Eat mild, starchy foods: Avoid eating heavy, spicy, or fat-rich foods or consuming excessive alcohol before your trip. These foods may worsen seasickness in some people. Try eating bananas, rice, applesauce, or toast instead.

To minimize the risk of seasickness, you should avoid greasy, acidic, and extremely spicy foods for at least 24 hours before you set sail. Prime culprits include bacon, heavy eggs, citrus juices, and coffee, which can irritate the stomach lining and increase acid production. You should also strictly limit alcohol consumption the night before, as dehydration significantly amplifies the symptoms of motion sickness. Instead of boarding on an "empty stomach," which is a common mistake, experts in 2026 recommend a light, bland breakfast of toast, oatmeal, or plain crackers. While ginger extract and meclizine (Bonine) are effective preventatives, your diet remains the first line of defense. Additionally, avoid eating large meals during the initial hours of the voyage while your body is adjusting to the "pitch and roll" of the vessel. If you do start to feel nauseous, stick to the "BRAT" diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) and stay in the center of the ship where motion is minimized, ensuring you keep your eyes on the horizon rather than on your phone or a book.