10 Best Compression Socks for Flying & Travel
Swollen ankles and sore feet can seriously cramp your style when you’re jetting off on a new travel adventure. Next time you take off, do yourself a favor and make sure you’re wearing a pair of compression socks. These are our top picks for compression socks for women for flying and traveling.
Why is it good to wear compression socks while flying?
On long-distance flights, there are few (if any) chances to walk around and stretch your legs. This isn’t only uncomfortable but can increase your risk of blood clots over time if you’re a frequent flyer. Wearing compression socks while flying is the savvy traveler’s way to promote good blood circulation when sitting for long periods of time. By squeezing your legs, compression socks help increase circulation to prevent swelling in your lower legs and feet, ward off leg fatigue, and even reduce the risk of blood clots.
We’re reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). These are products we’ve heavily researched and stand behind. You can read through our full affiliate disclosure here.
10 best compression socks for flying in 2024
1. Best overall compression socks: Bombas
Compression socks don’t have to make you think of grandma—and this pick from Bombas certainly won’t. Made out of extra-durable cotton-blend yarn and available in a handful of modern neutral colors, the Women’s Everyday Compression Sock 3-Pack is the go-to choice for women who want to feel comfortable when they travel. Bonus: You can feel good about shopping for these compression socks, too. For every pack you buy, 3 pairs of socks are donated to one of their Giving Partner homeless shelters across the country.
Check out our full review of Bombas compression socks here.
Price: starting at $84
2. Best anti-odor compression socks: Away
Whether you're sitting for extended periods on a long-haul flight or taking a road trip, these socks from Away will provide the comfort and support you need. And thanks to their advanced anti-odor technology, you can wear them multiple times without worrying about any unpleasant smells. Additionally, these socks are incredibly easy to care for. They dry quickly after washing, so you can wash them in the sink or throw them in the laundry without any hassle. They also come in a range of sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for everyone.
Price: starting at $45
3. Best wool compression socks: Sockwell
For a sock that can do double-duty to keep you both comfortable and warm throughout a long-distance flight, try this pair of compression socks from Sockwell. A special blend of merino wool, nylon, rayon, and spandex makes them both flexible and cozy so your toes stay cushioned and warm even on chilly airplanes. Most importantly, these compression socks feature four zones of 15-20 mmHg graduated compression to target areas of potential swelling and help keep your legs and feet soothed and energized for hours.
Price: starting at $29
4. Best thigh-high compression socks: Jomi Compressions
If you’re looking for more coverage than your classic knee-high, these extra-tall compression socks from Jomi Compressions have got you covered. Made out of a nylon and spandex blend, they’re durable, comfortable, and stretchy enough to easily slide on and off. Meanwhile, a Silicone band on top ensures they’ll stay in place throughout your flight, and a reinforced heel and toe will prevent unwanted holes from forming over time.
Price: starting at $34
5. Best open-toe compression socks: Doc Miller
For hot summer travel days, the last thing you probably want to do is pull on a thick pair of heavy knee-highs. That’s when these open-toe compression socks from Doc Miller come through in the clutch to give you the support you need without making you sweat. Available in hot pink, maroon, blue, dark green, and more fun colors and neutrals, these are the gateway compression socks that will help you get over your fear of looking like a granny (spoiler: you won’t) so you can enjoy that sweet muscle-soothing relief.
Price: starting at $18
6. Best ankle compression socks: CHARMKING
Meet the traditional compression socks’ sporty sister: ankle compression socks. Machine-washable, colorful, and available in cost-conscious multi-packs, these compression socks are a must-have for women who are always on the go. And just because they’re ankle-sized, doesn’t mean they can’t deliver the comfort you’re looking for. Targeted compression zones help improve blood flow and prevent fatigue, while a reinforced heel and toe add extra cushion and durability for frequent use.
Price: starting at $12
7. Best graduated compression socks: Dr. Scholl’s
When it comes to shopping for comfortable support, Dr. Scholl’s has long been the number-one player in the game—and their compression socks are no exception. The magic touch lies in thoughtful design. These women’s travel compression socks feature a mild compression level of 8-15 mmHG. The graduated compression delivers maximum support at the ankle that gradually lessens when moving up the leg to optimize comfort and alleviate leg fatigue and pain. Even the toe seam is carefully constructed to minimize irritation and prevent unwanted bunching throughout the day.
Price: starting at $10
8. Best copper compression socks: CopperJoint
You read that right—copper compression socks. Believe it or not, copper-infused yarn can actually prove the difference in making you feel more at ease during a long flight. For one, copper has proven antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria and yeast. Tldr; this means they can actually help eliminate unwanted foot odors (if you don’t appreciate it, the other airline passengers will). Combined with 15-20 mmHG of compression, these compression socks will help you stay comfortable, soothed, and fresh throughout your flight.
Price: starting at $25
9. Best mesh compression socks: lululemon
These mesh compression socks will fit you so snug like a glove that you’ll want to keep wearing them well after your flight has touched down. First, the 3D-knit PerformaHeelTM shapes these socks to your feet while the MicroPillowTM light cushioning delivers maximum comfort. Next, the special No-Stink ZincTM yarn helps inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Finally, the mesh fabric keeps things breathable and lightweight so your feet stay cool and dry, even in a stuffy airplane cabin.
Price: starting at $38
10. Best moisture-wicking compression socks: Comrad
There’s nothing worse than achy feet on a long travel day. That’s why Comrad’s Knee-High Compression Socks are a can’t-miss in your packing line-up. The mild graduated compression helps increase circulation in your lower legs and feet to soothe soreness, swelling, pain, and fatigue. Even better, the moisture-wicking nylon and SmartSilver IonsTM keep things breathable and flexible to eliminate odors and keep you feeling fresh from take-off until touchdown.
Price: starting at $28
Compression socks - common FAQs
What level of compression socks do I need for flying?
You can find compression socks in a variety of compression levels, but the sweet spot for flying is usually between 8 and 20 mmHg. Heads up: Anything over 20 mmHG is pretty heavy-duty and should likely only be worn if prescribed by a doctor.
How long should you wear compression socks while flying?
It’s safe to wear compression socks for 16+ hours. This means there’s no need to fumble with hosiery at the airport; you can put on your compression socks well before you board your plane for a long-haul flight.
How much should I spend on compression socks?
Compression socks don’t have to be expensive to be effective. Typically, you can expect to spend between $15 and $30 on a pair of compression socks.
