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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.

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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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Best Travel Sickness Treatments

Motion or travel sickness – known medically as kinetosis – can ruin even the best planned journey. So what causes this debilitating condition and what can you do about it?

The cause of travel sickness 

In its mildest form, motion sickness may only cause a feeling of uneasiness and nausea which may be accompanied by a headache or dizziness. In more severe cases, it can cause sweating, salivation, flushing, vertigo, over-breathing and profuse vomiting together with extreme distress.

How motion is detected

The inner ear is known as the labyrinth. It contains a convoluted, jelly-like structure (membranous labyrinth) filled with fluid. One end of the membranous labyrinth is involved in hearing, while the other end contains the structures involved in balance, which are:

• Three fluid-filled semi-circular canals
• The utricle
• The saccule.

The semi-circular canals detect rotational movement and are rather like three spirit-levels orientated at right angles to each other. One end of each canal carries a swelling (ampulla) containing a cluster of motion-detecting cells that have 30 – 150 hair-like projections on their surface. Rotational movement causes swirling of the fluid in the canals which causes these ‘hairs’ to bend.

The utricle and saccule also contain clusters of hair cells, over which lies a membrane embedded with tiny crystals of calcium carbonate. These crystals (otoliths) are displaced by movement in any direction, and motion is detected when they brush against the hair cells to displace their hair-like projections.  The utricle is mainly sensitive to horizontal movement (forwards, backwards and side to side) while the saccule detects vertical movement (up and down).

  Once motion is detected, the hair cells send an electrical signal to part of the brain (flocculonodular lobe of the cerebellum) for analysis. Nerve fibres from this part of the brain than pass to another part of the brain concerned with the control of eye movement.

Travel sickness is caused by excessive and repetitive stimulation of the hair cells in the inner ears when the brain receives conflicting messages from the eyes that do not match the degree of movement detected by the inner ears. This is especially likely when travelling in a closed space such as a car, where you tend to focus on objects inside the vehicle. Your eyes tell your brain the environment is stationary, but your balance organs say it is not.  If there is good visual evidence of the head’s position – as in cycling or skiing for example – motion does not usually trigger travel sickness.

Everyone is susceptible to travel sickness

We are all susceptible to travel sickness, but we each have a different sensitivity, possibly related to the degree of symmetry between our right and left inner ears. Researchers have found that one in three people are highly susceptible to motion sickness, another third only suffer during fairly rough conditions, while the remaining, lucky one in three only react during prolonged, violently rough conditions.

Very young children seldom suffer from car sickness as the nerve pathways involved are not fully developed. By the age of ten years, however, children are especially susceptible.

Some research also suggests sensitivity to motion varies according to hormone levels during the menstrual cycle, with the greatest susceptibility for women occurring just before ovulation.

Other factors that can make travel sickness worse include:

• stuffy atmosphere
• exhaust or diesel fumes
• having a full stomach
• the sight or smell of food.

Sensitivity to motion sickness can be reduced by rehabilitation programmes such as those designed to desensitise airforce personnel against air-sickness. Rehabilitation courses last two weeks in which subjects undergo increasingly more intense and varied nausea-inducing stimulation, as well as cognitive-behavioural therapy. The success rate is as high as 88%.

Best travel sickness tablets

A number of travel sickness remedies are available and are best taken before travel, as it is easier to motion sickness than to treat nausea once it has developed.

The drug, hyoscine, is available on prescription and can be taken by mouth 30 minutes before travel as a tablet, or applied as a patch (Scopoderm TTS) behind the ear, 5 to 6 hours before travelling. Possible side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision and difficulty passing water.

Antihistamines are also highly effective. Most people prefer less sedating antihistamines such as cinnarizine, which is better tolerated.

Cinnarizine (eg Stugeron ) is my travel sickness tablet of choice. It is highly effective in treating motion sickness as it works in two ways:

• on the vomiting centre in the brain to stop nausea
• on the balance organs in the inner ear to reduce sensitivity to motion.

Unlike other commonly used travel sickness tablets which only work for 4 – 6 hours, Stugeron works for at least 8 hours to reduce susceptibility to motion sickness and can see you through a whole day’s journey. For travellers who are already feeling sick, or who have vomited, Stugeron can be sucked rather than swallowed for a more rapid onset of action. It does not tend to cause drowsiness and does not cause dry mouth, blurred vision or dizziness. In clinical trials, 96% of children tested benefited from taking Stugeron, with 86% remaining alert or only slightly drowsy.

A study involving yachtsmen found that 88% of yachtsmen rated Stugeron as better than other treatments and 94% said they would use Stugeron again. My teenagers swear by Stugeron as it prevented nausea even on a very rough ferry trip that lasted for six hours, when everyone else was very ill indeed.

Ideally, take it two hours before a journey. For travellers who are already feeling sick, or who have vomited, however, it can be sucked rather than swallowed for a more rapid onset of action. Stugeron is available from Boots.com for shipping worldwide.

Ginger for travel sickness  

Ginger has excellent anti-nausea properties and is believed to work by lowering levels of a hormone, vasopressin, and by regulating abnormal contraction of the stomach. Drink ginger tea, ginger beer, chew crystallised ginger, ginger gum, or take ginger capsules. You could also place a few drops of ginger essential oil on a hanky to inhale.

Travel sickness bands

Acupressure bands that stimulate the P6 acupuncture point on the wrist can also relieve motion sickness. Elasticated wrist bands or disposable acupressure plasters are especially useful for children. Research suggests that are as effective in decreasing symptoms of motion sickness as oral medication, but without possible side effects such as drowsiness or dry mouth. The most effective bands are based on electroactupressure, and devices stimulate the acupoint with a tiny electrial signel that is clinically proven to reduce vomiting and nausea. These bands and anti-emetic devices are used to reduve morning sickness during pregnancy, too.

Rescue remedy for travel sickness

Flower essences are useful during times of stress, and a few drops or a spray on the tongue can help you relax and feel better. Bach Rescue Remedy is a pre-mixed combination of Rock Rose, Impatiens, Clematis, Star of Bethlehem  and Cherry Plum in a base of grape alcohol (brandy). These flower remedies are intended to help counter the effects of stress and shock to help you gain control.

Rescue Remedy is available as drops, an oral spray, liquid melts, pastilles and lozenges. For use during travel, the spray and lozenges are ideal. You can see the full range on Amazon.co.uk or on Amazon.com .

Travel sickness tips

• Start travel sickness treatment before travelling
• Prepare for your journey in advance so you stay relaxed – avoid over-anxiety and last-minute panics
• Only eat light meals before and during travel
• Avoid alcohol
• Avoid stuffy or fume-laden atmospheres
• Sit or stand where plenty of fresh air is circulating eg open a car window
• In a bus or coach, choose a seat between the wheels where movement is less
• In an aeroplane, sit in the area over the wings
• Avoid focusing on near objects – reading a book or looking at a map when travelling in closed quarters can trigger nausea.
• Look at a point on the distant horizon – for example, when travelling by sea, stay on deck scanning the horizon
• Make sure children sit high enough to see out of the window (in a child’s car seat if applicable)
• An adult with car sickness can try being the driver rather than the passenger – drivers seldom suffer from car sickness as they are concentrating on the outside of the car (NB Do not take a travel medication that can cause drowsiness when driving or when operating machinery)
• Stop to stretch your legs regularly – or walk up and down the aisle in a plane or bus.

Be prepared

Image credits: Pixabay; NASA/wikimedia ;

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Best Motion Sickness Medicines

Rankings: motion sickness remedies.

Please consult your health care provider for specific guidance on health products that may be appropriate for you. While U.S. News lists the results of the survey, U.S. News does not recommend or endorse any health products listed here. Please see Disclaimer and a Note About Your Health . Read about the survey here .

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OTC Motion Sickness Treatments

Many over-the-counter treatments help alleviate the dizziness and nausea that come with motion sickness. These products contain various ingredients to relieve symptoms or prevent them from developing. Ingredients may include:

Meclizine, an antihistamine, limits the nausea and vomiting associated with various conditions, including motion sickness. When histamine binds to specific receptors in the body, nausea and vomiting may result. Taking an antihistamine like meclizine helps by blocking access to these receptors, preventing the histamine-induced vomiting response.

The following OTC motion sickness products contain meclizine as their primary ingredient:

• Dramamine Less Drowsy. Dramamine Less Drowsy contains meclizine to prevent motion sickness symptoms. Dramamine Less Drowsy comes as a pill or a chewable tablet. For optimal effectiveness,  take the product about an hour before travel that may cause motion sickness.
• Bonine. Similar to Dramamine Less Drowsy, this product contains meclizine. You’ll need to take a dose of this chewable tablet an hour before an anticipated bout of motion sickness.

Other OTC antihistamines help prevent motion sickness, with “prevent” being the key word. These medications are not as effective for relieving symptoms of motion sickness if you take a dose after you’re already feeling sick. So, I always remind patients that timing is key.

Dimenhydrinate

Dimenhydrinate, the ingredient in products like Dramamine Original, is similar to the antihistamine diphenhydramine. In fact, your body converts dimenhydrinate into diphenhydramine after you take it. Common side effects include sleepiness, dry mouth, fatigue and blurred vision. Older adults should avoid dimenhydrinate due to the risk of drowsiness and increased risk of falling. You’ll need to take dimenhydrinate at least 30 minutes before travel for it to work effectively to prevent or minimize queasy symptoms. It won’t work so well once symptoms have set in.

Many motion sickness remedies contain ginger, a natural plant-based remedy. While it’s unclear exactly how ginger helps reduce or prevent nausea and vomiting, ginger has been used for centuries to ease nausea and vomiting.

Many products on drugstore and grocery store shelves contain ginger. Products from pharmacists' top-rated brands include:

• Dramamine Non-Drowsy. These come as a capsule, which you can either swallow whole or open and mix into a drink or food. Aim to take it 30 minutes before embarking.
• Sea-Band Anti-Nausea Ginger Gum. You can chew this gum before and during travel to limit nausea. 

Glucose, fructose and phosphoric acid

Motion sickness remedies like Emetrol blend of ingredients like glucose and fructose. These simple sugars reduce contractions in the stomach, which can relieve nausea and vomiting. Emetrol comes in liquid form or chewable tablets.

Herbal drops

Brands such as Motioneaze and ProVent offer topical products you apply to your skin, usually with a your finger or roll-on applicator. These contain a blend of herbal oils, a relatively safe option to reduce dizziness and nausea associated with travel-related sickness.

Motion Sickness Symptoms

Common symptoms of motion sickness include nausea, dizziness and vomiting.

Treating Kids with Motion Sickness

Motion sickness is a common issue for children, so parents should be prepared and know how to manage it. Fortunately, many over-the-counter products are safe for children. For best results, plan ahead and follow the product’s instructions for giving the medication, typically 30 to 60 minutes before travel.

Dramamine Original can be given to children ages 2 and older. Emetrol can also be used for children as young as 2. With either option, make sure to follow the labeled dosing instructions.

Meclizine products like Bonine and Dramamine Less Drowsy are safe options for older kids age 12 and up.

Note that some products associated with drowsiness in adults may have an opposite effect, such as hyperactivity or anxiety, in children. As a result, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend giving a trial dose before travel to see how your child responds, potentially avoiding a hyperactivity reaction in the midst of traveling.

Side Effects of OTC Motion Sickness Pills and Remedies

If you select a motion sickness medication that contains an antihistamine, typically mild and fleeting side effects might include:

• Drowsiness.
• Urination difficulties. 

Antihistamines may be more likely to cause bothersome or severe side effects in older adults, so talk to a health care provider before using a product if you are over 65 years old. Generally, most people tolerate other OTC motion sickness remedies well, with little to no side effects. This is particularly true of homeopathic products such as Sea-Bands, topical herbal oil and Emetrol, which are not typically associated with severe side effects. However, minor side effects may occur, depending on the product’s ingredients.

Products with ginger generally have few side effects. You may experience a temporary burning sensation in the mouth or throat, abdominal pain or diarrhea, particularly if you take ginger in large amounts.

If side effects seem severe or last more than 24 hours, seek the care of a medication professional.

Precautions for OTC Motion Sickness Pills and Remedies

Not everyone should use motion sickness remedies. An allergic reaction to an ingredient is rare but possible with any product. Avoid products containing any ingredient you may be allergic to.

Additionally, some people should avoid antihistamines if they have certain medical conditions.

If you have a history of glaucoma, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate or long-term breathing problems such as chronic bronchitis, you should avoid using antihistamines. The side effects of antihistamines may worsen the symptoms of these health conditions.

Emetrol contains fructose as one of the two active ingredients. Fructose is unsafe for those with hereditary fructose intolerance, a condition where the body cannot break down fructose. If you have diabetes or another glucose intolerance, you should avoid sugar-based products.

People with diabetes, gallstones, heart disease or bleeding problems may be at increased risk of complications when using ginger.

If you have any concerns, check with a pharmacist or health care professional to determine which motion sickness remedies are safe.

Motion Sickness Home Remedies

Various non-drug strategies can help ease or prevent the miserable symptoms of motion sickness. The CDC offers the following tips:

• Sit in the front seat of a car or close to the front of a bus.
• Choose a window seat on a plane or train. This helps your eyes and inner ears get on the same page, enabling you to see the direction you’re moving, matching what your inner ear perceives. 
• Lying down or sleeping when you’re a passenger can limit dizziness, nausea and vomiting. 

Another drug-free option is acupressure, a centuries-old do-it-yourself technique for nausea relief, which involves applying pressure at specific points to limit nausea. Try applying pressure to the trigger point on the inside of your wrist before and during travel. You might also try bracelet-like products that use light pressure to help prevent seasickness or other types of motion sickness.

What Is Motion Sickness? 

Motion sickness can result from confused messaging between the senses during travel or motion. For example, the inner ear, responsible for balance and movement monitoring, may sense motion that contradicts what your eyes see. Motion sickness can also occur because of vection, when the eyes catch movement, but your inner ear doesn’t sense motion. The confused perception can, unfortunately, result in symptoms of dizziness, nausea and vomiting.

Certain modes of transportation cause motion sickness more commonly than others. Seasickness is the most common type of motion sickness. It affects about 25% of people on large ships and up to 60% of passengers aboard smaller boats. In contrast, about 4% of people experience car sickness when driving or riding in vehicles.

Some people are more prone to having motion sickness than others, including:

• Children between ages 2 and 12.
• Pregnant women, especially those who have a history of motion sickness.
• People with certain underlying conditions, such as migraines or vertigo. 
• People with a family history of motion sickness. Studies investigating motion sickness have found that if other members of your family struggle with motion sickness, you may also be more likely to.

When to See a Doctor About Motion Sickness

If you’ve tried all the tips and over-the-counter motion sickness medications aren’t working, you’re not alone. For some people, OTC options aren’t strong enough. A health care provider can decide whether a prescription is necessary.

One popular prescription option is Transderm Scop, a medicated patch you place behind your ear. Applying the patch behind your ear approximately four hours before traveling is essential for best results.

If over-the-counter remedies aren’t helping, or if you experience symptoms of motion sickness (nausea, vomiting and dizziness) even when you’re not exposed to motion, see a health care provider. It’s also important to seek medical attention if vomiting doesn’t go away, as this can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in children. A health care professional can help identify other factors causing your symptoms and recommend ways to manage them.

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Methodology

To rank the Best OTC Medicines and Health Products, U.S. News partnered with The Harris Poll, a global market research and consulting firm with more than 65 years of experience conducting surveys. For the 2024 rankings, The Harris Poll randomly assigned 132 over-the-counter product groups to 354 pharmacists and 122 dermatologists who practice in the U.S. and asked them to rank their top three brands. In the end, more than 900 brands were included in the comprehensive survey. Brands included in the survey have products in their respective categories that can be purchased without a prescription. Brand popularity was a factor, and the survey only included brands with a large number of internet reviews or high search volumes.

Pharmacists and dermatologists selected their top three brands in each product category assigned to them. Each top-ranked brand received 5 points, the second-place brand was awarded 3 points and the third-place winner earned 1 point. All unranked brands were given 0 points. The results were then rescaled so the winner in each category scored 100 points, and the other brands were scored along this 100-point scale. Brands were then ranked according to the total amount of points they received. Scores are rounded to the nearest whole number, which occasionally results in brands displaying identical scores but different ranks. Category winners and brands that were statistically tied with the category winner were given an award as long as their nominal score was not below another brand that did not earn an award. Brands with a score of 85 or higher received a Gold award. Brands that were statistically tied with the winner but had a score lower than 85 received a Silver award. See our full methodology here .

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Sharing health evidence you can trust

Treatments to prevent travel sickness: a quick look

In this short blog, Dr Robert Walton looks at the evidence on treatments to prevent travel sickness (motion sickness).

Take-home points

The new evidence on antihistamines comes from the Cochrane Review Antihistamines for motion sickness (published in October 2022) and is relevant to adults.

Travel sickness (motion sickness) is a common problem, and many people experience nausea for example on boats, planes or in the car. Lots of treatments which aim to prevent travel sickness are available to buy in UK pharmacies, including medicines. Here is the evidence on these medicines and some things you may want to think about when making your choices.

Making a choice? Think BRAIN!

It can be helpful to think BRAIN : What are the B enefits, R isks, A lternatives, what do I want and what if I do N othing? These can be good questions to talk about with a health professional when making a health decision.

Medicines to prevent travel sickness

The choice is between hyoscine (or scopolamine as it is sometimes called) and antihistamines such as cinnarizine.

Most of the Cochrane evidence Cochrane Reviews are systematic reviews. In systematic reviews we search for and summarize studies that answer a specific research question (e.g. is paracetamol effective and safe for treating back pain?). The studies are identified, assessed, and summarized by using a systematic and predefined approach. They inform recommendations for healthcare and research. is focused on hyoscine which is probably better than placebo An intervention that appears to be the same as that which is being assessed but does not have the active component. For example, a placebo could be a tablet made of sugar, compared with a tablet containing a medicine. (dummy treatment Something done with the aim of improving health or relieving suffering. For example, medicines, surgery, psychological and physical therapies, diet and exercise changes. ) at preventing travel sickness.  It comes from the Cochrane Review Scopolamine (hyoscine) for preventing and treating motion sicknes s (published June 2011).

The new Cochrane evidence about antihistamines, from the Cochrane Review Antihistamines for motion sickness (published October 2022) finds that they are likely to reduce the risk A way of expressing the chance of an event taking place, expressed as the number of events divided by the total number of observations or people. It can be stated as ‘the chance of falling were one in four’ (1/4 = 25%). This measure is good no matter the incidence of events i.e. common or infrequent. of travel sickness in adults who tend to get it, compared with taking a placebo.

It’s worth bearing in mind that there is evidence to support using older or ‘first generation’ antihistamines but none for the newer medicines such as loratadine and cetirizine which are more commonly used now for hay fever now.  These newer antihistamines are not used to prevent or treat motion sickness and are unlikely to be effective.

There are few studies comparing the two types of medicines.  There is little information about whether either are useful for treating motion sickness after it has started so prevention may be better than cure.

What are the risks?

Hyoscine and antihistamines both work in the same way for preventing travel sickness and they also share the same side effects which include drowsiness in some people.

What are the other options?

Many other options are available but there is no Cochrane evidence about their potential benefits and harms.

What do I want?

What matters (most) to you, and past experiences of a problem – and of treatments, is important when making treatment choices. If you usually get travel sickness and want to prevent it then there are medicines that can help and are backed up by Cochrane evidence. But it may be important to you to avoid the risk of side effects (such as drowsiness, if you have to drive for example). You could discuss your options and experience of treatments with a pharmacist.

What if I do nothing?

Travel sickness is usually not usually a big problem although some people can be quite severely affected.  If you have had it once in a particular situation then you are likely to get it again.

Find out more

NHS pages on motion sickness

The Cochrane Reviews Cochrane Reviews are systematic reviews. In systematic reviews we search for and summarize studies that answer a specific research question (e.g. is paracetamol effective and safe for treating back pain?). The studies are identified, assessed, and summarized by using a systematic and predefined approach. They inform recommendations for healthcare and research. :

Karrim N, Byrne R, Magula N, Saman Y. Antihistamines for motion sickness. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews In systematic reviews we search for and summarize studies that answer a specific research question (e.g. is paracetamol effective and safe for treating back pain?). The studies are identified, assessed, and summarized by using a systematic and predefined approach. They inform recommendations for healthcare and research. 2022, Issue 10. Art. No.: CD012715. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD012715.pub2.

Spinks A, Wasiak J. Scopolamine (hyoscine) for preventing and treating motion sickness. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2011, Issue 6. Art. No.: CD002851. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD002851.pub4.

Why you can trust this information

Join in the conversation on Twitter with  @CochraneUK   @rtwalton123  or leave a comment on the blog. 

Please note, we cannot give specific medical advice and do not publish comments that link to individual pages requesting donations or to commercial sites, or appear to endorse commercial products. We welcome diverse views and encourage discussion but we ask that comments are respectful and reserve the right to not publish any we consider offensive. Cochrane UK does not fact-check – or endorse – readers’ comments, including any treatments mentioned.

Robert Walton has nothing to disclose.

About Robert Walton

Robert Walton is a Cochrane UK Senior Fellow in General Practice. Robert qualified in medicine in London in 1983, having taken an intercalated degree in human pharmacology and immunology. He trained at St Georges Hospital, London and became a member of the Royal College of Physicians in 1986. His work applying computerised decision support to prescribing drugs in the Department of Public Health and Primary care in Oxford led to a doctoral thesis in 1998. Robert was elected a Fellow of the Royal College of General Practitioners in 1999 and the Royal College of Physicians in 2001. He became a Senior Investigator in the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) in 2016. Robert is Clinical Professor of Primary Medical Care at Queen Mary and was joint lead of the NIHR Research Design Service east London team. His research interests are in primary care, genetics, clinical trials and personalised medicine. Robert led a five-year NIHR funded programme developing a novel training intervention to promote smoking cessation in pharmacies in east London which included a substantive Cochrane review and meta analysis on behaviour change interventions in community pharmacies and a large scale cluster-randomised clinical trial. His research team is also developing a smartphone game to promote smoking cessation and researching a personalised/stratified medicine approach to tobacco dependence using computerised decision support. He sat on the NIHR Programme Grants for Applied Research sub panel A and worked as an evaluator for the European Union Horizon 2020 programmes Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases and New Therapies for Rare Diseases and as a monitor for EU projects. Robert contributes to UK national guidance, and has served on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Outcome Indicator and Technology Appraisals Committees.

is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International

1 Comments on this post

Dr. Walton, thank you for sharing your review. For children and those children with epilepsy, I have looked at their sensory processing to help prevent some of their motion sickness. There is a book “Understanding your Child’s Sensory Signals” by Angie Voss, OTR that helps families. I can also share with you my poster from the British Paediatric Neurology Association event in 2020 titled ” What are the perspectives and understanding of healthcare professionals including occupational therapists on treatment and care of babies with infantile spasms and early onset epilepsy- A qualitative design” if I have your email address.

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Evidently Cochrane

Cinnarizine - Brand name: Stugeron

Find out how cinnarizine treats travel sickness, vertigo, tinnitus and Ménière's disease, and how to take it.

• About cinnarizine
• Who can and cannot take it
• How and when to take it
• Side effects
• Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility
• Taking it with other medicines and herbal supplements
• Common questions

Related conditions

• Ménière's disease
• Motion sickness

Useful resources

• British Tinnitus Association: charity www.tinnitus.org.uk
• Ménière's Society: charity www.menieres.org.uk

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Motion sickness

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• Motion sickness is also known as travel sickness, car sickness or sea sickness.
• If you have motion sickness, you are likely to have nausea and may vomit and feel clammy.
• You can help prevent motion sickness by looking outside of the vehicle or focusing on the horizon.
• Symptoms usually end once the motion stops.
• You can try travel sickness treatments to help prevent motion sickness.

What is motion sickness?

Motion sickness is feeling unwell when moving on any type of transport. It is also known as ‘travel sickness’, 'car sickness' or 'sea sickness'. It is a normal response to certain types of movement.

There are a few ways to prevent and manage motion sickness.

What are the symptoms of motion sickness?

Nausea is the main symptom of motion sickness. But you might also experience other symptoms, including:

• vomiting or retching
• cold sweating
• lack of appetite
• dry mouth or excess saliva
• increased sensitivity to smell

If you are prone to motion sickness, you may quickly feel sick if you read a book or look at your phone when in a moving vehicle.

You might feel better after vomiting, and symptoms will generally improve once you stop moving. But you can also feel the after-effects of motion sickness for a few hours or a few days before fully recovering.

What causes motion sickness?

Motion sickness is thought to be caused by your senses being confused when what you see is different to the signals felt by your inner ear balance system .

If you are feeling anxious about travel, this can make motion sickness worse.

You can get motion sick when:

• travelling by car, bus, boat, train or aeroplane
• on amusement park rides
• playing virtual reality video games or simulations

Motion sickness is a common problem. It is most frequent in children aged between 2 and 12 years. If other family members get motion sickness, it is more likely that you will too.

If you already have a condition that causes nausea, such as morning sickness or migraines , you may be more likely to experience motion sickness.

How is motion sickness diagnosed?

You don’t need to see a doctor or get any tests for a diagnosis of motion sickness. There is a pattern of feeling unwell during travel or movement, so you will probably know if you have it.

If you often feel dizzy or nauseous at other times too, discuss this with your doctor.

ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.

How is motion sickness treated and prevented?

Practical tips.

Here are some tips for preventing motion sickness:

• Look out of the window, and focus on the horizon instead of looking at a book or a screen.
• Try to sit or lie still and rest your head on a pillow or headrest.
• Sit close to the front of a car, bus or train.
• If flying, sit still and close your eyes during take-off and landing.
• Listen to music and breathe mindfully .
• Open the window or air vent for fresh air.
• Eat lightly before and during the trip and avoid alcohol. Sip water instead.

Pressure bands worn on your wrists may help prevent motion sickness in some people.

If you are travelling by sea, after a few days of exposure to the motion you will likely adapt and get used to it.

You can try taking travel sickness medicines to prevent motion sickness. These may include:

• antihistamines
• antiemetics (medications to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting)

There might be side effects, such as drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice on what to take. Getting advice is especially important:

• for children
• if you are taking other medicines
• if you are pregnant

If you are using a travel sickness medicine, you should take it about half an hour before travel. If you have motion sickness and you already feel nauseous, it is probably too late to take a medicine. Eating a few plain crackers or having a clear, fizzy drink may help.

If you or your child regularly suffer from motion sickness, make sure you have a container, plastic bags and wipes handy. Take a break for some fresh air when needed.

Resources and support

Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to prevent and treat motion sickness.

Visit the Australian Government Smart Traveller website for more travel health advice.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content .

Last reviewed: October 2023

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Travel Sickness (Oral)

Generic name: meclizine [  MEK-li-zeen  ] Brand names: Antivert , Antivert/25, Antivert/50, Dramamine II , Meclicot , ... show all 9 brands Meni-D, Motion Sickness Relief, Simply Motion, Travel Sickness Drug class: Anticholinergic antiemetics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 24, 2023.

Uses for Travel Sickness

Meclizine is used to prevent and control nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. It is also used for vertigo (dizziness or lightheadedness) caused by ear problems.

Meclizine is an antihistamine. It works to block the signals to the brain that cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Before using Travel Sickness

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of Antivert® tablets and chewable tablets in children or Antivert®/25 or Antivert®/50 tablets in children younger than 12 years of age . Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of meclizine in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related liver, kidney, or heart problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving meclizine.

Breast Feeding

Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used during breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

• Potassium Citrate
• Tranylcypromine

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Amifampridine
• Amobarbital
• Anileridine
• Benzhydrocodone
• Buprenorphine
• Butabarbital
• Butorphanol
• Calcium Oxybate
• Cannabidiol
• Chloral Hydrate
• Chlordiazepoxide
• Chlorpromazine
• Clorazepate
• Daridorexant
• Dexmedetomidine
• Dihydrocodeine
• Diphenhydramine
• Diphenoxylate
• Eszopiclone
• Ethchlorvynol
• Ethylmorphine
• Flibanserin
• Fospropofol
• Gabapentin Enacarbil
• Glycopyrrolate
• Glycopyrronium Tosylate
• Hydrocodone
• Hydromorphone
• Hydroxyzine
• Ketobemidone
• Lemborexant
• Levocetirizine
• Levorphanol
• Magnesium Oxybate
• Meprobamate
• Methacholine
• Methotrimeprazine
• Metoclopramide
• Morphine Sulfate Liposome
• Nicomorphine
• Opium Alkaloids
• Oxymorphone
• Papaveretum
• Pentazocine
• Pentobarbital
• Periciazine
• Phenobarbital
• Piritramide
• Potassium Oxybate
• Promethazine
• Propoxyphene
• Remimazolam
• Revefenacin
• Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b-njft
• Scopolamine
• Secobarbital
• Secretin Human
• Sodium Oxybate
• Thioridazine

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Enlarged prostate or
• Glaucoma—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.
• Kidney disease or
• Liver disease—Use with caution. The effects may be increased because of slower removal of the medicine from the body.

Proper use of Travel Sickness

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor . Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

Chew or crush the chewable tablet completely before swallowing. Do not swallow it whole.

Swallow the non-chewable tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, or break it.

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• Adults—At first, 25 to 50 milligrams (mg) taken 1 hour before travel. You may take another dose once every 24 hours while traveling.
• Children 12 years of age and older—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
• Children younger than 12 years of age—Use is not recommended.
• Adults—25 to 100 milligrams (mg) per day, taken in divided doses.
• Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Precautions while using Travel Sickness

It is very important that your doctor check your or your child's progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

This medicine may cause some people to become drowsy or less alert than they are normally. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you .

This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (medicines that make you drowsy or less alert). Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever, other allergies, or colds, sedatives, tranquilizers, antidepressants, or sleeping medicine, prescription pain medicine or narcotics, medicine for seizures or barbiturates, muscle relaxants, or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics. Check with your medical doctor or dentist before taking any of the above while you or your child are using this medicine .

Side Effects of Travel Sickness

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Incidence not known

• difficulty swallowing
• fast heartbeat
• hives, itching, skin rash
• puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
• tightness in the chest
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

• Blurred vision

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Antivert/25
• Antivert/50
• Dramamine II
• Motion Sickness Relief
• Simply Motion
• Travel Sickness

Available Dosage Forms:

• Tablet, Chewable

Therapeutic Class: Antiemetic

Pharmacologic Class: Antihistamine

Chemical Class: Piperazine (class)

More about Travel Sickness (meclizine)

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Side effects
• Dosage information
• During pregnancy
• Drug class: anticholinergic antiemetics
• Breastfeeding

Patient resources

Other brands.

Antivert , Bonine , Dramamine Less Drowsy , Meclicot , ... +3 more

Professional resources

• Meclizine monograph
• Meclizine (FDA)

Related treatment guides

• Motion Sickness

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

promethazine , diphenhydramine , Benadryl , meclizine , Phenergan , scopolamine

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Fight Off Nausea With the Best Sea Sickness Medicines

If you're going on a cruise, seasickness can be a major problem. There are many preventative measures you can take to mitigate this issue including wearing an eye patch to reduce visual stimulus, staying hydrated, and using ginger supplements, but sometimes these aren't enough. If you want to enjoy your trip to the fullest, you need sea sickness medication.

These medicines help reduce the symptoms of nausea and vomiting while calming your stomach, making it easier for your body to cope with any movement that may occur while sailing at sea. We’ve compiled a list of some of the great sea sickness medicines of 2024 that can help with your next trip at sea.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Dramamine Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Amazing Flavor: Bonine Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Great Value: Rugby Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Most Versatile: Sea-Band Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Budget-Friendly: Equate Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• 1 Types of Sea Sickness Medicines
• 2 Prescription medicines
• 3 Over-the-counter medicines
• 4 Homeopathic sea sickness medicines
• 5 Tips for Using Sea Sickness Medicines Effectively
• 6 Avoid looking in the opposite direction
• 7 Look outside the window
• 8 Switch places
• 9 Get some fresh air
• 10 Distract yourself
• 11 Pick your seat carefully
• 12 Eat healthy food before traveling

Can I use an over-the-counter antihistamine?

Can i use any motion sickness medicines to keep sea sickness at bay, do sea sickness medicines actually work, related reviews, finest sea sickness medicine of 2024 reviewed in detail, best overall.

Dramamine Sea Sickness Medicine

Dramamine Sea Sickness Medicine is the number one doctor-recommended medicine that combines the clinically-tested ginger dosage with non-drowsy active ingredients to soothe an upset stomach quickly, so you can enjoy your cruise without any worries. Infused with natural ginger, this sea sickness medicine helps prevent nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness. 

Free from artificial colors and flavors, it’s safe for children and is non-addictive, making it a good option for long-term use. This sea sickness medicine comes in tablet form, so you can just swallow it with some water. With its safe formula and amazing results, this sea sickness medicine has earned the top spot on our list. 

• Provides fast relief without any side effects
• Made with natural ginger 
• Contain 36 capsules per pack
• Some may not like the ginger taste

Amazing Flavor

Bonine Sea Sickness Medicine

Don’t let motion sickness ruin your trip! Instead, consider taking Bonine Sea Sickness Medicine. Formulated with meclizine hydrochloride, a safe and effective antihistamine, this medicine mitigates the effects of vomiting, nausea, and vertigo. Because it causes minimal drowsiness, you can even use it before road trips or flights. 

This sea sickness medicine works within an hour and offers motion sickness relief for up to 24 hours so you can keep your wits about you even if the waves start to get rough. Suitable for both kids and adults, this sea sickness medicine won’t make you drowsy or cause headaches. It comes in chewable tablets and has a fruity flavor, so it’s easy for anyone to take.

• Offers up to 24 hours of relief
• Safe for kids 12 years and older
• Comes in a fruity raspberry flavor
• Might cause dry mouth

Great Value

Rugby Sea Sickness Medicine

The Rugby Sea Sickness Medicine is the perfect addition to your travel first aid kit — whether you’re on the water, flying, or driving cross-country. Featuring 25 mg of meclizine HCL, this sea sickness medicine blocks the action of acetylcholine in the brain, preventing nausea, vomiting, and dizziness while calming the stomach. 

Available in a package of three containers with 100 tablets each, this sea sickness medicine is enough to get you through your next cruise or long plane ride without feeling sick to your stomach. If you’re taking other medication that includes meclizine as one of its ingredients then make sure this sea sickness medicine doesn’t conflict with your current regimen.

• Comes in a pack of three
• Available at an affordable price
• Chewable tablets are easy to take
• Might be a bit bitter

Most Versatile

Sea-Band Sea Sickness Medicine

If you’re looking for a way to combat seasickness, Sea-Band Sea Sickness is your best bet. Made with natural ginger, this sea sickness medicine helps with morning sickness, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and post-operative nausea, so you can get through these difficult moments of life with ease. 

Formulated with non-drowsy ingredients, it won’t cause side effects and can be used before you even feel sick, making it a great preemptive measure! Available in a pack of 24 gummies, this sea sickness medicine comes in convenient packaging, making it easy to carry with you on your next adventure.

• Works immediately for seasickness
• Provides migraine and anxiety relief
• Soothing ginger flavor
• Might wear off quickly

Budget-Friendly

Equate Sea Sickness Medicine

When you’re out on the water, or just traveling by car, train, or plane, it can be hard to keep yourself from feeling sick. But with the Equate Sea Sickness Medicine, you’ll be able to stay upright and alert through it all. Available in a bottle of 100 tablets, each pill contains 50 mg of dimenhydrinate, which works by blocking histamine receptors in your body, helping to relieve nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness.

These tablets are safe and effective, and they come at a price that’s hard to beat. You must follow the directions on the package closely when taking this medication and do not exceed the recommended dosage or use more than one dose at a time without first consulting your doctor.

• Convenient and easy to use
• Safe, fast-acting formula
• Available over the counter
• Great for short trips
• Might be hard to swallow

Buying Guide to Finding Sea Sickness Medicine

While there are prescription medicines that can treat motion sickness, mild to severe episodes can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. But how do you choose the right sea sickness medicine when there are so many options available? We’ve put together this detailed buying guide to simplify your choice so you can pick the perfect sea sickness medicine for your needs.

Types of Sea Sickness Medicines

Prescription medicines.

For many people, prescription scopolamine transdermal strips or pills can effectively treat seasickness. While scopolamine minimizes nausea and headaches, it might not be an ideal choice for those with glaucoma, urinary tract problems, gastrointestinal system issues, or breathing problems.

Over-the-counter medicines

Many people find that they can control or completely eliminate the unpleasantness of sea sickness by taking over-the-counter antihistamines, which you can purchase without a doctor’s consultation or prescription. You shouldn’t take any strong antihistamine before driving because it may cause sleepiness, sore throat, trouble urinating, and impaired vision. Even though these side effects are often mild, they can put your life in danger if you’re driving on your own.

We recommend taking an antihistamine roughly half an hour before boarding a plane or heading out on a cruise if you’re prone to seasickness. The efficacy of the antihistamine is significantly decreased if you wait until you feel nauseous before taking it.

Homeopathic sea sickness medicines

The idea behind homeopathic remedies is that even small doses of medicine might actually help cure the symptoms. Although homeopathy is not well supported by science, many individuals report feeling better after using them. Numerous homeopathic remedies for motion sickness often contain nux vomica, an extract from the nux vomica tree’s nuts. If you’re allergic to nuts, these might not be the ideal choice for you.

Tips for Using Sea Sickness Medicines Effectively

Avoid looking in the opposite direction.

While many people benefit from sea sickness medicines, the greatest therapy is to prevent sea sickness in the first place. Always look the same way you’re moving and avoid sitting on backward-facing seats on boats, trains, or buses.

Look outside the window

For many individuals, looking at a novel, tablet, smartphone, or other stationary objects inside a moving vessel — such as a boat or bus — makes them feel sick. Instead, you should look at the surrounding beauty or turn your eyes to the sky to avoid motion sickness.

Switch places

While some people feel better standing up, others feel better lying down. If you’re unsure which position suits you best, you should try switching positions whenever you can to see if one feels better than another.

Get some fresh air

If you’re traveling on a cruise that offers open-air seating, try to sit there. You can also try moving onto the boat’s deck since fresh air helps prevent sea sickness.

Distract yourself

Try to talk to someone, listen to music, enjoy the view, or meditate to distract yourself from feeling sick.

Pick your seat carefully

Sit in the most stable position possible in your means of transportation if you usually feel sea sick. We recommend avoiding sitting on the lower decks of a cruise ship. You should also avoid the stern of a smaller boat, which may be more stable than the front, but has a pungent fuel smell that may make you feel uncomfortable.

Eat healthy food before traveling

Avoid fatty, acidic, or heavy foods before your travel, and limit your alcohol consumption. Drink water or fizzy beverages to stay hydrated while traveling, which may help control or mitigate your feelings of sea sickness.

People Also Asked

Absolutely, but be sure to choose the medicine wisely. While the majority of healthy people may use over-the-counter antihistamines without any issues, those who have hypertension, thyroid issues, glaucoma, bladder infections, an enlarged prostate, or renal illness should consult a doctor first. 

Traveling on the water may cause more turbulence than traveling on the road or in the air, so it’s best to consult with your pharmacist and choose an over-the-counter medicine that’s known for controlling or treating sea sickness specifically.

Sadly, there is no proven method of treating sea sickness that always works. Although most individuals feel better after using these medicines, some patients get little benefit from them. Numerous research supports the fact that antihistamines provide relief to many people.

Article Contributors

Sail magazine review team.

SAIL Magazine Review Team reports on best-selling products in sailing and boating. SAIL Magazine is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content.

To ensure questions about product testing or a specific article are addressed, please contact [email protected]

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From day trips and fun-filled family holidays to long-haul dream destinations, we’ve been helping to prevent and control travel sickness since 1949.

Travel sickness (or motion sickness) can be both miserable and distressing, filling sufferers – and those caring for travel sick-prone youngsters – with dread. So, no matter what bumps lie on the road ahead, ride the wave, fight the turbulence and get back on track with Kwells.

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Kwells 300 microgram tablets and Kwells Kids 150 microgram tablets are used for the fast and effective prevention and control of travel sickness.

• Contains Hyoscine Hydrobromide
• Helps prevent travel sickness

Travel Happy Tips

Motion Sickness and Rollercoasters

Ever wondered how you found amusement parks such a carefree thrill when you were younger – but now just the very thought leaves you feeling a little queasy?

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Ever wondered how travel sickness tablets work to prevent or relieve motion sickness? Find out here.

How to cope with motion sickness while skiing

Learn the best ways to cope with motion sickness when skiing.

Autism and Travel Sickness: Tips for Managing Motion Sickness on the Go

Find out the link between autism and travel sickness.

Top tips to avoid travel sickness on your Christmas holidays

You’ve taken the plunge and booked a holiday on the high seas! Anticipating your first cruise is incredibly exciting…

Kwells 300 microgram tablets. For the prevention of travel sickness, suitable for adults and children aged 10+. Contains Hyoscine Hydrobromide 300 microgram. Kwells Kids 150 microgram tablets. For the prevention of travel sickness, suitable for children aged 4+. Contains Hyoscine Hydrobromide 150 microgram. Always read the label

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Nausea medicine

Peer reviewed by Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP Last updated by Dr Toni Hazell Last updated 14 Jun 2023

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

In this series: Nausea and vomiting Dehydration

Various medicines are available to treat nausea . They work in different ways to one another. These medicines are not usually started until your doctor is sure what has caused your nausea. This is because knowing the cause helps your doctor to choose the right medicine for you. If they are required then any medicine usually only needs to be taken for a few days. Most people are able to take these medicines.

In this article :

Types of nausea medicine, when is nausea medicine prescribed, which medicine is usually prescribed for nausea, side-effects of nausea medicine.

Continue reading below

The medicines for nausea used are sometimes called antiemetics. Some of these medicines work on the gut and speed up how quickly food moves through it. Other medicines work on the brain and block signals to the vomiting centre. Listed below are some of the more commonly prescribed medicines:

Cinnarizine , cyclizine , promethazine - these medicines belong to a group of medicines called antihistamines . The exact way that they work is not fully understood. It is thought that antihistamines block histamine 1 (H1) receptors in the area of the brain which creates nausea in response to chemicals in the body. They are thought to work well for nausea caused by a number of conditions including ear problems and motion (travel) sickness.

Hyoscine - this medicine works by blocking a chemical in the brain called acetylcholine. It is a type of medicine called an antimuscarinic (or anticholinergic). It works well for nausea caused by ear problems and motion sickness.

Chlorpromazine , haloperidol , perphenazine, prochlorperazine , levomepromazine - these medicines work by blocking a chemical in the brain called dopamine. They are useful for nausea that is caused by some cancers, radiation and opiate medicines such as morphine and codeine. Prochlorperazine (or brand name Stemetil®) is one of the most used medicines for nausea. It works for many common causes of nausea, including vertigo, ear problems and sickness in pregnancy.

Metoclopramide - this medicine works directly on your gut. It eases the feelings of sickness by helping to empty the stomach and speed up how quickly food moves through the gut. It is often used for people with sickness due to gut problems or migraine. It is not usually used for more than a few days.

Domperidone - this medicine works on the CTZ. (CTZ stands for chemoreceptor trigger zone.) It also speeds up the emptying of the gut. It is not usually used for more than a few days. The use of domperidone is strictly regulated following a 2014 warning about the risk of cardiac (to do with the heart) side-effects. It is no longer available over the counter and should only be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.

Dexamethasone - this is a steroid medicine. It is a man-made version of a natural hormone produced by your own body. Dexamethasone has a wide range of actions on many parts of the body. The reason why it reduces nausea is not clear.

Granisetron , ondansetron , and palonosetron - these medicines work by blocking a chemical called serotonin (5-HT) in the gut, and the brain. Serotonin (5-HT) has an action in the gut and the brain to cause nausea. These medicines are useful for controlling nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

Aprepitant and fosaprepitant - these are newer medicines and work by blocking a chemical that acts on neurokinin receptors in the body to cause nausea. They are sometimes called neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists. They are usually given to people on a certain type of chemotherapy.

Nabilone - it is still not clear how this medicine works to control nausea. It is normally prescribed for people who are having chemotherapy.

Medicines for nausea are usually only prescribed once your doctor is sure what is causing your feeling of sickness (nausea). This is because, in a lot of cases, if you treat the condition causing your nausea, it will go away. For example, if your nausea is caused by taking too much of a particular medicine, your doctor will reduce the dose and your nausea will often go away.

If the cause of your nausea is not known, your doctor can still prescribe a medicine for you but it is much better to know what the cause is so the right medicine can be chosen.

The choice of medicine depends on various factors, including:

What is causing your feeling of sickness (nausea).

Whether you have any other medical conditions.

Whether you are pregnant.

Possible side-effects of the medicines.

It is not possible to list all the conditions that can cause nausea and which treatments are usually prescribed. However, some examples include:

Motion (travel) sickness : hyoscine is the most effective medicine for motion sickness. Promethazine, cyclizine, or cinnarizine also work well. See the separate leaflet called Motion Sickness (Travel Sickness) for more detail .

Pregnancy : if you are pregnant, your doctor will usually prefer not to treat nausea and being sick (vomiting) with medicines unless the symptoms are severe. However, if it is decided that you need treatment, generally promethazine, prochlorperazine, or metoclopramide may be prescribed. This is because they are not thought to harm the unborn baby. See the separate leaflet called Morning Sickness in Pregnancy for more detail .

Migraine : both metoclopramide and domperidone work well for nausea caused by a migraine. See the separate leaflet called Migraine Medication, Treatment and Prevention for more detail .

Chemotherapy : it is not unusual to take a combination of different medicines to control nausea and vomiting if you have chemotherapy. Some chemotherapy medicines are more likely than others to cause nausea and vomiting. If you have chemotherapy that has a low risk of nausea, your doctor will usually prescribe metoclopramide or domperidone. If you have chemotherapy that has a high risk of nausea, three medicines that work in a different way to each other may be prescribed - for example, ondansetron, dexamethasone and aprepitant. See the separate leaflet called Chemotherapy for more detail.

It is not possible to list all the possible side-effects of each of these medicines in this leaflet. However, as with all medicines, there are a number of side-effects that have been reported. To see the side-effects specific to your medicine, see the information leaflet that came with your medicine.

Common side-effects may include:

Constipation .

Headaches .

Drowsiness or tiredness.

Trouble with sleeping ( insomnia ).

Indigestion .

However, the side-effects are different with each different medicine. Most side-effects are not serious and each person may react differently to these medicines. Usually most people do not get the side-effects listed; however, they can happen to some people.

Further reading and references

• British National Formulary (BNF) ; NICE Evidence Services (UK access only)
• Flake ZA, Linn BS, Hornecker JR ; Practical selection of antiemetics in the ambulatory setting. Am Fam Physician. 2015 Mar 1;91(5):293-6.
• Becker DE ; Nausea, vomiting, and hiccups: a review of mechanisms and treatment. Anesth Prog. 2010 Winter;57(4):150-6; quiz 157. doi: 10.2344/0003-3006-57.4.150.
• Domperidone: risks of cardiac side effects. MHRA ; 2014

Article History

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

Next review due: 12 May 2028

14 jun 2023 | latest version.

Last updated by

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The 6 best tablets for travel in 2024

With the world opening up once again for tourists, you’re going to want to buy a tablet to beat the boredom of long flights and waiting times. Not all models will be able to serve this purpose though, so to help you decide what to purchase, we’ve rounded up our recommendations for the best tablets for travel. We acknowledge that there are different types of travelers, so we picked devices that will cater to each of them, while considering a specific set of criteria when making our selections.

While you can also use your smartphone during your trips, the larger screen of tablets will help provide more amusing entertainment when you need it. The best tablets for travel will let you catch up on work, watch streaming shows , check social media, and whatever else you may think of doing while you’re on the way to your destination, or while you’re taking a break from all the sights and sounds. Read onward to figure out the best tablet for travel for you, then go ahead and purchase it so that the device will be ready and waiting for your next adventure.

The best tablets for travel in 2024

• Buy the if you want the best overall tablet for travel.
• Buy the if you want a tablet for travel that will keep you productive.
• Buy the if you want a tablet for travel to watch streaming content and play mobile games.
• Buy the if you want to get your child a tablet for travel.
• Buy the if you want a tablet for travel that’s extremely portable.
• Buy the if you want a tablet for travel for an affordable price.

Apple iPad Air 5th Gen

Best tablet for travel for most people.

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It’s not a surprise that our top choice among the best tablets is also the first tablet for travel that we recommend. Simply put, the fifth-generation Apple iPad Air is that good. Performance is amazing with Apple’s M1 processor, as you wouldn’t want to get even more frustrated when you’re already dealing with the stress of travel. The tablet also features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, which is bright and colorful to help you better enjoy your favorite content.

The Apple iPad Air 5th Gen will take advantage of the features of the iPadOS 17 , which is the latest version of Apple’s operating system for tablets. It’s slim and light so it’s easy to bring with you during your travels, it comes with a USB-C port for wide compatibility, and it works with the Apple Pencil 2 and the Magic Keyboard as extra accessories for additional input options.

Microsoft Surface Pro 9

Best tablet for travel for professionals.

For those who are planning to work even while they’re traveling, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 will make sure that you’ll remain productive. It runs on Windows 11 Home , so you’ll be able to use it with the most popular productivity apps — Microsoft Office — and it will make sure that you can get all your tasks done quickly with its 12th-generation Intel Core i7 Evo processor and 16GB of RAM.

As a tablet, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 offers a 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate, and you can prop it up using its built-in kickstand. However, it transforms into a laptop using the Surface Keyboard that comes bundled with it, in case you need to respond to an email or make a quick report. Some people prefer bringing their work with them on their trips, but that’s why the Microsoft Surface Pro 9  is one of the best tablets for travel — it will help you get back to your vacation as soon as possible.

OnePlus Pad

Best tablet for travel to watch movies and play games.

The OnePlus Pad sits on top of our rankings of the best Android tablets , and that’s partly because of its sharp and vibrant 11.6-inch LCD touchscreen. With 2800 x 2000 pixel resolution and an up to 144Hz refresh rate, it’s an excellent display for watching streaming content and playing mobile games because you’ll be seeing sharp images and smooth movements. The tablet also supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos to enable a personal cinema, and the viewing is even more immersive because of the narrow bezels surrounding the screen.

Adding to the reasons why the OnePlus Pad is one of our best tablets for travel are its slim and lightweight design with a thickness of just 6.5 millimeters and weight of 552 grams, its smooth CNC aluminum unibody, and an all-day battery life that will go from zero to full charge after just over 60 minutes of being plugged in.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro

Best tablet for travel to keep your children entertained.

If you want to keep your children busy during your travels, giving them a tablet is one of the easiest options, and the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro will be your best bet. It’s not the most powerful device out there with just 3GB of RAM, but it will be more than enough for your children as they play games and watch videos on its 10.1-inch touchscreen with Full HD resolution, and they’ll be kept busy with its 13-hour battery life.

The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro is great for children because it comes with a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+, which offers age-appropriate books, games, videos, and apps. It’s also bundled with a kid-proof case to keep the tablet safe from damage, though it features a two-year worry-free guarantee — if the tablet breaks within that period, it will be replaced for free.

Apple iPad Mini 6th Gen

Best tablet for travel that’s easy to carry.

If you want to make sure that you won’t have trouble finding a place for your tablet in your luggage, get something compact like the Apple iPad Mini 6th Gen . It’s very portable with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and weight of just below 300 grams. However, despite its small size, it offers fast performance for your apps with Apple’s A15 Bionic chip and 4GB of RAM, which is the same configuration that you’ll find in the iPhone 13 .

The Apple iPad Mini 6th Gen is compatible with the Apple Pencil 2 if you’re thinking about using it to take notes or draw sketches of the places you visit, and it may be upgraded to iPadOS 17 so that you have access to the operating system’s latest features. It’s also equipped with a USB-C port for charging and other accessories.

Lenovo Tab M10 Plus 3rd Gen

Best tablet for travel with a cheap price.

For those who just need a simple tablet for their travels, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus 3rd Gen is an affordable but decent option. Its display is relatively large for a budget device at 10.6 inches, and it’s bright and sharp enough for most purposes. The tablet also features a quad-speaker system with Dolby Atmos, so that you can better enjoy watching streaming shows and the videos that you’ll take with it.

The Lenovo Tab M10 Plus 3rd Gen is equipped with an all-day battery so it can keep you company throughout your trip, and it’s protected by a durable aluminum chassis that keeps the tablet light at 465 grams. Book lovers can activate the device’s Immersive Reading Mode to make the screen easier on the eyes, which will be helpful if you’ll be stuck on a plane or train for hours.

How we chose these tablets for travel

Not all tablets are excellent choices as travel companions, and to determine which ones are, we came up with this set of criteria that we followed to narrow down our choices for the best tablets for travel. While certain characteristics will be more important for different types of travelers, you generally want a tablet that will check all these boxes so that you won’t find it lacking once you’re already on your trip.

Portability

The first thing that most people will think about when choosing a tablet for travel purposes is whether the device will be portable. While tablets with larger screens will need a bit more effort if you want to make space for it in your luggage, they may still be considered portable if they’re slim enough to easily slide into your bag. As an electronic device, you wouldn’t want to have your tablet placed somewhere that’s going to be out of your sight, so it’s important that the device you buy will fit into the hand-carry bag that you always bring with you during your travels.

In selecting the best tablets for travel, we chose devices that maintain portability even if they have relatively large displays, though of course, that will still depend on the biggest device that you’ll be comfortable bringing with you.

Versatility

While you may have a specific purpose in mind for your tablet while you travel, it would be better if the device is versatile enough to handle different kinds of activities. For example, if your tablet is primarily for browsing the internet, it should still have a display with decent resolution in case you decide to watch a video. If you think you’re going to be playing mobile games most of the time on your tablet, you should still think about having enough storage space left over when you need it to take footage of anything awesome that you come across in your trip.

Some tablets have accessories, either bundled with the device or requiring a separate purchase, that will give you extra options. A stylus will help you pass the time by drawing the sights that you see, while a keyboard will make it easier to compose emails or write on your travel blog. This versatility helps make the best tablets for travel very valuable companions.

Compatibility

If you use a specific set of apps for work and play, or if you have accessories that you can’t leave home without, you better make sure that they will work with the tablet that you buy. The best tablets for travel are widely compatible with all of the popular apps and accessories, as they’re powered by top operating systems and they come with a complete set of ports.

We made sure to select tablets that will work with everything that you usually use, which means going for trusted brands that have taken this into consideration when building their devices. Whether you’re an iPadOS or Android fan, there’s something for you in our list of the best tablets for travel if you want to stick to the ecosystem that you’re used to back home.

Traveling requires a lot of movement, which will possibly expose your tablet to much more wear and tear compared to using it at home. We chose devices that are relatively durable because you wouldn’t want to go home with a broken tablet, which will be an additional expense to repair or replace. Tablets with built-in protection for their touchscreens and made with tough materials are excellent choices as travel companions.

For the more adventurous travelers, you may want to buy a rugged case or something similar for your tablet so that it will better withstand potential damage. This is partly why we chose some of the most popular models for our list of the best tablets for travel, as there will surely be rugged cases and similar accessories available for them.

Value for money

Last but not least, we believe that you should receive fantastic value for money with every purchase, and getting a tablet for travel is no exception. Whether you’re on a tight budget or you’re willing to make a significant investment, the device that you buy should make you feel that you paid more than what it cost you.

Affordable tablets should still provide decent performance, and premium tablets should pack all the latest features. It would be a good idea to set a maximum budget for your purchase to further narrow down your options, but no matter what, you won’t regret spending your cash on any of the best tablets for travel that we’ve highlighted above.

This article is managed and created separately from the Digital Trends Editorial team.

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Aaron received a NES and a copy of Super Mario Bros. for Christmas when he was 4 years old, and he has been fascinated with tech ever since. A gamer at heart, Aaron believes that while the tech industry is often dealing with side quests and boss fights, it always remains on track with the mission to save the world.

For those who are thinking about getting a foldable phone, we've rounded up three foldable phone deals for you to consider as your next purchase. Motorola is currently selling the Motorola Razr at $200 off, which brings its price down to $500 from $700, and the Motorola Razr Plus at $300 off, which lowers its price to $700 from $1,000. Meanwhile, the Google Pixel Fold is available from Best Buy with a $500 discount that slashes its price to $1,299 from $1,799. You can be sure that you won't regret purchasing any of these devices because they're all included in our roundup of the best folding phones, but you need to hurry because the offers may expire at any moment. Motorola Razr -- $500, was $700

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Apple's iPad is undoubtedly one of the most popular tablets on the market right now. There are several different models to choose from, but no matter which one you go with, you'll be getting one of the best tablets out there. Still, Apple provides an abundance of choice here, and with so many different versions — and almost annual updates — it can be tricky to know which one is the best to get.

All of Apple's iPads are pretty great, and they're each designed with a slightly different audience in mind, so it's hard to pick a single one as "the best." That's why we've broken this list down by categories; after all, there's an ideal iPad for nearly every situation. Whether you're looking for the best overall iPad, the best iPad on a budget, something in the middle of the pack, or even the best small iPad, we've got you covered.

The Apple iPhone is one of the best phones on the market, and because of it they don’t often come cheap. There are some great iPhone deals out there, but it’s rare to find significant discounts on newer models without having to commit to a longterm contract with a carrier, and it’s even less frequent you come across one of the best iPhones with a major price drop. This is where shopping refurbished can come in handy. Refurbished iPhones — for the most part — will come backed with a functionality guarantee or extended return window, making refurbished iPhones as safe of a purchase as shopping new. There are a lot of refurbished iPhone models seeing great price drops right now, which is why we’ve done the heavy lifting of rounding up all of the best refurbished iPhone deals. You’ll find them below, as well as some information on which refurbished iPhone might be best for you. iPhone XR -- from $136

A refurbished model but one that's unlocked and comes with a full one-year warranty, the Apple iPhone XR is still pretty stylish for its age. It has a large 6.1-inch LCD screen with 1,792 x 828 resolution with Liquid Retina technology ensuring it looks super sharp. Powered by the A12 Bionic chip, it's starting to show its age but still has potential. There's also a 12MP back camera that can shoot 4K videos while the front-facing camera is 7MP and ideal for selfie-taking.

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18 Best Travel Backpacks, According to Frequent Flyers

By Gabrielle Porcaro

As someone who frequently travels, I've slung duffels, totes , and travel purses on my arm, but nothing compares to using the best travel backpacks. Depending on the length of your trip, a suitcase can either be too bulky or not big enough, so you'll need the vital second bag to make sure all your clothes, tech, and gear securely arrive at your destination. Plus, traveling with a backpack can be more supportive for your back, freeing up your arms and hands to pull out directions on your phone or to hold an iced coffee. Backpacks can also be surprisingly roomy, so everything you need (or want) on your trip fits as comfortably as possible. The good news is there are a wide range of excellent options to suit any and all of your needs. Below, we found the most travel-friendly options and tapped Glamour editors and some of our frequent-flier friends to share the best travel backpacks.

What to look for in a travel backpack

When shopping for luggage items like a travel backpack, the comfort and capacity of the bag is key. You want it to feel easy on the body, which means wide straps or a hip belt to distribute weight, which comes in handy if you're running to catch a plane or carrying it through a crowded subway. Bonus points if the straps are they adjustable and padded. Consider the material: Is it lightweight, soft, and made of durable material like water-resistant fabric? As for size, think about the use of the backpack. There are weekender bags and carry-on size options you can use for long weekends or smartly packed weeklong vacations and styles for short day trips, hikes, or shopping excursions.

The best travel backpacks, at a glance

• Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack , $210
• Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack , $33
• Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack , $78
• Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack , $30
• Best for Commuters : Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack , $95
• Most Stylish : Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack , $150

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best Overall : Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

Here's a simple, sleek backpack with plenty of built-in organization. “My twin sister and I have traveled the world together, and this bag came in particularly handy on our trip to South America when we both needed more room besides our carry-on luggage. What I loved about this piece is it's essentially a suitcase with straps. The wrap zipper fully opens up, allowing you to see and organize your goods into the compartments. Crafted in repurposed nylon, the exterior is one of a kind, and the colors made it easier to spot one another through the crowds,” says Glamour contributor Gabrielle Porcaro .

Capacity: 42 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Repurposed nylon body; suitcase layout; weight-distributing harness system
• Cons: Can easily show dirt

Best on Amazon : Shrradoo Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack

As a runner-up, consider this the Swiss Army knife of backpacks. Hidden in this compact, durable bag are 20 pockets and compartments to accommodate and organize everything from clothes to an umbrella to power cords. A practical standout feature of this travel backpack is an external USB port with set-in charging cables to charge your phone (just remember to charge your power pack before heading out on your trip). Another noteworthy aspect is the U-shaped 3D breathable mesh straps designed to relieve stress from shoulders and reduce a sweaty back.

Capacity: 52 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: So many pockets for organizing; USB charging port; comfortable
• Cons: Chunky, technical look

Best Daypack : Lululemon Everywhere Backpack

Lululemon gets a lot of love for its Lulu leggings and activewear, but don't sleep on accessories like its laptop bags . A classic backpack with a modern design, the Everywhere Backpack has a clean appearance that will effortlessly match your look. Inside it's spacious and has a padded pocket that fits a 16-inch laptop. On the exterior is a front zipper pocket for keys, antibacterial wipes, headphones…whatever you need handy while on the go.

Capacity: 22 L / Waterproof : Water-repellent

• Pros: Internal laptop sleeve; side water bottle pockets; lightweight
• Cons: No luggage strap; not a ton of pockets

Best Budget : Coofay Carry On Backpack

This affordable, multifunctional pack is lightweight but can hold a lot and easily fit under an airline seat as a carry-on. “I loved the space and compartments of this bag. It's durable and packed a lot of room for so many things. The luggage handle strap is also a bonus if you're hauling a roller bag,” wrote one Amazon reviewer . Bonus: It has a shoes and a wet pocket compartment.

Capacity: 17 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Separate shoe compartment, 29 color options; USB port design
• Cons: Short luggage strap

By Emily Tannenbaum

By Sophia Bush

Best for Commuters : Everlane the ReNew Transit Backpack

Whether you're a college commuter or in the office most days, this is an excellent option for everyday travel or work trips. It's a go-to for Condé Nast associate director of box business operations Haley Welch . “The separate laptop compartment makes organizing seamless, as does the front and upper zipper compartments, which is great for a Kindle,” she says. She likes that the chic and minimal look effortlessly mixes with every outfit, from comfy travel joggers and hoodies to a work-appropriate suit or dress.

Capacity : 27 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Internal and external water bottle holders; zipper pocket on top; made from renewed materials
• Cons : Only holds a 15-inch laptop

Most Stylish : Best Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack

For anyone looking for a dressier option for their everyday commute or regular work trips, Tumi has a gorgeous style. Don't let the sleek appearance fool you; the zipper reveals a very roomy interior but still folds flat. A two-way zipper makes it easier to grab whatever you need from the inside with a smaller front pocket as well. There’s also a very convenient add-to-a-bag sleeve to secure this nicely over your suitcase handle, making it one to use on daily and international excursions. It's so stylish it can double as a cute work bag for office days.

Capacity: 15"H x 12"W x 4 1/2"D. (Interior capacity: large) / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros :Packable; folds down flat; lightweight
• Cons: Doesn’t fit a ton

Best for Organization : Snoffic Travel Backpack

If remaining organized is of the utmost importance while traveling or in everyday life, look no further than this North Face backpack. This wallet-friendly pick has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon and under $35 price tag. “I was able to pack a week's worth of summer clothes in it, which included two summer dresses," says one Amazon reviewer . Not only does this bag offer ample space and waterproof material, but it also includes two clear toiletry bags (also waterproof) to help you reduce your zip-lock baggie usage. Plus, it comes in a wide range of pretty shades.

Capacity : 40 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros : Nicely priced; roomy; includes two toiletry bags
• Cons : Boxy shape

Best for Pockets : Athleta Excursion Backpack

This pick, courtesy of Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs , is one that can hold every little trinket or gadget you own. “I thought this backpack was going to my go-to for hiking, but it’s actually my go-to for pretty much everything. I love how sleek it is, and yet, despite its slim appearance, it manages to fit my 15-inch laptop, my secondary screen, charger, headphones, e-reader, and mouse. It has handy organizational features, like an inner key ring, zippered outer pockets for me to stash my lip gloss and phone, and not one but two mesh pockets that fit my water bottle and an umbrella. Its handles are also made of a breathable fabric—so useful when I’ve worked up a sweat while out and about.”

• Pros :Lightweight; ripstop material resists snags and tears; mesh back panel for added support
• Cons: Larger on top shape

Best Minimalist Design : Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

“On my last flight I saw not one, not two, but multiple travelers with this style hanging from their backs. As someone who regularly takes Dagne Dover bags on trips, I understand the popularity. The neoprene material is strong, soft, and stretchy, which causes the bag to flex to your body and whatever you put inside. It's forgiving, allowing you to fit in and possibly overstuff everything you need for a trip. It also washes well, ensuring it will always have that chic appearance even after some wear and tear,” says Porcaro. Dagne Dover also makes excellent diaper backpacks like this parent-approved Indi Diaper Bag .

Capacity: 16 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Packs a lot; machine washable
• Cons: Neoprene is a bit heavier than other material; material creases easily

Best for Airplane Travel : Augustnoa Classic Noa

“So many features drew me to this bag: the eco-friendly (plus water-friendly) material, smart design, and luggage sleeve—a must for any travel carry-on piece. There are ten pockets and compartments to organize essentials, something I took full advantage of when using. As an active person trying to hydrate more, I also appreciated the side pockets that securely held my water bottle (I bent over, and it didn't budge). It also includes a removable drawstring bag, something I always forget to pack for morning workouts and overnight travels,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 21 L / Waterproof : Water-resistant

• Pros: Pockets on straps; laptop and tablet sleeve; two water bottle holders
• Cons: Pockets in the back and on straps are small

Best Roll Top : Roark Passenger 27L 2.0 Bag

Expandable storage is always a plus with any travel bag. This backpack, from super cool brand Roark, has an adjustable top to allow more room. The roll-top also has a magnetic entry, allowing for easy and secure access on the move. Interior and exterior pockets, including one for your tablet or laptop, sunglasses, and a hidden pocket for your passport, are specific details that make this a unique backpack. Ergonomic air mesh padded straps, a quilted back, and chest straps prevent this from adding any discomfort to your travels. The appearance calls for adventure, but it equally works in cities.

Capacity: 27 L / Waterproof : 100% Nylon

• Pros: Streamlined look; quilted back; magnetic closure top
• Cons: Could use more internal pockets

Best Large Travel Bag : Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L

The beauty of this bag is it says it right in the title—it's a black hole. With a 55-liter capacity, there's no doubt it will hold everything you need for a long weekend or even a long weekend trip. Ultra-comfortable to carry, it's perfect for hiking excursions, camping trips, or multi-city European backpacking adventures. Durably made with 100% recycled fabric, this fits in the overhead bin; if you want to check it, you can trust it will return to you just as you left it.

Capacity: 55 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros: Large, carry-on size, top and side handles; removable shoulder straps
• Cons: Rugged design

Best for Laptop : Herschel Kaslo Dayback Tech Backpack

If you're looking for a laptop backpack , this is a top choice. Hershel backpacks are a go-to for marriage and family therapist and mom of two boys, Whitney Steller. “I have had this for almost six years, and the quality is amazing. No rips or anything and the straps are still comfortable. “The classic grade school look was also a draw and the fact that it fits perfectly under a plane seat. This style, in particular, is eco-friendly, made from post-consumer water bottles, and has a padded compartment to fit up a 15-inch laptop.

Capacity: 20 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Optional strum strap to help disturbed weight; padded compartment for laptop
• Cons: No luggage sleeve

Best Y-Pack : Topo Designs Y-Pack Backpack

This is an awesome option for anyone who ends up leaving a trip with more than they brought. “The adjustable Y-shaped strap can be tight and secure or loosened to allow for more room, which is the reason why this is a piece of heavy rotation for me. It always shocks me how much I can fit/shove into the main compartment yet still slide my laptop out of the back sleeve. No matter if it’s filled with a hoodie and various pouches holding makeup, power cords, and snacks; it's easy to access. I like to use the zip pocket on the top to store antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, headphones, and anything else I want easy access to once I arrive on the flight,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 23.8 L / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Drawstring closure offers more space; zip pocket on top for easy access; durable material great for travel and the outdoors
• Cons: G-hook buckle closure can sometimes be tough

Best Waterproof : SealLine Skylake Dry Pack

The beauty of this piece is that it rolls up for easy packing within a suitcase or larger travel backpack. The fact that it's created from an extremely lightweight material also ups the packability and wear factor. Jen Ator, a personal trainer, used this on her honeymoon in Thailand. “Not only was it super sturdy and waterproof, but it fits everything we needed during day trips.” She also pointed out how handy the exterior pocket was for easy access to essentials like a phone to snap a picture of her and her husband.

Capacity : 18 L / Waterproof : Yes

• Pros: Lightweight; stowable
• Cons: No interior pocket

Best Convertible : Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Backpack

Adaptability is vital when traveling, and this Thule convertible backpack offers various ways to hold it. If you're in a tight space, de-boarding, or want to give your shoulders a break, there is a longer shoulder strap and top handle to hold. Inside the backpack, you'll find compartments that look like your favorite easy-rolling carry-on suitcase, making it easy to keep everything with you secure and organized. Another standout feature is the exterior crush-resistant SafeZone compartment that's perfect for storing sunglasses or a phone.

Capacity: 21 ¾"H x 14"W x 8"D. / Waterproof : Water Resistant

• Pros: Crust resistant, two-way zip closure, RFID-shielded pocket;
• Cons: Expensive

Best for City Travel : PAK Large Nylon Backpack

“As a backpack I recently added to my collection, I was impressed by how many features were hidden in what seemed like a pretty basic bag. First, it’s worth noting how seamlessly this slid on and off my back, making it a breeze to sit on the subway or grab my wallet to buy coffee. At first glance, I was confused about the zipper on the bottom of the front pocket, but when I realized it was a coat sling, which, as someone who runs cold and always has an extra layer, is something I will use again and again. Another made-for-me feature is an extra large pocket for water bottles since it’s a personal pet peeve when they aren’t wide enough for standard sizes. Having only worn this around the city for daily life, I appreciate that the shape and look of the pack are city-ready and more polished. When I take this on international trips, I look forward to using the hidden theft-proof compartments,” says Porcaro.

Capacity: 13.5”L x 7” W x 14” H / Waterproof : No

• Pros: Easy access pocket in the back, Coat sling, Large side pockets
• Cons: Not super large

Best Customizable : Roam Continental Backpack

Anyone who is a fan of customization will appreciate this pick. Buyers can choose the color they want on the front, back, side, and straps to create a bag that is uniquely theirs. This is favorite of Glamour commerce editor Jenifer Calle , who has been using it for years. “It fits enough for weekend trips and vacation travel. I particularly like that the side zippers fit my Owala water bottle and there are plenty of zipper and pockets to hold my wallet, keys, chargers, lip balms, and more” says Glamour’s Calle.

Capacity : 26 L / Waterproof : Water Repellent

• Pros : Customizable; 100-day trial period; soft material; luggage sleeve
• Cons : Expensive

By Stephanie McNeal

By Jenny McCoy

By Brie Schwartz