Tips to Avoid Getting Sea Sick

child washing hands — Andy Crawford/ Getty Images

No one wants to spend their vacation in bed or ministering to a queasy child (or partner!) while you could be having fun. Take this advice from Mark Wise, M.D. author of The Travel Doctor: Your Guide to Staying Healthy While You Travel, to make sure your trip will be smooth sailing.

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Make sure routine vaccinations such as DPT (diphtheria-poliotetanus) are up-to-date. Also, depending on your ship's destination, other vaccines may be necessary to keep your family safe. Some countries in the Caribbean, for example, may require a yellow-fever vaccination. You'll be sent information beforehand, so read the packet carefully.

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Be Prepared

Pack the basics -- a first-aid kit, over-the-counter pain medication, and anything else you or your kid may need.

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Cover Up

Avoid sun damage by dressing in protective clothing and using sunscreen regularly. Don't leave the ship without applying insect
repellent. Spray it on 20 minutes after your sunscreen to ward off pesky, disease-carrying bugs.

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Eat (and Drink) Carefully

Foods served on the ship are generally safe, but items purchased on shore may not be. Stick to bottled water and packaged goods.

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Go with the Flow

Large ships are typically a smooth ride, but if your child is prone to motion sickness, book a cabin close to the center of the ship, and pack over-the-counter nausea medication. While on board, don't let him overeat. And if it does get rough, let him lie in bed with his head elevated.

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Rinse and Repeat

Cruise ships may occasionally house outbreaks of norovirus, a gastrointestinal illness spread through contaminated food and water or close contact with an infected person. Make sure you and your kids wash hands or use a sanitizer frequently.

All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.

This piece was accurate at publication time, but all prices, offerings and availabilities are subject to change. Please contact each hotel and attraction for up-to-date rates and information before taking your trip.

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