Children often experience motion sickness when seated in the back of a moving vehicle and engaging in activities that require focus. This condition is common among kids aged 2-12 but tends to diminish as they grow older.

Motion sickness can be triggered by various modes of movement such as traveling by car, train, boat, airplane, or enjoying amusement park rides. The conflicting signals sent to the brain from different body parts can lead to nausea in children.

​Ways to Prevent Motion Sickness in Children

• Avoid heavy meals before traveling and opt for light snacks instead.
• Minimize frequent stops but encourage short breaks for movement.
• Encourage children to look out the window to align their visual and inner ear signals.
• Maintain a comfortable car temperature to prevent sickness.
• Use window shades to shield from sun exposure.
• Consider motion sickness medication for children.
• Provide ginger candies or ginger tea as a natural remedy for motion sickness.

Signs and Symptoms of Motion Sickness

• Symptoms may start with stomach upset and progress to vomiting or cold sweats.
• Youthful discomfort may manifest through behavioral changes like yawning or paleness.
• Encourage children to focus on a fixed point in the distance to help alleviate symptoms.
• Open a window to allow fresh air to circulate inside the vehicle.
• Keep children hydrated by providing water during travel.

What to do?

In case of motion sickness in children, halt the triggering motion and allow for breaks or fresh air. Reach out to 1300 SEASICK for guidance or order treatment online.

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The onset of motion sickness in children, a common occurrence, is triggered by repetitive movements during travel that disrupt brain signals for balance and position.

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What is motion sickness?

Defined as nausea, dizziness, or vomiting prompted by motion during travel, motion sickness can also be induced by activities like gaming or standing on moving platforms.

What causes motion sickness?

Repeated movements causing conflicting signals sent to the brain are responsible for motion sickness. Visual cues within vehicles may clash with balance messages, leading to discomfort.

One common theory is that motion sickness occurs when there is a mismatch between what your eyes see and what your inner ear, which controls balance, senses. For example, when you are reading a book or looking at your phone while in a moving vehicle, your eyes are focused on something stationary while your inner ear senses motion. This conflicting information can result in feelings of nausea and disorientation.

Another factor in motion sickness is individual susceptibility. Some people are more prone to motion sickness than others, and certain activities or conditions can increase the likelihood of experiencing symptoms. These may include long journeys, turbulent flights, or traveling on winding roads.

It’s important to note that motion sickness is not a serious condition and usually resolves on its own once the triggering motion ceases. However, there are remedies such as taking medication, focusing on the horizon, or sitting in a well-ventilated area that may alleviate symptoms.

Is motion sickness normal?

Real or perceived motion can trigger motion sickness, which is a common response seen in many individuals, with heightened susceptibility in children and women.

• Motion sickness can be triggered by conflicting signals received by the brain from the inner ear, eyes, and sensory nerves.
• Reading in a moving vehicle, looking at a screen while in motion, or sitting backwards can also contribute to motion sickness.
• Strong smells, anxiety, or a history of migraines can increase the likelihood of experiencing motion sickness.
• Individuals who are prone to motion sickness can try sitting in the front seat of a car, focusing on the horizon, or taking breaks during long journeys to alleviate symptoms.

Motion sickness symptoms

Nausea, vomiting, increased saliva, sweating, feeling cold, and paleness are common symptoms of motion sickness.

How long does motion sickness last?

Symptoms often subside post-travel, but in some cases, they may linger. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

It is important to note that the duration of motion sickness can vary from person to person. While some individuals may feel relief shortly after the motion stops, others may continue to experience symptoms for several hours or even days. Factors such as the mode of transportation, individual susceptibility, and the severity of the motion can all influence how long motion sickness lasts.

If you find that your symptoms are not improving or are particularly severe, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide recommendations for treatment options and offer guidance on how to manage and prevent motion sickness in the future.

How to stop motion sickness

Tips to combat motion sickness include consuming light meals, reducing exposure to motion, breathing fresh air, and avoiding strong scents.

Prepare for the journey

During extended journeys, take breaks for fresh air and light meals to stave off nausea.

It’s also important to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before and during the journey, as dehydration and alcohol consumption can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms.

If possible, choose a seat near the front window or where motion is felt the least. Keeping your eyes on the horizon can also help to reduce feelings of nausea.

Natural treatments for motion sickness

Strategies to prevent motion sickness can also help alleviate symptoms when they occur. Techniques like deep breathing, music listening, and ginger usage are effective.

In addition to these strategies, some people find relief from motion sickness by acupressure. This involves applying pressure to specific points on the body, such as the wrist, to help alleviate nausea and dizziness.

Another natural remedy for motion sickness is peppermint. Peppermint oil or tea can help calm the stomach and reduce feelings of nausea associated with motion sickness.

It’s also important to stay hydrated and avoid heavy or greasy foods before traveling, as these can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms. Instead, opt for light, easily digestible snacks like crackers or fruit.

Ginger

In addition to medication, ginger is a natural remedy that can help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness. Ginger can be consumed in various forms, such as capsules, tea, or even raw ginger root. It is known for its anti-nausea properties and can be a useful alternative or complement to traditional motion sickness medications.

Breathing exercises

Practicing deep breathing exercises can also help reduce symptoms of motion sickness. Taking slow, deep breaths can help calm the nervous system and alleviate feelings of nausea and discomfort. Simple techniques such as inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth can be effective in managing motion sickness.

Acupressure bands

Acupressure bands, which apply pressure to specific points on the wrist, are another non-medication option for managing motion sickness. These bands are easy to use and can help alleviate symptoms by targeting pressure points that are believed to reduce feelings of nausea and dizziness.

Remember to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new remedies or techniques for motion sickness, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

What can a doctor prescribe for motion sickness?

Prescription anti-sickness medications are an option but may be less effective for motion sickness. Timely consumption is crucial for optimal results, preferably before commencing the journey.

Hyoscine patch

Hyoscine patches are best applied well in advance before travel to be absorbed through the skin efficiently. Administer the medicine behind the ear 5-6 hours before embarking on the journey.

Prochlorperazine

Prochlorperazine, a prescription-only medicine, helps inhibit the inclination to vomit in the brain. Buccastem® is a prochlorperazine variant absorbed through the gums.

Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide is a tablet expediting stomach emptying to circumvent nausea and vomiting, especially in specific individuals.

Ondansetron

Known for its potency, Ondansetron is a reliable anti-sickness medicine commonly used for chemotherapy-induced nausea and occasionally for pregnancy-related morning sickness.

What should I do if I’m actually sick?

Vomiting can provide slight relief from motion sickness symptoms. Post-vomiting, apply a cool cloth on the forehead and avoid drinking temporarily to avert recurrence.

Rest, sip cold water, and gradually reintroduce light snacks following vomiting episodes.

What is disembarkation syndrome?

Mal de debarquement syndrome, which may emerge after travel, induces a sensation of continued ground movement beneath the feet. Normally, this sensation dissipates on its own.

Further reading and references

• Consult reliable sources for information on motion sickness and correlated studies.

Article history

Material validated and authorized by proficient clinicians.

Next review due: 8 Jul 2027

9 Jul 2024 Latest version

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Motion sickness, also known as travel sickness, is a condition that occurs when a person is exposed to certain types of motion, such as travel by car, boat, plane, or amusement park rides. Symptoms of motion sickness can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and sweating.

It is believed that motion sickness occurs when there is a disconnect between what the eyes see and what the inner ear senses. This can confuse the brain and lead to the symptoms of motion sickness.

There are several ways to prevent and treat motion sickness, including medications, wristbands with pressure points, and natural remedies such as ginger. If you frequently experience motion sickness, it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare provider about potential solutions.

Key facts

• Motion sickness, synonymous with travel sickness, car sickness, or sea sickness, can manifest in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and clamminess.
• To prevent motion sickness, focusing outside or on the horizon is advised.
• Symptoms typically cease once the motion halts, and treatment options are available for prevention.
• Common triggers for motion sickness include reading while in motion, sitting in the backseat of a car, or turbulent flights.
• Some individuals are more prone to motion sickness than others, and genetics may play a role in susceptibility.

What is motion sickness?

Regarded as a regular reaction to specific movements during transportation, motion sickness can be managed through preventative measures.

Motion sickness, also known as kinetosis or travel sickness, occurs when there is a disconnection between what your eyes see and what your inner ear senses in terms of motion. This can commonly happen during car rides, boat trips, airplane flights, or amusement park rides.

Symptoms of motion sickness can include nausea, dizziness, sweating, and vomiting. To prevent motion sickness, it is recommended to sit in the front seat of a car, keep your eyes on the horizon, avoid reading or looking at screens, and stay well-hydrated. Some people also find relief from motion sickness by taking ginger supplements or using acupressure wristbands.

What are the symptoms of motion sickness?

Aside from nausea, motion sickness may evoke retching, drowsiness, sweating, or loss of appetite. It is advisable to avoid activities that worsen symptoms.

Post-motion, aftereffects of motion sickness may endure for hours or days.

What causes motion sickness?

Sent conflicting signals leading to confusion and discomfort, motion sickness stems from the detection of conflicting signals by the senses. Anxiety can exacerbate symptoms of motion sickness.

The triggering situations for motion sickness vary, impacting children more frequently. Individuals with conditions inducing nausea may be more predisposed to motion sickness.

How is motion sickness diagnosed?

A diagnosis of motion sickness is drawn from predictable symptoms emerging during travel. Persisting dizziness or nausea necessitates consultation with a doctor.

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How is motion sickness treated and prevented?

Practical tips

Below are tips on preventing motion sickness:

• Focus on the horizon when traveling, abstain from reading or screen usage.
• Maintain stillness, rest your head on a pillow or headrest.
• Opt for front seats in cars, buses, or trains.
• If flying, remain still and close your eyes during take-off and landing.
• Engage with music, practice mindful breathing.
• Access fresh air through windows or vents.
• Eat light meals before and during the trip, avoid alcohol, and drink water instead.

Pressure bands worn on wrists may aid in preventing motion sickness for some individuals.

When voyaging by sea, adaptation to the motion typically occurs after a few days.

Medicines

Incorporate travel sickness medicines to prevent motion sickness, noting the possibility of side effects like drowsiness. Seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor, especially:

• For children
• If currently taking other medications
• During pregnancy

If opting for a travel sickness medicine, consumption should be around half an hour before travel. In the event of motion sickness and nausea onset, it may be too late for medication. Instead, try consuming plain crackers or a clear, carbonated drink for relief.

For regular motion sickness sufferers, ensure access to containers, plastic bags, and wipes. Take breaks for fresh air as needed.

Resources and support

Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on preventing and treating motion sickness.

Visit the Australian Government Smart Traveller website for additional travel health counsel.

Contact the healthdirect helpline at 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for 24/7 assistance from a registered nurse.
Discover health services in your area with the Service Finder tool, which can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals, and more.