What can I buy to prevent sea sickness?

Commonly used medicines are diphenhydramine (Benadryl), dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), and scopolamine.



To prevent sea sickness (motion sickness), you have several effective options ranging from pharmaceutical to natural remedies. The most common over-the-counter medication is Meclizine (brand name Bonine or Dramamine Less Drowsy), which is generally preferred over original Dramamine because it causes less sedation. For longer trips, you can see a doctor for a Scopolamine patch (Transderm Scop), which you place behind your ear four hours before sailing; it lasts for three days. If you prefer non-medicinal options, Acupressure wristbands (Sea-Bands) apply pressure to the P6 point and are a popular, side-effect-free choice. Ginger is also a scientifically backed remedy; you can buy ginger capsules, candies, or even drink ginger ale to soothe the stomach. In 2026, many travelers also use the ReliefBand, an electronic device that sends small neural pulses to the wrist to interfere with the nausea signals being sent from the brain. It is always best to "pre-treat" before you feel ill, as these remedies are much more effective at prevention than cure.

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That said, many studies show that as a whole, Dramamine is more effective at preventing motion sickness, though it is less convenient given the dosing. Another option is scopolamine, which is commonly known as the round patch placed behind one's ear.

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Mechanical stimulation of the mastoid and diverting attention to pleasant stimuli-like odors or music have been found to ameliorate VIMS. Chewing gum combines both in an easy-to-administer fashion and should thus be an effective countermeasure against VIMS.

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To reduce motion sickness, choose a stateroom in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. You will feel any sway of the ship less in this section. Although it may seem counterintuitive, if you're worried about seasickness on a cruise, book a stateroom with a window or a veranda.

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In reality, it's really not common – some people might feel a little bit funny on the first day, but not so much that they can't enjoy all that food and drink that they were looking forward to. And if you think you're likely to get seasick, don't forget to take steps to prevent it first.

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Cabins at the Front of the Ship This is because the front of the ship is more exposed to the movement of the water as they plough through the rough seas. If you're prone to seasickness, it's best to avoid cabins at the front of the ship.

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After motion sickness begins, it usually doesn't start getting better until you stop moving. But, most people who are on a boat for a long trip feel better a few days into the trip when they get used to being on the boat, but some people feel seasick for several days.

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Midship cabins The big allure of a midship cabin is its stability. You won't feel the rocking of the sea in a midship cabin nearly as much as you will in a cabin toward the front or back of a vessel. This is because ships are like teeter-totters. They pitch forward and back around a central axis that barely moves.

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Dramamine® helps prevent and treat all four symptoms associated with motion sickness—nausea, dizziness, vomiting and queasiness. Try taking Dramamine® Original Formula 30 minutes to an hour before boarding the ship and then as needed and as directed on the packaging.

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