Motion Sickness Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction

Motion sickness is one of those travel challenges that almost everyone has heard of and many have personally experienced. Yet, despite how common it is, there are plenty of myths and misunderstandings surrounding what actually causes motion sickness and how to prevent it. From old wives’ tales to questionable “miracle cures,” misinformation can make managing the condition more difficult than it needs to be. Let’s set the record straight by separating fact from fiction when it comes to motion sickness.

Myth #1: Motion Sickness Is “All in Your Head”

Fiction: Some people assume motion sickness is psychological or exaggerated, but that’s far from the truth.
Fact: Motion sickness is a real, physiological response that happens when your brain receives conflicting messages from your eyes, inner ear, and body. For instance, when you’re reading a book in a moving car, your inner ear senses motion, but your eyes are focused on a stationary page. Your brain can’t reconcile these differences, triggering symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and sweating. So, if someone says it’s “all in your head,” they’re technically right—but not in the way they mean! It’s a genuine sensory conflict, not imagination.

Myth #2: Only Weak-Stomached People Get Motion Sickness

Fiction: Many people think that if you get motion sickness, you simply don’t have a “strong stomach.”
Fact: Motion sickness has nothing to do with stomach strength—it’s more about how your brain and balance system interact. Some individuals are simply more sensitive to sensory mismatches due to genetics, age, or inner ear differences. In fact, research suggests that motion sickness can be hereditary, meaning you may have inherited your sensitivity from your parents. Even astronauts—some of the most physically trained people on Earth—can experience motion sickness in space!

Myth #3: Eating Nothing Before Travel Prevents Motion Sickness

Fiction: Skipping meals might seem like a good idea to avoid nausea, but it often backfires.
Fact: Traveling on an empty stomach can actually make motion sickness worse. Low blood sugar levels can lead to dizziness and nausea on their own. Instead, it’s better to eat a light, bland meal before your trip. Foods like crackers, toast, or bananas are gentle on the stomach and help keep your energy steady. The key is moderation—avoid greasy, spicy, or heavy foods, but don’t starve yourself either.

Myth #4: Looking at Your Phone or Reading Helps Distract You

Fiction: You might think focusing on something else will take your mind off the motion, but that can make symptoms worse.
Fact: When you look at a screen or book while moving, your eyes focus on something that appears still, while your inner ear senses movement. This sensory conflict is the exact cause of motion sickness. Instead of looking down, try looking out the window or focusing on the horizon. Keeping your visual and inner ear signals aligned helps your brain make sense of the motion and reduces discomfort.

Myth #5: Fresh Air Doesn’t Make a Difference

Fiction: Some people believe fresh air is just a placebo when you’re feeling sick.
Fact: Fresh air can genuinely help ease motion sickness symptoms. It lowers stuffiness, reduces exposure to strong odors (which can worsen nausea), and can help cool you down when you’re sweating or overheated. Whether it’s cracking a car window, sitting near a boat deck, or using an air vent on a plane, a little airflow can make a big difference.

Myth #6: Only Children Get Motion Sickness

Fiction: It’s true that motion sickness is more common in kids, but adults aren’t immune.
Fact: While children between ages 2 and 12 are most susceptible, anyone can experience motion sickness at any age. Hormonal changes, stress, fatigue, or even dehydration can make adults more sensitive to motion. Some people may also develop motion sickness later in life due to inner ear changes or balance issues.

Myth #7: There’s Nothing You Can Do to Prevent It

Fiction: Many people assume motion sickness is unavoidable, but that’s not true.
Fact: There are several effective ways to prevent or reduce symptoms. Sitting in the front seat of a car, in the middle of a boat, or over the wings on a plane helps minimize movement. Focusing on the horizon, staying hydrated, and taking regular breaks can help too. Ginger tea, acupressure wristbands, and over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or scopolamine patches are also proven remedies.

Motion sickness might be common, but the myths surrounding it can make it harder to manage. It’s not just “in your head,” and it’s not a sign of weakness. Understanding the real science behind it and what truly works can help you travel more comfortably and confidently.

Next time someone tells you to “just ignore it” or “don’t eat anything,” you’ll know better. By separating fact from fiction, you can take simple, evidence-based steps to keep motion sickness under control and focus on enjoying the journey instead of dreading it.