by Wendy

I’m a pretty good traveler, but slightly prone to motion sickness on planes, trains and automobiles. I don’t take any medicine for it because I really don’t know when it will strike. On a plane, it’s usually due to turbulence. I’ve only puked on a plane once, and would like to keep it that way.

There were many bumps along the way when I flew from Baltimore to Las Vegas (en route to Reno) a few weeks ago, and I did.not.feel.great.

But I did not puke. Here are a few tips I use to prevent or combat motion sickness caused by Shakes on a Plane!

Slowly breathe in for 5 counts, breathe out for 5 counts. Repeat until I feel relaxed.

If the plane starts to shake a bit, stare straight ahead and start the 5 count breathing. Politely excuse myself from any conversation I’m having with seatmates –  no looking from side to side and aggravating the dizziness. Focus on the breathing.

You may want to adjust the overhead air nozzle to feel a breeze if you’re warm. I prefer to be too cold on planes rather than too hot.

Too much sugary carbonated soda can make me feel queasy, but if I haven’t indulged yet, a cup of ginger ale can help calm my stomach. If I’ve been drinking alcohol, I usually switch to small sips of water. I have to balance staying hydrated with frequent trips to the bathroom (and avoiding the slight panic I feel when the fasten seat belt light is on but I have to go).

Reading when it gets bumpy can increase the nausea. So I might opt for Candy Crush.

I felt so tired when I got to Las Vegas, where we had brief layover before a short flight to Reno. As you might expect, Las Vegas airport was not the quietest, most relaxed airport to chill before flying again. Jack and I grabbed a bite and walked around a little. When we boarded, I decided to use my final reliable trick to get through the last leg of the journey – the music playlist. I knew I wasn’t going to do any reading or writing on this brief night flight – so I stretched out as much as I could within the confines of that narrow seat, put my earbuds in and hit shuffle. The cabin was dark and the plane a little cooler- which helped the atmosphere. I didn’t eat or drink anything – just zoned out with music. If you play songs you really like, this is a powerful tool and can help improve your mood and make the flight seem short.

Do you have any tips on avoiding motion sickness? Please share in the comments below!