Airsickness, or motion sickness, can be an unpleasant part of flying for many passengers. As a result, airsick bags—also known as airsickness bags—are essential in aviation. These disposable bags provide an easy, hygienic solution for passengers who experience nausea or vomiting during flight. While simple in design, airsick bags are crafted to be durable, leak-resistant, and easy to use, making them an important item for airlines, travel companies, and even personal travel kits. This guide explores everything you need to know to find the best airsick bags, from different materials and designs to buying considerations.

What is an Airsick Bag?

An airsick bag is a small, disposable bag designed specifically for passengers who experience nausea or vomiting while in transit. Primarily used on planes, airsickness bags are also useful on buses, trains, boats, and in cars, where they provide a sanitary solution for unexpected bouts of nausea.

Common Features of Airsick Bags

Leak-Resistant: Made with materials that prevent leaking or tearing, ensuring safe containment.
Compact and Lightweight: Easy to store in seat pockets, travel kits, or bags.
Disposal-Friendly: Most are designed for single-use and can be easily disposed of after use.

Types of Airsick Bags and Their Uses

When choosing airsick bags, it’s helpful to know the different types available, as each type may suit different environments or needs.

1. Standard Paper Airsick Bags

Standard paper airsick bags are the most common type found on commercial flights. Made from durable, coated paper, these bags are affordable, easy to produce, and can be easily disposed of after a single use.

Best For: Airlines, buses, and general travel.
Key Features: Leak-resistant paper, often with a plastic liner for added durability.
Considerations: Some models may not handle excessive moisture, so look for bags with reinforced plastic linings for better leak resistance.

2. Plastic Airsick Bags

Plastic airsick bags are made from polyethylene or other flexible plastic materials, making them more resistant to tearing and leaks. They often come with a twist-and-seal feature to contain odors and prevent spillage, which can be helpful in confined travel spaces.

Best For: Boats, cars, private jets, and medical use.
Key Features: Leak-proof, twist-and-seal options, odor containment.
Considerations: Plastic bags are less environmentally friendly compared to paper options, so they are best suited for situations requiring high durability and odor control.

3. Biodegradable Airsick Bags

As the aviation industry increasingly prioritizes sustainability, biodegradable airsick bags have become popular. These bags are crafted from biodegradable materials, offering an eco-friendly option without compromising functionality.

Best For: Airlines and travel companies focused on environmental sustainability.
Key Features: Made from compostable materials that break down faster than traditional plastics.
Considerations: Although eco-friendly, they may be more expensive and slightly less durable than plastic options.

4. Double-Layer Airsick Bags

Double-layer bags feature an outer layer of paper and an inner plastic lining for added strength and leak resistance. This combination provides the durability of plastic while retaining the easy disposal of paper bags.

Best For: Airlines and high-traffic transportation services.
Key Features: Dual-layer design for improved leak resistance and durability.
Considerations: Double-layer bags are more durable but may be bulkier and costlier than single-layer options.

Top Considerations When Buying Airsick Bags

When purchasing airsick bags, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the best option for your needs.

1. Material and Durability

The durability of an airsick bag largely depends on the materials used. Paper bags are generally sufficient for most uses, while plastic or double-layered options offer extra durability. If eco-friendliness is a priority, look for biodegradable options that balance durability with sustainability.

2. Size and Capacity

Standard airsick bags are typically around 8–10 inches tall, with enough capacity to contain typical episodes of nausea without being too bulky. Consider slightly larger bags for extended travel or boats, where accessibility to additional bags may be limited.

3. Leak and Odor Resistance

Leak-proof liners and odor containment are essential features, especially for plastic bags. Choose bags with reliable seals and reinforced materials to prevent unpleasant odors and leaks.

4. Ease of Disposal

Airsick bags should be easy to dispose of to maintain hygiene on planes or other travel environments. Bags with fold-over or twist-and-seal features make disposal easier while also minimizing odors. Biodegradable bags are an excellent option for eco-conscious users, as they break down faster after disposal.

Popular Brands and Suppliers of Airsick Bags

Many suppliers specialize in durable, reliable airsick bags, providing options tailored for the aviation and travel industries. Here are some trusted brands and suppliers:

1. Global Inflight Products

Global Inflight Products offers a range of disposable inflight items, including high-quality paper and biodegradable airsick bags. Known for producing durable bags, they serve many major airlines.

Best For: Airlines and high-capacity transport services.
Material: Paper and biodegradable options.
Key Features: Durable, customizable branding options.

2. International Plastics

International Plastics provides durable polyethylene airsick bags, perfect for extended travel or high-impact environments. Their plastic bags are leak-resistant and come in various sizes, suitable for multiple travel types.

Best For: Boats, private jets, and car travel.
Material: Plastic.
Key Features: Leak-proof, twist-and-seal options for added security.

3. InflightDirect

InflightDirect specializes in aviation products and offers a range of high-quality airsick bags, including paper and double-layer options. They offer branded, customizable designs for airlines.

Best For: Airlines and transportation companies.
Material: Paper and plastic-lined options.
Key Features: Customizable designs, double-layer durability.

4. EcoSafe

For an environmentally conscious choice, EcoSafe offers a line of biodegradable airsick bags designed to minimize environmental impact without compromising durability.

Best For: Eco-friendly travel and aviation services.
Material: Biodegradable paper and compostable plastic.
Key Features: Environmentally friendly, compostable materials.

Uses and Applications for Airsick Bags Beyond Aviation

While commonly found on airplanes, airsick bags serve various purposes across other transportation modes and situations.

1. Boats and Ferries

Boats often experience more turbulent motion than airplanes, so reliable plastic or double-layer bags with twist-and-seal features are ideal for onboard use.

2. Car Travel

For car travel, particularly with children or those prone to motion sickness, keeping a stash of disposable airsick bags in the glove compartment or travel kit can prevent messy situations.

3. Medical and Emergency Situations

Airsick bags are useful in medical settings, where they can provide patients with a sanitary option for sudden nausea or vomiting, especially during transport in ambulances or clinics.

4. Public Transit

Buses and trains, which can experience unexpected stops and starts, may also keep airsick bags available for passenger comfort, particularly on routes known for winding roads or rough conditions.

FAQs About Airsick Bags

Can Airsick Bags Be Reused?

Airsick bags are generally designed for single use to maintain hygiene. Most disposable bags are not made for cleaning or reuse, though some plastic varieties may withstand light cleaning.

Are Biodegradable Airsick Bags Durable Enough for Air Travel?

Yes, most biodegradable airsick bags are made with durable, leak-resistant materials that perform well under typical flight conditions. They provide an eco-friendly alternative without sacrificing reliability.

How Should Used Airsick Bags Be Disposed of During Travel?

Most airlines and transport services recommend sealing the bag if possible, and disposing of it in designated waste receptacles once available. In eco-conscious environments, biodegradable bags make disposal more environmentally friendly.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Airsick Bags for Your Needs

Airsick bags may be simple, but they’re essential for travel comfort and hygiene. Whether you’re an airline outfitting your cabins or a traveler preparing for a long journey, selecting the right airsick bag makes a significant difference in convenience and usability. Choose between standard paper, plastic, biodegradable, and double-layer bags based on durability needs, environmental concerns, and budget. With options like Global Inflight Products, International Plastics, and EcoSafe, you can find high-quality bags that meet the highest standards for durability and hygiene.