Feeling sick on a plane can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Airsickness is more common than you might think, and it can happen to anyone, whether you’re a first-time flyer or a frequent traveler. That queasy feeling, dizziness, and nausea can make even short flights feel like they’re lasting forever.
But don’t worry! You don’t have to let airsickness ruin your travel plans. I’ve put together a list of 17 easy tips to help you beat this annoying problem.
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Picking the right seat can make a big difference. Try to sit over the wing, where the plane is most stable. Avoid the back of the plane, which can be bumpier. If possible, get a window seat so you can look at the horizon. This helps your brain make sense of the movement and can reduce sickness.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water before and during your flight. Being dehydrated can make you feel worse and more likely to get sick. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these can dehydrate you. Sipping water throughout the flight can also help settle your stomach.
Eat Light
Don’t fly on an empty stomach, but don’t overeat either. Have a light meal a few hours before your flight. It’s best to stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers or bread. Avoid greasy, spicy, or heavy foods that might upset your stomach.
Use Acupressure Wristbands
Acupressure wristbands are a drug-free way to fight nausea. They work by pressing on a point on your wrist that’s linked to nausea relief. You can buy these bands at most drugstores. Many people find them helpful, even if it might just be a placebo effect.
Try Ginger
Ginger is known to help with nausea. You can try ginger ale, ginger tea, or ginger candies. Some people even take ginger supplements before flying. It’s a natural remedy that’s safe for most people and can be very effective.
Focus on a Fixed Point
Looking at something that’s not moving can help your brain adjust to the motion of the plane. Try focusing on a fixed point, like the horizon out the window. If you can’t see out, focus on something inside the plane that doesn’t move. This can help reduce dizziness and nausea.
Keep Cool
Being too warm can make nausea worse. Dress in layers so you can adjust your temperature easily. Use the air vent above your seat to keep cool air flowing. A cool, damp cloth on your forehead or neck can also help you feel better.
Distract Yourself
Keeping your mind busy can help you forget about feeling sick. Listen to music, watch a movie, or read a book. Puzzle games or crosswords can be especially good because they make your brain focus on something else. Just be careful with screens if they make you feel worse.
Practice Deep Breathing
Deep, slow breathing can help calm your nerves and settle your stomach. Try breathing in slowly through your nose for a count of four, then out through your mouth for a count of four. Repeat this several times. It can help you relax and may reduce nausea.
Use Aromatherapy
Certain smells can help with nausea. Peppermint, lavender, or ginger scents are known to help some people feel better. You can bring essential oils or scented wipes on the plane. Just be careful not to bother other passengers with strong smells.
Take Motion Sickness Medication
Over-the-counter medicines like Dramamine can help prevent airsickness. These work best if you take them before you start feeling sick. Always follow the instructions on the package. Some of these medicines can make you sleepy, which might be good for a long flight.
Avoid Screens
Looking at phones, tablets, or in-flight screens can make airsickness worse for some people. The movement on the screen can confuse your brain when you’re already in motion. If screens make you feel sick, try closing your eyes or looking at something still instead.
Recline Your Seat
If it’s allowed and doesn’t bother the person behind you, try reclining your seat a bit. This can help you feel more stable and reduce the sensation of movement. Lying back slightly can also help you relax, which can make you feel better overall.
Use a Neck Pillow
A good neck pillow can help support your head and reduce movement. This can make you feel more stable and less likely to get dizzy. It can also help you relax or sleep, which might help you forget about feeling sick.
Stay Still
Try to move around as little as possible during the flight. Too much movement can make you feel worse. If you need to use the bathroom, wait for a time when the plane isn’t moving much. When you walk, try to keep your eyes focused on a fixed point.
Talk to the Flight Attendants
Let the flight attendants know if you’re feeling sick. They deal with airsick passengers all the time and might have extra tips or supplies to help you. They can also help you find the best seat if the plane isn’t full.
Prepare for Your Next Flight
If you get airsick often, plan ahead for your next flight. Pack a “sickness kit” with things like wristbands, ginger candy, and a small fan. Choose flights on bigger planes when you can, as they tend to be more stable. The more prepared you are, the better you’ll feel.
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