There is nothing quite like the excitement of a long road trip—until that familiar wave of nausea hits. Whether you call it car sickness, motion sickness, or travel queasiness, it can turn a dream vacation into a miserable endurance test.

If you are wondering how to stop car sickness fast, the answer lies in syncing your senses. Car sickness occurs when your brain receives conflicting signals: your inner ear feels the motion of the car, but your eyes (often fixed on a phone or book) see a stationary object.

Here is your ultimate guide to preventing and treating car sickness so you can focus on the road ahead.

1. Focus on the Horizon (The “Fastest” Fix)

When you feel the first sign of dizziness, look up. Find a stable point in the distance—like a mountain range or the horizon line—and keep your eyes fixed on it. This helps your eyes confirm the movement your body is feeling, immediately reducing the sensory conflict in your brain.

2. Move to the Front Seat

If you’re a passenger, swap the backseat for the front. The front of the car offers a wider field of vision and typically experiences less “sway” than the rear. For children who must stay in the back, the middle seat is the best option as it allows them to look through the front windshield.

3. Use Acupressure (The Drug-Free Alternative)

One of the most effective ways to manage nausea without drowsiness is by stimulating the P6 (Nei-Kuan) pressure point. This point is located on the inner wrist, about three finger-widths down from the palm.

• Acupressure Bands: Many travelers swear by specialized wristbands that maintain constant pressure on this point.

• Manual Pressure: You can also use your thumb to apply firm pressure to this spot for 2–3 minutes until the nausea subsides.

4. Ditch the Screens and Books

It’s tempting to scroll through social media or read during a long drive, but this is the #1 trigger for car sickness. If you need entertainment, switch to:

• Audiobooks or Podcasts: Keep your eyes on the road while your ears do the work.

• Music: Sing-alongs are a great distraction, especially for kids.

5. Natural Remedies: Ginger and Peppermint

Before reaching for heavy medications that cause sleepiness, try these natural alternatives:

• Ginger: Whether it’s ginger ale, ginger candy, or raw ginger, this root is clinically proven to soothe the stomach.

• Peppermint: Sniffing peppermint essential oil or chewing peppermint gum can provide a quick cooling sensation that distracts the nervous system from nausea.

6. Control the Airflow

Stuffy cars can worsen the feeling of “sopite syndrome” (travel-induced lethargy and nausea). Open a window to get fresh air circulating or direct the AC vents toward your face. The cool air helps regulate your body temperature and reduces the “closed-in” feeling that triggers vomiting.

At a Glance: Prevention vs. Quick Fixes

When to See a Doctor

While car sickness is common, frequent or severe vertigo that lasts long after the trip ends may indicate an underlying balance issue. If you experience chronic motion sickness, consult a healthcare professional about prescription options like scopolamine patches.

Ready to hit the road? Make sure your travel kit is packed with water, light snacks like crackers, and your favorite ginger chews.