Coping with Car Sickness

Though traveling is usually a fun adventure for people of all ages, younger kids may face bouts of car sickness that can put a damper on the family trip. Unfortunately, children are more likely than adults to get car sick. Here are some tips to help your journey. 

What actually causes car/motion sickness? 

Motion is sensed in the body by the eyes, the ears, and the nervous system. When the brain gets conflicting signals from the eyes and ears, it produces a reaction that can cause motion sickness. The child’s inner ears feel the motion of the car, but their eyes, focused on a book or screen in front of them, feel as if they are still. So, the brain receives mixed signals, which can lead to nausea and vomiting.

Signs of car sickness include nausea, sleepiness, and a sudden loss of appetite. A young child may not say anything but can become pale and irritable. 

What can be done about it?

Unfortunately it’s hard to predict who will get motion sickness, or when. So it’s best to take preventive steps, especially when your child is very young:

1. If possible, have them sit next to the window and encourage them to look outside at the passing scenery. If they are in the middle seat encourage them to watch out the front window. You can play “I spy” games to keep their eyes off of a stationary object.

2. Open the windows. Be sure there is nothing odorous in the car; even air fresheners can make the nausea worse.

3. Eat healthy light foods. Unfortunately most road-side options are not ideal, so pack some healthy light snacks and water in advance. Ginger Ale is also very helpful to settle the stomach if your child does get sick.

4. Travel during sleep time. If your plan is not sight-seeing, but more about transportation to a destination, if possible, try to drive during times when your child might be sleepy. For some lucky families, the motion of the car actually induces sleep!

5. Be prepared for your child to vomit. Bring along a small bucket or plastic bag in case.  A towel, disinfecting wipes, and hand sanitizer will help with the clean up. Pull over as soon as you can safely, and try to get the child out of the car and walk around in the fresh air.

6. You can also give your child an antiemetic such as Dramamine, if they are over 2 years old. But, like any sedative, it is preferable not to use unless it is urgent. 

Like all other aspects of travel, preparation is key!