Why some people get motion sickness and others never do
By Katemarthason Okudo, July 18, 2026Travelling by car, bus, boat or plane can be an enjoyable experience, but for many people, the journey comes with an unpleasant side effect.
Nausea, dizziness, sweating and even vomiting can quickly turn what should be an exciting trip into an uncomfortable ordeal. Interestingly, not everyone experiences motion sickness, leaving many to wonder why some people are more affected than others.
Health experts explain that motion sickness is not caused by weak health or poor fitness.
Instead, it happens because of the way the brain processes information from the eyes, the inner ear and the body’s muscles and joints. When these signals do not match, the brain becomes confused, triggering symptoms that can range from mild discomfort to severe nausea.
According to the Mayo Clinic, motion sickness is caused by a conflict between the signals sent to the brain by the eyes, inner ear and body, rather than by an underlying illness.
A mismatch between the eyes and the inner ear
Motion sickness begins when the body’s balance system receives conflicting messages. For example, someone reading a book while travelling in a moving vehicle may have eyes focused on a still page, suggesting there is no movement. At the same time, the inner ear detects the bumps, turns and acceleration of the journey.
According to the Mayo Clinic, this mismatch causes the brain to interpret the situation differently, leading to symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, cold sweats, headaches and vomiting. Similar feelings can occur on boats, aeroplanes, trains, amusement park rides and even during virtual reality experiences.
Health experts note that motion sickness is not a disease but rather a normal response to conflicting sensory information.
Why some people are more likely to experience it
Although anyone can develop motion sickness, some people are naturally more sensitive than others. Genetics is believed to play a role, meaning it can run in families. Age also makes a difference. Children between the ages of about two and 12 tend to experience motion sickness more often than adults because their balance system is still developing.
Hormonal changes can also increase sensitivity. Some people notice worse symptoms during pregnancy or menstruation. Individuals who suffer from migraines may also be more likely to develop motion sickness because their nervous system tends to be more sensitive to sensory changes.
People who rarely experience symptoms may simply have brains that adapt more easily to regular movement or have become accustomed to travelling over time.
As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states, “Motion sickness occurs when the motion you sense with your inner ear is different from the motion you visualise.” This explains why two people travelling in the same vehicle can have completely different experiences.
Can the symptoms be prevented?
While there is no guaranteed way to stop motion sickness completely, experts say several simple habits can reduce the chances of feeling unwell. Looking out through the front windscreen or towards the horizon helps the eyes match what the inner ear is sensing. Sitting in areas where movement is less noticeable, such as over the wings of an aircraft or near the centre of a boat, may also help.
The NHS advises avoiding heavy meals, alcohol and reading while travelling if you are prone to motion sickness. Staying hydrated and getting fresh air can also help ease symptoms.
For those who frequently experience severe symptoms, healthcare providers may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medicines before travel. These medicines work best when taken before symptoms begin rather than after nausea has already developed.
Understanding the body’s response
Researchers continue to study why some people adapt quickly to movement while others remain highly sensitive throughout life. Although motion sickness can be frustrating, it is generally harmless and usually stops once the movement ends.
Understanding how the body’s balance system works can help travellers prepare better and reduce discomfort during trips. With a few preventive measures and the right treatment when needed, even those who regularly experience motion sickness can enjoy travelling with greater confidence.