are travel sickness tablets good for anxiety

Can Travel Sickness Tablets Help With Anxiety?

March 20th, 2024 | Motion Sickness

Finding Help When You Know You Will Be Anxious

As individuals, we always want to have a comfortable trip and a journey full of thrilling experiences. But what happens when trouble like motion sickness and anxiety show up ? Many people tried to help themselves with travel sickness tablets to combat anxiety. Whether this worked for them and if it’s even okay to try it remains to be seen.

Are you wondering whether motion sickness relief tablets have any side effects, or are they beneficial in fighting travel anxiety? Let’s walk the road to finding the answer to this together. Let’s discuss what travel sickness tablets are, the common ingredients, their effects, and their connection to anxiety relief.

How do travel sickness tablets work?

Antiemetics, also known as travel sickness tablets, are famous for relieving queasiness, nausea, and vomiting. They work by targeting our brain’s receptors that are associated with motion and balance, which further reduce the signals that trigger feelings of nausea and sickness. Additionally, they block our body’s receptors for motion response. That is why you should be careful about the side effects when trying some of them because their primary purpose is to relieve the symptoms of sickness and dizziness.

Now that we’ve discussed how they work, let’s head over to the common ingredients used in motion sickness relief tablets.

Common ingredients

Travel sickness tablets usually have some of the following ingredients: dimenhydrinate, meclizine, and cinnarizine. Here’s what you should be aware of if you decide to take them. Additionally, there’s one natural way that might help you.

• Dimenhydrinate: works by blocking histamine receptors, which reduces nausea signals. Possible side effects can be blurred vision or constipation, and sometimes drowsiness and dry mouth.
• Meclizine: it has less sedation compared to others, but still helps treat motion sickness. You can experience headaches and dry mouth as side effects.
• Cinnarizine: it is very effective in preventing motion sickness symptoms and also improves blood flow. Possible side effects are weight gain or gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Natural remedy: ginger is a natural plant that helps against motion sickness and a queasy stomach. It has been used for decades as a go-to fix when feeling nauseous or when your stomach is upset. Some have reported that they even help to relieve travel anxiety! If you’re looking for a natural product for your nausea, our ginger drops are all-natural and drug-free with proven effects.

The connection between sickness tablets and anxiety

There’s evidence that the tablets primarily used to relieve sickness can also help alleviate travel anxiety. This is because some of them contain sedative properties that contribute to their calming effect on the stomach, as well as your body and mind.

Moreover, these tablets can affect the central nervous system, and when ingested, the tablets calm and alleviate anxiety. There’s also the possibility the motion sickness tablets for anxiety will also affect your brain and give you a calming feel.

Whether travel sickness tablets help anxiety remain specific for every individual. We should all explore until we find what works best for each of us. If you want to know more, head over to our blog for more interesting articles and browse through our online shop to discover which one of our products works best for you.

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Motion Sickness Travel Sickness

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Motion sickness (travel sickness) is common, especially in children. It is caused by repeated unusual movements during travelling, which send strong (sometimes confusing) signals to the balance and position sensors in the brain.

Motion Sickness

Travel sickness, in this article, what causes motion sickness, how long does motion sickness last, motion sickness symptoms, how to stop motion sickness, natural treatments for motion sickness, motion sickness medicines, what can a doctor prescribe for motion sickness.

• What should I do if I'm actually sick?

What is mal de debarquement syndrome?

Motion sickness is a normal response to repeated movements, such as going over bumps or around in a circle, send lots of messages to your brain. If you are inside a vehicle, particularly if you are focused on things that are inside the vehicle with you then the signals that your eyes send to the brain may tell it that your position is not changing, whilst your balance mechanisms say otherwise.

Your balance mechanisms in your inner ears sense different signals to those that your eyes are seeing which then sends your brain mixed, confusing messages. This confusion between messages then causes people to experience motion sickness.

Is motion sickness normal?

Motion sickness is a normal response that anyone can have when experiencing real or perceived motion. Although all people can develop motion sickness if exposed to sufficiently intense motion, some people are rarely affected while other people are more susceptible and have to deal with motion sickness very often.

Triggers for motion sickness

Motion sickness can also be triggered by anxiety or strong smells, such as food or petrol. Sometimes trying to read a book or a map can trigger motion sickness. Both in children and adults, playing computer games can sometimes cause motion sickness to occur.

Motion sickness is more common in children and also in women. Fortunately, many children grow out of having motion sickness. It is not known why some people develop motion sickness more than others. Symptoms can develop in cars, trains, planes and boats and on amusement park rides, etc.

Symptoms typically go when the journey is over; however, not always. In some people they last a few hours, or even days, after the journey ends.

There are various symptoms of motion sickness including::

• Feeling sick (nausea and vomiting).
• Sweating and cold sweats.
• Increase in saliva.
• Headaches .
• Feeling cold and going pale.
• Feeling weak.

Some general tips to avoid motion sickness include the following.

Prepare for your journey

• Don't eat a heavy meal before travelling. Light, carbohydrate-based food like cereals an hour or two before you travel is best.
• On long journeys, try breaking the journey to have some fresh air, drink some cold water and, if possible, take a short walk.

For more in-depth advice on travelling generally, see the separate leaflets called Health Advice for Travel Abroad , Travelling to Remote Locations , Ears and Flying (Aeroplane Ear) , Jet Lag and Altitude Sickness .

Plan where you sit

• Keep motion to a minimum. For example, sit in the front seat of a car, over the wing of a plane, or on deck in the middle of a boat.
• On a boat, stay on deck and avoid the cafeteria or sitting where your can smell the engines.

Breathe fresh air

• Breathe fresh air if possible. For example, open a car window.
• Avoid strong smells, particularly petrol and diesel fumes. This may mean closing the window and turning on the air conditioning, or avoiding the engine area in a boat.

Use your eyes and ears differently

• Close your eyes (and keep them closed for the whole journey). This reduces 'positional' signals from your eyes to your brain and reduces the confusion.
• Don't try to read.
• Try listening to an audio book with your eyes closed. There is some evidence that distracting your brain with audio signals can reduce your sensitivity to the motion signals.
• Try to sleep - this works mainly because your eyes are closed, but it is possible that your brain is able to ignore some motion signals when you are asleep.
• Do not read or watch a film.
• It is advisable not to watch moving objects such as waves or other cars. Don't look at things your brain expects to stay still, like a book inside the car. Instead, look ahead, a little above the horizon, at a fixed place.
• If you are the driver you are less likely to feel motion sickness. This is probably because you are constantly focused on the road ahead and attuned to the movements that you expect the vehicle to make. If you are not, or can't be, the driver, sitting in the front and watching what the driver is watching can be helpful.

Treat your tummy gently

• Avoid heavy meals and do not drink alcohol before and during travelling. It may also be worth avoiding spicy or fatty food.
• Try to 'tame your tummy' with sips of a cold water or a sweet, fizzy drink. Cola or ginger ale are recommended.

Try alternative treatments

• Sea-Bands® are acupressure bands that you wear on your wrists to put pressure on acupressure points that Chinese medicine suggests affects motion sickness. Some people find that they are effective.
• Homeopathic medicines seem to help some people, and will not make you drowsy. The usual homeopathic remedy is called 'nux vom'. Follow the instructions on the packet.

Off on holiday?

Make sure you get your immunisations ahead of travelling abroad. Speak to a local pharmacist today

All the techniques above which aim to prevent motion sickness will also help reduce it once it has begun. Other techniques, which are useful on their own to treat motion sickness but can also be used with medicines if required, are:

• Breathe deeply and slowly and, while focusing on your breathing, listening to music. This has been proved to be effective in clinical trials.
• Ginger - can improve motion sickness in some people (as a biscuit or sweet, or in a drink).

There are several motion sickness medicines available which can reduce, or prevent, symptoms of motion sickness. You can buy them from pharmacies or, in some cases, get them on prescription. They work by interfering with the nerve signals described above.

Medicines are best taken before the journey. They may still help even if you take them after symptoms have begun, although once you feel sick you won't absorb medicines from the stomach very well. So, at this point, tablets that you put against your gums, or skin patches, are more likely to be effective.

Hyoscine is usually the most effective medicine for motion sickness . It is also known as scopolamine. It works by preventing the confusing nerve messages going to your brain.

There are several brands of medicines which contain hyoscine - they also come in a soluble form for children. You should take a dose 30-60 minutes before a journey; the effect can last up to 72 hours. Hyoscine comes as a patch for people aged 10 years or over. (This is only available on prescription - see below.) Side-effects of hyoscine include dry mouth , drowsiness and blurred vision.

Side-effects of motion sickness medicines

Some medicines used for motion sickness may cause drowsiness. Some people are extremely sensitive to this and may find that they are so drowsy that they can't function properly at all. For others the effects may be milder but can still impair your reactions and alertness. It is therefore advisable not to drive and not to operate heavy machinery if you have taken them. In addition, some medicines may interfere with alcohol or other medication; your doctor or the pharmacist can advise you about this.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines can also be useful , although they are not quite as effective as hyoscine. However, they usually cause fewer side-effects. Several types of antihistamine are sold for motion sickness. All can cause drowsiness, although some are more prone to cause it than others; for example, promethazine , which may be of use for young children on long journeys, particularly tends to cause drowsiness. Older children or adults may prefer one that is less likely to cause drowsiness - for example, cinnarizine or cyclizine.

Remember, if you give children medicines which cause drowsiness they can sometimes be irritable when the medicines wear off.

See the separate article called How to manage motion sickness .

There are a number of anti-sickness medicines which can only be prescribed by your doctor. Not all of them always work well for motion sickness, and finding something that works may be a case of trial and error. All of them work best taken up to an hour before your journey, and work less well if used when you already feel sick. See also the separate leaflet called Nausea (Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment) for more detailed information about these medicines .

Hyoscine patch

Hyoscine, or scopolamine, patches are suitable for adults and for children over 10 years old. The medicine is absorbed through your skin, although this method of medicine delivery is slow so the patch works best if applied well before your journey.

You should stick the patch on to the skin behind the ear 5-6 hours before travelling (often this will mean late on the previous night) and remove it at the end of the journey.

Prochlorperazine

Prochlorperazine is a prescription-only medicine which works by changing the actions of the chemicals that control the tendency to be sick (vomit), in your brain. One form of prochlorperazine is Buccastem®, which is absorbed through your gums and does not need to be swallowed. Buccastem® tastes rather bitter but it can be effective for sickness when you are already feeling sick, as it doesn't have to be absorbed by the stomach.

Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide is a tablet used to speed up the emptying of your tummy. Slow emptying of the tummy is something that happens when you develop nausea and vomiting, so metoclopramide can help prevent this. It prevents nausea and vomiting quite effectively in some people. It can occasionally have unpleasant side-effects, particularly in children (in whom it is not recommended). Metoclopramide is often helpful for those who tend to have gastric reflux, those who have slow tummy emptying because of previous surgery, and those who have type 1 diabetes. Your GP will advise whether metoclopramide is suitable for you.

Domperidone

Domperidone , like metoclopramide, is sometimes used for sickness caused by slow tummy emptying. It is not usually recommended for motion sickness but is occasionally used if other treatments don't help. Domperidone is not a legal medicine in some countries, including the USA.

Ondansetron

Ondansetron is a powerful antisickness medicine which is most commonly used for sickness caused by chemotherapy, and occasionally used for morning sickness in pregnancy. It is not usually effective for motion sickness. This, and its relatively high cost means that it is not prescribed for motion sickness alone. However, for those undergoing chemotherapy, and for those who have morning sickness aggravated by travel, ondansetron may be helpful.

What should I do if I'm actually sick?

If you're actually sick you may find that this relieves your symptoms a little, although not always for very long. If you've been sick:

• Try a cool flannel on your forehead, try to get fresh air on your face and do your best to find a way to rinse your mouth to get rid of the taste.
• Don't drink anything for ten to twenty minutes (or it may come straight back), although (very) tiny sips of very cold water, coke or ginger ale may help.
• After this, go back to taking all the prevention measures above.
• Once you reach your destination you may continue to feel unwell. Sleep if you can, sip cold iced water, and - when you feel ready - try some small carbohydrate snacks. Avoid watching TV (more moving objects to watch!) until you feel a little better.

The sensation called 'mal de debarquement' (French for sickness on disembarking) refers to the sensation you sometimes get after travel on a boat, train or plane, when you feel for a while as though the ground is rocking beneath your feet. It is probably caused by the overstimulation of the balance organs during your journey. It usually lasts only an hour or two, but in some people it can last for several days, particularly after a long sea journey. It does not usually require any treatment.

Persistent mal de debarquement syndrome is an uncommon condition in which these symptoms may persist for months or years.

Dr Mary Lowth is an author or the original author of this leaflet.

Altitude Sickness

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Further reading and references

Leung AK, Hon KL ; Motion sickness: an overview. Drugs Context. 2019 Dec 138:2019-9-4. doi: 10.7573/dic.2019-9-4. eCollection 2019.

Spinks A, Wasiak J ; Scopolamine (hyoscine) for preventing and treating motion sickness. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011 Jun 15(6):CD002851.

Zhang LL, Wang JQ, Qi RR, et al ; Motion Sickness: Current Knowledge and Recent Advance. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2016 Jan22(1):15-24. doi: 10.1111/cns.12468. Epub 2015 Oct 9.

Lackner JR ; Motion sickness: more than nausea and vomiting. Exp Brain Res. 2014 Aug232(8):2493-510. doi: 10.1007/s00221-014-4008-8. Epub 2014 Jun 25.

Van Ombergen A, Van Rompaey V, Maes LK, et al ; Mal de debarquement syndrome: a systematic review. J Neurol. 2016 May263(5):843-854. doi: 10.1007/s00415-015-7962-6. Epub 2015 Nov 11.

Related Information

• Hyoscine for travel sickness (Joy Rides, Kwells, Scopoderm)
• Scopolamine skin patch for nausea (Transderm Scop)
• Nausea Medicine
• Cyclizine for sickness (nausea)
• Promethazine (Avomine, Phenergan, Sominex)

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How to manage motion sickness

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For about the past 2 years I have suffered from a sudden feeling of visual imbalance or cross-eyed sensation (although not actually cross-eyed)! This in turn causes a type of vertigo involving loss... katewarn39

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Egton Medical Information Systems Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions .

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The 11 Best Products for Flight Anxiety of 2024, According to a Mental Health Professional

Shop weighted blankets, supplements, and other items to tackle in-flight anxiety.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

Tips for Dealing with Flight Anxiety

• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Kevin Liang

Nervous flier? It’s perfectly normal to get a bit anxious, even in the friendly skies. But to help you combat it, we spoke to Jules Jean-Pierre, a licensed marriage and family therapist at telehealth company Grow Therapy, to find out the best products for reducing and relieving in-air nerves. From a therapist standpoint, Jean-Pierre says that the first step is to acknowledge that you have flight anxiety, and then decide to do something constructive about it.

Not all reasons behind flight anxiety stem from the same triggers, and Jean-Pierre recognizes that no one solution will be a catch-all. So, we’ve used her expert suggestions to round up the best travel products to help stall flight anxiety before and during a flight, whether it’s the state-of-the-art Bose Noise-canceling Headphones 700, a portable Bearaby weighted travel blanket, or the Sunday Scaries’ fast-acting CBD tincture we stand by. Want more? We’ve also got the best picks for meditation apps, essential oils, and more. 

Best Travel Pillow

Cabeau evolution classic travel pillow.

It’s made of comfy memory foam and has a washable cover.  

It doesn’t come with a carrying case. 

Ah, memory foam: soft, yet sturdy and supportive. The Cabeau Evolution Class Travel Pillow is one of our favorite choices we tested as it's made from 100 percent memory foam and provides near-360-degree support, even if you bob your head while asleep. There’s even a built-in slip pocket to stash small items like those easy-to-lose wireless earbuds. 

The pillow can be adjusted via plastic drawstring clasps under the chin. Covers are made from a soft, non-abrasive material that are ideal for sensitive skin (though not makeup-resistant). We love that it comes with a removable and washable cover — which is key after being on a plane — and is compact enough to store inside most carry-on luggage.

Best Travel Weighted Blanket

Bearaby travel napper.

Courtesy of Bearaby

It’s made from organic cotton and comes with its own duffel. 

You’ll have to carry around 10 pounds of extra weight on your travels.

If you’re the type of person who responds strongly to tactile experiences, Jean-Pierre says a weighted blanket may be able to ground you when you feel anxious. The Bearaby Travel Napper measures 40 inches by 64 inches, and we love that it already comes with its own duffel. This blanket has 10 pounds of comforting snugness, but just remember you’ll have to carry that extra weight with you to and from the plane.

Best Meditation App

It features several ways to find your calm from guided meditations to breathing exercises. 

You’ll need a subscription for access to everything. 

There are heaps of meditation apps out there, but we’re big fans of Calm since it has the most variety. Jean-Pierre points out that we’re all unique — and a type of meditation that works for some may not work for others. Calm offers guided meditation, soundscapes (like nature noises or types of ambient noise), breathing exercises, music, spoken word, story-telling, and guided movement exercises, so there’s a lot of room to find what works for you — and to switch it up when you need. Pro tip: If you do the free trial, you’ll still have access to all the programs you tried once your trial is up, but the rest can only be unlocked with a subscription.

Best Essential Oil

Doterra lavender touch essential oil roll-on.

It can be inhaled or applied topically. 

The people around you may not like the smell. 

For some travelers, essential oils are must-haves for a variety of purposes including sleep, energy, and even anxiety. Lavender essential oil is often used by people looking to relax, and this doTerra Lavender Touch Roll-on makes for an ideal travel companion. The 10-milliliter volume is well within TSA liquid limits, and the slim profile (about the size of a Chapstick) makes it easy to toss in your purse or pocket for easy access. We love that this essential oil doesn’t need to be diluted before rolling on, and that it can be used as aromatherapy or applied directly on the skin. However, before using essential oil in a tight space, it’s worth considering, or asking, your fellow passengers within sniffing distance if they mind.

Best Calming Gummies

Wild & organic calm and mood support gummies.

There’s a good combination of herbal supplements that work against anxiety.

Some ingredients may interact with certain medications.  

These anti-anxiety gummies pack a potent combination when it comes to natural de-stressing herbs. You’ll get the sweet calming action of Ashwagandha, St. John’s wort, lemon balm, thyme, holy basil, magnesium, and rhodiola in each serving — all used frequently to combat anxiety and stress and increase mood. It’s worth noting that some of the herbal ingredients in these gummies (like St. John’s wort) should not be ingested regularly if you’re taking certain medications (like anti-depressants). Check all ingredients against any current medications before tossing these in your chomper. And, for those following certain diets, note that these gummies are vegan, but not gluten-free.

Best Noise-canceling Headphones

Bose noise cancelling headphones.

They’re comfy and cord-free — plus, a fully-charged battery will last throughout most long-haul flights. 

These top-notch headphones are an investment and may not be comfortable for sleep.  

Sometimes a sensory escape from your surroundings can help ease anxiety or control triggers. Jean-Pierre says some nervous fliers may benefit from using noise-canceling headphones to “ease any tension from noise on the plane,” which can be distracting or triggering. Bose has long been at the top of the sound game, and it turns out the brand is also great at blocking it out entirely. Even without any sound playing, we loved these headphones for canceling out plane noise entirely.

These comfy, noise-canceling headphones plop right over your ears and are Bluetooth-enabled. You’ll get 20 hours of continuous playback off a single full charge (great for long-haul flights), and sleek button controls on each ear cuff give you a convenient hands-free experience. The price is high, but consider these an investment that you can use on and off the plane.

Best Attention Diversion

Magtimes rainbow fidget spinner.

It’s inexpensive and can work for kids. 

It generates a slight hum that may be annoying for neighbors. 

Fidget spinners were all the rage when they came out in the 2010s, but they’re actually great at keeping your hands and mind busy. The required repetitive motion and motor coordination are ideal for diverting anxious attention, and may work to distract some mildly nervous flyers. The Magtimes Rainbow Anti-anxiety Fidget Spinner is lightweight, colorful, and easy to pop into your purse, pocket, or carry-on for easy access during a flight. Just keep in mind that there's a slight whirring noise that may bother anyone sitting right next to you.

Best Tincture

Sunday scaries cbd oil.

Sunday Scaries

You can add it to your beverage or drop it under your tongue.

A little goes a long way, so be careful not to overdo it.

CBD has risen in popularity and acceptance over the last decade or so as an answer to anxiety. We like the Sunday Scaries fast absorbing CBD oil tincture because it’s also infused with stress-reducing vitamins B3 and D3 and comes in a convenient, one-ounce bottle that falls within the TSA carry-on liquid allowance. Each dose (about a third of a dropper full) contains approximately 15 milligrams of full-spectrum CBD derived from hemp, not marijuana, so you won’t get into any sticky situations at security. Just a quick few drops under your tongue or a sneaky pinch into a beverage and it gets to work. This is strong stuff so don’t play the hero; do a few trial runs before a flight to get your dosage right.

Best Tech Device

Calmi calmigo.

It combines three proven anti-stress methods, all drug-free. 

Using the device is not as discreet as other options. 

The Calmigo exhaling device combines breathing, sensory grounding techniques, and essential oil aromatherapy to battle your flight anxiety as it is happening. Unlike most of the picks on the list which work in advance to prevent nervousness and panic, you can reach for the device for immediate relief when you feel it creeping in. 

Calmigo works by guiding your breathing to help relax your nervous system, by providing a lighted visual focus point for distraction, and by using essential oil scents such as lavender or peppermint. Not sure if you believe the hype? There’s a 30-day money-back guarantee. But keep in mind that whipping this out on a flight may draw some attention.

Best Earplugs

Loop quiet earplugs.

Loop Earplugs

They are reusable and come in four sizes for a better personalized fit. 

These are earplugs, not earbuds. 

These little earplugs have a 27 decibel rating, and popping them in when things start feeling overwhelming can help you to blissfully dissolve into your own onboard bubble. If you’re tempted to buy a bottle of those standard foam earplugs, know that they aren’t as comfortable or eco-friendly. 

Loop Quiet earplugs are made from silicone, have an ergonomic shape for a more comfy fit, and are reusable. You’ll get four different silicone tips ranging from extra-small to large, so you can find the best fit for your ears. The comfortable design doesn’t stick out of your ear but there’s an added loop to grab onto that makes them easier to take out (and harder to misplace). Just remember that these are earplugs, not earbuds, so don’t expect them to connect to any audio devices.

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

It easily pairs with the "Find My" app for quick instillation.

We wish the alarm was a bit louder.

With less than a 15-second installation time, the Eufy SmartTrack luggage tracker is our favorite choice for travelers. We didn't even need to read the instructions to set up as it was so intuitive — without any frills or additional apps. Throughout our six months of tests, we found the tracker to be incredibly accurate on both domestic and international flights, giving us peace of mind wherever we went. While waiting for suitcases at baggage claim, we could even see its location as it moved.

The square shape of the device is also nice and compact, so you can place it in any suitcase, purse, backpack, wallet, and more. It also has a keyring hole to put it on a keychain if you want to attach it to your keys or other important item. And since the battery lasts up to one year, you don't have to stress about it dying during your trip.

Give supplements time to kick in

If you go the supplement route, be sure to time it just right. Different types of supplement forms (pills, capsules, options that dissolve under your tongue) will all take varying amounts of time to be absorbed by your body and kick in. Unless you have sublingual supplements, don’t wait to take them until you’re on the plane. Also, taking supplements on a full stomach may cause a delay in their effect. 

Practice breath control

Mindful breathing practices may help some people to mitigate their anxiety, though Jules Jean-Pierre cautions that it’s a skill that needs to be practiced — and it may not work for everyone. “There are many types of breathing exercises that can be found online so it’s important to choose something that is easy to recall during times of stress,” she says.

Distract yourself with a good book or movie

Engrossing yourself in a good book, movie, or TV show may be an effective way to escape your own mind. Download something to watch before your flight, check the in-flight entertainment, or bring along something interesting to read.

Ordering a few drinks from the bar cart to calm your nerves can actually serve to heighten your anxiety. As the relaxed feeling that can come with drinking alcohol wears off (or builds to intoxicated levels), you may find yourself even more nervous or paranoid. 

Common reasons for flight anxiety, according to Jules Jean-Pierre, are fear of contracting COVID-19, the possibility of turbulence, claustrophobia, feeling unsafe around other passengers (for both discriminatory and non-discriminatory reasons), and concern about being judged by other passengers (i.e., vomiting from motion sickness or having a crying baby). 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Katherine Alex Beaven is a writer covering travel, food and drink, and culture. Her work often finds her in the friendly skies. To help uncover the best products for relieving flight anxiety, Alex relied on her personal fixes, research, and expert input from Jules Jean-Pierre , a licensed marriage and family therapist at telehealth company Grow Therapy.

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Do motion sickness tablets help with anxiety and nausea?

Question posted by L700 on 15 June 2018

Last updated on 24 June 2018

I was wondering since nausea caused by anxiety is essentially more mental as opposed to being a physical stomach upset, would motion sickness pills help since they work by blocking the brains signals which cause nausea and vomiting?

They might help you sleep. That's what they do to me. I take several things for my anxiety, but have never tried this specifically for that but I know when traveling they put me out.

I've been using them for generalized anxiety for 25 years. Try a lower dosage if they are knocking you out. Klonopin is a popular choice of benzodiazepine for doctors to prescribe because it has a longer half life than Valium, Xanax and Ativan.

They might stop the nausea but not the anxiety. See someone and get treated for your anxiety. I have GAD and SAD and have found that only 2mg's of Clonazepam (Klonopin) per day allows me to lead a semi-normal life.

Related topics

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7 Best Travel Sickness Tablets For Dogs 2024

Table of Contents

Are you looking for the best travel sickness tablets for dogs?

You are in the right place!

Traveling with your pet is an amazing experience, but being prepared with travel sickness tablets can be the difference between a great holiday and your dog having constant travel anxiety or motion sickness! 

My Golden Retriever joins me on flights and car rides whenever I travel, so I personally understand how important it is to have the right pet supplies with you . He doesn’t get carsick, but our dog growing up did and it was GROSS to be stuck in. a car with dog vomit on you.

This article will help you learn how to help dogs with car sickness. I’ll also share my secrets for the best anti-nausea solutions and travel sickness tablets for dogs to make sure your pup doesn’t get sick on your next adventure! 

My Top 3 Picks: Best Dog Travel Mat

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ark Naturals Happy Traveler Soft Chews ✔️ All-Natural ✔️Chewable Tablets

Ark Naturals Happy Traveler Capsules ✔️ Quality, Natural Ingredients ✔️ Work for cats & dogs

Johnsons Travel Ease Tablets ✔️Herbal Formula ✔️ Best for pups

What is motion sickness?

If you are wondering, “do dogs get car sick?” the answer is yes. Just like humans, pets can get motion sickness too!

So when planning to take your pup on a trip, it’s important to understand travel sickness in dogs.

Dog motion sickness can happen in cars, planes , trains, and boats. It occurs when the natural balance in the body is thrown off, which is common in a vehicle.

Puppy car sickness is more common than in adult dogs, as their inner ears have yet to develop fully. But older dogs can suffer, too.

Travel Anxiety can also trigger dog travel sickness.

Unfortunately, the only way to help this sometimes is by giving them travel sickness tablets, as well as giving them lots of positive affirmation and practicing spending time in the car or on a plane.

How do you spot motion sickness in dogs?

Before you can treat motion sickness in your dog, you have to be able to spot the symptoms.

And although every dog is different, the signs of motion sickness are all the same. Here are the most common signs that your dog is getting motion sickness:

• Yelping or whining
• Laziness or being reluctant 

But if you see these symptoms – don’t panic. There are plenty of ways to prevent dog motion sickness during or before your trip.

How can I prevent travel sickness in my dog?

Car sickness in dogs is a common problem for dog owners.Cerenia Injectable Solutions is one of the most popular treatments (which prevents acute vomiting in dogs). But, it is only available from a veterinarian and has some negative side effects.

Instead, many people turn to natural remedies and over-the-counter solutions!

Natural Remedies to help prevent dog travel sickness

There are some natural ways to help your dog avoid getting sick in the car. These tips may not work on their own, but for some dogs, it is enough. 

• Provide them with a comfortable space in the car. 
• Distract your dog with a toy. 
• Gradually introduce them to spending time in the car with short trips. 
• Avoid feeding your pup too close to departure 
• Drive slow and avoid sharp turns while traveling
• Open the windows to let in some fresh air. 

Even though all these natural remedies can reduce nausea in pets and help your dog feel better while traveling, the best and most effective way is to use motion sickness pills for dogs.

The 7 Best Travel Sickness Tablets for Dogs

1. the best natural tablets: ark naturals happy traveler soft chews.

⭐️  RATING:  3.8/5 Stars

Ark Naturals Happy Traveler Soft Chews might be the best all-natural way to help your pup with car sickness or anxiety.

These soft chewable tablets are a great natural alternative to pet prescriptions and can quickly help reduce anxiety and sickness in your dog while you’re on the go.

Apart from stopping your dog’s motion sickness, they work wonders for anxious dogs that don’t like loud noises or sudden movements!

To get the most out of these chewable tablets, it’s best to give them to your dog about one hour before the trip and always follow the recommended dosage on the label.

The only downside is that these dog chews do not smell great. But I think it is a small price to pay if it fixes your dog’s travel sickness.

🤩 Check Prices!

2. Best over the counter tablets for pets: Ark Naturals Happy Traveler Capsules

Whether you are taking your dog on a long flight or a road trip, the Ark Naturals Happy Traveler Capsules will help your dog stay relaxed and happy dog for the journey.

These anti-sickness capsules are designed to reduce motion sickness, along with the anxiety and nervousness associated with traveling.

They are formulated with quality, natural ingredients, so you can rest assured that your pup is getting the best.

Plus, they’re great for both cats and dogs – so if you’re traveling with multiple pets, this could be the perfect solution!

The smell of these capsules might be off-putting, so you should give these to your dog with a tasty treat.

Remember that following the instructions will make them work effectively. And you’ll want to give these to your dog shortly before they get in the car.

3. Popular travel sickness tablets: Johnsons travel ease tablets

These are the most popular travel sickness tablets for pets on the market, especially for those concerned about having a sick puppy in their vehicle!

It’s an herbal formula that naturally reduces the effects of vehicle motion on your pup, and they are especially great for long road trips!

These tablets also work better than dog CBD since it’s easier to ensure you give them the correct amount.

However, they don’t taste great, so you’ll need to disguise them in something tasty before feeding them to your dog. 

It’s worth noting that Johnson’s Travel Ease tablets might not work if your pup has a severe travel sickness problem, and avoid giving them to your dog with a full meal, as this may lose effectiveness. 

With that in mind, these tablets are a fantastic way to help make your pet’s travel experiences more comfortable.

4. Easy to Administer Tablets for your dog: NOW Pet Health Supplement

⭐️  RATING:  4.1/5 Stars

“How do I stop my dog from vomiting while traveling?” The NOW Pet Health Supplement dog tablets may be your best solution!

You only need to give them to your pet once a day, and it is one of the better-tasting options on the market. This makes the whole process of giving your dog the medication a lot easier!

Dog ownders love the NOW supplement because they work quickly and effectively on dogs of all sizes. 

Unlike other tablet options that take a few hours to take action, these can work within 10 minutes!

They are also handy to have for stressful situations like thunderstorms and separation.

So if you are looking for a veterinarian-recommended product to help your dog stop feeling unwell on the road, try these!

5. The Best Human Travel Sickness Tablets for Dogs: Dramamine Sickness Chewable Tablets

⭐️  RATING:  4.7/5 Stars

Travel sickness tablets are a great addition to any first aid kit, especially if your dog can use them too!

So if you and your dog suffer from travel sickness, Dramamine Sickness Chewable Tablets are a fantastic remedy.

They provide up to 24 hours of protection from nausea, dizziness, and vomiting, so you can enjoy your travels together without getting sick.

The main active ingredient is Dimenhydrinate, which is safe for both humans and dogs, so you can share the same product when needed.

It’s also an excellent option for those with difficulty swallowing pills, as the chewable tablet is easier to take.

Also, thanks to the great-tasting Raspberry Cream flavor, your pup will find these easy to take without having to mask the scent!

6. The best calming travel sickness pills for dogs: ProSense anti-stress calming tablets

With calming ingredients like chamomile, ginger, and valerian root, these tablets help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs on long trips.

The tablets also contain a blend of antioxidants to support your pup’s immune system , and they come with the NASC Quality Seal – so you know you can trust their quality. 

The tablets work great for loud noises and stress, too.

To get the best results from this dog car sickness remedy, use them on an empty stomach.

I love that, unlike other calming pills, ProSense Anti-Stress Calming Tablets do not leave your dog feeling sluggish after taking them.

And while the flavor may need some improvement, these tablets are still an excellent choice for puppies and very anxious dogs who tend to get car sick!

7. The best anti-sickness chews: Nutri-vet Soft Chews

If your dog is prone to car sickness and you want to help them cope with their discomfort, Nutri-vet Soft Chews are another great solution.

These chewy treats and made by vets and contain a blend of chamomile and tryptophan to keep your pet calm and relaxed while on the road. 

They also include ginger which is beneficial in settling your dog’s upset stomach .

And because these treats are so effective, you can give them to your pup before long journeys and trust that the effects will last the entire trip.

FAQs About Travel Sickness Tablets for Dogs

How do i stop my dog from vomiting while traveling.

The best ways to stop your dog from vomiting while traveling is to avoid feeding them right before your trip, create a safe space in the car, and give them a travel sickness tablet to prevent anxiety and stomach sickness.

How long does dog car sickness last?

The length of time travel sickness in dogs depends on the severity of the sickness. Sometimes, it can take up to 4 hours after you arrive at your destination for your pet to feel themselves.

Is Benadryl or Dramamine better for dogs?

There are debates about which active ingredient is better for dogs to take. But many believe Dramamine is the overall best as it has fewer side effects, and pets with digestive problems cannot take Benadryl.

Can I give my dog human motion sickness pills?

There are some human motion sickness pills that you can give to your dog too! Active ingredients such as Dimenhydrinate and Meclizine are okay for most dogs but double-check with your veterinarian first.

How do I prepare my dog for a long road trip?

Make sure your dog is comfortable by creating a safe environment. Also, some anti-nausea for dogs medicine can help and ensure your dog is well hydrated and relaxed before a long road trip.

How long of a car ride is too long for a dog?

Driving for no more than 7-8 hours at a time with your dog is the best practice. And your dog will handle long drives better if you stop for a 15-minute break every 2-3 hours to let them walk and use the toilet.

Wrap up: Travel sickness tablets for Dogs

Traveling with your dog can be challenging if they are prone to motion sickness, and even though you can help your pup overcome it in many ways, the quickest way is to use travel sickness tablets.

So, try one of these travel sickness tablets to see if it can curb some of the symptoms in your dog and make traveling more comfortable for them!

There are plenty of pet supplies out there for every budget.

So make sure you pack some tablets in your dog’s travel bag for you both to have nausea-free adventures.

There is no better way to explore and enjoy your vacation than with your dog at your side!

Read More Travel with Dogs Tips!

• 7 Best Travel Sickness Tablets For Dogs
• How to get a Dog Passport (Expert Guide)
• Dog Travel Guide
• Dog Travel Checklist: What to Bring When Traveling with a Dog
• Flying With a Large Dog in Cabin: How to Guide
• West Paw Toppl Review: How to Use It for Tough Chewers
• Muttluks Review: Fleece-Lined Dog Boots That Stay On!
• Moving Abroad with Pets: 15 Expat Tips
• Pet Travel Quiz: Find Out Where to Go With your Pet
• Can I Buy a Plane Ticket For My Dog? (17 Dog-Flying Tips)
• Ultimate Guide To Flying With A Puppy
• 17 Best Hiking Boots for Dogs: Ultimate Guide

Dog Travel Planning Guide

🐶 How do you travel with a dog?

You can road trip, go camping, fly (depending on your dog’s size), go for day trips, and even live in an RV or motorhome with your dog! I’ve done all of the above with my dog, Theo.

✈️ How to travel with a dog by plane?

Check the airline requirements, if you’re flying with a large dog you’ll need to book far ahead, get a travel crate or carrier, and make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccinations. And don’t forget to bring along a leash, collapsible dish, and plenty of treats! ( Read more )

🚗 How to travel with a dog in a car?

Get a seatbelt or car-friendly crate, a seat protector, and a few toys to keep your pet safe and comfortable. Bring along items like a leash, pee pads, treats, collapsible bowl, and some calming treats for anxious dogs. Take frequent potty breaks (I recommend every 2 hours minimum).

🧳 What should I pack in my dog travel bag?

I always pack a collapsible bowl, back up leash, 50ft long leash, Toppl food toy, plenty of dog food, and a few toys for my pup when we go on our travels. It’s important to have all the essentials packed before you leave home since it can be difficult to find pet-friendly stores in some locations. ( Read more )

📝 What paperwork do I need to travel with a dog?

The paperwork you need will depend on where you’re going. You will always need your dog’s veterinary records and their vaccine status. You may also need an international health certificate, titre test, and even a spay/neuter certificate.

🐾 What is the best travel dog crate?

This collapsible crate is great for local travel and road trips. For plane travel, I recommend this hard crate for large breeds and this carrier for small breeds.

📍 What is the best way to travel with a dog?

It depends! The best way to travel will depend on you and your dog. Small dogs will have an easier time with plane travel. Large breeds are better for long term trips to minimize plane time, or road trips.

🛌 Best dog travel mat?

This non-slip, water-proof, easy to wash travel mat is my go to!

✈️  What’s the best site to buy cheap flights?

To find cheap flights, I recommend  Skyscanner .

🏨  What’s the best site to find cheap hotels?

To find cheap hotels, I recommend  Booking.com .

Or stay for free with Trusted Housesitters!

🚗  What’s the best site to rent cars abroad?

To find cheap rental cars, I recommend  Discover Cars .

🚗  What’s the best site to find tours?

To find epic tours, I recommend  Viator .

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Traveling With Your Pets. She and her golden retriever, Theo, have been to 3 countries, on dozens of road trips, and explored many cities across North America. Nina has been a full time traveler since 2017 before getting Theo, but hasn't let having a dog chain her to one spot. Now she helps thousands of people plan their pet-friendly holidays around the world.

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Motion sickness

Motion sickness is feeling dizzy, or feeling or being sick when travelling by car, boat, plane or train. You can do things to prevent it or relieve the symptoms.

Check if you have motion sickness

Symptoms of motion sickness may include:

• feeling sick (nausea)
• feeling cold and going pale

How to ease motion sickness yourself

Do reduce motion – sit in the front of a car or in the middle of a boat look straight ahead at a fixed point, such as the horizon breathe fresh air if possible – for example, by opening a car window close your eyes and breathe slowly while focusing on your breathing distract children by talking, listening to music or singing songs break up long journeys to get some fresh air, drink water or take a walk try ginger, which you can take as a tablet, biscuit or tea don’t.

do not read, watch films or use electronic devices

do not look at moving objects, such as passing cars or rolling waves

do not eat heavy meals, spicy foods or drink alcohol shortly before or during travel

do not go on fairground rides if they make you feel unwell

A pharmacist can help with motion sickness

You can buy remedies from pharmacies to help prevent motion sickness, including:

• tablets – dissolvable tablets are available for children
• patches – can be used by adults and children over 10
• acupressure bands – these do not work for everyone

A pharmacist will be able to recommend the best treatment for you or your child.

Causes of motion sickness

Motion sickness is caused by repeated movements when travelling, like going over bumps in a car or moving up and down in a boat, plane or train.

The inner ear sends different signals to your brain from those your eyes are seeing. These confusing messages cause you to feel unwell.

Page last reviewed: 19 June 2023 Next review due: 19 June 2026