple methods of relief packed in your travel pouch . While I’ll spare you the graphic details from my experiences with motion sickness, keep reading to see all my favorite remedies to help decide which ones are best for you.

Best for Flying

Sea-band anti-nausea ginger gum.

Chewing gum and ginger both can relieve nausea, so this two-in-one remedy really does the trick.

The ginger flavor can wear off quickly.

T+L senior commerce writer — and fellow motion sickness sufferer — Merrell Readman turned me on to this pack of ginger gum for when I need fast nausea relief during a flight. Since chewing gum and consuming ginger settles the stomach, this motion sickness remedy works faster than other remedies in my opinion, which is important when resources and options to lie down are limited on a flight. I also love that I can keep a pack of this Sea-Band ginger gum in my personal item so I can access it easily underneath the airplane seat.

Best Motion Sickness Glasses

Hion motion sickness glasses.

The liquid inside the glasses acts as a fake horizon, which equalizes the brain, eyes, and inner ear to prevent motion sickness.

They look a little goofy to wear.

Another gadget I swear by: these motion sickness glasses are super handy for road trips and train rides alike. One of the best remedies to motion sickness is keeping your eyes on the horizon, and if you can’t do that, the four circular “lenses” in these glasses have a blue liquid on the inside that creates a fake horizon. This tricks the brain into equilibrium with the eyes and inner ears, which can prevent motion sickness when every part of the party is in agreement. Sure, they look a little silly, but it’s worth it to be able to enjoy a car, train, or boat ride without getting sick.

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best for Seasickness

Dramamine all day less drowsy motion sickness relief.

The pills are anti-emetic, which help prevent vomiting from motion sickness.

It needs to be taken before seasickness hits to be most effective.

I’m going to spare you the graphic details, but let’s just say my recent catamaran tour in Santorini didn’t go as planned. The only thing that saved me from additional trauma was this little travel-size pack of Dramamine. Thankfully, the anti-emetic pills did an excellent job of keeping things down after they started working about 30 minutes to an hour after I took them. Word to the wise: if you know you get seasick, you should pack these tabs whether you're heading on a long cruise or day tour and be sure to take them ahead of time for the most effective use. It's also always a good idea to keep your eyes on the horizon if you start getting seasick.

Best Wristband

Sea-band comforting acupressure bands.

With a plastic ball on the interior, these wristbands apply pressure to the P-6 pressure point to relieve nausea and vomiting.

The wristbands are made with fabric that can get sweaty or dirty easily.

Along with severe motion sickness, I also feel the effects of altitude change — lucky me. Whenever I travel to a mountain town for skiing or just exploring, I always bring these acupressure wristbands. The pressure point 6 (sometimes called Neiguan) can alleviate the feeling of nausea and vomiting when pressing down on the spot in the forearm. I found that the little plastic ball on the inside of the wristband applies the perfect amount of pressure that was hardly noticeable when I wore the band all day every day. I wore both wristbands when I was feeling sick on a trip to Utah and they worked quickly at relieving my altitude sickness.

MQ Motion Sickness Patch

One patch can last up to three days.

They have a strong herbal scent that can be bothersome.

These patches offer a quick and discreet solution to nausea and dizziness. The medicinal patches can be placed behind the ear or below the belly button, and they can last up to 72 hours before you’ll want to replace it with a fresh patch. I like that the patches can be worn in the shower or in a pool without losing the effectiveness of the medicinal properties. Because the patches are made with herbs like ginger and safflower, they have an earthy scent that might irritate some people — though I didn’t mind it.

Best Essential Oil

Doterra peppermint essential oil.

Peppermint is a soothing scent for combating nausea.

It can leave a burning sensation when it comes in contact with skin.

Just when you thought having chronic nausea and motion sickness was bad enough, I also suffer from hereditary migraines (thanks, Mom). While I have prescription medication for migraines, I always keep a bottle of peppermint or lavender essential oil on hand as well since migraines can also cause nausea. Both lavender and peppermint scents offer a relaxing aroma for calming the mind , which can be hard to do when you’re tense from nausea. I also dab a bit of peppermint oil on my temples to relieve headaches and I find that to be extremely helpful, too.

Yogi Tea Stomach Ease

This ginger-flavored tea is designed to calm and soothe the stomach.

It may not be as easy to find hot water while you're traveling.

It can be helpful to sip on a liquid when you’re nauseous, especially a tea made with herbs and roots like ginger that are known for medicinal properties. Aside from ginger, this tea is also made with licorice root, cardamom, fennel seed, peppermint, and more natural ingredients to soothe the stomach. I like the herbal and earthy flavor of the tea, but it might not be for everyone since it is relatively strong. The box comes with wrapped tea bags that make it easy to toss a few in a purse so all you have to do is get some hot water on an airplane to make a soothing cup of tea.

Tips for Buying Motion Sickness Remedies

Think about your itinerary.

Some motion sickness remedies are better than others for airplanes, cars, or boats, so consider the type of trip before investing in certain products. If you know you’ll be swimming a lot, consider a remedy like patches or wristbands that can be worn in the water. For trips with activities that involve rigorous activities or operating equipment, steer clear of using medications that could make you drowsy like Dramamine.

Test your remedy before big trips

Motion sickness remedies can have different side effects and results in each person, so it’s important to try the product before you go on a trip. The first thing you should do is consult your doctor before starting a motion sickness remedy, especially medication. Depending on your medical history, certain products might not be best for you and the only way to ensure safely using any product is to check with a licensed medical professional.

Have a backup

If you’re like me and you know you get motion sick, then it’s crucial to have a variety of remedies on hand. I never leave the house without multiple forms of relief from medication to natural products. Also, make sure you check with a doctor before doubling up on motion sickness medication and products to make sure it’s safe.

When you’re walking down the street, your body and brain are in sync with the motion and surroundings. However, when you head off on a road trip , get in a moving boat, or airplane, your eyes, inner-ear, body, and brain, can get out of sync, causing side effects like nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. This is why it’s important to keep your eyes on the horizon when you can to try to minimize the confusing signals sent to the brain from the eyes and inner-ear.

The P-6 pressure point is located in the middle of the forearm a few inches down from the wrist. Applying pressure to this area with your fingers, or with the Sea-band wristband, might help alleviate nausea caused by motion sickness.

While it depends on the person, chewing gum can be an effective way to combat nausea caused by motion sickness. When I was on a boat in Greece, the deckhands gave me a minty gum that immensely helped with my severe motion sickness.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is an associate commerce editor at Travel + Leisure , where she covers all of the best travel products from carry-ons to comfy shoes. As a frequent traveler who also suffers from severe motion sickness, Anna has tried dozens of remedies to alleviate side effects from motion sickness. Although every traveler is different, Anna pulled from her own experiences and research to recommend her favorite motion sickness remedies that are worth trying.

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Know More about Motion Sickness & Nausea

Many people may experience motion sickness when traveling, which can include symptoms of queasiness, sweating, dizziness, pale skin, and vomiting. In fact, one in three people is susceptible to motion sickness. Over-the-counter products and medications are available at Walgreens in stores and online to help alleviate nausea and other symptoms associated with motion sickness .

What causes nausea?

Nausea is a common symptom of many conditions, rather than a health condition itself. Although having nausea is uncomfortable, it is usually not serious and goes away with time or once the cause is resolved. If you are experiencing nausea and vomiting for a prolonged period of time, contact your healthcare provider.

Possible causes of nausea can include:

• Motion Sickness
• Gastroenteritis (infection in the gastrointestinal tract) and other infections
• Food Poisoning
• Morning Sickness during pregnancy
• Certain medications
• Chronic health conditions such as GERD (reflux disease) and gastric ulcers
• Other health conditions like pancreatitis

When motion sickness occurs, it is thought that symptoms result from an imbalance in what you feel versus what you see while your body is sitting still but your surroundings appear to be moving.

What kind of medicine gets rid of nausea?

There are many different medicines for nausea relief offered over-the-counter and by prescription. Choosing an appropriate symptom treatment option depends on the cause of your nausea. If you’re experiencing nausea from motion sickness, some common ingredients in over-the counter medicine can include meclizine or dimenhydrinate for nausea relief. Nausea caused by certain foods or infection may be settled with other medications or products intended to coat the stomach, reduce overproduction of acid, or increase the speed of digestion. Ask your healthcare provider or Walgreens pharmacist to help you explore available anti-nausea products.

Types of nausea relief medicine

Walgreens offers a variety of over-the-counter medicine and products for nausea relief in stores and online. Oral antihistamines and antiemetics are commonly featured to alleviate nausea symptoms, particularly for motion sickness. These medications often have ingredients such as meclizine or dimenhydrinate, which can cause drowsiness.

Other products may be drug-free with natural ingredients or complementary therapies such as acupressure wristbands . Ginger is a common ingredient thought to settle a queasy stomach, which can be offered in capsules, gum, and lozenges. There are also topical roll-ons that can be applied to the skin behind the ear. If you’re not sure which product to choose, chat with a Walgreens pharmacist in store or online via Pharmacy Chat 24/7 to find which option may be most appropriate for you.

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9 Over-the-Counter Medicines You Should Pack for Every Trip

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Whether due to bad luck or unhealthy habits, I’ve gotten sick on the past few trips I’ve been on, which inspired me to find some travel medications to take with me in the future.

In preparing for a longer international trip, I visited a travel clinic and did some research on the CDC’s website. I was happy to find this checklist for a healthy trip and have included some over-the-counter medicine recommendations below.

It’s worth noting that you may also need some prescription medications (and/or vaccines) for things like malaria and altitude sickness , so if you’re traveling for an extended period of time, participating in a physically active trip, or headed to a remote country, make sure to visit a travel clinic .

Note that I didn’t include any first-aid items on this list because there’s an entirely different packing list for that: Download here .  

Over-the-Counter Diarrhea Medicine: Imodium or Pepto-Bismol

Ah, the most common and arguably most uncomfortable sickness to get when you travel. Though it’s most often caused by contaminated food or water, traveler’s diarrhea can happen anywhere—so it’s a good idea to bring an anti-diarrheal medication no matter the destination or type of trip.

Buy: Imodium or Pepto-Bismol

Over–the-Counter Antacid: TUMS or Pepcid

The last thing anyone wants to do on vacation is walk around with a stomachache or heartburn, especially with all the new food and drink you might want to try. Carry antacids on your trip and you can overindulge all you want.

Buy: TUMS or Pepcid  

Over-the-Counter Antihistamine: Claritin or Zyrtec

You can never be sure when allergies are going to creep up on you while traveling, especially if you’re headed to another climate. Combat its symptoms, including a stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing, by packing this travel medication.

Buy: Claritin or Zyrtec

Over-the-Counter Motion Sickness Medicine: Bonine or Dramamine

Nothing can ruin your travels quite like motion sickness on a plane, train, bus, or cruise ship. Instead of confining yourself to a trip of nausea and dizziness, bring medicine to travel like a champ. Benadryl, an antihistamine, can also work for motion sickness, but watch out for drowsiness.

Buy: Bonine or Dramamine

Over-the-Counter Cough Drops or Suppressant: Ricola or Halls

You’re at an increased risk for getting sick while traveling as your germ exposure skyrockets. Cough drops can bring temporary relief to a sore or ticklish throat and silence your coughs so you don’t annoy fellow travelers.

Buy: Ricola or Halls  

Over–the-Counter Decongestant: Sinex or Sudafed

Nobody likes traveling while congested. Whether it’s a cold or allergies, these over-the-counter medicines can relieve congestion and clear your head. Just make sure you pick a non-drowsy kind if you’re taking this during the day.

Buy: Sinex  or Sudafed

Over–the-Counter Pain and Fever Medicine: Tylenol or Advil

Instead of lying in bed all day, take pain and fever medicine so you can focus on being a tourist. These over-the-counter medicines can help with common travel ailments such as achy feet or jet lag-induced headaches.

Buy: Tylenol or Advil

Over-the-Counter Mild Laxative: MiraLAX or Dulcolax

All I’ll say is that you won’t regret packing these.

Buy: MiraLAX or Dulcolax  

Over-the-Counter Mild Sedative or Sleep Aid: ZzzQuil or Tylenol PM

Maybe you’re staying in a noisy place or you’re so jet-lagged you can’t sleep. Either way, these sleep aids will make sure you’re refreshed and ready for a day of travel.

Buy: ZzzQuil or Tylenol PM

Pin the Over-the-Counter Medical Travel List:

What to Pack on Your Next Trip

Women’s business casual outfit for travel with carry-on, shop the look.

Ribbed Puff Sleeve Tee

Dress Pant Yoga Pants

Stainless Steel Water Bottle

20-Inch & 28-Inch Trunk Rolling Luggage Set

How to Pack your Carry-On

Medium Carry-On

Wireless Headphones

Beneath a Scarlet Sky: A Novel

Water Bottle

Men’s Comfortable Work Business Outfit for a Flight

Tech Button Down Shirt

Commuter Pants

Chrono Leather Watch

Leather Jeans Belt

Cycia Shoes

Women’s “ridiculously comfortable travel clothes that don’t sacrifice style” outfit 1.

Cozy Up T-shirt

High Rise Skinny Jeans

Bracelet Watch

Chain Crossbody Bag

Baryky Boot

Women’s european packing guide.

Magnetic Phone Case

Men’s amazon-based casual outfit.

Stretch Chino Shorts

Wrist Watch

Laptop Backpack

Running Shoe

Carry-on options for your next trip 1.

Expandable Suitcase Spinner

Metro Backpack

Canvas Tote

Women’s semi-fancy, formal summer dress outfit.

Jewel Quartz Earrings

Tie Neck Satin Dress

Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter

Leather Wallet

Nicole Pumps

Carry-on options for your next trip 2.

22-Inch Packing Case

Wheeled Carry-On Duffel

22-Inch Rolling Spinner Carry-On

Men’s outfit for walking to tijuana.

Paper Plane Print Tee

No Sweat Relaxed Fit Shorts

Vintage Canvas Backpack

More from SmarterTravel:

• Must-Pack Medications for Travel
• What to Do If You’re Caught in an Emergency Situation Abroad
• The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on   Twitter   and   Instagram   for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

Alyssa Lukpat also contributed to this article.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Medications for Motion Sickness

Other names: Sea Sickness

A disturbance of the inner ear that is caused by repeated motion

Drugs used to treat Motion Sickness

The medications listed below are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Benadryl hat man?
• How long does Benadryl take to work?
• Does Benadryl help with or cause anxiety?
• Does Benadryl make you sleepy?
• Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride vs Citrate: What's the difference?
• Does Ginger interact with any drugs?
• Can you take Benadryl while pregnant?

View more FAQ

Alternative treatments for Motion Sickness

The following products are considered to be alternative treatments or natural remedies for Motion Sickness. Their efficacy may not have been scientifically tested to the same degree as the drugs listed in the table above. However, there may be historical, cultural or anecdotal evidence linking their use to the treatment of Motion Sickness.

• Dramamine Non Drowsy

Learn more about Motion Sickness

Care guides.

• Motion Sickness

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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Hyoscine for travel sickness

Joy rides, kwells, scopoderm.

Peer reviewed by Sid Dajani Last updated by Michael Stewart, MRPharmS Last updated 21 Nov 2022

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

Follow the dosage directions on the label or pack. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

If you are taking tablets, take a dose about 30 minutes before you travel.

If you have been prescribed a patch, apply it to the skin behind your ear 5-6 hours before your journey starts.

Hyoscine may make you sleepy. If this happens, do not drive and do not use tools or machines.

In this article :

About hyoscine, before taking hyoscine, how to use hyoscine, getting the most from your treatment, can hyoscine cause problems, how to store hyoscine, important information about all medicines.

Continue reading below

Hyoscine is an effective medicine for travel sickness . It works by preventing the confusing messages going to your brain.

There are a number of different brands of tablet available which contain hyoscine as a salt, called hyoscine hydrobromide. You can buy these without a prescription at pharmacies. There are two strengths of tablets available: 300 microgram tablets for adults, and 150 microgram tablets for children. The dose for younger children will require halving a tablet.

There is also a product called Scopoderm® 1.5 mg patch. This is a patch for people aged 10 years or over. You stick the patch on to the skin behind your ear 5-6 hours before your journey, and then remove it at the end of the journey. The patch releases hyoscine through your skin and into your bloodstream.

One of the other effects of hyoscine is that it causes a dry mouth. It is sometimes prescribed by doctors for this reason, rather than to prevent travel sickness.

There is also a similar-sounding medicine called hyoscine butylbromide. This is an antispasmodic medicine which is used to relieve pain caused by tummy (abdominal) cramps. There is more information about this in a separate medicine leaflet called Hyoscine butylbromide tablets .

To make sure this is the right treatment for you, before you (or your child) start taking hyoscine, it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you are unwell and have a high temperature (fever).

If you have digestive system problems such as reflux disease, diarrhoea, or ulcerative colitis.

If you have an eye condition called glaucoma.

If you have high blood pressure, a fast heart rate, or any other heart problems.

If you have problems with your liver, kidneys or prostate gland.

If you have epilepsy.

If you have a condition causing muscle weakness, called myasthenia gravis.

If you have Down's syndrome.

If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about hyoscine, including a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

Recommended doses are as follows:

For adults and children over 10 years of age: 150-300 micrograms.

For those aged 4-10 years: 75-150 micrograms.

For those aged 3-4 years: 75 micrograms.

You should take a dose of tablets 30-60 minutes before the start of the journey, and then repeat the dose after six hours if needed. There is a maximum number of tablets that can be taken in any 24-hour period, so remember to check the directions on the label carefully to make sure that you (or your child) do not take more than the recommended daily amount.

Read the label on the pack carefully to see whether the tablets should be sucked or chewed, or simply swallowed with a drink of water.

If you have been prescribed Scopoderm® 1.5 mg patches:

Stick one patch to the skin just behind your ear 5-6 hours before the start of your journey and remember to remove it after your arrival.

The effect of the patch can last up to 72 hours, so it is suitable for people taking long journeys.

Once removed, fold the patch in half so it sticks together and dispose of it carefully.

Remember to wash your hands after handling the patches, and also it is important to clean behind your ear after you have removed the patch. This is to make sure you remove any remaining traces of hyoscine from your skin.

Do not apply more than one patch at a time and do not cut the patches unless your doctor or a pharmacist tells you to.

Hyoscine can make you sleepy, and if you are using the patches, you may still feel sleepy the following day. If this happens, do not drive and do not use tools or machines until you feel well again. Also, avoid drinking alcohol, as this will increase the feelings of sleepiness.

When you buy any medicines, you should always check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take alongside your other medicines. This is particularly important with hyoscine because it can increase the side-effects from some other treatments.

Other things which can help to prevent travel sickness are:

Looking out of a window or sitting with your head tilted slightly backwards.

Taking regular breaks in your journey to have some fresh air and drink some cold water.

Breathing deeply and slowly while you listen to music.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with hyoscine. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

Important: on rare occasions more serious side-effects can occur when using hyoscine hydrobromide patches (Scopoderm ® patches). This is more likely if using the patches in a way the manufacturer did not intend, for example cutting patches or using more than one patch. People using hyoscine patches, or their carers, should be alert for signs that the dose is too high. These can include: a high temperature (fever), difficulty passing urine, confusion, disorientation, seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations), fits or convulsions, reduced consciousness and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, remove the patch(es) immediately and seek medical help.

Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Never take more than the recommended dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.

If you are having an operation or any dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.

Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.

If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

Report side effects to a medicine or vaccine

If you experience side effects, you can report them online through the Yellow Card website .

Further reading and references

• Manufacturer's PIL, Kwells® Kids ; Dexcel Pharma Ltd, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated May 2022.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Kwells® 300 microgram tablets ; Dexcel Pharma Ltd, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated May 2022.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Joy-Rides® Tablets ; Teva UK Limited, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated October 2020.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Scopoderm® 1.5 mg Patch ; GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated August 2021.
• Medicines Complete BNF 87th Edition ; British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.

Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

Next review due: 20 Nov 2025

21 nov 2022 | latest version.

Last updated by

Peer reviewed by

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It’s human nature to fantasise about upcoming holidays on grey days in the office. 

Yet if a destination requires hours of travel to reach, travel sickness sufferers face a conundrum. Endure gut-wrenching nausea or ditch the hols altogether? 

If you are prepared to combat motion sickness, the answer is neither. According to the Centers for Disease and Control : “Motion sickness happens when the movement you see is different from what your inner ear senses. This can cause dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.” 

Travel sickness can occur on any mode of transport: in the car on a train, plane or boat. Unless you plan to swim to your sun-soaked vacay destination, it’s best to be prepared. 

To avoid experiencing car sickness before your journey, there are some precautionary steps to take.

How to minimise travel sickness

• Sit in the front of a car or bus
• Choose a window seat on flights and trains
• Lying down, shutting your eyes, sleeping, or looking at the horizon
• Staying hydrated and limiting alcoholic and caffeinated beverages
• Eating small amounts of food frequently
• Avoid smoking
• Distract yourself by listening to music but avoid screen time
• Sucking on flavoured lozenges such as ginger candy.

For those struggling with severe travel sickness, speak to a healthcare professional about prescription solutions. For milder but no less distressing sickness, we consulted two medical experts.

Dr Reval Sukkhu and nurse Helen Chetwynd from HCA Healthcare UK suggest three key treatments for travel sickness: “Firstly, travel bands . While their efficacy is unclear, the theory is based on something akin to acupuncture. Travel bands apply pressure to certain point on the wrist. Despite lack of empirical evidence, some people find them helpful. They are suitable for people over the age of 12."

"Secondly, antihistamines. There are oral tablets available over the counter in the UK such as Cinnarizine (brand name, Sturgeron) or Promethazine Teoclate. Individuals should speak to a pharmacist to see what is most suitable for them, as this type of medication can make you drowsy."

"Finally, Hyoscine Hydrobromide. It is thought to work by affecting the inner ear and neurological system to control vomiting. It is available in the form of tablets such as Kwells, Joy-Rides and Travel Calm or patches.”

Discover the best anti-sickness remedies to take before and during travel and jet off with peace of mind this summer. 

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Kwells 300 Microgram Tablets - 12 tablets

Stop feelings of sickness quickly by popping a Kwells. The tablets feature sickness-subsiding Hyoscine Hydrobromide which restore a sense of stability. The melt-in-your-mouth tablets are suitable for adults and children aged 10 years and over.

Sea-Band’s wristbands feature a plastic stud in each band that exerts pressure onto the wrist. This helps alleviate sickness during long and short periods of travel. Slip yours on and let the single piece work its magic. 

Stugeron - 15 Tablets

If your kids struggle with travel sickness, Sturgeron’s tablets could be a winning choice. The pills can be given to those over the age of five, making them relatively a child-friendly option. Formed from Cinnarizine, the tablets are easy to take and affordable.

Aesop Ginger Flight Therapy

Aesop’s Ginger Flight Therapy is a travel-sized roll-on enhanced with ginger root, lavender and geranium oils. Designed for your pulse points, the portable item can be applied to the temples, wrists, neck and stomach when stress or nausea arises.

Puressentiel SOS Travel Sickness Roller with 7 Essential Oils 5ml

A highly useful product that acts as a balancer and harmoniser of the nervous system, the Puressentiel SOS Travel Sickness Roller features seven stimulating essential oils to help ease and prevent travel sickness. Inhale soothing notes of the roller and relax without a hint of nausea.

Bach Rescue Remedy

Rescue Remedy is a classic. Pop four drops onto your tongue when the nerves start to set in and let the comforting flower essences work their magic. There’s no need for additional water or faff, so you can drift off with total ease.

Sea-Band Nausea Relief Ginger Capsules for Travel Sickness Relief

Opt for a natural remedy and add Sea-Band’s nausea relief to your pre-holiday shopping basket. The capsules are a non-drowsy remedy for the clinically proven prevention and relief of travel and motion sickness. Each capsule contains 250mg of ginger sourced from natural ginger root that helps support digestive health and soothes the stomach.

MQ Motion Sickness Patch for Car and Boat Rides

Apply this 100 per cent natural patch behind your earlobe and let it do all the work for you. Attach 10 minutes before your time of travel and enjoy long-lasting effects for one to three days. Unsuitable for pregnant women. 

Teapigs Sweet Ginger Tea Made With Whole Herbs

Sweet-toothed tea sippers will adore Teapigs' ginger remedy. A fiery blend of anti-nausea ginger, liquorice roots and cinnamon ease digestion, while offering a gentle pick-me-up during the day.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) with MagSafe Charging Case 2022

The Apple AirPods Pros are a game changer. With complete noise-cancelling effects, a smooth, sleek design and adaptive transparency to tune in and out of background noise, these earbuds are a worthwhile investment.

Adjust the volume via the high-tech touch controls and dive right into your stress-free, in-flight entertainment, knowing the product’s six hour battery will have you covered through your short haul flight and beyond. To avoid sickness, keep screen time limited during use.

Traveler's Medicine Cabinet: Essential Over-The-Counter Meds for Trips

A re you currently preparing for your next big travel escapade? Do you know what you absolutely have to add to your packing list to ensure a worry-free journey? Essential over-the-counter meds. However, it is just equally as important to know which ones to pack. That’s why we have decided to make a list of some of our favorite essential over-the-counter meds for trips that can be true lifesavers for common travel-related ailments.

Pain Relievers as an Essential Over-the-Counter Meds for Trips

If you ask me, pain killers are the number one thing that everyone should have in their bag, no matter if they are traveling or not. However, I have chronic migraines, so I may be a bit bias. But even if you don’t usually like to take them, you never know when they might come in handy, even if it’s just for your travel companion. So pack pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for headaches, muscle aches, or minor pains caused by long flights or strenuous activities during your travels.

Antihistamines

Another category where I may be a bit biased, especially if you are traveling during spring. Antihistamines like cetirizine or loratadine can alleviate allergy symptoms caused by seasonal changes, dust, or other allergens encountered during your journey. Even if you usually don’t suffer from allergies, you never know how your body will react to certain allergens that you previously haven’t been exposed to.

Antidiarrheals

Be prepared for gastrointestinal issues with antidiarrheal medications. Loperamide or bismuth subsalicylate (found in Pepto-Bismol) can help manage symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea . I know that this isn’t a glamorous topic to talk about, however the truth is that many people will have gastrointestinal issues while traveling. So you better come prepared.

Motion Sickness Medication as an Essential Over-the-Counter Meds for Trips

I know that by this point I sound like a whining baby, however I won’t go on a drive that’s longer than thirty minutes if I don’t have any motion sickness medication. Because the truth is - I WILL throw up. If you’re too prone to motion sickness during flights, cruises, or road trips, pack motion sickness medications like dimenhydrinate or meclizine to ease discomfort. They work like a charm and you will be able to travel comfortably, while also reading a book or scrolling on your phone.

Adhesive Bandages and Antiseptic Cream

We are coming back to basics with this one, one of our favorite essential over-the-counter meds for trips. However, it is absolutely essential to include basic first-aid essentials like adhesive bandages and antiseptic cream for minor cuts, scrapes, or blisters that might occur while exploring new destinations. You want to treat them right away so that you don't have to worry about it getting infected and needing more serious medical care.

Aloe Vera Gel or Hydrocortisone Cream

Last but not least, if you are going somewhere hot and sunny, you will need lots of sunscreen and sun soothing creams. Carry aloe vera gel or hydrocortisone cream to soothe sunburns if you’ll be spending time under the sun, especially in tropical or sunny destinations. Of course, sunscreen comes first. However, sometimes we just forget about smaller areas of our bodies, and still get a bit sunburnt. And no matter how large or small the area may be, it will still hurt like hell.

The post Traveler’s Medicine Cabinet: Essential Over-The-Counter Meds for Trips appeared first on Malorie's Adventures .

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Use this checklist to prepare for your next trip abroad. Make sure to bring items with you, since quality of items bought overseas cannot be guaranteed. Not all of these items may be relevant to you and your travel plans.

Pack for a Healthy Trip

Prescription medicines

• Your prescriptions
• Travelers’ diarrhea antibiotic
• Medicines to prevent malaria

Medical supplies

• Glasses and contacts
• Medical alert bracelet or necklace
• Diabetes testing supplies

Over-the-counter medicines

• Diarrhea medicine (Imodium or Pepto-Bismol)
• Antihistamine
• Motion sickness medicine
• Cough drops, cough suppressant, or expectorant
• Decongestant
• Pain and fever medicine (acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen)
• Mild laxative
• Mild sedative or sleep aid

Supplies to prevent illness or injury

• Hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol) or antibacterial hand wipes
• Water purification tablets
• Insect repellent (with an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin)
• Sunscreen (with UVA and UVB protection, SPF 15 or higher)
• Sunglasses and hat

First-aid kit

• 1% hydrocortisone cream
• Antibacterial or antifungal ointments
• Digital thermometer
• Oral rehydration salts
• Antiseptic wound cleaner
• Aloe gel for sunburns
• Insect bite anti-itch gel or cream
• Disposable gloves
• Cotton swabs (Q-Tips)
• Copies of your passport and travel documents
• Copies of all prescriptions (medications, glasses, or medical supplies)
• Health insurance card and documents
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination (if required for your trip)
• Contact card with the street addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses of: Family member or close contact in the United States
• Health care provider(s) at home
• Lodging at your destination
• Hospitals or clinics (including emergency services) in your destination
• US embassy or consulate in the destination country or countries

Additional Resources

• Check the Transportation Security Administration website for updates on permitted and prohibited items, including medicines that you are allowed to carry onto an airplane.
• Some items may not be allowed in other countries. It is a good idea to check the  Customs and Import Restrictions section of the U.S. Department of State Tips for Traveling Abroad.
• Enroll in the Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to get the latest safety updates and help in an emergency.

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Traveling can be exhausting: How to prevent this debilitating symptom

The anticipation of a vacation is enough to give anyone butterflies. But travel can expose you to another, less pleasant feeling in your stomach.

Motion sickness can strike as you head to your destination, whether taking a road trip or setting sail on a cruise. It’s also more common than you might think.

Around 30% of travelers experience the syndrome, according to Dr. Julia Adamian, Section Chief of General Internal Medicine and Clinical Innovation at NYU Langone Tisch Hospital. “It can take joy out of travel,” she said.

But travelers can take steps to avoid it. Here’s what to know:

What is motion sickness?

Motion sickness occurs when there is a difference between what your inner ear senses and the movement you see, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Symptoms can include nausea, dizziness and vomiting.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What causes motion sickness during travel?

Travelers can get motion sickness on all kinds of transportation modes. While seasickness – a type of motion sickness – is a common concern among cruise passengers, the syndrome occurs even more frequently on long bus trips, Adamian said. Cases can also occur in cars, trains and planes (though it’s less common on the latter).

“It all depends on the type of motion,” she said. Travelers have to watch out for low-frequency lateral motion, like a boat rocking side to side, and vertical motion, like a plane landing, in particular.

There are some individual variables too. The CDC said kids between 2 and 12 are particularly vulnerable, as are people who have a history of migraines, vertigo and vestibular disorders. “Pregnancy, menstruation, and taking hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives have also been identified as potential risk factors,” the health agency added. 

Women are generally at higher risk as well, according to Adamian.

People over 50 years old are less likely to develop it, however, and typically toddlers and infants are immune, according to the CDC.

How can you prevent motion sickness while traveling?

Adamian said when it comes to motion sickness, “prevention is usually the best medicine.”

If you know you are prone to the syndrome – or just worried about it – sucking on hard ginger candy before travel may help, Adamian said.

Avoid looking at screens or reading. Watching the horizon or a distant, stationary object can also help. Drivers, she said, experience less carsickness than passengers as they are concentrating on what’s in front of them.

The seat or cabin you pick can make a difference, too. In a car, bus, or train, sitting toward the front is your best bet, facing the direction of the motion. On a cruise ship, consider picking a midship cabin on a lower deck, and the seat over the front edge of the wing on a plane.

Cruise ship medical facilities: What happens if you get sick or injured (or bitten by a monkey)

Travelers can also turn to medications like Dramamine or Benadryl, which Adamian recommended taking 30 to 60 minutes in advance (though she noted they cause drowsiness). Those can also help relieve symptoms after motion sickness sets in. Consider talking to your doctor about your options before your trip.

Adamian encouraged travelers with concerns to be proactive. “I don’t think worrying itself is a good thing, but just doing something about it is a much better approach,” she said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at [email protected].

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