How to Avoid Motion Sickness on airplanes?

On a plane, no one wants to get sick because the restrooms are small, the seats are cramped, and there is no fresh air, so the big question is how to avoid motion sickness on airplanes?

For some, a flight is nothing more than a long amount of time spent confined to one seat. Others will feel nauseous and, if motion sickness gets the best of them, may vomit if the turbulence becomes too intense.

Many travellers suffer from air sickness, but there are certain things you can do to better prepare yourself against this bothersome side effect.

The first step in preventing air sickness is to understand what it is. When your inner ear detects movement that your eyes aren’t picking up on, you’ll have this problem.

This also works in reverse: if your eyes detect movement that your body misses, such as when experiencing a particularly bumpy movie scene, you can get motion sick without moving.

Cold sweats, pale skin, headaches, dizziness, nausea, increased salivation, exhaustion, and vomiting are all indications of this imbalance, as per clevelandclinic.

According to a 2015 study published in the Oxford Academic on Human Molecular Genetics, one in every three people suffers from automobile sickness, which has origins that are nearly identical to those of air sickness.

It’s also been discovered that anxiety and stress increase motion sickness, so it won’t necessarily go away after your flight.

However, there are a few simple strategies to avoid or at least reduce the severity of these side effects after they’ve started.


What is motion sickness?

When your brain is unable to process information from your eyes, hearing, and body, motion sickness develops. Motion might make you feel uneasy, clammy, or sick to your stomach, whether it’s in a car, plane, boat, or even an amusement park ride. Some people Vomit. Motion sickness can show itself as carsickness, seasickness, or airsickness.


8 Ways to Prevent Motion Sickness While Flying

These techniques can assist if you get motion sick or are scared you will when flying.

1. Selection Of seat

Because you’ll be flying through air currents, the ride will be a little turbulent. However, certain seats may be bumpier than others. Select a seat between the plane’s wings or closer to the plane’s front, where the ride is more stable. Avoid sitting on the plane’s back row.

2. Carry Dramamine

If you’re prone to motion sickness or nausea during other types of travel, bring Dramamine® with you. It works to keep nausea, dizziness, and vomiting away.

To avoid nausea, dizziness, and vomiting, use the original Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief or the long-lasting Dramamine® All Day Less Drowsy formula.

The tablets come in a handy travel vial that fits easily into your carry-on bag. If you’re travelling with children, choose Dramamine® For Kids, which has been particularly developed for children aged 2 to 12.

Note: Consulting a doctor is a must before taking any medications.

3. Skip the Reading Books

When you’re having motion sickness, physicians recommend concentrating in on a stable scene or horizon line, but reading won’t help you at all. What you’re doing is increasing the amount of movement in your body, which could put your inner balance off even more.

4. Eat Carefully Before Your Flight

Eat a small dinner the night before and the day of your flight, according to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.

Limit your calorie intake and avoid salty foods. Dehydration is enhanced by salty foods, which frequently occur on flights since the air is dryer (pro tip: drink lots of water). Also, avoid oily foods that upset your stomach on a frequent basis.

5. Use the Air Vents to Your Advantage

When you’re experiencing motion sickness in a tight place, such as an aircraft seat, direct airflow might make all the difference. In times of nausea or distress, look to the air vent above your seat for some relief.

6. Try Acupressure techniques

A study published in the Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine journal in 1995 found that using acupressure on oneself can help you avoid motion sickness.

What exactly is acupressure? Stimulating various pressure spots on your body in order to improve the flow of energy throughout your body.

Use your thumb to push into your wrist around two inches down from the crease of your wrist if you’re experiencing motion sickness. Hold it for a few minutes at different pressures to see what works best for you.

7. Drink Ginger Ale

Ginger is beneficial to the digestive system. Request a can of ginger ale when the beverage cart arrives at the cabin.

You don’t want any air bubbles to add to your stomach discomfort, so avoid taking large gulps. Hard ginger candies might also help an upset stomach.

8. Try to relax

Anxiety and stress increase motion sickness and extend its duration. Consider learning meditation or deep-breathing exercises to help you calm before and throughout your flight if you have a phobia of flying.

If you’ve never flown before, speak with someone who has so you can understand the typical sounds and movements of an aeroplane and not be frightened when you hear them for the first time.

Most importantly, especially if you are travelling for pleasure, anticipate your destination and have a cheerful attitude that everything will work out.


FAQs About How to Avoid Motion Sickness on airplanes

Why do I get dizzy on planes?

Dehydration, irregular heartbeat, low blood sugar, hyperventilation, a sudden drop in blood pressure, standing up, and, of course, drinking alcohol are all causes of fainting

Can you fly if you feel dizzy?

Flying with vertigo is possible, depending on the severity of the sickness. It can make you feel uneasy and unstable, but there are ways to alleviate the discomfort. Make sure to arrive early at the airport so you have plenty of time to rest before your trip.

How long does plane sickness last?

After stopping the motion, the symptoms of motion sickness normally disappear after 4 hours. In terms of the future, most people do not outgrow motion sickness. In adults, it can sometimes become less severe.

Can I bring Dramamine on a plane?

You must take Dramamine prior to flying; therefore, take it before checking in at the airport and place it in your checked baggage. During the flight, you won’t need it.

How do flight attendants avoid motion sickness?

Dramamine, scopolamine skin patch, and Benadryl are some of the most effective medications. They work best if taken a few hours before the flight, so if you know you’re prone to motion sickness, prepare ahead of time.

Why do I get motion sickness on planes?

When your inner ear detects movement that your eyes aren’t picking up on, you’ll have this problem. This also works in reverse: if your eyes detect movement that your body misses, such as when viewing a particularly bumpy movie scene, you can get motion sick without moving.


Tell Us In The Comments As Per You How to Avoid Motion Sickness on airplanes?

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He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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