Why do I swell so bad when I travel?

Leg and foot swelling during air travel is common and typically harmless. The most likely culprit is inactivity during a flight. Sitting with your feet on the floor for a long period causes blood to pool in your leg veins. The position of your legs when you are seated also increases pressure in your leg veins.



People Also Ask

Cause: Travel Sitting for long periods on cross-country flights or long road trips can cause water retention. Your muscles contract literally from sitting for too long, said Dr. Mack.

MORE DETAILS

The effect should only last for a short time, and dissipates shortly after you walk off the plane. It's easy to alleviate or avoid foot and ankle swelling during a flight, too.

MORE DETAILS

Vacation weight gain is often largely water Celebrations and vacations can involve eating foods higher in carbs and salt than your normal diet, and both of these lead to water retention, she said.

MORE DETAILS