Traveling with kids prone to motion sickness? Here’s a quick fix: pack the right snacks. The wrong foods or an empty stomach can worsen symptoms, but light, easy-to-digest snacks can help keep kids comfortable on the go. Here are 5 snack ideas that can ease nausea:
- Simple Crackers and Dry Cereal: Mild-flavored, low-fat options like plain crackers, pretzels, or sugar-free cereals are gentle on the stomach.
- Easy-to-Pack Fruits: Bananas and apples are great fresh options, while small portions of organic dried fruits work well too.
- Light Protein Snacks: Pre-portioned cheese sticks, plain nut mixes, and seeds provide energy without upsetting the stomach.
- Ginger Snacks: Ginger-based treats like lollipops or candies can naturally reduce nausea.
- Fruit Pouches and Drinks: Hydrating and mess-free, these are perfect for travel. Look for simple, natural ingredient options.
Quick Tips: Avoid greasy or sugary snacks, pack snacks in resealable containers, and try them at home first to ensure they suit your child. These simple food choices can make road trips or flights much smoother for kids with motion sickness.
How I Handle Motion Sickness in My Kid While Travelling ...
1. Simple Crackers and Dry Cereal
Plain crackers and dry cereal are great travel snacks for kids who experience motion sickness. They're mild in flavor, easy on the stomach, and don't have strong odors, making them a safe choice for uneasy tummies during travel.
James Cole, founder and managing director of Panache Cruises, shares some advice:
"Millions of people suffer from travel sickness, and it can really cast a shadow over their holiday plans... Try to eat small portions as frequently as possible and remember to steer clear of heavy, greasy, and acidic foods as they worsen sickness because they are slower to digest."
Options to Consider:
- Plain crackers: Unsalted and simple varieties work best.
- Pretzels: Stick with basic ones without added flavors.
- Low-fat or no-fat choices: Avoid snacks with excessive oils.
- Rice cereal: Go for plain, unflavored options.
- Oat-based cereals: Keep it basic and sugar-free.
- Dry cereals: Stick to unflavored, no-sugar-added kinds.
Packing Tips for Travel:
- Use airtight containers or resealable bags for easy, mess-free portions.
- Keep snacks within reach for quick access during the trip.
- Carry paper towels or wipes for easy cleanup.
To make the most of these snacks, offer your child small portions before and during the trip. This can help soothe their stomach and keep them comfortable. Always store opened snacks in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Next, let’s dive into another snack option that’s both nutritious and travel-friendly.
2. Easy-to-Pack Fruits
Both fresh and dried fruits can be great choices for managing motion sickness - just make sure to pick mild varieties and prepare them the right way. This helps avoid any added discomfort during travel.
Fresh Fruits That Travel Well
Bananas are a great option. They're gentle on the stomach, easy to digest, and packed with potassium, which can help restore electrolytes if nausea or vomiting occurs. Plus, their natural peel makes them travel-friendly.
Apples are another solid choice. They're full of fiber and vitamins that can help clear out substances causing nausea. If fresh fruit isn't an option, dried fruits can be a handy substitute.
Tips for Packing Dried Fruits
- Keep Portions Small: Serving small amounts of dried fruit helps prevent bloating or gas.
- Prep for Kids: For children over 18 months, break up raisins into smaller pieces and cut larger fruits like dates or apricots into bite-sized chunks.
- Check Ingredients: Go for organic dried fruits without added preservatives. When picking dried cranberries, look for those sweetened with natural fruit juice instead of corn syrup.
Packing Fruits for Travel
Packing fruits properly can make a big difference:
- Store pre-cut fruits in airtight, cooler-friendly containers.
- Pre-packaged fruits from the store can save time and effort.
- Choose fruits that are easy to handle and won't create a mess or emit strong smells during the trip.
Stick to mild, easy-to-digest fruits in small portions. Keeping them readily available throughout the journey can help minimize nausea and make the trip more comfortable.
3. Light Protein Snacks
Protein-packed snacks can help boost energy levels and may even ease nausea.
Pre-Portioned Cheese Options
Cheese is a convenient and protein-rich choice. Brands like Sargento® Balanced Breaks® offer pre-portioned combos that are easy on the stomach:
- Natural Sharp White Cheddar with Sea-Salted Cashews: 7g of protein per serving
- Natural Gouda with Honey Roasted Peanuts: 8g of protein per serving
- Natural Double Cheddar with Walnuts: 7g of protein per serving
Another option is Organic Valley Stringles® mozzarella sticks, which provide 7g of protein in a single 1-ounce serving.
Nut Mixes
Plain nut mixes are another great source of protein. Stick to options without heavy seasoning or too much salt. Here’s the protein content per ounce for some popular choices:
- Pumpkin seeds: 9g
- Cashews: 5g
- Plain almonds: 6g
Packing Tips for Protein Snacks
- Use sealed, portion-sized containers to keep snacks fresh (cheese should be stored in a cooler).
- Pack shelf-stable options for longer trips.
- Break larger nuts into smaller pieces for easier snacking.
For added relief, pair these protein snacks with ginger-based treats, as discussed in the next section.
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4. Ginger Snacks for Nausea Relief
Ginger has been used for ages as a natural way to ease motion sickness. Its active compounds can help reduce nausea symptoms, making it a handy option for kids who feel queasy during long trips.
How Ginger Helps
Ginger works because of its key compounds - gingerols and shogaols. These interact with the body’s receptors to soothe the stomach and reduce nausea. They also assist digestion and regulate gut responses, making ginger-based snacks a practical choice for travel relief.
Kid-Friendly Ginger Snacks
MommaBear Organics Motion Sickness Lollipops are a great option for kids. They combine natural ginger, organic honey, and fresh lemon into a tasty remedy. With only six clean ingredients, they’re free of high fructose corn syrup, gluten, dairy, and GMOs - perfect for young travelers.
Cost and Usage
Each 10-pack is priced at $14.99. Follow the packaging instructions for the best results.
"Experience genuine support with our motion sickness candy infused with ginger, lemon, and organic honey; crafted with 6 clean ingredients, these ginger candies for nausea are a wholesome remedy for both adults and kids (3+)" - MommaBear Organics
Studies back up ginger’s effectiveness for motion sickness. One study showed a significant reduction in symptoms during multiple trips, with results reaching P < 0.0001.
Storage Tips
- Keep snacks in their original packaging until ready to use.
- Store in a cool, dry spot, away from sunlight or heat.
- Bring extras for longer journeys.
5. Ready-to-Eat Fruit Pouches and Drinks
Fruit pouches are a handy snack for kids, especially those who experience motion sickness. They help with hydration and can calm uneasy stomachs. Here's how to pick the right ones for your travels.
Choosing the Right Pouches
Look for fruit pouches made with simple, natural ingredients. For instance, GoGo squeeZ® Fruit Blend Apple Berry pouches include apple, apple puree concentrate, raspberry, blackberry, pomegranate juice, and lemon juice concentrate. These pouches are easy to use, don’t make a mess, and are free from common allergens.
Electrolyte-Boosted Options
Some fruit pouches come with added electrolytes, which can be helpful for long trips. The GoGo squeeZ® Active Fruit Blend with Electrolytes Variety Pack offers flavors like Strawberry Pineapple and Orange to keep kids refreshed.
Tips for Traveling with Fruit Pouches
To make the most of these pouches while traveling, try these tips: serve them in small amounts to help with nausea and maintain hydration. Keep them within reach and store them as directed on the packaging to ensure they stay fresh and effective during your trip.
Conclusion
The right snacks can help ease travel-related nausea in children. Options like plain crackers, fresh fruits, and ginger-based treats can help settle their stomachs and provide comfort during the journey. Choosing gentle, easy-to-digest foods is key to keeping your child at ease while traveling.
Here are a few tips to consider before you hit the road:
- Try out new snacks at home first to ensure they don’t cause any unexpected issues.
- Steer clear of sugary snacks and drinks, as they can upset the stomach.
FAQs
How can I introduce travel snacks to my child to help with motion sickness?
To ensure travel snacks help manage your child's motion sickness, introduce them thoughtfully. Pack snacks in small, fun containers to make them appealing, and offer them gradually during the trip to avoid overeating. Opt for simple, bland options like dry crackers, ginger cookies, or sliced bananas, as these are gentle on the stomach and can help ease nausea.
Give your child a light snack about 30 minutes before traveling to settle their stomach, and avoid heavy, greasy, or overly sweet foods. If your child starts feeling unwell, take a break - let them step outside for fresh air or walk around briefly to reset their senses. These small steps can make a big difference in keeping them comfortable on the go.
What are some tips for choosing travel snacks that won't upset my child's motion sickness?
To help prevent motion sickness during travel, choose snacks that are light, bland, and easy to digest. Avoid heavy, greasy, or overly sweet foods, as these can worsen nausea. Options like dry crackers, pretzels, or bananas are gentle on the stomach and can help keep your child comfortable.
Additionally, ensure your child eats small portions instead of large meals before or during the trip. Fresh air can also make a big difference, so keep the car ventilated or use air conditioning. If needed, consult your child's doctor about motion sickness remedies, such as over-the-counter medications, before traveling.
How can I store travel snacks to keep them fresh and effective for kids prone to motion sickness?
To keep travel snacks fresh and effective for kids with motion sickness, proper storage is key. Use airtight containers or resealable bags to maintain freshness and prevent spills. For snacks like ginger chews or crackers, store them in a cool, dry place to avoid spoilage. If you're packing perishable items like bananas or yogurt, consider using an insulated lunch bag with ice packs to keep them at a safe temperature during the trip.
Avoid exposing snacks to direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can affect their texture and taste. By packing snacks properly, you’ll help ensure they remain appetizing and ready to soothe your child’s tummy when needed.
