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What causes car sickness in children and how can I prevent it?

Car sickness is a type of motion sickness. Motion sickness occurs when the brain receives conflicting information from the inner ears, eyes, and nerves in the joints and muscles.

Imagine a young child sitting low in the back seat of a car without being able to see out the window — or an older child reading a book in the car. The child's inner ear will sense motion, but his or her eyes and body won't. The result might be an upset stomach, cold sweat, fatigue, loss of appetite or vomiting.

It's not clear why car sickness affects some children more than others. While the problem doesn't seem to affect most infants and toddlers, children ages 2 to 12 are particularly susceptible.

To prevent car sickness in children, you might try the following strategies:

• Reduce sensory input. Encourage your child to look at things outside the car rather than focusing on books, games or screens. If your child naps, traveling during nap time might help.
• Carefully plan pre-trip meals. Don't give your child a large meal immediately before or during car travel. If the trip will be long or your child needs to eat, give him or her a small, bland snack — such as dry crackers and a small drink — before it's time to go.
• Provide air ventilation. Adequate air ventilation might help prevent car sickness.
• Offer distractions. If your child is prone to car sickness, try distracting him or her during car trips by talking, listening to music or singing songs.
• Use medication. If you're planning a car trip, ask your child's doctor about using an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl), to prevent car sickness. Both medications work best if taken about an hour before traveling. Read the product label carefully to determine the correct dose and be prepared for possible side effects, such as drowsiness. Nondrowsy antihistamines don't appear to be effective at treating motion sickness.

If your child starts to develop car sickness, stop the car as soon as possible and let your child get out and walk around or lie on his or her back for a few minutes with closed eyes. Placing a cool cloth on your child's forehead also might help.

If these tips don't help or if your child's car sickness makes travel difficult, talk to your child's doctor about other options.

Jay L. Hoecker, M.D.

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• Concussion in children
• Brunette GW, et al., eds. Motion sickness. In: CDC Yellow Book 2020: Health Information for International Travel. Oxford University Press; 2019. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/travel-by-air-land-sea/motion-sickness. Accessed Feb. 24, 2020.
• Motion sickness. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/injuries-poisoning/motion-sickness/motion-sickness#. Accessed Feb. 24, 2020.
• Priesol AJ. Motion sickness. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 24, 2020.
• Altmann T, et al., eds. Head, neck, and nervous system. In: Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5. 7th ed. Bantam; 2019.

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Hyoscine for travel sickness

Joy rides, kwells, scopoderm.

Peer reviewed by Sid Dajani Last updated by Michael Stewart, MRPharmS Last updated 21 Nov 2022

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

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Follow the dosage directions on the label or pack. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

If you are taking tablets, take a dose about 30 minutes before you travel.

If you have been prescribed a patch, apply it to the skin behind your ear 5-6 hours before your journey starts.

Hyoscine may make you sleepy. If this happens, do not drive and do not use tools or machines.

In this article :

About hyoscine, before taking hyoscine, how to use hyoscine, getting the most from your treatment, can hyoscine cause problems, how to store hyoscine, important information about all medicines.

Continue reading below

Hyoscine is an effective medicine for travel sickness . It works by preventing the confusing messages going to your brain.

There are a number of different brands of tablet available which contain hyoscine as a salt, called hyoscine hydrobromide. You can buy these without a prescription at pharmacies. There are two strengths of tablets available: 300 microgram tablets for adults, and 150 microgram tablets for children. The dose for younger children will require halving a tablet.

There is also a product called Scopoderm® 1.5 mg patch. This is a patch for people aged 10 years or over. You stick the patch on to the skin behind your ear 5-6 hours before your journey, and then remove it at the end of the journey. The patch releases hyoscine through your skin and into your bloodstream.

One of the other effects of hyoscine is that it causes a dry mouth. It is sometimes prescribed by doctors for this reason, rather than to prevent travel sickness.

There is also a similar-sounding medicine called hyoscine butylbromide. This is an antispasmodic medicine which is used to relieve pain caused by tummy (abdominal) cramps. There is more information about this in a separate medicine leaflet called Hyoscine butylbromide tablets .

To make sure this is the right treatment for you, before you (or your child) start taking hyoscine, it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you are unwell and have a high temperature (fever).

If you have digestive system problems such as reflux disease, diarrhoea, or ulcerative colitis.

If you have an eye condition called glaucoma.

If you have high blood pressure, a fast heart rate, or any other heart problems.

If you have problems with your liver, kidneys or prostate gland.

If you have epilepsy.

If you have a condition causing muscle weakness, called myasthenia gravis.

If you have Down's syndrome.

If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about hyoscine, including a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

Recommended doses are as follows:

For adults and children over 10 years of age: 150-300 micrograms.

For those aged 4-10 years: 75-150 micrograms.

For those aged 3-4 years: 75 micrograms.

You should take a dose of tablets 30-60 minutes before the start of the journey, and then repeat the dose after six hours if needed. There is a maximum number of tablets that can be taken in any 24-hour period, so remember to check the directions on the label carefully to make sure that you (or your child) do not take more than the recommended daily amount.

Read the label on the pack carefully to see whether the tablets should be sucked or chewed, or simply swallowed with a drink of water.

If you have been prescribed Scopoderm® 1.5 mg patches:

Stick one patch to the skin just behind your ear 5-6 hours before the start of your journey and remember to remove it after your arrival.

The effect of the patch can last up to 72 hours, so it is suitable for people taking long journeys.

Once removed, fold the patch in half so it sticks together and dispose of it carefully.

Remember to wash your hands after handling the patches, and also it is important to clean behind your ear after you have removed the patch. This is to make sure you remove any remaining traces of hyoscine from your skin.

Do not apply more than one patch at a time and do not cut the patches unless your doctor or a pharmacist tells you to.

Hyoscine can make you sleepy, and if you are using the patches, you may still feel sleepy the following day. If this happens, do not drive and do not use tools or machines until you feel well again. Also, avoid drinking alcohol, as this will increase the feelings of sleepiness.

When you buy any medicines, you should always check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take alongside your other medicines. This is particularly important with hyoscine because it can increase the side-effects from some other treatments.

Other things which can help to prevent travel sickness are:

Looking out of a window or sitting with your head tilted slightly backwards.

Taking regular breaks in your journey to have some fresh air and drink some cold water.

Breathing deeply and slowly while you listen to music.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with hyoscine. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

Important: on rare occasions more serious side-effects can occur when using hyoscine hydrobromide patches (Scopoderm ® patches). This is more likely if using the patches in a way the manufacturer did not intend, for example cutting patches or using more than one patch. People using hyoscine patches, or their carers, should be alert for signs that the dose is too high. These can include: a high temperature (fever), difficulty passing urine, confusion, disorientation, seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations), fits or convulsions, reduced consciousness and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, remove the patch(es) immediately and seek medical help.

Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Never take more than the recommended dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.

If you are having an operation or any dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.

Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.

If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

Report side effects to a medicine or vaccine

If you experience side effects, you can report them online through the Yellow Card website .

Further reading and references

• Manufacturer's PIL, Kwells® Kids ; Dexcel Pharma Ltd, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated May 2022.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Kwells® 300 microgram tablets ; Dexcel Pharma Ltd, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated May 2022.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Joy-Rides® Tablets ; Teva UK Limited, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated October 2020.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Scopoderm® 1.5 mg Patch ; GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated August 2021.
• Medicines Complete BNF 88th Edition ; British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.

Article history

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

Next review due: 20 Nov 2025

21 nov 2022 | latest version.

Last updated by

Peer reviewed by

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Dramamine® For Kids

Dramamine® for Kids is the only medicated motion sickness relief product formulated just for children ages 2-12 from the #1 Pharmacist Recommended Brand.

● Treats symptoms on the spot ● Prevents nausea, dizziness, vomiting & queasiness ● Safe, precise dose in a fun, chewable grape flavor ● Convenient travel case

Available in an 8-count box.

To prevent motion sickness, the first dose should be taken 1/2 to 1 hour before starting activity.

To prevent or treat motion sickness, see below:

• Children 2 to under 6 years: give ½ to 1 chewable tablet every 6-8 hours; do not give more than 3 chewable tablets in 24 hours, or as directed by a doctor
• Children 6 to under 12 years: give 1 to 2 chewable tablets every 6-8 hours; do not give more than 6 chewable tablets in 24 hours, or as directed by a doctor

Other information

• Phenylketonurics: contains phenylalanine 0.375 mg per tablet
• Store at room temperature 20°-25°C (68°-77°F)

Ingredients

Active Ingredient (in each tablet)

Ingredient: Dimenhydrinate 25mg Purpose: Antiemetic     

Inactive Ingredients Aspartame, citric acid, flavor, magnesium stearate, methacrylic acide copolymer, sorbitol

Do not use  for children under 2 years of age unless directed by a doctor

Ask a doctor before use if the child has:

• A breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis

Ask a doctor or a pharmacist before use if the child is  taking sedatives or tranquilizers.

When using this product:

• Marked drowsiness may occur
• Avoid alcoholic drinks
• Alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness
• Be careful when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery

If pregnant or breast-feeding,  ask a doctor before use.

Keep out of reach of children.  In case of accidental overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) right away.

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Motion Sickness

Is this your child's symptom.

• Dizziness or nausea from spinning or rolling motions

Symptoms of Motion Sickness

• Dizziness and unsteady walking
• Nausea and vomiting are also common
• Before age 6, the main symptom is dizziness and the need to lie down.
• After age 12, the main symptom is nausea (feeling sick to the stomach).

Causes of Motion Sickness

• Symptoms are mainly triggered by motion. Sea sickness or amusement park sickness are the most common types. Fun-park rides that spin or whirl are some of the main causes. The Tilt-a-whirl is a good example of a ride to avoid. Also seen during travel by train, aircraft and even car.
• The cause is a sensitive center in the inner ear. This center helps to maintain balance.
• As a car passenger driving on winding roads, 25% of people will have symptoms. Under extreme conditions (e.g., high seas) over 90% of people have symptoms.
• Strongly genetic: If one parent has it, 50% of the children will have it.
• It is not related to emotional problems. The child cannot control it with will power.
• Motion sickness symptoms are often worse in children.

When to Call for Motion Sickness

Call doctor or seek care now.

• Your child looks or acts very sick
• You think your child needs to be seen, and the problem is urgent

Contact Doctor Within 24 Hours

• Motion sickness symptoms last more than 8 hours
• You think your child needs to be seen, but the problem is not urgent

Contact Doctor During Office Hours

• You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home

• Motion sickness symptoms

Seattle Children's Urgent Care Locations

If your child’s illness or injury is life-threatening, call 911.

• Federal Way
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Care Advice for Motion Sickness

• Motion sickness is a common normal reaction that occurs in 25% of people.
• Caused by increased sensitivity of the inner ear.
• It is not related to emotional problems or any physical disease.
• In the future, take a special medicine ahead of time to prevent it.
• Here is some care advice that should help.
• Have your child lie down and rest. If your child goes to sleep, all the better.
• Give only sips of clear fluids. Water is best. Do this until the stomach settles down.
• Prepare for vomiting. Keep a vomiting pan handy.
• Usually, children don't vomit more than once with motion sickness.
• All symptoms of motion sickness usually go away in 4 hours after stopping the motion.
• As for the future, people usually don't outgrow motion sickness. Sometimes, it becomes less severe in adults.
• Buy some dimenhydrinate tablets (such as Dramamine) at your drug store. No prescription is needed. In the future, give it to prevent motion sickness.
• It comes in 50 mg regular and chewable tablets or in 25 mg Kids chewable tablets.
• Dosage by age: do not use under age 2.
• 2 to 5 years (12.5 mg): ½ Kids chewable
• 6 to 11 years (25 mg): 1 Kids chewable
• 12 and older (50 mg): 1 regular tablet or chewable
• Give the medicine 1 hour before traveling or going to a fun-park.
• The tablets give 6 hours of protection and are very helpful.
• Benadryl can also be used to prevent motion sickness. Use this if you do not have any Dramamine.
• If your child is over 12 years old, sit him in the front seat.
• Before age 12, have your child sit in the middle back seat. This should help him look out the front window.
• Have your child look out the front window, not the side one.
• Discourage looking at books or movies during car travel.
• Keep a window cracked to provide fresh air.
• Avoid exhaust fumes from other vehicles.
• Meals: Have your child eat light meals before trips. Some children can just tolerate crackers and water.
• Plastic Bags: Always carry a ziplock plastic bag for vomiting emergencies.
• Acupressure bands (such as Sea-Bands) are helpful for some adults.
• There is no reason they shouldn't work for some children.
• Put them on before car trips or other causes of motion sickness.
• The pressure button goes over the center of the wrist. Place ½ inch (1 cm) above the wrist crease.
• Any symptoms last over 8 hours
• You think your child needs to be seen
• Your child becomes worse

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the 'Call Your Doctor' symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.

Last Reviewed: 10/11/2023

Last Revised: 12/30/2022

Copyright 2000-2023. Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC.

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Best motion sickness treatments for kids in 2019

The first time your kid pukes in the car, you might be totally caught off guard. What just happened? All you were trying to do was take a little ride to see grandma and grandpa and now here you are, pulled over at a random gas station, desperately hoping that you have enough wipes, brought a change of clothes and can get the smell out.

Yes, I've experienced it.

As a mom whose kid has gotten both car and plane sick (yes, fellow passengers, your worst nightmare come true), motion sickness is nothing new. Yet every time it happens, it’s the worst.

Kids are prone to car sickness starting around two years of age, says Dr. Kevin Dahlman, a pediatrician and medical director of Aurora Children’s Health in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin. Nausea, dizziness and vomiting can happen when the brain receives conflicting messages: “Your inner ear, which manages balance, and eyes, which perceive motion, don’t match with how you’re feeling,” he said.

When your kid is sitting in a car seat , they’re often not focused on what’s going on outside. That disconnect triggers the symptoms.

Of course, many lucky kids never experience car sickness. But, if yours do, here’s what you need to prevent car sickness, manage symptoms, and (unfortunately), clean up if it happens, according to a pediatrician.

Top motion sickness treatments

• 1. Dramamine Motion Sickness Relief for Kids, $4, Amazon

Dramamine Motion Sickness Relief for Kids

Starting at age 2, your kid can take dimenhydrinate, an antihistamine that prevents nausea and vomiting. You probably know it best as Dramamine. While you can give them the adult version (read the label; they may take a half tablet if they’re young), the benefit to the kid’s formula is that it’s a chewable, grape-flavored tablet, which can make them more likely to take it without fuss. Plus, the handy travel case makes it easy to pop in your purse.

• 2. Children’s Benadryl, $5, Amazon

Children's Benadryl Allergy Chewables

You probably think of this antihistamine as suitable for allergies, but diphenhydramine is another option and safe for kids over the age of 2, said Dahlman. Meds are best used when you’re going to be in the car for an hour or two, he said. Have them take the medication an hour before travel. Warning: It will likely make them sleepy, which can be an added benefit — if they’re snoozing they’re not throwing up — but you also don’t want them to arrive at the destination drowsy.

• 3. The Ginger People Gin Gins Original Chewy Ginger Candy, $2, Thrive Market

The Ginger People Gin Gins Original Chewy Ginger Candy

Ginger is a natural remedy to settle an upset stomach . This ginger comes in the form of a candy, which can be a benefit when you’re trying to give it to your kid. These chews are also individually packaged, so they’re easy to grab on the go.

• 4. The Ginger People Ginger Rescue Chewable Ginger in Mighty Mango, $4, Thrive Market

The Ginger People Ginger Rescue Chewable Ginger, Mighty Mango

Another option when your kid's tummy feels off, the mango-flavored chewable doesn't taste as much of ginger.

• 5. Sea-Band Wristband, Child, $6, Amazon

Sea-Band Wristband, Child, Colors May Vary, 1 Pair, Anti-Nausea Acupressure Motion or Morning Sickness

“Some studies show acupressure bands can decrease symptoms of motion sickness, while others say there is no difference,” said Dahlman. That said, there’s no risk in trying them, and you may get good results, he added.

• 6. Travel Scavenger Hunt Card Game, $7, Amazon

Travel Scavenger Hunt Card Game

If your kid is prone to puking, Dahlman recommends that they look out the window. “When you focus on the outside, you’re better at perceiving motion, and it’s distracting, too,” he said. So, encourage a scavenger hunt game. Make it up yourself by having them pick out things they see that are “red” or “begin with the letter C,” or use a card game to help build excitement.

• 7. Regal Games Original Travel Bingo, $8, Amazon

Regal Games Original Travel Bingo 4 Pack

Getting the whole family involved can also be the distraction your kid needs to avoid nausea. (Just know where yours falls; some get sick by looking at words, while others need something to do.) This throwback game gets the whole family in on the action.

• 8. Bumkins Kids Long Sleeve Smock, $15, Amazon

Bumkins Kids Long Sleeve Smock

If you have a perennial puker on your hands, a long-sleeved “bib” is a must. (Yes, it’s horrifying that you need one, but here we are.) This art smock fits kids three to five, has a pocket at the bottom to catch anything, and is easy to remove and clean.

• 9. Disposable Barf Bags, $16, Amazon

50 Pack Disposable Barf Bags

When your kid is a bit older, they can tell you when they’re not feeling great. Or, they'll show signs like cold sweats or paleness, said Dahlman. At that point, you can help them out by passing one of these back. If you’re going to carry a barf bag, might as well make it a cute and funny one.

And, before you go: one word on vomit cleanup. The post-puke smell is almost impossible to get out, and it’s tempting to try to use whatever you can to clean a car seat. However, harsh cleansers can compromise car seat material. Always read your car manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning; often, they suggest a mild soap on the cover and recommend skipping using soap on the straps at all.

Want more parenting tips? Check out:

• The best toy to keep kids entertained on planes and in restaurants
• 10 tricks to get your baby to sleep
• The leakproof water bottle every kid needs

• Second Opinion

Why Children Get Carsick—And What to Do

Motion sickness is common, especially in children. But what causes it is only partly understood. Experts don't know why some children have it and others don’t.

The most common form of motion sickness for many children is carsickness. But getting carsick isn’t really about the car. It’s about the brain’s ability to understand a message based on what it senses. Normally, the eyes, ears, and joints all send signals to the brain. And these signals are all alike. If you’re traveling in a car, most body parts tell the brain: “We’re moving forward.”

But a child's brain gets different messages if the child is sitting too low to see through the window to the horizon. Or if the child is looking down and reading at the same time. The part of the ear that controls balance and motion says, “We’re moving.” But the message from the eyes says, “We’re sitting still and looking at a book!”

This leads to a sensory mismatch that overloads and confuses the brain. The result is upset stomach (nausea). This can be a problem when children are not looking out the windshield.

If your children are too young to express themselves, they may be carsick if they:

Become bad-tempered

Yawn frequently

Are sweaty and pale

Get restless

Here are some tips to prevent carsickness:

Stop often and at the first sign of symptoms. Before leaving home, give children some crackers or other light snack. Don't smoke or carry any strong-smelling food in the car.

Have your kids sit higher up. Elevate your children with approved child safety seats or booster seats so that they can see the horizon through the windshield. But remember, that children younger than age 2 need to be in rear-facing car seats unless they have reached the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat maker. 

Entertain young children. Keep kids busy with activities that stop them from looking down. Instead of using books, try playing music for them to listen to.

If your children get carsick, stop as soon as possible. Have them lie down on their back until the dizziness stops. Put a cool cloth on their forehead. If they have vomited, offer them cold water and a light snack when the nausea passes.

If carsickness is a regular problem, talk with your healthcare provider. He or she may suggest an over-the-counter travel sickness medicine for children older than age 2. Use the correct amount based on your children’s age. Some of these medicines cause sleepiness or even agitation. Always get advice from your healthcare provider and be careful when using them. Don't use a motion sickness patch. It has too high a dosage for children.

• Behavior Changes
• Temper Tantrums
• Common Cold in Children

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Motion sickness

Motion sickness is feeling dizzy, or feeling or being sick when travelling by car, boat, plane or train. You can do things to prevent it or relieve the symptoms.

Check if you have motion sickness

Symptoms of motion sickness may include:

• feeling sick (nausea)
• feeling cold and going pale

How to ease motion sickness yourself

Do reduce motion – sit in the front of a car or in the middle of a boat look straight ahead at a fixed point, such as the horizon breathe fresh air if possible – for example, by opening a car window close your eyes and breathe slowly while focusing on your breathing distract children by talking, listening to music or singing songs break up long journeys to get some fresh air, drink water or take a walk try ginger, which you can take as a tablet, biscuit or tea don’t.

do not read, watch films or use electronic devices

do not look at moving objects, such as passing cars or rolling waves

do not eat heavy meals, spicy foods or drink alcohol shortly before or during travel

do not go on fairground rides if they make you feel unwell

A pharmacist can help with motion sickness

You can buy remedies from pharmacies to help prevent motion sickness, including:

• tablets – dissolvable tablets are available for children
• patches – can be used by adults and children over 10
• acupressure bands – these do not work for everyone

A pharmacist will be able to recommend the best treatment for you or your child.

Causes of motion sickness

Motion sickness is caused by repeated movements when travelling, like going over bumps in a car or moving up and down in a boat, plane or train.

The inner ear sends different signals to your brain from those your eyes are seeing. These confusing messages cause you to feel unwell.

Page last reviewed: 19 June 2023 Next review due: 19 June 2026

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How to Travel With Medication Needed for a Sick Child

When traveling with medication for a sick child, be aware of these potentially complicating factors

• Travel Tips
• Medical Kits
• Who Shouldn't Fly
• Can Airlines Refuse?

Traveling with a sick child is often manageable with the right preparations. But if your child has or is suspected to have a serious contagious illness, like whooping cough or COVID-19, or poses a health risk to others, you will need to delay your trip until your child's condition is stabilized.

Many world destinations prohibit medications, like Adderall , that are commonly used by children in the United States. Certain medications, like insulin pens and epipens, usually need to be declared, since needles are prohibited on planes. Before you leave, research your destination carefully to ensure you are compliant.

This article explains what medicines you can and cannot take when traveling. It also provides a handful of tips for navigating airports and country-specific regulations.

Tips for Traveling With a Sick Child

Whether you are traveling by land, sea, or plane, the key to navigating travel with a sick child is getting (and staying) organized.

It's a good idea to keep all medications and supplies in a separate, clear "medical kit," so that they are easy to find and can be quickly retrieved when you need them.

The following tips and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommendations can help you organize your medical kit and prepare for your journey with a sick child.

Organizing Medications

Although medications can be packed in checked or carry-on luggage, it's best to bring them in your carry-on. That way, they will be available if you need them on the plane or in the airport.

While organizing your medical kit, consider including:

• Solid medications (such as pills or oral powders), which are permitted in carry-on or checked luggage in unlimited quantities, but will need to be Xd-rayed at the security checkpoint
• Extra medications in case your trip is extended or your medications get lost

TSA does not require passengers to bring medications in prescription bottles, so you can bring them in a pill organizer if you like. Laws vary between states and countries regarding prescription labeling, though. Check with the embassy at your destination to learn the respective laws.

Preparing Liquids and Other Types of Medications

Liquid medications are allowed in carry-on or checked bags, but you will need to follow a few regulations when flying with them:

• Medically necessary liquid medications can be brought in your carry-on or checked luggage in reasonable quantities. Tell an officer that you have a medically necessary liquid before starting the screening process. You may be asked to open the liquid medication for additional screening.
• Insulin is allowed in carry-on or checked luggage in reasonable quantities. At the security checkpoint, place insulin in a separate bin for X-ray screening.
• Nebulizers are allowed in carry-on bags but must be removed from the carrying case and X-rayed at the security checkpoint. Liquids associated with nebulizers are permitted in reasonable quantities.

As for injectables, inhalers, pumps, and aerosols:

• EpiPens can be packed in carry-on or checked luggage in reasonable quantities but must be declared to TSA officers at the security checkpoint for inspections.
• Insulin pumps are permitted in carry-on or checked luggage but must be accompanied by insulin. Tell TSA officers if you have diabetes and are wearing an insulin pump at the start of security screening.
• Medically necessary aerosols , such as metered-dose inhalers , are allowed in carry-on or checked bags in reasonable quantities but must be presented to TSA officers at the security checkpoint.
• Glucose monitors with metal or lithium batteries should be carried in carry-on luggage and should be presented to TSA officers at the security checkpoint.
• Inhalers are permitted in carry-on or checked luggage in reasonable quantities but will need to be X-rayed at the security checkpoint.

Federal regulations prohibit passengers from bringing their own supplemental oxygen onto airplanes. If you or your child require supplemental oxygen, you will need to call the airline at least 72 hours before your flight to arrange in-flight supplemental oxygen.

If you do not want a medical item to be X-rayed, you may request a visual inspection instead. Make this request before sending your items through the X-ray tunnel.

Not Sure if You Can Bring It?

Use the TSA "What Can I Bring?" website to find specific instructions related to most medications and medical supplies. This website provides instructions for external medical devices (such as feeding tubes), mercury thermometers, personal oxygen, syringes, and more.

Readying a "Back-Up" Plan

Plan where you will go for medical attention if needed. Write important numbers and addresses down and keep them in your medical kit.

Is there a children's hospital, pediatrician, or clinic where you are staying or on your travel route? This is especially important for international travelers and when you are on a cruise.

Even facilities that promote family travel and provide licensed healthcare providers for sick travelers are not guaranteed to have a pediatrician available in case of severe illness. 

The nearest children's hospital or local medical society may be able to help you find a pediatrician if you are traveling and your child gets sick.

When traveling in another country, an international clinic , your travel agency, the U.S. Embassy, or the U.S. Consulate may be able to help you locate a pediatrician.​

If your child has a chronic medical problem, consider acquiring a medical alert bracelet for them to wear, just in case they get sick and you aren't around. This is especially important if your child has severe allergies, diabetes, seizures, or another condition that may require sudden and specific medical care.

Informing Your Healthcare Provider

Before leaving, schedule a checkup with a pediatrician and/or pediatric specialist to ensure your child's medical problems are stable.

Be transparent about your plans with the healthcare provider—they may be able to offer you some travel tips that are specific to your child's condition.

Depending on your destination, certain vaccinations may be recommended for you and/or your child to protect from disease. The CDC provides detailed information about recommended vaccines for every country in the world.

If you are traveling internationally, take some time to review the country-specific recommendations, and make a list of any vaccines your child does not have. It may help to bring this list to your provider's office in case you have questions.

Contacting Your Pharmacist for Refills

If you lose a prescription while traveling internationally, contact your healthcare provider and explain your situation. Your provider may be able to write you a new prescription that you can bring to a pharmacy near you. You can also visit a local urgent care to see if they can help.

If you are traveling within the United States, you can:

• Find a nearby pharmacy that is in-network with your insurance provider.
• Call or visit the pharmacy and explain your situation.
• Call your home pharmacy and ask them to transfer your medication to your pharmacy of choice.

In the past, in order to have your prescription transferred, you would need to contact your healthcare provider and ask them to cancel the prescription then re-submit it to a new pharmacy. According to regulations updated in 2023, however, all you need to do is contact your home pharmacy directly and ask them to initiate the switch.

There is one important caveat to the updated regulations. Prescriptions may only be transferred between pharmacies once . So, if you want to transfer a prescription back to your original pharmacy after your trip, you will need to have it canceled and re-submitted by your healthcare provider.

Complying with Laws and Regulations

Different states and countries have different laws regarding the types and quantities of medications that travelers are permitted to bring.

For example, France permits travelers to only bring the amount of medication needed for the duration of the trip. And, if the medication is a narcotic , a written letter to customs providing the name and dosage of the medication is required.

Meanwhile, countries like Japan, Singapore, and much of Europe have banned Adderall, Ritalin, and a number of other medications that are common in the United States.

Bringing controlled drugs into a foreign country can come with steep consequences, from local fines, to jail time and deportation. In Singapore, having as little as three grams of morphine can result in the death penalty.

TSA advises international travelers to prepare "requisite medical documentation" from their prescribing physician at least two months before departure. The documentation should include:

• The prescribing physician's contact information and/or credentials
• The diagnosis and treatment
• The medication regimen, including any need for needles or syringes

Additionally, the name on the prescription, container, and traveler's passport must match.

If a medication contains narcotics, you may need to submit an application to the country's Narcotics Control Division or Food and Drug Administration for permission prior to entry.

For psychotropic medications , including antidepressants, you may need to notify the medical officer at the embassy in your home country. Do this well in advance so that all appropriate parties are aware before you arrive at customs.

What Else Should Go in a Medical Kit?

Your medical kit should contain everything you need to manage your child's health condition, as well as other medical items your child may only need on occasion.

Things to include in a travel medicine kit might include:

• A pain and fever reducer, such as ibuprofen and/or acetaminophen
• A steroid cream for itching
• An antihistamine for hives and other allergic reactions
• A cough and cold medicine for older children
• An antibiotic ointment (in a container of 3.4 ounces or less—unless medically necessary)
• A regular first aid kit

Keep in mind that if you are bringing an aerosol medication in your carry-on, it must be medically necessary. Aerosol insecticides, for example, are permitted in checked luggage only.

Is My Child Too Sick to Fly?

Do not fly if you or your child has a contagious disease that poses a serious threat to other people, such as:

• Tuberculosis
• Rubella (German measles)
• Whooping cough (pertussis)
• Meningococcal disease (meningitis)
• Severe flu or another respiratory illness

If you or your child has a history of the following conditions, see your healthcare provider for an evaluation before you travel to ensure the condition is stable:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Lung disease
• Mental illness
• Recent surgery
• Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
• Sickle cell disease

Travel is rarely contraindicated (advised against) during a normal pregnancy. However, it's best to delay travel if your pregnancy requires close medical supervision. Reasons not to travel when pregnant include:

• You are in active or premature labor
• You have a suspected ectopic pregnancy
• You have vaginal bleeding
• You have a history of preeclampsia

Cabin air pressure changes can lead to barotrauma , recognizable by pain in the ear during take-off. Although barotrauma is rarely dangerous, it can lead to dizziness, hearing loss, or permanent tinnitus. To reduce these risks, consult with a healthcare provide before travel if your child has:

• An ear, nose, or sinus infection
• Severe congestion
• Had recent ear, nose, throat, or abdominal surgery

Will the Airline Refuse My Sick Child?

You or your child may be denied boarding if you have or are suspected to have a serious contagious illness that poses a public health threat.

Airline officials will suspect contagious illness if you or your child has one or more of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing
• Persistent cough
• Decreased consciousness
• Sudden confusion
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding
• Persistent diarrhea
• Persistent vomiting
• Headache with stiff neck
• Appearing obviously unwell
• Symptoms of other contagious diseases

Less than 1% of passengers are denied boarding in the United States each year. Nonetheless, airline officials are permitted to deny boarding or remove any person from a flight who appears obviously sick, or who is believed to pose a health threat to others.

Inform the airport security screener if your child has any special needs for going through security, or if they might get upset during the security procedures because of their medical condition.

Before you travel with a sick child, give yourself plenty of time to organize a medical bag with daily medications, medical supplies, and any other extras your child may need. Most medications are permitted in carry-on or checked luggage. However, if you plan to fly with a medication that is liquid, aerosol, or involves needles, you will need to declare it to TSA officers at the security checkpoint.

Depending on your destination, you may need to prepare medical documentation, especially if you need to travel with a narcotic or psychotropic drug. There can be steep consequences for bringing controlled substances into another country, so don't take chances. If you have questions about traveling with your medications, contact a physician or use resources provided by TSA to learn more.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Air travel .

Harvard Global Support Services. Tips for traveling with medication .

American Diabetes Association. What can I bring with me on the plane .

Transportation Security Administration. Can you pack your meds in a pill case and more questions answered .

Transportation Security Administration. What can I bring?

Transportation Security Administration. Insulin .

United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Revised regulation allows DEA-registered pharmacies to transfer electronic prescriptions at a patient's request .

France in the United States. Information for private individuals - Medicine .

Transportation Security Administration. Traveling with medication .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Protecting travelers' health from airport to community: Investigating contagious diseases on flights .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pregnant travelers .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Preventing spread of disease on commercial aircraft: Guidance for cabin crew .

GAO. Airline consumer protections .

U.S. Department of Transportation. Bumping & oversales .

By Vincent Iannelli, MD  Vincent Iannelli, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician and fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Iannelli has cared for children for more than 20 years. 

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What to do if your child suffers from travel sickness

Travel sickness can be a debilitating condition to suffer from and is actually more common in children aged 3 to 12 years old . Trying to help a small child when they are feeling ill in the car can seem overwhelming, especially if you often have to do longer journeys with me. Don’t worry, we have some great tips and insights into things that really work when your toddler has motion sickness.

What is travel sickness?

A lot of you may already know the main symptoms of travel sickness for your child, however, it can never hurt to have another look or it may be that your child has one of the more rare symptoms that you hadn’t realised. Every child is different so they may not experience all the symptoms, and the severity of symptoms may be different each time.

Travel sickness is more accurately called motion sickness as it is a direct result of being in motion- usually occurring when you are travelling in cars, trains, buses, boats etc.

• Vomiting and nausea
• Cold sweats
• Increased saliva
• Drowsiness and extreme tiredness
• Rapid breathing

Why does travel sickness occur?

Motion sickness occurs when there is a disparity between what your eyes can see and what your inner ears (that help with balance) can sense. So if you’re in car then your eyes are saying that you’re moving at a high speed but your inner ear is sensing that you are sat down which results in the confusion. Some people are clearly more susceptible to the effects of this disparity and it results in some of the symptoms above.

How can I stop my child from getting travel sick?

Treating motion sickness as soon as you can (once you’ve ruled out any other causes for vomiting such as a tummy bug) is key as you don’t want your child to always associate being in the car with feeling really ill as they will start to dread going on car journeys making everyone’s life miserable.

One of the simplest and best tips is to make sure they have an uninterrupted view out of the front window. The easiest way to do this is having them either in the passenger seat or the middle of the back seat.

Try to remove anything that may be doing that involves looking at screens for a prolonged period of time, especially anything that involves reading. So no tablet, Kindle or book. A short DVD may still be OK but it’s probably best to try and go completely cold turkey with this as reading can very quickly bring on nausea. Replace this with music or an audio book to listen to- either using headphones or just in the car so that they don’t get bored.

Make sure you have a bit of air circulating around the car as hot, stuffy conditions can make everything feel a lot worse. Crack the window nearest to them a bit and encourage them to take big, deep breaths. Singing can help with the breathing and could distract them as well.

If the travel sickness is happening on a boat or plane advance book a central seat or cabin as this is were the least rocking or turbulence will be felt.

If you are planning a long journey, think about what food you give your child before you leave as a heavy or greasy meal can make the symptoms worse.

Be prepared for travel sickness, a good tip I read was to use plastic sealable bags (like ziploc foodbags) as sickbags so that the smell (along with the vomit….) can be contained for the rest of the journey. Make sure you have a good supply!

Give ginger a go- there is some evidence to suggest that taking ginger can lessen nausea and I have certainly heard anecdotal evidence of this working for other types of nausea such as period pain.

Acupressure bands are also suggested and I can remember friends wearing these when we were on school trips to help stop travel sickness.

Update: Extra tip!

Recommended in the comments is an app called Nevasic which I’d never come across so I’ve taken a look. It is audio that you play when starting to feel the effects of nausea and has been empirically verified for pregnancy sickness as well as motion sickness.

Interestingly, the clinical study carried out by Imperial College School of Medicine which found a significant reduction in nausea when using the app, also investigated controlling breathing. This was also found to be effective in reducing the feelings of sickness. Less useful for younger kids but could be worth trying for older kids.

If none of these remedies seems to be working or symptoms are severe and ongoing even on short car journeys then a trip to your GP or local pharmacist is in order. They can recommend or prescribe medicine designed specifically to target the symptoms of travel sickness.

Kids and travel sickness: final thoughts

I really hope this post has thrown up (oops, pun not intended!) some new tips and ideas to try with your children to stop the travel sickness. If you have any tried and tested tips of your own or just want to share your story then leave a comment below.

Reader Interactions

19th December 2017 at 9:20 am

Try the nevasic app, drug free, developed for travel sickness and proven safe and to work in a clinical trial run by Westminster College of Medicine London.

19th December 2017 at 1:09 pm

Thanks for the recommendation Dave, will take a look and add it to the tips.

28th January 2018 at 3:32 pm

Some great tips for travelling with travel sickness, thanks for linking up to #fortheloveofBLOG

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