How to Stop Motion Sickness in a Bus

Motion sickness is an unpleasant condition that can make bus rides miserable. Characterized by dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and overall discomfort, motion sickness is caused by mixed signals being sent to the brain during travel. While the bus is moving forward, your body remains stationary in the seat. This sensory conflict triggers an upset stomach and other unpleasant symptoms. Luckily, there are many ways to prevent or minimize motion sickness when riding the bus. By planning ahead and making use of certain remedies, you can stop motion sickness before it starts and make your bus ride much more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll go over some of the top tips for easing motion sickness when traveling by bus.

Choose Your Seat Wisely

Where you sit on the bus can have a big impact on motion sickness. For starters, avoid the rear seats if possible. The back of the bus tends to sway more than the front, which can exacerbate nausea and dizziness. Instead, try to secure a seat closer to the front of the bus near the driver. This area experiences less motion.

Also, pick a seat with a good view out the front windshield if possible. Gazing out the side windows as scenery rapidly passes by could worsen sickness. Focus your eyes on the road ahead or on a fixed point in the distance. This helps provide visual orientation and stability.

Stay Cool and Get Fresh Air

Proper ventilation and cool air can provide relief from motion sickness. Make sure your seat is near an air vent so you can position it to blow right on your face. The cool sensation can distract you from nausea. Crack your window for fresh air if weather permits or simply position yourself closer to the bus entrance where outside air circulates.

Avoid Triggers

Some common triggers can exacerbate motion sickness on a bus. Try to avoid reading books or looking at screens during the ride, as focusing on something inside the moving bus adds sensory conflict. Wait until you’re at rest stops to read or text.

You may also want to avoid working on laptops or mobile devices, as the glare from the screens could strain your eyes. Pack some old-fashioned entertainment like crossword puzzles, word searches or sketch pads. This gives you something to focus on without glare or overstimulation.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can worsen motion sickness, so drink plenty of water before and during your bus ride. Avoid drinking alcohol, which can also contribute to nausea. Sip water slowly rather than gulping large amounts. If plain water doesn’t appeal, try sucking on ice chips or popsicles. The cooler temperature is refreshing, providing a source of hydration that also helps minimize nausea.

Wear Acupressure Bands

Acupressure bands worn on the wrists apply gentle pressure to the Nei Kuan acupressure point. This point controls nausea and vomiting. The bands help restore balance between the left and right sides of the body, easing motion sickness. They are drug-free and work best when applied before symptoms start.

Take Ginger

Ginger has natural anti-nausea properties and has been used for centuries to relieve motion sickness. Consuming real ginger can help, whether in the form of ginger tea, ginger ale, ginger candies or ginger supplements. The easiest option may be sipping Canada Dry or another ginger ale that contains real ginger extract.

Try Medications

Over-the-counter or prescription medications are effective options for preventing motion sickness. Antihistamine medications like Dramamine are commonly used. Scopolamine patches work well, too. Ask your doctor which nausea medication may be best for you.

Take motion sickness pills about 30 minutes before departure so they have time to take effect before the bus starts moving. Follow dosage instructions carefully. Drowsiness is a common side effect with some medications.

Focus on the Horizon

As mentioned before, visual cues play a big role in motion sickness. When possible, focus your gaze on the horizon or other fixed objects in the distance. Avoid looking down at books or devices in your lap or gazing out the side windows at quickly passing scenery. Keeping eyes focused ahead provides stability and minimizes sensory conflict.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Anxiety and nervousness can contribute to nausea and vomiting. Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation or imagery to stay calm. Deep breathing in particular helps maintain balance and distracts from queasiness.

Avoid Strong Odors

Bad smells can trigger nausea when you're already not feeling well. Avoid strong-smelling foods, drinks, gum or cosmetics. Ask those around you to refrain from items with strong odors too. The scent of perfume or heavily scented lotion could cause distress if you're prone to motion sickness.

You’re Now Ready To Ride With Busrental.net!

With the right preparation and prevention methods, motion sickness doesn't have to ruin your experience on the bus. Experiment with different remedies to see what provides the best relief for you personally. Pay attention to triggers and make adjustments to your seat position, focal point and sources of ventilation. Finally, maintain realistic expectations - some queasiness may still occur during lengthy trips. But you can minimize discomfort and make bus travel more pleasant with the proper motion sickness relief aids.

At Busrental.net, your comfort and safety are our top priorities. Our modern buses are equipped with amenities to make your ride as smooth and enjoyable as possible. We hope these tips help you stop motion sickness in its tracks! For questions or to book your next bus trip, call 877-200-4461!