Once you've landed, you can use a lot of the same tools to reduce swelling after your travel: ?Stay hydrated, move around, and wear compression socks,? says Wurster. ?Also, be mindful of what you're eating and avoid foods too high in sodium because that can also add to further swelling.?

To get rid of "travel legs" (edema) in 2026, the premier medical advice is a combination of elevation and movement. After a long flight or car ride, lie down and elevate your legs above the level of your heart for at least 20–30 minutes to encourage fluid to drain away from your ankles. A high-value "pro-tip" is to perform "gentle lymphatic drainage" by stroking your legs from the feet toward the groin. Staying hyper-hydrated is also critical; dehydration actually signals the body to retain water, worsening the swelling. For 2026 travelers, wearing graduated compression socks during the journey is the most effective preventative measure. If the swelling persists for more than 24 hours or is accompanied by pain and redness in only one leg, seek immediate medical attention, as this could be a sign of a high-risk Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), a dangerous blood clot that requires professional intervention rather than just rest and elevation.