The relief band absolutely relieves all symptoms of motion sickness even without the gel. Without the gel, it takes a bit longer to begin relieving symptoms (minutes versus seconds). However, the gel guarantees that you will get relief instantaneously. If you suffer from severe motion sickness, this is the difference between having to miss out on special moments or not. Use the gel, don’t underestimate its usefulness. You don’t need much & quantity will last you a while.