Why Wear Compression Socks for Travel

Traveling over the holidays? Don't forget to pack your compression socks! 


Traveling usually means long hours spent sitting, whether it's in a car, plane or even train rides. Prolonged sitting can lead to unpleasant symptoms, and can even lead to serious health problems. Whether you wear compression regularly or not, you should consider wearing compression while traveling. 

Long periods spent sitting that usually accompany travel can lead to poor  circulation, meaning blood isn't flowing properly throughout your body. This can cause heaviness, aching, swelling or tired feeling in your feet and legs. Long periods of sitting can also increase your risk of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms, usually in the lower body or legs. 

Graduated compression socks and stockings are a great way to prevent discomfort when traveling and any associated risks that come with it.

Graduated compression socks for travel

Graduated compression socks are snug-fitting socks that are designed to help support your veins by promoting proper blood flow from your feet and legs back up to your heart for proper circulation. They also reduce swelling and prevent blood from pooling in the legs and feet, which lowers your chance of developing a blood clot.

Make sure you are buying compression that is graduated compression. This means they are tighter around your ankle (with the most mmHg of pressure) and get looser as they move up the garment. This promotes the healthy circulation of blood from your ankles back up to your heart.

There are plenty of benefits to wearing graduated compression socks for travel.

Benefits of wearing compression socks for travel

  • Increased circulation
  • Reduced tension and tiredness in legs
  • Preventing swelling in feet in legs
  • Reduced risk of DVT  
  • Assisting in jet lag recovery

Tips for keeping legs healthy when traveling

  • Wear loose-fitting clothing and adjustable shoes
  • Leave yourself plenty of legroom and elevate feet when possible
  • Pass on the salty food and alcohol
  • Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration
  • Get up, stretch your legs and move when you can
  • Rotate your ankles, point and wiggle toes and flex calves while seated
  • Don’t cross your legs when you’re flying

Pro Tip: When you are traveling, the minimum pressure rating you would need is 15-20 mmHg. Anything above 15-20mmHg is typically recommended by a medical professional.

Best compression socks for travel

Whether you’ve booked a short trip or a long flight, we recommend a good pair of graduated compression socks to keep your legs comfortable and happy. There is a wide variety of compression socks available in different materials and styles, including sheer, cotton, wool and more. Some are plain and traditional, and others are fun and stylish. Ultimately, it is up to your preference!

When purchasing compression, make sure to follow the measurement guidelines for each specific pair. Properly measuring your legs is the only way to ensure you're getting the right size for you. If you're not sure how to measure your legs, click here.


Mediven Comfort
15-20 mmHg Knee High



Therafirm Core-Spun Patterned
15-20 mmHg Knee High Compression Socks



Rejuva COOLMAX
15-20 mmHg Knee High



Jobst Travel Sock
15-20 mmHg Knee High


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