Feeling Sick on Planes? Try These 6 Proven Remedies

That long flight to India can be tough for anyone, but if you’re someone who deals with travel sickness, it’s even harder. Hours in the air from the USA or another faraway country can leave you feeling drained before your trip has even begun. And for many, it doesn’t stop at flying. Trains, buses, cars, cruises, even amusement rides can all set off that same discomfort. The upside? There are easy ways to stay ahead of it. You’ll find simple, effective ways in this article to keep motion sickness in check and truly enjoy your time in India.

What Causes Motion Sickness?

Here’s what’s really happening when you get motion sick. Your brain’s getting different messages from different parts of your body. Your eyes see movement, your inner ears feel it too, but your muscles don’t move at all. So your brain gets a little confused and starts wondering, “Are we moving or not?” That confusion is what makes you feel dizzy, off-balance, or nauseous. It’s all about your brain trying to make sense of motion that your body isn’t fully experiencing.

What are the common symptoms of motion sickness?

You might experience a few or all of the following symptoms when you are motion sick.
● Light-headedness
● Nausea
● Dizziness
● Exhaustion
● Disorientation
● Cold sweats
● Irritability
● Paleness of skin
● Increased salivation

How can you avoid travel sickness while on a flight?

Air sickness is totally normal and happens to more people than you’d expect. It shows up more often in kids, pregnant women, or folks who deal with migraines, but really, it can affect anyone. The upside? It’s not dangerous, just a bit annoying. The better news? There are easy ways to keep it under control so your flight feels a whole lot smoother.

Get a Seat in the Wing Section

Choosing the right seat on a plane can ease your air sickness to some extent. Always sit on a seat in the wing section as well as the ones closer to the front of the airplane. They are comparatively more stable than the ones toward the back of the plane, where your body movement is usually higher during the flight.

Eat Light Before the Flight

Avoid two things at all costs: flying on an empty stomach and having a heavy meal before the flight. Both can worsen travel sickness, so make sure you are eating light the night before the flight and on the day of your travel. Don’t eat oily and salty food that causes stomach upset and check your calorie intake.

Also Read: Travel Tips for Senior Citizens to Enjoy a Stress-Free Vacation 

Chew Ginger or Peppermint

If your stomach starts acting up mid-air, reach for something simple like ginger or peppermint. These aren’t just old-school remedies—they actually work. A ginger or mint candy can help ease nausea and make you feel more at ease during the flight. Didn’t pack any? No problem. When the beverage cart comes around, ask the crew for a ginger ale or sparkling water. Just don’t chug it. Take small, steady sips. That slow approach helps your body settle without overloading your system. Sometimes, it’s these small habits that save your trip from turning uncomfortable.

Keep Yourself Hydrated

Flying dries you out faster than you’d think. The air inside the cabin is seriously lacking moisture, and over time, that takes a toll. You might not feel thirsty, but you could end up with dry skin, tired eyes, or a headache by the time you land. That foggy, drained feeling? Usually dehydration. So here’s the move: drink water early and often. Keep a bottle handy and sip through the flight. And maybe pass on the coffee or wine while you’re up there, since both make things worse. Small effort, big payoff when you land.

Avoid Digital Screens and Don’t Read

While one might think that reading or watching is a good distraction from motion sickness, in reality, these activities aggravate travel sickness as they involve a lot of eye movement. So say no to reading (books, magazines, newspapers, or anything) and watching movies on the digital screen while you are on a flight.

Focus Your Eyes on a Fixed Point at a Distance

Start to feel queasy? Try looking out at the horizon or focusing on a stable object far away. It helps your brain and inner ear realign by reducing conflicting signals caused by motion. This little trick helps your brain and body sync up, cutting down that uneasy feeling. It works well when you’re near a window or traveling over land or water.

Try Controlled Breathing or Relaxation Techniques

Need a quick reset? Soft music or a short meditation can help. Then breathe with intention. Inhale through your nose. Hold it calmly. Exhale through your mouth. Let your breath do the work. You’ll feel more at ease in just a few moments.

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Frequently Asked Questions 

What causes motion sickness on flights?
It’s caused by mixed signals to your brain. Your eyes and inner ears sense motion, but your body stays still. This confusion triggers nausea, dizziness, and discomfort.

Who is more likely to get air sick?
Children, pregnant women, migraine sufferers, and people with a sensitive inner ear are more prone to motion sickness. Long-haul flights and turbulence can make it worse.

What seat is best for avoiding travel sickness?
Choose a seat near the wings or toward the front of the plane. These areas experience less movement and can help reduce motion-related discomfort. 

Should I eat before the flight or skip meals?Eat a light, balanced meal before flying. Avoid flying hungry or after heavy, greasy, or spicy food to prevent stomach discomfort. 

What should I drink during the flight?
Stick to water. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you and increase symptoms of motion sickness.