Just because you dream of a cruise in the islands or a romantic getaway on the Amalfi Coast doesn’t mean your stomach has necessarily accepted the invitation. Motion sickness can turn the most beautiful trip into a walking nightmare! Fortunately, there are many essential tips to fully enjoy every journey, whether by train, plane, bus, or car, without succumbing to nausea. Discover how to prepare your body (and your mind) to have a memorable adventure, without missteps or a vomit bag.
Give your body time to adjust
When you arrive in a new region, climate, or time zone, your body finds itself in the midst of a balancing act. The secret? Give your body time to regain its bearings before storming the city like a marathon runner in sneakers. Stay calm for a few hours, stay hydrated, breathe slowly, and let your senses acclimate. This little “downtime” is crucial to avoid feelings of dizziness and the infamous mismatch between the inner ear and your eyes that makes you feel queasy. Also, protect yourself if the ambient air is really different from what you’re used to: masks can help you breathe easily.
Opt for light and smart eating
A highly underestimated secret for combating motion sickness: food! Consume light snacks that are nutrient-rich and easy to digest. Avoid fatty, acidic, or very spicy dishes before and during the trip. A few dried fruits, nuts, or a banana can work wonders for your stomach and mood. This way, your body won’t be weighed down by difficult digestion, limiting the risk of nausea during sudden movements of the vehicle.
Think hydration, but avoid alcohol and coffee
Water is your best friend: drinking regularly helps maintain electrolyte balance and prevents dehydration (the main accomplice of motion sickness). Be careful to avoid wine and cappuccino, as alcohol and caffeine amplify dehydration and can worsen feelings of discomfort. A cup of water or an electrolyte drink makes for a smooth journey!
Stand up, stretch, and look at the distance
If you’re traveling for a long time, make movement your mantra! A few regular stretches and a few steps down the aisle (for airplane or train travelers) relieve pressure on the nervous system and improve blood circulation. In a car or bus, take some fresh air and move around during breaks. To combat big waves of nausea, fixing your gaze on a point on the horizon can be very effective. It affects the visual system and balances the information sent to your brain, greatly limiting discomfort.
Take care of your sleep before and during the trip
A rested mind is less vulnerable to small sensory conflicts that trigger motion sickness. Try to get enough sleep before leaving, then enjoy a calm atmosphere to take a short nap during the journey. A light nap, a zen environment, and you’ll keep dizziness and headaches at bay.
Handwashing: a vital gesture for travelers
A piece of advice that is worth its weight in gold, especially at airports or train stations: wash your hands thoroughly. Public transport is a real microbial crossroads! With twenty seconds of soap, you eliminate bacteria and other invisible monsters often responsible for digestive problems that come along with motion sickness. It’s better to prevent than to suffer from a double combo of discomfort.
A visit to the doctor before boarding
If traveling feels synonymous with apprehension (and pockets full of anti-nausea sachets), consult a healthcare professional a few weeks before departure. Only they can prescribe appropriate medications: antihistamines, ginger-based products, acupressure wristbands… Additionally, they will advise you on necessary vaccinations and the best behaviors to adopt according to your destination. For those who enjoy exploring historic villages like this gem in Ardeche, it’s also the moment to check your health precautions!
A small interlude: traveling means respecting others too!
Beyond your personal comfort, think about the general atmosphere on board. Certain behaviors of tourists in transport can sometimes annoy local populations, as explained in this article on behaviors that disturb the Japanese. Respect, discretion, and politeness are also keys to traveling peacefully!
Prepare your expeditions with peace of mind
The last asset not to be overlooked: peace of mind. A travel insurance and good preparation will allow you to enjoy your stay under the best conditions, whether you’re off to discover romantic villas in Italy or exploring the Maldives, recently crowned top eco-responsible destination! Follow these simple tips, and motion sickness will just be a distant memory… or a story to tell later with a smile.
