How to stop car sickness in back seat?

Backseat Blues Be Gone: Conquering Car Sickness in the Rear

Car sickness. That queasy feeling, the cold sweat, and the desperate urge to pull over – it’s a travel companion no one wants. And for those relegated to the back seat, the likelihood of experiencing this unpleasant phenomenon can skyrocket. But fear not, backseat passengers! With a few strategic adjustments and preventative measures, you can transform your back-seat misery into a more comfortable and enjoyable ride.

One of the primary culprits behind car sickness is the discrepancy between what your eyes see and what your inner ear perceives. Your inner ear senses motion, but if you’re looking at a fixed point inside the car, like a phone or book, your eyes tell your brain you’re still. This mismatch causes confusion, leading to nausea.

So, how do you bridge this sensory gap in the back seat?

1. The Prime Real Estate: Centering Yourself

The middle seat in the back, facing forward, is arguably the best position. Why? Because it offers the widest view of the road ahead. This aligns your vision with the actual movement of the car, reducing the sensory conflict. You’ll see the turns, the hills, and the braking, allowing your brain to process the motion more effectively.

2. Focus on the Horizon: Visual Anchors

Avoid looking at nearby objects whizzing by. Instead, actively focus on distant objects like trees, buildings, or the horizon. This provides a visual anchor and helps synchronize your visual input with your inner ear’s perception of movement.

3. Fresh Air is Your Friend:

Crack a window, even if just a little. The flow of fresh air can significantly alleviate nausea. The coolness and the change in sensory input can disrupt the onset of car sickness.

4. Distraction Done Right: Engage Your Mind (Strategically)

While reading or using electronic devices can worsen car sickness, engaging in conversations, listening to audiobooks (with your eyes closed, if necessary), or playing car-friendly games can help distract you from the motion and reduce anxiety, a known trigger for nausea.

5. Preemptive Planning: Before You Hit the Road

• Light Meals & Hydration: Avoid heavy, greasy foods before and during the trip. Opt for light, easily digestible snacks like crackers or plain toast. Staying hydrated is also crucial.
• Ginger Power: Ginger has been proven to ease nausea. Consider ginger candies, ginger ale, or ginger supplements before and during your journey.
• Motion Sickness Medication: Over-the-counter options like Dramamine or Bonine can be effective, but consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using them, especially for children.
• Aromatic Allies: The scent of peppermint or lavender can sometimes help calm the stomach. Consider using essential oils or carrying peppermint candies.

Beyond the Car: Adapting the Strategies

While these tips are primarily aimed at car travel, the underlying principle of aligning visual and inner ear perception applies to other modes of transportation:

• Buses: Secure a seat near the front of the bus for a clearer view.
• Airplanes: Choose a seat above the wings, ideally towards the front edge. This area experiences less turbulence. Utilize the individual air vent to keep your face cool.

The Takeaway:

Car sickness in the back seat doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of your journey. By understanding the underlying causes and implementing these proactive strategies, you can significantly reduce your chances of experiencing that dreaded nausea and finally enjoy the ride. So, center yourself, focus on the horizon, breathe in the fresh air, and prepare to conquer those backseat blues!