Motion sickness can affect even passengers who usually travel well. Simple behavioural changes can help, but severe or unusual symptoms should not be attributed solely to travel – seek medical advice if necessary.
Check the latest rules and restrictions in the NHS advice on travel sickness.
Choose a more stable spot
At the front of the bus and near the aisle, the motion often feels more predictable. Look straight ahead or at a distant, stationary landmark; avoid reading small print and do not watch videos for long periods whilst the bus is turning.
Food and air
Before setting off, choose light, familiar food; avoid alcohol and overly greasy meals. Drink water in small sips. Fresh air during stops and slow, steady breathing can help reduce discomfort.
Prepare your hand luggage
Keep water, tissues, a plastic bag, a spare T-shirt and any essential personal items to hand. Alert your travelling companion or the driver if your condition worsens, particularly if you feel faint or are at risk of losing consciousness.
Medication — only if contraindications are taken into account
Some motion sickness remedies cause drowsiness and may interact with other medicines. Consult your doctor or pharmacist, read the instructions carefully and do not take anyone else’s medication.
What to check before you set off
Open your ticket and check the full name of the stop, local time, luggage rules and the carrier’s contact details. Save the relevant pages offline, inform a loved one of your itinerary and do not schedule an important connection too close to your estimated arrival time. If your journey depends on special arrangements — such as accessible boarding, the carriage of medical equipment, an animal or non-standard luggage — obtain written confirmation before the day of departure.
A quick checklist
- check your ticket, the exact stop and the current time;
- save your documents, map and important contact details offline;
- allow plenty of time and have a backup plan;
- keep your mobile phone, charger, water and any necessary medication with you;
- use the carrier’s official channels.
Before setting off, check the packing list for a long coach journey and the list of documents required for Europe. Find the latest departures on RedRay.
After your journey
Do not delete your ticket or messages immediately upon arrival. Check your belongings, expenses and any documents you’ve kept. If you need to contact the transport operator, describe the events in chronological order, include the time, journey number and confirmation, and keep the originals with you. This approach helps to separate facts from emotions and get a meaningful response more quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Does sleep help?
For many passengers, resting reduces sensory overload, but it is important to support your head comfortably and not block the aisle.
When should you seek help?
If vomiting persists, or if you experience a severe headache, chest pain, loss of consciousness or other worrying symptoms, seek emergency medical assistance.