Travel sickness can strike without warning, and it can happen to the best of us. Driver, passenger, front seat or back seat, wherever you are, when that feeling hits, it can make travelling a slog.

While studies vary, somewhere between one in three to one in five of us feel that unpleasant feeling while in motion, so here are some handy hints to keep on top of travel sickness while statying safe on the road:

Avoid heavy, greasy food

Thinking of lining your stomach with a slap-up breakfast for the journey? You might be better off waiting until you arrive before going heavy with the food.

It might not be as indulgent as a stacked burger and cheesy fries, but healthier food options like fruit and bread are more suited to travel and could stop sickness in its tracks.

It all comes down to digestion; the longer something takes to digest, the longer it stays in the body which can make the sickness worse. The worst offenders are heavy foods that are acidic and greasy.

Fresh air

A blast of fresh air is a quick way of relieving symptoms.

If you’re driving at speed then a cold breeze through the window can be an easy fix, although it might not be great for the temperature control for the rest of the car.

Ideally, you should be planning regular breaks into your journeys when traveling long distances to give the driver a break. Why not use the opportunity to stretch your legs, ideally in nature when possible?

Distract the brain by switching drivers

One great way to beat the sickness is to keep the brain focused on other things. That might be easier said than done when you aren’t feeling 100%, but one very good way of keeping alert and averting sickness is driving.

Yes, getting behind the wheel can help some people with the sickness. Assuming everyone is insured to do so, if you’re feeling sick as a passenger, why not try driving for a while? That way, you're also givign the driver a break too.

Sleep (passengers only!)

Just to be 100% clear, the driver should NEVER think of doing this, but if you’re travelling late at night or early in the morning then passengers could get some shut eye. Not only could you avoid feeling unwell, but you’ll be also extra energised when you reach your destination.

This is ideal for younger children, and if you can schedule things so you’re on the road when they would normally sleep, even better.

Drink, drink, drink!

As all drivers should know, you should never drive when tired and, if you do feel like you need a boost take a break and have a coffee.

But drinking coffee is not recommended for sickness, and neither are other fizzy or dairy based drinks – no coke, no milkshake, no energy drinks.

Instead, stick to good old water if you can or, if you need something hot, how about a herbal tea, like a relaxing chamomile?

Finally… check the tablets

If all else fails, you can visit the chemist and get some medication, but be careful. Travel sickness medication can cause side effects that need to be checked before taking that could even effect driving abilities, resulting in something far worse than just feeling sick.

Remember: before taking tablets, check that it’s OK to drive with them.