Should you wear travel socks on long flights?

Advantages of Compression Socks for Travelers On long flights, wearing graduated compression travel socks can be beneficial because of the health concerns associated with extended periods of sitting. These socks help balance the pressure in your legs and ankles, promoting consistent blood circulation.



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That's right, nary a soul on any Traveler team dared stand up for their right to go barefoot aboard an airplane. Socks are non-negotiable. Most airlines agree, by the way, even going so far as to mandate their presence in the air.

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No matter what type of garment you choose, it's best to wear it an hour or two before you begin your trip and wear them for the duration of the trip. Whether you're at increased risk of clots or just want to prevent discomfort, compression socks should be an essential part of your travel routine.

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If you've ever taken a long flight, you've probably noticed that your legs and feet begin to get puffy. That swelling can be dangerous. In extreme cases, you might develop deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where a potentially fatal blood clot forms in a vein deep in the body. Most deep vein clots occur in the legs.

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Alternatives to Wearing Compression Socks and Stockings
  • CircAid Juxtalite Lower Leg System. ...
  • FarrowWrap 4000 Legpiece. ...
  • Sigvaris CompreFLEX Transition Calf Wrap. ...
  • CircAid Juxta Lite Ankle-Foot Wrap. ...
  • L&R USA Solaris ReadyWrap Thigh Unit RW-LE-EG. ...
  • Juzo Knee Compression Wrap.


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Even if you have healthy veins, long periods of inactivity can cause swelling and discomfort in the legs. Fortunately, compression socks make great travel companions due to their ability to boost circulation.

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During the Flight: Wear compression socks on plane trips, especially if it's a lengthy one. They help counteract the lack of movement and the effects of sitting for long durations. After Arrival: If you've been on a long flight, consider wearing your compression socks for a few more hours post-landing.

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Another small risk of going barefoot at the airport? The number of germs and pathogens present in a place where so many people are walking, including fungus that causes warts and athlete's foot, as well as bacteria, and viruses that can cause infection or illness.

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Why should you wear socks at the airport? Airport floors, like most public floors, are covered in germs, including bacteria associated with the common cold, influenza, E. coli, and listeria. Sharp objects are also a danger, and open sores make feet more susceptible to picking up bacteria.

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You should not wear a normal pair of socks over your compression stockings. The compression stocking in itself will function as a normal sock too. Don't double up, there is no reason to.

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Talk to your doctor about wearing compression stockings or taking medicine before departure if you have additional risk factors for blood clots. Taking aspirin to prevent blood clots when traveling is not recommended. If you take aspirin for other reasons, check with your doctor.

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Remember that anything over 6 hours flying time is considered long haul, but flights of longer than 10 hours are not uncommon either. One important thing to remember is to keep your seat belt fastened at all times in case of unexpected turbulence.

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Compression socks should feel comfortable, like a gentle hug to your legs. Many describe this hug as a “supported” feeling. Compression socks or compression stockings made with graduated compression should feel tightest at the ankle and gradually get looser.

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