Motion sickness on the road is a more common problem than you'd think in a motorhome, especially for children, pets and anyone travelling as a passenger or in the living area. It can ruin a journey and put a dampener on the trip. The good news is it can be prevented with simple tricks. Here's why it happens and how to avoid it. (If it's a serious or recurring problem, check with your doctor.)
Why you get travel sick
Motion sickness happens because of a "mismatch" between what your eyes see and what your inner ear (your sense of balance) feels: for example, if you're reading and your eyes say "I'm still" but your body senses the vehicle moving. In a motorhome, sitting in the rear or side-facing area, bends and the sway of a tall vehicle make it worse.
Tricks to avoid it
- Look at the horizon: fix your eyes on a distant point ahead; it helps "realign" your balance.
- Don't read or look at screens while moving if you feel sick; it's the biggest trigger.
- Fresh air and ventilation: open a window; a stuffy atmosphere or heat make it worse.
- Smooth driving: no harsh acceleration, braking or sharp bends; the driver has a big influence.
- Not on an empty or a very full stomach; avoid heavy, fatty meals before winding routes.
- Frequent breaks to get some air.
In children
Children get travel sick often. Seat them where they can see well out the front, avoid letting them use screens while moving, ventilate, take breaks and keep bags and a change of clothes handy just in case. If it's very recurrent, ask a paediatrician (there are options, but they should recommend them).
In pets
Dogs and cats get travel sick too (drooling, restlessness, vomiting). Get them used to short trips first, travel with them lightly fasted, ventilate, and check with your vet if it's severe (see your dog's first aid kit).
In short
Motion sickness on the road is caused by the mismatch between sight and balance, and is prevented by looking at the horizon, ventilating, not reading while moving and driving smoothly. The step to take today: if someone feels sick, have them look ahead at the horizon, open windows to ventilate and drive gently; with children and pets, ease them into it gradually and take breaks. Pair it with the guide on travelling with children.