The best travel compression socks, also known as flight socks, decrease swelling in your feet and legs to help improve your circulation—and comfort—most effectively during long trips. After analyzing the different options and speaking with New York podiatrist Dr. Nelya Lobkova, DPM, we selected Trtl Compression Socks as the best compression socks for travel overall. For wide calves, we like LevSox Wide Calf Compression Socks and for an affordable pair you can stock up on (and buy on Amazon), Charmking Compression Socks are your best bet.
The best travel compression socks decrease swelling in your feet and legs to help improve your … [+] comfort during long trips.
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Air travel does bring to mind certain health concerns. The changes in pressure create “a higher risk of developing a blood clot in the deep veins of the legs, called a DVT—deep venous thrombosis,” says Lobkova. “Wearing compression socks helps compress the veins and decreases the chance of clot occurring during flight travel.” Ahead, you’ll find our top picks, all approved by Lobkova and broken out with important specs (quick tip: compression socks are measured in mmHg, the same unit as blood pressure) plus buying advice and answers to frequently asked questions at the end.
Best Overall Compression Socks For Travel: Trtl Compression Socks
Best Budget Compression Socks For Travel: Charmking Compression Socks
Best Wide Calf Compression Socks For Travel: LevSox Wide Calf Compression Socks
Best Bamboo Compression Socks For Travel: Ostrichpillow Bamboo Compression Socks
Best Antimicrobial Compression Socks For Travel: Copper Compression Powerknit Knee High Socks
Best Compression Slipper-Socks For Travel: Comrad CozyGrip Compression Slipper Socks
Best Stylish Compression Socks For Travel: Sockwell Moderate Graduated Compression Sock
Best Ankle Length Compression Socks For Travel: Paplus Ankle Compression Socks
Best Open Toe Compression Sock For Travel: Doc Miller Open Toe Compression Socks
Best Travel Compression Socks Bundle: Comrad 3-Pack Knee High Compression Socks With Packing Cube
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Sizes: S to L | Materials: Coolmax, lycra | Compression level: 15 to 21 mmHg
With an ideal-for-travel compression level, according to Lobkova, a breathable Coolmax knit fabric to eliminate sweaty feet and a cushioned sole for added comfort, these Trtl travel socks scored the highest points in our review. Lycra adds stretchiness and bounce-back shape retention, and this pair comes in a selection of prints—from chevron to colorful stripes—all while preventing swelling. Buying tip: These socks come in three sizes; to ensure a proper fit, measure your ankle and calf circumferences and follow Trtl’s online sizing guide.
Sizes: S/M to L/XL | Materials: 85% nylon, 15% spandex | Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg
Available in 8-packs of neutrals, brights or bold patterns, Charmking’s compression socks have the most important features you need while also being wallet-friendly. Targeted compression zones provide support while a reinforced heel and toe add comfort and blister protection. The brand recently updated their fabric composition to enhance breathability and help regulate your temperature and improved their performance stretch, which makes this pair a little easier to pull on than other compression socks.
Sizes: M to XL | Materials: 77% nylon, 23% spandex | Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg
With a 360-degree woven construction, LevSox’s compression socks are designed to fit wide calves specifically with targeted support, graduated compression and long-lasting comfort, whether you slip them on for a long flight or if you’re standing all day at museums. The nylon blend is lightweight, durable and breathable, and the sizing is specifically designed to prevent that dreaded “too-tight” feeling at the top of the sock. Just be sure to reference their size chart for the best fit.
Sizes: S to L | Materials: 50% bamboo, 25% recycled polyester, 10% recycled nylon, 15% spandex Oeko-Tex | Compression level: 8 to 15 mmHg
Ostrichpillow, best known for its inventive travel pillows, stands out from the pack with these light support, bamboo-blend compression socks. With a fabric that naturally encourages air flow—not to mention has antibacterial and odor-resistant qualities—these socks are designed to relieve muscle soreness, improve blood flow and reduce leg and ankle swelling during travel. They have a lighter compression that’s suitable for everyday wear, and with its extra cushioned sole and reinforced heel and toe, you might end up wearing them even when you’re not on a trip.
Sizes: S to L | Materials: 85% copper-infused nylon, 15% spandex | Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg
Copper Compression embraces the natural antimicrobial and antibacterial benefits of copper, infusing it into nylon threads, for toe-to-knee protection. These knee-high socks have the ideal compression level for flying, but are also comfortable enough for high-performance activities like running or hiking, without the sweaty feet feeling that can come with strenuous activity. Expect reduced inflammation, extra arch and ankle support (the brand has other arch support products for foot pain and plantar-fasciitis-sufferers, too) and lower lactic acid in your muscles, reducing the chance of stiffness during travel and beyond.
Sizes: S to L | Materials: 82% polyester, 16% nylon, 2% spandex 81% | Compression level: 10 to 15 mmHg
These slipper-socks from Comrad combine a light compression with cozy comfort. The dual-layer design is ideal for times when you want to take your shoes off on the plane or for relaxing in your hotel room after a long day. They provide light support up the leg while silicone grips on the soles protect against sliding on smooth surfaces or slippery floors. This pair is on the lower end of the compression scale, so they might not deliver the same health benefits as some of the higher compression level picks on our list, especially if you have circulation issues.
Sockwell’s lifestyle compression socks, available in both men’s and women’s sizing, are a far cry from the bland compression stockings of the past. This pair has four strategic zones of graduated compression to minimize swelling during travel and other prolonged sitting activities and a sleek design that comes in beautiful shades. The high-performance merino wool-blend is naturally moisture-wicking, thermoregulating and odor-resistant, too.
Sizes: S/M to L/XL | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg
For times when full-length compression socks feel too restrictive, a shorter height compression style still offers extra support focused in the ankle and foot area (some reviewers say it even helps with their plantar fasciitis symptoms). Expect a moderate improvement of circulation, reduced swelling and a breathable, moisture-wicking feel, even after a long day of travel. Fit note: Some say these socks run large, especially for those who wear up to a women’s size 7.
Sizes: S to 3XLT | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg
If you like compression socks but don’t enjoy the feeling of constricted toes, consider an open-toe style. Doc Miller’s have graduated compression that extends up to the knee, a smoothing, stretchy nylon-blend fabric that’s thin and easy to pull on, plus an exposed toe for breathable comfort. The inclusive range fits a variety of calf measurements and their tall sizes add an impressive two inches to the length to the standard fit, ensuring a proper fit for just about everyone. If your toes feel cold or you want protection while wearing shoes, simply slip on regular cotton ankle socks for a soft layer that won’t change the compression benefits.
Sizes: S to XL, includes wide sizes | Materials: 91% nylon, 9% spandex | Compression level: 15 to 20 mmHg
Comrad created this kit with travelers in mind. It features three pairs of easy-on-off compression socks—with fun ombré designs—and a handy packing cube that fits into your luggage or carry-on. Your feet and legs will feel energizing relief during a flight, and since you can pack multiple pairs, you can still have compression socks left over for sight-seeing and exploring without having to do laundry. FYI: the ripstop nylon packing cube expands to hold up to 10 pairs of compression socks or other undergarments and accessories, as a convenient bonus.
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How We Choose Best Compression Socks For Travel
When researching the best compression socks for travel, we considered both large and small brands that specialize in compression products and travel gear. We read through hundreds of real customer reviews, tested some products ourselves and tapped the expertise of board-certified podiatrist Dr. Nelya Lobkova, DPM of Step Up Footcare in New York City about health benefits, sizing and the do’s and don’ts of wearing compression socks for travel. Most of the socks featured here have a compression level of 15 to 20 mmHg, which is the recommended grade for travel.
What To Consider When Shopping For Best Compression Socks For Travel
Not all travel compression socks are alike. There are different styles, levels of compression and sizes. Here’s what to consider as you shop:
Fit: The key to compression socks working correctly is a proper fit. If they’re too tight,”they can cause a constriction in circulation to the feet and toes,” says Dr. Lobkova. “This will cause the toes or feet to feel numb and you’ll have the urge to remove them.” Likewise, if your socks are too loose, they won’t provide ideal compression benefits. Pay attention to sizing guides—some socks have gendered sizing or a shoe size equivalency—and calf width. Dr. Lobkova recommends trying on socks or measuring your calf at the end of the day, when swelling is at its highest point. If you have diabetes or peripheral artery disease, your calf circumference can actually vary throughout the day, so Dr. Lobkova suggests “measuring [your calf] when the swelling is the highest, usually with the leg suspended or while standing” to ensure the most accurate measurement for your compression socks.
Compression Level: Most compression socks for travel have graduated compression, meaning they’re tighter in the foot, gradually easing up at the top of the sock. Average wearers without any vein issues should aim for a low level of compression for travel, usually in the 15 to 20 mmHg range. “For those with venous insufficiency, a high level of compression—30 to 40 mmHg—is advised,” says Dr. Lobkova.
Height: Most compression socks for travel are knee-highs, but there are also quarter- and ankle-length styles available. Shorter socks have focused compression in the foot and ankle areas while the longer styles’ graduated compression extends to right below the knee. Both lengths are designed to help improve circulation during travel, but different wearers might have different preferences for comfort and ease of use. It might be helpful to test a few styles to find the most comfortable and effective height.
Are Flight Socks The Same As Compression Socks?
Yes, flight socks are simply another term for compression socks that are worn during a plane trip. According to Dr. Lobkova, flight socks usually have an average grade of compression in the 15 to 20 mmHg range.
What’s The Best Level Of Compression Socks For Travel?
Experts recommend wearing socks with a compression level of 15 to 20 mmHg during a flight if you don’t have venous insufficiency or varicose veins. For travelers who suffer from those issues, Dr. Lobkova says 30 to 40 mmHg is recommended “in order to deliver effective compression.”
How Long Can You Wear Compression Socks During A Flight?
Compression socks can be worn during any flight, regardless if it’s an intercontinental long-haul or just a couple hours long. It might be easiest to put on your compression socks at the airport gate, before you board the plane, as wrangling into a pair of tight-fitting socks in the cabin could prove to be difficult and disruptive to your neighbors. If your seat has a lay-flat option, however, take off your compression socks before your power nap. “Lying down can constrict blood flow going to the feet and toes,” says Dr. Lobkoba. The goal of wearing compression socks for travel is to improve circulation in your feet and legs, and laying down can have an adverse constriction effect.
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