Feeling nauseous or vomiting during travel (in car, bus, train, or boat) is called motion sickness. It happens because your brain gets confusing signals from your eyes, inner ear, and body.
🔍 The Surprising Reason — Sensory Mismatch
Inside your ear, there is a balance organ called the vestibular system, which senses movement.
When you are inside a moving vehicle:
- Your inner ear feels the movement (turns, speed, bumps).
- But your eyes see the inside of the vehicle, which looks still.
This mismatch confuses the brain.
The brain thinks “something is wrong,” and triggers nausea and vomiting as a protective reaction.
Other Reasons That Make It Worse
- Long hours in a closed car or crowded bus
- Reading on the phone while travelling
- Strong smells (perfume, diesel, food)
- Anxiety or fear of travel
- Eating too heavy before a journey
4 Proven Tips to Prevent Vomiting in Vehicles
1️⃣ Look Outside at a Stable Point
Instead of looking at the phone or inside the bus, keep your eyes on:
- Road ahead
- Horizon
This aligns your brain and ears → less confusion → less nausea.
2️⃣ Sit in a Stable Position
Best places to sit:
- Front seat in a car
- Middle area in a bus
- Near the wings in an airplane
These spots have least movement, so the brain stays calm.
3️⃣ Avoid Heavy Meals, Greasy Food, or Strong Smells
Eat light before travelling:
- Fruits
- Toast
- Lemon water
Avoid oily food— they worsen nausea.
4️⃣ Use Ginger, Lemon, or a Motion-Sickness Tablet
Natural remedies:
- Ginger candy
- Ginger tea
- Lemon + black salt
- Peppermint
Medical option:
Take a motion sickness tablet (like dimenhydrinate) 30 minutes before travel.
(Only if advised by a doctor.)
