How to Avoid Motion Sickness on Long Coach Journey

Motion sickness can turn a peaceful coach trip into an unpleasant experience for many travellers. Whether you’re a seasoned commuter or an occasional holidaymaker, the dizziness, nausea, or fatigue associated with motion sickness can ruin your plans before they even begin.

The good news? Motion sickness can often be prevented or managed with the right preparation and in-the-moment strategies. Read on to learn practical tips to make your long coach journeys smoother and more enjoyable.

What Causes Motion Sickness?

Motion sickness, also referred to as travel sickness, occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from your eyes, inner ears, and body. For example, while travelling on a coach, your inner ears detect movement, but if your eyes are focused on a stationary object (like a book or phone), your brain gets confused. This sensory mismatch can lead to nausea, headaches, and dizziness.

Effective Ways to Prevent Motion Sickness

1. Pick the Right Seat

One of the easiest ways to combat motion sickness is by choosing the most stable seat on the coach. Sit towards the front or in the middle, where movement is less noticeable. Ideally, face forward to align your body’s motion with your visual perception.

If you’re able to choose a window seat, this can be even better. Seeing the road ahead helps your brain process the movement visually, reducing the sensory conflict that causes motion sickness.

2. Watch Your Diet Before Travelling

What you eat and drink before a coach ride can make a difference:

• Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods before your trip, as these can upset your stomach and worsen symptoms.
• Stick to light meals like toast, crackers, or fruit if you have a sensitive stomach.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol intake as they can dehydrate you and sometimes exacerbate nausea.

Hydration is key, so sip water throughout your trip to keep your body in balance.

3. Consider Over-the-Counter Remedies

Pharmaceutical solutions can effectively prevent and treat motion sickness. Some common options include:

• Antihistamines like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine are widely recommended for motion sickness. They work by calming the inner ear signals that cause discomfort.
• Ginger supplements or ginger tablets are a natural remedy proven to ease nausea for many travellers.

Always consult your pharmacist or doctor before trying a new medication, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other prescriptions.

4. Focus on the Horizon

Looking at a fixed point, such as the horizon, can ease your symptoms. Since motion sickness often results from a mismatch between visual and inner ear signals, this simple technique ensures your eyes and body can sync with the coach’s movement.

Avoid activities that keep your gaze downward for long periods. For example:

• Reading books or using your phone can worsen symptoms, as your eyes focus on something stationary while your body moves.
• Instead, try listening to music, audiobooks, or podcasts to keep yourself occupied without straining your eyes.

5. Use Acupressure Bands

Acupressure wristbands, also known as motion sickness bands, apply gentle pressure to the P6 point on the wrist. This technique is believed to alleviate nausea related to travel sickness. Studies have shown that acupressure can provide relief for many individuals.

These bands are easy to find online or in travel stores, and they’re a great drug-free option for prevention.

6. Maximise Comfort Inside the Coach

A comfortable environment can reduce your chances of motion sickness:

• Ventilation and fresh air are essential. If possible, open the coach window slightly or ensure the air conditioning is circulating properly.
• Avoid strong smells, such as perfumes or food with powerful odours, which may trigger nausea.
• Recline your seat slightly to improve blood circulation and relaxation.

If you start feeling uncomfortable, alert the coach staff; they may be able to adjust settings or offer alternative arrangements.

7. Distract Yourself

Keeping your mind occupied can help distract you from the symptoms of motion sickness:

• Listen to your favourite playlist or a fascinating podcast.
• Engage in light conversations with your travel companions.
• Practice mindfulness or deep breathing exercises to stay calm and centred.

Distraction techniques can shift your focus away from the discomfort and make long hours on the road more tolerable.

8. Take Breaks or Fresh Air Stops

On long coach journeys, breaks are inevitable. Use these opportunities to step outside, stretch your legs, and get some fresh air. Movement can help reset your equilibrium and give your body a chance to recover.

If you’re on a coach that allows for scheduled pit stops, take full advantage of these moments to refresh your senses.

9. Plan Ahead for Better Comfort

Preparation is everything. If you’re prone to motion sickness, pack a small travel kit that includes:

• Anti-nausea medication or natural remedies (ginger tea bags or mints).
• A water bottle for staying hydrated.
• Light snacks like crackers.
• A neck pillow to encourage rest.
• Wet wipes or tissues in case of sudden sickness.

Being prepared helps you feel more in control, which can psychologically ease symptoms before they arise.

The Role of Technology in Combating Motion Sickness

Technology has made it easier to manage motion sickness during travel. For example:

• Some coaches are equipped with interactive screens or entertainment systems, allowing you to engage with the content without looking down.
• Explore apps designed for meditation or mindfulness, which can calm your nervous system.
• Virtual reality (VR) headsets, designed specifically for motion sickness relief, are gaining popularity—but you’ll need to check with your coach’s policy on electronic usage.

Natural Remedies to Consider

For those who prefer natural remedies, here are some options to try:

1. Ginger Tea/Lozenges: Ginger is a well-known natural option for calming nausea. Keep ginger lozenges or packets of ginger tea in your bag to sip on during the trip.
2. Peppermint Oil or Menthol: These scents soothe the stomach and can be inhaled directly or applied to a handkerchief.
3. Chamomile Tea: It not only calms your nerves but also reduces nausea, making it a great pre-journey drink.
4. Aromatherapy Oils: Scents such as lavender and lemon can help keep you calm and uplifted while travelling.

Natural remedies can complement other strategies and are especially useful for those avoiding medication.

When to Consult a Doctor About Motion Sickness

For most people, motion sickness is a temporary and manageable discomfort. However, if you experience severe symptoms frequently or they persist even after a coach ride, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional. You may be prescribed alternate treatment methods, including vestibular therapy or prescription medications, for more effective relief.

Say Goodbye to Motion Sickness

Motion sickness doesn’t have to ruin your long coach journeys. By planning ahead, selecting the right remedies, and using practical techniques along the way, you can enjoy travel without apprehension. Whether it’s choosing seats strategically or packing ginger tea in your travel kit, small actions can make a big difference.

Still worried about your next trip? The most reliable strategy is to try a combination of these tips to find what works best for you. With consistent practice, motion sickness can soon become a thing of the past.

If you're planning a trip across Oxford, OMC Global has got you covered. We provide luxury coach and minibus hire services across Oxford. Whether you're embarking on a long journey or a short trip, our comfortable and reliable fleet is ready to take you anywhere in the UK.