Essential Compression Socks You Should Always Bring When Traveling

If you’ve ever dealt with swollen feet on a long flight or road trip—or worse, experienced deep vein thrombosis (DVT)—you understand the importance of wearing a snug pair of compression socks while traveling.

DVT can develop after extended periods of inactivity, such as during flights or car rides, when a blood clot forms in one or more deep veins, typically in the legs, as noted by the Mayo Clinic. If a clot dislodges and travels to your lungs, it can result in a pulmonary embolism, a serious condition that can be life-threatening.

While it’s crucial to get up and move around during flights or take regular breaks on road trips, wearing compression socks is beneficial for everyone as they enhance circulation and help prevent swelling in the feet and legs.

As you age, your doctor may advise you to wear compression socks post-surgery or prior to flying. However, travelers of any age and fitness level can reap the benefits of wearing them.

How do compression socks function?

Compression socks resemble regular knee-high socks but feature varying levels of compression from the toes to just below the knee, gently squeezing your ankles and calves to promote blood flow toward the upper leg.

What should you consider when choosing compression socks?

Start by checking the compression level—or mmHg—provided. A higher number indicates more pressure on your legs. If they’re too tight, they can be difficult to put on and take off, and they may pinch after a few hours, leading to the uncomfortable "leg sausage" feeling.

Mild compression levels—ranging from 8–15 mmHg and 15–20 mmHg—offer light pressure suitable for long travel days. Higher compression levels, like 20–30 mmHg to 30–40 mmHg, are typically prescribed by doctors. If your doctor recommends a specific level, be sure to adhere to that guidance.

In addition to compression levels, consider the material of the socks (cotton, wool, and bamboo tend to feel softer than cheaper nylon options) and don’t shy away from fun colors to avoid looking like you’re wearing standard medical socks. Here are three of our top picks for compression socks that excel in both comfort and style.

Comrad TimberWool Compression Socks

Sock brand Comrad provides a range of styles, fits, and levels of compression support, but for long flights and travels, we’re particularly excited about their new TimberWool Compression Socks. These medium-support socks are crafted from a mix of tree fibers and merino wool, a remarkable fabric for travelers: it’s odor-resistant, moisture-wicking, and adept at keeping you cool in warmth and warm in cold. These features are especially valued in socks you intend to wear for extended periods.

Comrad socks are available in unisex sizes. Small fits U.S. women’s sizes 4–6, medium accommodates women’s sizes 6–10 (and men’s sizes 4–9), large fits men’s sizes 9–12 (or women’s sizes 10+), and extra large is for men’s sizes 12–15. Comrad also offers extended calf sizes, with both medium wide and large wide providing an additional two inches.

Ostrichpillow Bamboo Compression Socks

While Ostrichpillow is celebrated for its incredibly comfortable travel pillows, its compression socks for travelers deserve your attention too. Crafted from a sustainable blend of soft bamboo, recycled polyester, and nylon, these unisex socks are offered in three sizes and colors.

The S size corresponds to EU sizes 35.5–38 (roughly equivalent to U.S. women’s sizes 5.5–8), M fits EU sizes 38.5–41 (about U.S. women’s size 8.5–11), and L is designed for EU sizes 42–46 (approximately U.S. women’s sizes 11.5–14). These socks are offered in three color combinations: a mismatched bright blue and yellow, a light blue and teal, and a red with muted green.

Not only are these socks eco-friendly, but the bamboo fabric also possesses antimicrobial properties that help prevent unpleasant odors. Additional thoughtful features include cushioned soles for enhanced comfort, along with reinforced heels and toes for increased durability.

Bombas Everyday Compression Socks

Bombas crafts its Everyday Compression Socks with a medium compression level of 15–20 mmHg, featuring a unique honeycomb knit arch support system ideal for those with high arches. They also boast a seamless toe, a Y-stitched heel, and cushioning that extends from above the heel to the toe. These thoughtful details contribute to making them some of the most comfortable compression socks available.

Both men’s and women’s options are available in three sizes. Women’s small fits U.S. shoe sizes 4–7.5, medium accommodates 8–10.5, and large fits 11–13. For men, medium fits U.S. shoe sizes 6–9, large covers 9.5–13, and extra large suits 1–16. A variety of colors is offered, including classic black, white, and gray, along with seasonal releases.

Alongside the medium 15–20 mmHg compression, Bombas also offers these socks in a firmer 20–30 mmHg option, should your doctor advise a higher compression level. In addition to the cotton compression socks introduced in 2019, Bombas now provides performance compression socks made from a moisture-wicking blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex, perfect for runners.

In keeping with its commitment to social good, Bombas donates a pair of socks to a homeless shelter or community organization for every pair purchased.

Reporting for this article was contributed by Jessie Beck. Originally published in 2020, this article was updated on August 10, 2023, with the latest information.