Preventing Car Sickness: 9 Tips and Tricks to Keep You Rolling

Remember that scene in Mr. Bean’s Holiday? Mr. Bean drives all night to reach the beautiful French Riviera. He’s on a clock and doesn’t want to stop, and with his eyes half-closed, he ends up propping them open with toothpicks. 😂

Yeah, it’s funny, but if you’ve been there, you know the struggle is real. While his issue was mostly exhaustion, it wasn’t far from car sickness. 

Sometimes you set off on a long journey, excited for an adventure, only to end up feeling dizzy, nauseous, and wishing you could teleport instead. 

That, my friend, is called car sickness. But what is it exactly?

Understanding Car Sickness

Car sickness, also known as motion sickness, happens when your brain gets confused. Your inner ears feel the motion of the car, but your eyes don’t see the same thing if you’re reading or looking at your phone. This mismatch can lead to nausea, dizziness, and, let’s face it, a bad mood. 

Quick fact: Car sickness is common among young folks, especially when scrolling through their phones while cruising. So, if you’re one of those who can’t resist the allure of TikTok while on the road, listen up!

1. Choose the Right Seat

Where you sit in the car can make a world of difference. If you’re prone to car sickness, the best spot is the front passenger seat. You get a good view of the road, and the fresh air can work wonders. 

If you’re stuck in the back, try to sit in the middle seat. It tends to be more stable and gives you a better view of the horizon.

2. Keep Your Eyes on the Horizon

When you feel a little dizzy, staring at your phone or the seat in front of you might seem tempting. But guess what? That’s a one-way ticket to feeling worse. 

Instead, look straight ahead out the window and focus on the horizon. Your brain needs that visual input to help balance things out.

If you’re with friends, get them to point out fun things along the road. This will keep your eyes focused on something interesting instead of the passing dashboard.

3. Snack Smart

The right snacks can be your best friends on the road. Avoid greasy or heavy foods like fries or burgers before and during the journey. Instead, munch on light snacks like crisps or ginger candies. Ginger, in particular, is known for its anti-nausea properties.

4. Take Breaks

Long trips can be tiring, and sitting still for too long can trigger car sickness. Schedule regular breaks to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. 

Even a short stop can help you reset your body and feel more comfortable for the next leg of the journey.

5. Stay Hydrated, but Not Too Much

Hydration is key, but guzzling a gallon of water right before you hit the road is a bad idea. Drink small sips of water throughout the journey to stay hydrated without making your bladder work overtime.

6. Mind Your Breathing

Feeling queasy? Try taking deep breaths. Inhale slowly through your nose and exhale through your mouth. This can calm your nerves and help ease the nausea. 

You can even practice this technique before your trip to get in the zone.

If you’re travelling with friends, turn this into a fun group activity! Just be careful not to all breathe in sync and end up sounding like a choir.

7. Stay Cool

Heat can worsen car sickness, so keep the car well-ventilated. If it’s warm outside, crack a window or use the air conditioning. A cool breeze can help soothe your stomach. Plus, no one likes feeling like they’re trapped in an oven!

For those who are in the back seat and can’t reach the window, don’t hesitate to politely ask the driver to turn on the AC. They’re your friend, not your enemy!

8. Try Motion Sickness Bands

If you often experience car sickness, consider getting motion sickness wristbands. These nifty gadgets apply pressure to specific points on your wrist and can help reduce nausea. Plus, they look pretty cool and can be a fun conversation starter!

9. Know When to Seek Help

If car sickness is a regular issue for you, don’t hesitate to talk to a healthcare professional. They can suggest over-the-counter remedies or prescription medications that may help. It’s better to be safe than stuck in the backseat feeling like you’re on a never-ending merry-go-round.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Ride!

Car sickness doesn’t have to ruin your road trips. With these tips and tricks, you can enjoy the journey without feeling like you’re on a turbulent flight. Keep your snacks light, stay hydrated, and make sure to take breaks. Remember, the goal is to have fun and make memories with friends—without the side of nausea!Ready to hit the road? Before you do, make sure your ride is reliable. Contact Peach Cars today for a wide selection of inspected and quality vehicles or just a routine inspection. Our team is here to help ensure that your car is safe and functioning as it should – for your safety and that of your friends!