As an experienced traveler, I have been on plenty of planes, trains and automobiles. If you could believe it, I have also suffered from motion sickness since I was a child. I don’t let my ailment stop me from exploring the world.
Motion sickness is an inner ear problem that is associated with an imbalance of what your body feels and the actual outward motion. When I was a kid, I got motion sick on long car rides. As an adult, I thought I outgrew my symptoms but unfortunately I have not. I may not get as motion sick in vehicles as I used to, but traveling by water is another hurdle to overcome.
I still remember during my trip in Fiji I had a terrible experience while visiting Cast Away island. I literally threw up breakfast on arrival to the island and lunch on return. I definitely didn’t let that uncomfortable time stop me from other water excursions and adventures. I have learned from my past experiences how to tackle motion sickness and I decided to pass on my recommendations.
Please see my tips for dealing with motion sickness below. As always, please consult your physician or healthcare professional before taking medications or over the counter supplements.
Light meals: If I know I’m going to travel on the water, I keep my meals light. I try not to eat heavy meals the night before. I try to stick to fresh fruit and vegetables for my meals. I also try to drink less alcohol before and during my water travels. No official booze cruises for me.
Hydration: I make sure I drink plenty of water before and during my travels which helps with motion sickness. I also sip on carbonated beverages if needed to help with nausea. The effervescence and bubbles tend to help settle my stomach at times. I cut down on caffeine, which can make motion sickness worse.
Direction: When traveling on the water, it can help sitting in the direction of the boat to ease motion sickness. Also keeping my eye focused on the horizon helps balance (pun intended) out the inner ear and body’s balance center.
Dramamine: This antihistamine has been known to help with vertigo and motion sickness. I try to take it at least 30 minutes before departure. This medication can also cause drowsiness so I try to go for the less drowsy version to take.
Scopolamine: This antiemetic/ anticholinergic medication comes in a patch form. I place the patch behind my ear, close to the balance center of the body. It can be applied up to 4 hours prior to departure of any water excursion and last up to 3 days in the body.