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Feeling sick on a plane can be uncomfortable, but it’s more common than you might think. From motion sickness to dehydration, several factors can make you feel queasy while flying. Fortunately, there are ways to prepare, prevent symptoms and manage them if they occur.
How to Avoid Feeling Sick on a Plane (and What to Do If You Are)
IN THIS ARTICLE:
What Causes Sickness on a Plane?
Many travelers experience some degree of sickness on a plane, often caused by changes in pressure, motion or dehydration. Here are some common culprits:
Motion Sickness
Motion sickness occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from your inner ear and eyes about your body’s movement. Symptoms may include nausea, dizziness, sweating, vomiting or fatigue. Choosing a seat over the wing and keeping your eyes focused on the horizon may help reduce symptoms.
Dehydration
Cabin air has low humidity, which can cause dehydration. Symptoms include fatigue, dry mouth, headaches and dizziness. Staying hydrated before and during your flight helps prevent these effects.
Leg Pain or Circulation Issues
Long periods of sitting and cabin pressure can cause swelling or discomfort in your legs. In rare cases, this may lead to blood clots. Try to stand or stretch during longer flights to keep your circulation flowing.
Respiratory Discomfort
Low air pressure and humidity can make breathing feel slightly harder for some passengers. People with pre-existing respiratory conditions may experience shortness of breath or mild chest tightness. Always check with your doctor before flying if you have concerns.
Jet Lag
Flying across time zones can disrupt your sleep and internal clock. Jet lag may cause fatigue, nausea, mood changes or headaches. Staying hydrated and adjusting your sleep schedule before traveling can help.
Can You Get Altitude Sickness on a Plane?
Altitude sickness on a plane is uncommon because commercial aircrafts are pressurized to simulate an altitude of around 6,000 to 8,000 feet. However, some passengers may still experience symptoms similar to mild altitude effects, such as lightheadedness or fatigue, especially if dehydrated or overtired. To minimize discomfort, drink plenty of water, move around when possible, and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol.
How to Avoid Getting Motion Sickness on a Plane
While you can’t always prevent motion sickness completely, these strategies may help you stay more comfortable:
Stay Hydrated
Drink water or electrolyte-rich drinks before and during your flight. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.
Eat Light
Eat a small, non-acidic meal or snack before your flight. Bland foods like crackers, bananas or lean protein can help absorb stomach acid and reduce nausea.
Move Around
Take short walks in the cabin or stretch in your seat every hour to improve circulation and prevent leg discomfort.
Focus on the Horizon
If you start to feel queasy, avoid reading or looking at screens. Instead, look out the window or close your eyes to steady your sense of motion.
Take Deep Breaths
Slow, controlled breathing can help calm your body and ease motion-related nausea. Inhale through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth.
Chew Gum or Mints
Chewing gum or sucking on mints helps balance ear pressure and may ease nausea with gentle, repetitive motion and mint flavor.
Wear a Mask
Wearing a mask can create a physical barrier from germs and help reduce exposure to odors that may trigger nausea.
What to Do If You Feel Sick on a Plane
If you start feeling sick mid-flight, stay calm and take slow, deep breaths. Use these steps to manage symptoms:
- Alert the flight attendants. They can provide water and napkins or help you reach the restroom if needed.
- Use the airsickness bag located in the seat pocket in front of you if you feel you may vomit.
- Try anti-nausea remedies, such as sipping ginger ale, lemon water or a flat soda.
- Sit upright and tilt your head slightly toward the direction of travel to help stabilize your inner ear.
- Stay seated until you feel steady again.
If you experience vomiting or ongoing symptoms, flight attendants can designate a restroom for you or provide additional assistance.
What to Do If You Vomit on a Plane
If you vomit on a plane, discreetly inform a flight attendant so they can assist with cleanup and proper disposal of the biohazard bag. They may provide water, extra napkins or another bag in case symptoms continue.
Take deep breaths, stay seated and keep your gaze forward to help your body regain balance. Once you feel better, sip small amounts of water to stay hydrated.
Tips for Travelers Prone to Motion Sickness
If you know you’re prone to motion or altitude sickness on a plane, prepare ahead:
- Choose your seat wisely: A window seat over the wings experiences the least motion.
- Consult your doctor: Ask whether over-the-counter motion sickness medication is appropriate for you.
- Plan around turbulence: Morning flights generally have smoother air. Check weather forecasts for turbulence before booking.
- Inform the crew: Let a flight attendant know if you’re prone to motion sickness so they can check on you as needed.
The Travel Guard Approach
Even with careful planning, motion sickness or other unexpected health issues can disrupt your travel plans. A Travel Guard travel insurance plan can help protect your travel investment with Trip Interruption, Trip Delay, and Emergency Medical Expense Coverage for certain covered events.
If you get sick during travel, you’ll also have access to 24/7 emergency travel assistance, including help with medical coordination, finding care abroad, or rescheduling travel.
Feeling sick on a plane can be unsettling, but with preparation and care, most symptoms can be managed effectively. By following these tips, you can help prevent nausea and discomfort during your flight. And if your plans take an unexpected turn, Travel Guard is here to help you get back on track.
Questions?
Call us at: 800-826-5248
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