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Best Sea Bands Can Halt Motion Sickness From Travel

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Are you worried about motion sickness ruining your vacation? Our readers share their best sea bands reviews and suggestions for other anti-nausea products and remedies!

Best Sea Bands

Table of contents.

Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:

What are your experiences with sea bands? Wondering if they will help with mild sea sickness (queasiness, no vomiting).

If you know that you are prone to suffering from motion sickness, or if you are traveling by boat, consider adding motion sickness medicine to your toiletries packing list. You never know how seasickness will affect you.

There is nothing worse than being sick when stuck on a cruise or boat, especially for days when you are sailing for an extended period of time. Read to learn tips on how to be prepared so that you don’t spend days in bed with seasickness.

Here are some suggestions on the best sea bands for travel:

Sea-Band Acupressure Wrist Bands

• Queasy Beads Motion Sickness Bracelets

Reliefband for Motion Sickness

Mq motion sickness patch, bonine motion sickness relief chewable tablets, next organics dried crystallized ginger.

Please Note: Please consult your doctor before using any new supplements or medication! Also, if your symptoms persist, then make sure you seek medical advice.

Anti-Nausea Wristbands

Using Sea Bands

Our readers swear by sea bands when traveling on a cruise to avoid sea sickness. One reader says, “I used them on our cruise when the seas got rough. I was the only one in our party who did not get sick.”

Sea bands are great if you suffer from motion sickness caused by waves. Several of our female explorers also like to use sea bands when traveling on planes, ferries, and in the car.

One reader swears by them. “I get travel sickness when I go by car, boat, bus, train, and plane, and my band works brilliantly.”

Another reader says, “I have used them for about 20 years and feel like they work great for me. I have never used them on a cruise, but I use them on planes, ferries, and when traveling by car.” Sea bands are a fantastic solution for solving motion sickness by all travel methods, not just on a cruise!  

Sea bands are also commonly used by our readers who suffer from nausea throughout pregnancy. Several readers share how they “used them for morning sickness when pregnant, seemed to ease the nausea.”  

I also use sea bands when traveling by car to prevent sickness and also for short (non-choppy) boat rides. For the price, it’s worth a try!

Find out everything you need to pack in your travel toiletries kit!

How Do Sea Bands Work?

A sea band is a drug-free alternative treatment for the treatment of motion sickness.The band has a plastic stud attached to the inside of the wrist band. The stud exerts pressure and stimulates the acupressure point (or the Nei-Kuan point) on your wrist.

Research has proven that pressure on this point relieves nausea and vomiting, therefore reducing the symptoms of motion sickness. You should wear your sea band as a preventative measure before the onset of nausea, but you could also put it on once you start to feel poorly.  

Find out what to include on a travel first aid kit list !

Our Readers’ Sea Band Reviews

Sea-Band Wristband Natural Nausea Relief

The Sea-Band is designed to provide natural, drug-free nausea relief through acupressure. You can throw the band in the wash and reuse it. Put your band on your wrist before you start traveling or once you start feeling ill. Relief should begin as quickly as five minutes.

One reader says, “I am extremely sensitive to motion. I wore them on a seven-day cruise and for the first time didn’t feel sick at all, even when the seas were rough. Then I realized I could try them in the car while traveling so that I could read or work, and they worked! Without sea bands, I can’t even look down at my phone for three minutes without feeling like I’m going to throw up, but with sea bands, I am completely fine.”

Cease Sickness Beads Stylish Motion Sickness Bracelets

Cease Sickness Beads Motion Sickness Bracelets

Cease Sickness Beads bracelets work the same way as a sea band, by applying acupressure to your wrist, but in a fashionable alternative. Each bracelet is custom designed to fit your individual wrist size for maximum results.

You get to choose the color of your beads from red, blue, green, purple, and silver. This perfect travel accessory prevents motion sickness and is an awesome finishing touch to your outfit.

One reader shares how she uses her Beads bracelet whenever she travels on a cruise. “They are a more stylish option and work the same way as sea bands.”

Another reader says she prefers the bracelet because “it is so much more stylish; the sea bands are quite ugly.”  

Don’t forget to read by e-book Pack Light Stylishly for many packing tips!

Reliefband 1.5 for Motion & Morning Sickness

The Reliefband is a drug-free therapy that can be turned on and off when required. It is a reusable therapeutic device in which you change the battery when needed. It works by altering your nerve activity through targeted delivery of gentle pulses to the underside of your wrist.  

One reader recommends using a Reliefband. “These are expensive, but I would highly recommend them. I have been using mine for over eight years, and I get sickness from everything that involves motion. The Reliefband completely does away with any feeling of motion sickness. I can’t tell you how much this has changed my life.”

It’s a more expensive option, but definitely worth the investment if you frequently suffer from motion sickness!

Other Essentials for Traveling with Sea Sickness

There are other alternatives to sea bands if you suffer from seasickness or for those days when the sea is particularly rough.

MQ® Motion Sickness Patch

The MQ Motion Sickness Patch is a natural herb treatment that you attach 10 minutes before travel. One reader says, “I always travel with seasickness patches. Each one lasts three days, so you only need to pack a couple of them.”

Another reader uses sea band “when it’s not too rough. But if I’m in really rough water, I need a patch to prevent seasickness.” Another reader says,  “I prefer to use patches, and they are a life-changer for me.”

See our list of the best toiletry bags !

You can avoid suffering from motion sicknesses with motion sickness pills. You must take these pills one hour before getting on a boat or in a car for them to work. THEY WILL NOT work once you feel sick.

One reader says, “Sea bands work for me except on a particularly rough day, when I have to take motion sickness tablets as well.”

Several readers recommend Bonine Motion Sickness Tablets because “it is less drowsy causing form of Dramamine.”

One reader uses a sea band and Bonine before traveling on a road trip and “both together (are) magical!”

Remember always to speak to your doctor before taking new medication!   

Several of our readers recommend using ginger-based products as a prevention method for motion sickness.

One reader says, “Nibbling some crystallized ginger or sipping ginger tea works for me. I make sure to always pack some when I travel on a cruise.”

Another reader says she “found ginger candy to be more effective.”  

Best Sea Bands Product Comparison Chart

Here’s a quick summary of the best sea bands and other essentials for traveling with sea sickness:

What do you recommend for traveling with motion sickness? Share in the comments below!

For more packing tips and ideas, please read:

• Caribbean Cruise Wear Essentials: Cruise Dresses and More!
• How to Pack Light for Hot and Humid Destinations
• 75 Packing Tips that Will Make Your Travels So Much Easier
• What to Pack for a Cruise Vacation

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I hope you found this post on traveling with motion sickness useful! Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

These are so good. I wish I had seen them prior to my first cruise as I was so sick until the ship Dr gave me some patches to wear.

The sea wrist bands were a game changer for me! I get motion sick very easily and found these to work very well on all types of transportation and kept me from getting sick. They aren’t the most fashionable thing you can wear but I only wore them when I needed them. I highly recommend giving them a try on your next trip!

The simple relief bands don’t work. The 1.5 ones do work. Bonine works but affects my bladder.

Thank you for sharing your experiences of the sea bands with us 🙂

So useful. Am going to order for my son right away! Thanks!

Hoping to try some of these remedies out for a plane! I don’t get seasick, but I do get airsick.

Thank for you very informative site. Going on my first cruise in summer of 2023. Will be using you ideas for that trip.

I have an upcoming cruise & although I didn’t get sick in the past, I don’t want to take any chances. I purchased the quest beads recommended here. Hope I won’t need to use it!

I would recommend talking to your doctor. Have a plan to use scopolamine patches if everything else fails Green apples, other forms of ginger are also good to try.

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The Best Motion Sickness Remedies for Every Type of Travel

We've collected the best ways to prevent and cure motion sickness.

Alesandra Dubin is an LA-based lifestyle writer and editor. As a veteran digital journalist, she's covered travel, food, parenting, and more for over 15 years. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and countless other online and print outlets. An avid traveler, she often trots the globe with her husband and their twins. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @alicedubin. Alesandra holds a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

CVS / Amazon / Amazon

Nothing ruins an adventure faster than a bout of motion sickness. If you’re prone to the notoriously unpleasant malady, the best course of action is preparedness: Identify a chosen remedy, administer it ahead of time for prevention, and carry it with you for relief. 

When searching for the best motion sickness remedies of all types, we consulted several medical professionals across the country, including naturopathic and western medicine practitioners. Our best overall pick is the tried-and-true over-the-counter pill Bonine. We also recommend natural remedies including tea, candy, and essential oil, plus acupressure bracelets and patches.

Best Overall

Bonine motion sickness relief chewable tablets.

This widely accessible over-the-counter drug can be highly effective, especially when taken preventatively.

Side effects can include drowsiness.

This dependable remedy is available without a prescription and can be very effective against nausea, according to Dr. Frank Contacessa, internist at MDVIP in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. “They can help with nausea; the most common side effect is drowsiness,” he advises.

And he issues this pro tip: “It is best to try to take something before the motion sickness happens; it’s much harder to treat once the nausea sets in,” Contacessa says. So start your Bonine regimine even before you board.

The Details: Adults and children 12 years of age and over, take one to two tablets once daily or as directed by a doctor. Dosage should be taken one hour before travel starts.

Benadryl Allergy Liquid Gels

Benadryl doubles as a sleep aid, which can make it useful for long flights or rides in which some shut-eye is desired in addition to motion sickness prevention.

“As some people will have a paradoxical reaction to Benadryl, make sure you try it out at home before taking it on the plane,” explains Dr. Gene Delaune, senior medical consultant for Allianz Travel Insurance .

Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine known by the brand name Benadryl, helps with nausea, Delaune explains, adding, “It can also make you sleepy, so on longer flights , taking 50 milligrams of Benadryl will help with the nausea and getting sleep.” This version comes in 25 milligram liquid-gel caps.

Dr. Tiffany Otto Knipe is a pediatrician from WMP Boutique Pediatric Care in New York City. For children, she suggests a small dose of Benadryl (diphenhydramine) “as a last resort,” given 30 to 60 minutes prior to travel. And she notes the sleepy side effect isn’t always desirable. The potential for drowsiness “means that when you get to your destination your child might be too tired to enjoy it,” she says.

The Details: For adults (and kids 12 and up), take one to two capsules every four to six hours. For children aged 6 to under 12, take one capsule every four to six hours.

Best Bracelet

Sea band acupressure wristband.

This is a reusable, doctor-recommended solution with no drugs or side effects.

The product comes in various colors, but you can’t select your preferred choice (they ship at random).

Sea Bands are a non-pharmaceutical motion sickness remedy in the form of acupressure wristbands. “They seem to work reasonably well, with no side effects at all,” Contacessa says. A plastic knob sewn into the inside of this knitted elastic wristband exerts pressure and stimulates the P6 acupressure point to relieve nausea and vomiting. The bands are all-natural and reusable, which means it's a travel product that can save you money .

The Details: Locate the acupressure point inside your wrists, and apply wristbands to both wrists, preventatively or as a treatment.

Best Ginger-based

Prince of peace ginger chews.

These drug-free ginger candies help ease nausea and double as a tasty, vegan, and natural snack.

The effect is subtle and gentle, not radically transformative in acute situations.

Sweet and spicy, these natural ginger candies can help ease nausea and stomach discomfort, with an appealing taste and no drugs or additives. These chewy candies are individually wrapped and safe for adults and kids (age 6 and up, according to the product packaging). They’re also vegan and gluten-free. Dr. Clement Lee is a naturopathic doctor, medical expert with Flowly, and founder of Optimal Health & Wellness in Pasadena, California. He recommends this brand, which he says it tastes good and “can be quite helpful.” 

The Details: Unwrap and chew as desired to manage nausea.

Best for Kids

Dramamine motion sickness relief.

This formulation of Dramamine is labeled for kids as young as 2 years old; the compact and convenient travel case is a bonus.

Drowsiness can be a side effect, and that can potentially knock kids out of the adventure even as it reduces their motion sickness.

Motion sickness is widespread among kids . The condition is “most common in children ages two to nine years and then tends to improve over time,” Knipe explains. Most children “outgrow it.”

Billed as the only medicated motion sickness relief product formulated just for children ages 2 to 12, this version of Dramamine comes in a chewable tablet with a grape flavor. The active ingredient is dimenhydrinate. Eight 25-milligram tablets come within a compact plastic travel case, so it’s easy to stash them in a pocket and have them at the ready.

The Details: For children 6 to under 12 years, give one to two chewable tablets every six to eight hours. For children 2 to under 6 years, give half to one chewable tablet every six to eight hours. To prevent motion sickness, give the first dose 30 minutes to one hour before starting activity.

Traditional Medicinals Organic Ginger Tea

This ginger-chamomile tea is an all-natural, caffeine-free stomach-settling solution and a pleasant ritual, too.

You’ll need a solution to brew (or at least carry) tea, so it’s not ideal for every on-the-go circumstance.

Lee explains that natural agents that can be helpful as anti-nausea tools “come with minimal side effects and can be quite effective for certain people.” Tea is among the forms these natural agents may take. This customer-favorite version uses high-quality herbs from ethical trading partnerships and has a mildly spicy flavor with floral and honey notes. It’s non-GMO, organic, kosher, and caffeine-free. 

The Details: Brew and drink as needed to settle the stomach and calm the body.

Best Essential Oil

Upnature essential oil roll-on.

This all-natural method also works for stress and headaches.

The drug-free remedy produces subtle results and may be more useful as a treatment than a prevention.

“Aromatherapy with essential oil rollers or necklaces, particularly with peppermint and lemon notes, can help alleviate motion sickness,” explains registered nurse and paramedic Krista Elkins of HealthCanal. To that end, this peppermint essential oil comes with a roller-ball applicator so it goes on neatly, even in rocky conditions.

The Details: Place on your neck or behind your ears to breathe in the aromatherapeutic oil. Use as often as needed.

Best for Cruises

Scopolamine patch.

This medicated anti-nausea patch is highly effective for many users.

You will need a prescription; these aren’t available over the counter. And you might experience side effects.

“Scopolamine patches are familiar to cruise-goers —you can see them behind the ear on a lot of passengers,” Contacessa explains. “It works well, with the most common side effects being dry mouth and dizziness. This is only available by prescription, so you have to ask your doctor to prescribe it. 

The Details: Apply patch four hours before triggering event. Apply to an area behind the ear that is clean, dry, hairless, and free from cuts or irritation. Use only one patch at a time; if you need to use a second patch after you remove the first, place it behind the other ear.

Best for Flying

Dramamine motion sickness chewables.

It works for up to 24 hours.

They may take up to one hour to take effect.

When flying, the last thing you want to worry about is motion sickness medication wearing off. These chewable Dramamine tablets last for up to 24 hours, so you shouldn't have to worry about re-dosing. They also make users less drowsy than other options — perfect for when you want to stay alert during your travels. Dramamine helps prevent nausea, dizziness, and vomiting, and these chewables are suitable for anyone over the age of 12.

The Details: Adults and children 12 years and older should take one or two tablets once per day.

Tips for Buying Motion Sickness Remedies

Use motion sickness products in conjunction with behavioral remedies.

Motion sickness remedies are most effective when used in combination with strategic behavioral adaptations. For instance, when in motion, try to focus your vision into the distance. “Pick a spot on the horizon, and try to keep focusing on that spot,” Contacessa advises. 

Further, don’t eat big meals before a potentially triggering journey. And remember to stay well hydrated. “Stick to water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you,” Delaune advises.

Avoid looking down, reading, or doing activities on a screen, as these can exacerbate motion sickness. And if possible, try to close your eyes and even sleep. With eyes closed, you are “not taking in the visual information that can contribute to the problem,” Knipe says.

Sit strategically

To minimize motion sickness, face your body in the direction you’re moving during travel. In cars, sit in the front seat if possible. And you might volunteer to be the driver instead of a passenger. “Driving can reduce motion sickness because having control of a moving car can realign your senses and prepare you for the twists and turns,” Elkins says.

Knipe advises, “Select seats where motion is the least.” On ships, try to get a cabin in the center of the ship on a middle deck, which experiences the least motion as the ship rolls in the sea. In a plane, a seat over the front edge of the wing is recommended. If traveling by train or bus, pick a forward facing seat.

When the body, eyes, and inner ear send conflicting signals to the brain — such as on a choppy boat or turbulent flight — the uncomfortable feeling of motion sickness can result.

“Motion sickness is a syndrome that occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the motion-sensing parts of the body: the inner ears, the eyes, and nerves in the extremities,” Knipe explains. “When the signals received [from] sensory cues are inconsistent [it]... then triggers a response” that can make you feel sick.

Motion sickness can begin with a generally dizzy or queasy feeling, escalate to cold sweat, and more extreme nausea, and cause vomiting. Other symptoms may include fatigue or loss of appetite, or tearfulness and irritability among kids too young to verbalize the discomfort. “It is the result of the brain getting confused by what your eyes are seeing compared to what your inner ears are sensing,” Dr. Contacessa explains.

Motion sickness can last for up to four hours or so after the motion stops. “The length of time [of] the symptoms can vary,” Lee explains. “Some people may only have symptoms part of the time while traveling, some may have it the entire length of motion.”

Light and bland foods help with motion sickness, so you may want to bring some plain crackers, cereal, or even bread with you when traveling to avoid feeling nauseated. Ginger ale is also a go-to remedy as the ginger and carbonation will both settle the stomach. While it may feel counterintuitive, it's better not to have an empty stomach when you're feeling motion sick, so be sure to have a light (non greasy) meal before your travels.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Alesandra Dubin is a career travel and lifestyle writer and a frequent traveler. She’s also prone to motion sickness and swears by Bonine since it saved her on an all-day dive outing on a rainy winter day. For this article, she spoke to Dr. Frank Contacessa , internist at MDVIP in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, Dr. Tiffany Otto Knipe , a pediatrician from WMP Boutique Pediatric Care in New York City, Dr. Clement Lee , a naturopathic doctor, medical expert with Flowly , and founder of Optimal Health & Wellness in Pasadena, California, and registered nurse and paramedic Krista Elkins of HealthCanal.

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5 top-rated products on Amazon that people swear by for preventing seasickness and motion sickness

The   Insider Picks   team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Nothing can ruin a day out on the boat faster than a nasty bout of seasickness. The same thing goes for inescapable train, bus, and car rides — the kinds where you have no control over when and where you can stop or for how long.

Instead of suffering in silence — or worse, in a very loud way that may involve a leak-proof bag and a discontented audience — you may want to try one or more of the solutions that other Amazon shoppers seem to really like. 

Below, we've rounded up some of the best-rated and reviewed options for dealing with seasickness or motion sickness so you can enjoy your travels and adventures this summer. 

Sea-Band the Original Wristband for Adults

$7.70, available on Amazon

Rating: 3.9 stars out of 1,449 reviews

Though it does come with some mixed reviews, many Amazon shoppers find these acupressure bracelets to be effective at eliminating motion sickness for everything from boating to nausea-inducing virtual reality video game headsets. Many recommend wearing one on each wrist, so it's most economical to buy the two-pack listed above. 

MQ Motion Sickness Patch

$7.59, available on Amazon

Rating: 4.3 stars out of 967 reviews

This natural remedy patch is meant to be worn behind the ear and is said to help ease the gastrointestinal tract to prevent nausea and vomiting. Amazon customers seem to find them extremely effective, though you should note that the seller does not recommend them for pregnant women. They're also not waterproof, so if you plan to go swimming, they're not the best option for you. 

Reliefband for Motion and Morning Sickness

$94.99, available on Amazon

Rating: 4.1 stars out of 480 reviews

The Reliefband stimulates a nerve on the bottom side of the wrist that prevents nausea and motion sickness with no lag time. You can choose five different intensities depending on how severe your discomfort is. Many swear by this for dealing with morning sickness caused by pregnancy, but plenty of reviewers also explained how life-changing it was for eliminating their regular experiences with motion sickness. One Amazon shopper warned, though, that it's not a good option for anyone with severe sensitivity to metals. 

Rugby Travel Sickness Chewable Meclizine Tablets

$8.50, available on Amazon

Rating: 4.5 stars out of 458 reviews

Meclizine is an antihistamine that's commonly used to prevent and treat nausea and motion sickness. Though there are plenty of other brand name versions you can buy, this generic version is a favorite among Amazon customers because its cheaper. Just keep in mind that it does not mix well with alcohol and can cause serious interactions. We recommend consulting your doctor or doing some research on how it might interact with any medications you take before purchasing. 

Dramamine Motion Sickness Relief Original Formula

$8.54, available on Amazon

Rating: 4.4 stars out of 390 reviews

The generic name for Dramamine is dimenhydrinate, and, similar to meclizine, it's an antihistamine used to treat motion sickness, nausea, and dizziness. The most major difference is the price, and the fact that Dramamine tends to kick in faster than meclizine. Both can cause slight drowsiness, so keep that in mind if you plan to drive or operate machinery.

Subscribe to our newsletter. You can purchase syndication rights to this story here. Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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Motion sickness

Travel sickness.

Peer reviewed by Dr Hayley Willacy, FRCGP Last updated by Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP Last updated 16 Mar 2023

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

In this series: Health advice for travel abroad Travelling to remote locations Ears and flying Jet lag Altitude sickness

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.

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.

Continue reading below

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.

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.

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.

Further reading and references

• Spinks A, Wasiak J ; Scopolamine (hyoscine) for preventing and treating motion sickness. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011 Jun 15;(6):CD002851.
• Lackner JR ; Motion sickness: more than nausea and vomiting. Exp Brain Res. 2014 Aug;232(8):2493-510. doi: 10.1007/s00221-014-4008-8. Epub 2014 Jun 25.
• Leung AK, Hon KL ; Motion sickness: an overview. Drugs Context. 2019 Dec 13;8:2019-9-4. doi: 10.7573/dic.2019-9-4. eCollection 2019.
• Zhang LL, Wang JQ, Qi RR, et al ; Motion Sickness: Current Knowledge and Recent Advance. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2016 Jan;22(1):15-24. doi: 10.1111/cns.12468. Epub 2015 Oct 9.
• Van Ombergen A, Van Rompaey V, Maes LK, et al ; Mal de debarquement syndrome: a systematic review. J Neurol. 2016 May;263(5):843-854. doi: 10.1007/s00415-015-7962-6. Epub 2015 Nov 11.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

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Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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