Because motion sickness is easier to prevent than treat once it has begun, the best treatment is prevention. The following steps may help deter the unpleasant symptoms of motion sickness before they occur:

• Avoid reading while traveling, and do not sit in a backward facing seat.
• Always ride where the eyes may see the same motion that the body and inner ears feel. Safe positions include the front seat of the car while looking at distant scenery; the deck of a ship where the horizon can be seen; and sitting by the window of an airplane. The least motion on an airplane is in a seat over the wings.
• Maintain a fairly straight-ahead view.
• Eat a light meal before traveling, or if already nauseated, avoid food altogether.
• Avoid watching or talking to another traveler who is having motion sickness.
• Take motion sickness medicine at least 30-60 minutes before travel begins, or as recommended by a physician.
• Learn to live with the condition. Even those who frequently endure motion sickness can learn to travel by anticipating the conditions of their next trip. Research also suggests that increased exposure to the stimulation that causes motion sickness may help decrease its symptoms on future trips.