Tech & Gear Luggage The 9 Best Compression Socks for Travel of 2023 By Ashley M. Biggers Ashley M. Biggers Instagram Twitter Ashley Biggers is a journalist specializing in travel, culture, and art. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines Updated on 12/26/22 Share Pin Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong Pilots on long-haul flights may announce that you're free to move about the cabin, but your movement is still restricted, so you want to make the most of the limited space you're able to walk around. Compression socks can help because they boost circulation in your legs and minimize swelling. To find the best compression socks on the market, we looked for materials that wick moisture and fight odor. And while the majority of these picks are knee height, runners and walkers may prefer the focused compression of ankle-high socks. Lastly, compression is not one-size-fits-all, so we rounded up a variety of levels to help you choose the right pair. Table of contents Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust TripSavvy Best Overall Physix Gear Compression Socks Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Comes in various colors Breathable What We Don't Like They're thick Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks Are the Best on the Market With graduated compression from the arch to the calf, Physix Gear Compression Socks offer comfortable all-day wear. Reviewers attested to their ability to wear these socks for extended work days and during lengthy plane travel. The socks come in many double-stitched heel colors for a bit of flare. However, the socks' upper is stitched in basic black or neutral beige that will fit many people's aesthetics. The socks wear slightly thicker than dress socks; however, they remain breathable through hours of use. The durable Lycra socks also hold up to washing and won't lose their 20 to 30 mmHg. There's a delicate balance between firm compression and comfort, and Physix Gear has struck it. According to our tester, you might even forget you're wearing them after a short period. With no "leftover marks from too-tight spots," these socks can accompany you on any trip or around the house. Price at time of publication: $22 Materials: 70 percent nylon, 30 percent spandex | Length: Knee | Level of Compression: 20 to 30 mmHg TripSavvy / Erika Owen Best Budget Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Travel Knee High Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Beltoutlet.com What We Like Machine washable Wicks moisture What We Don't Like Not as high quality as other options This affordable pair offers light pressure at the ankle that lessens as it travels up the leg to the knee. The 10-15 mmHg compression is likely fitting for short stints on a plane or in the car. This might be the right pair for you if you’ve tried other socks with more pressure. The cotton-free design helps reduce moisture and lessen odor and irritation. Price at time of publication: $10 Materials: 94 percent nylon, 6 percent lycra spandex | Length: Knee | Level of Compression: 10 to 15 mmHg Best for Men Vitalsox Compression Socks Walmart View On Amazon What We Like Prevents odors All-around support What We Don't Like Top sock band can be tight VitalSox Graduated Compression Socks Review Gents searching for odorless socks will enjoy adding the Vitalsox Compression Graduated Socks to their sock drawers. These socks use performance Quick Drying Polypropylene infused with silver—an antimicrobial and antifungal powerhouse that resists and stops the growth of these sweat and moisture byproducts. In short, these socks repel odors. This design offers ideal compression. Our tester was impressed by how well these socks wicked moisture, including some spilled water. The compression is focused around the foot and lightens through the calf. Note that the band at the top of the socks is on the tighter side. Price at time of publication: $24 Materials: 70 percent Silver drystat, 10 percent spandex, 10 percent lycra, 10 percent nylon | Length: Knee | Level of Compression: Not listed TripSavvy / Erika Owen Best for Women Laite Hebe Medical Compression Socks Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Comes in various colors Dries fast What We Don't Like Reviewers note packing doesn't have washing instructions These well-reviewed socks, which come in multiple eye-catching hues and designs, deliver a pressure-gradient design in women's sizes. They're a favorite of lifestyle and travel writer Patrice J. Williams. "After wearing these socks for three years now, I can absolutely see why they're top-rated," she says. "Besides being available in tons of colors, which totally fits my style, they're fitted without being restrictive. These are actually comfortable, and I've worn them on long flights and even sometimes when I'm at home sitting at my desk." The socks are quick-drying, another convenient quality for travel. "This has come in handy when I've wanted to wash them in a hotel's sink and hang them to dry. They're ready to go the next day for my flight," Williams says. Price at time of publication: $13 Materials: 85 percent nylon, 15 percent polyester | Length: Knee | Level of Compression: 10 to 15 mmHg The 9 Best Women’s Travel Shoes of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best for Kids Vandimi Kids Compression Socks Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Multi-purpose Comes in various colors What We Don't Like Reviewers note sizes run large While most kids don’t suffer from the same medical ailments that lead adults to seek out compression socks, they may still benefit from some light compression while playing sports and after practices. The Vandimi socks offer light compression, in the form of spandex, for kids ages 3 to 13. Price at time of publication: $20 Materials: 95 percent nylon, 5 percent spandex | Length: Knee | Level of Compression: Not listed Best Ankle Socks Comrad Ankle Compression Socks Comrad View On Amazon View On Comradsocks.com What We Like Comes in various colors Prevents odors What We Don't Like Pricier than other options For some, the toe to knee pressure of most compression socks may be too much. These ankle socks provide targeted compression to needy arches and 360-degree pressure to prevent swelling, blisters, and slippery socks. These socks are ideal for long days of walking, especially thanks to the extra padding in the toe and heel and slide-free cuffs that won’t slip and cause blisters. The material includes SmartSilver antimicrobial technology that kills stink-causing bacteria. Price at time of publication: $18 Materials: 92 percent nylon, 8 percent spandex | Length: Ankle | Level of Compression: Not listed Best for Long Flights Sockwell Firm Graduated Compression Socks Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Versatile Wicks moisture What We Don't Like Reviewers note their sizing isn't consistent Sockwell's sock uses four zones of 20-30 mmHg graduated compression. The brand has earned a fan in lifestyle and travel blogger Lindsey Silberman. "I've worn Sockwell's compression socks for years. I love that they're super tight but breathable," she says. They're available in 10 muted designs that will easily go from plane rides to work meetings. Price at time of publication: $30 Materials: 31 percent merino wool, 31 percent rayon, 30 percent nylon, 8 percent spandex | Length: Knee | Level of Compression: 20 to 30 mmHg What to Wear Hiking: Experts Share the Best Hiking Clothes Best Style Vim and Vigor Nylon 15-20 mmHg Compression Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On Vimvigr.com What We Like Comes in various colors and styles Durable What We Don't Like Pricier than other options Vim and Vigor only produce compression socks (as opposed to all sock varieties), so you’re sure to find a quality sock from this company. Travel blogger Sherry Ott of Ottsworld wears them exclusively. “Vim & Vigr only does compression socks, but they do them with a twist—they are fashionable!” she says. “They come in different compression levels, fabrics (my favorite is the merino wool for travel), and calf widths. … They, by far, have the best variety, and I love my many pairs!” The 15 to 20 mmHg pressure is perfect for travel because it allows for all-day wear. The socks come in a stunning array of stripes, polka dots, and other patterns in hues to match every style. Price at time of publication: $36 Materials: 91 percent nylon, 8 percent spandex | Length: Knee | Level of Compression: 15 to 20 mmHg The Best Wool Socks That Are Soft and Breathable Most Philanthropic Bombas Women’s Strong Compression Sock 3- Pack Bombas View On Bombas.com What We Like Comes in various colors Sturdy What We Don't Like Pricier than other options With its practice of one pair purchased, one pair donated, Bombas allows you to give back as you shop. But giving back doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing your socks. These are quality compression socks with moderate pressure, perfect for travel, long shifts, and/or pregnancy. The cotton-polyester-nylon blend is durable, and with three pairs in a pack, you’ll be wearing these knee-length socks for a while. The design integrates strategic zone cushioning around your arches—a honeycomb design offers extra support there—and ankles. They come in straight-laces gray, white, and black or with more fanciful, and even floral, designs. Price at time of publication: $84 Materials: 64 percent cotton, 15 percent polyester, 12 percent nylon, 9 percent spandex | Length: Knee | Level of Compression: 20 to 30 mmHg What to Look for in Compression Socks Material Synthetic materials such as lycra, nylon, and spandex provide compressive pressure in these socks. Most manufacturers use a blend of synthetic and natural, moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton and wool to increase breathability and temperature regulation. The innovative use of silver by Vitalsox and Comrad helps combat odor-causing bacteria. Length Most compression socks are knee-high, but there are also ankle-height options. Short compression socks provide more focused compression and support around the foot and may be preferable for runners or long-distance walking. Knee-high socks are more versatile, benefitting post-surgery patients, workers who stand for long periods, and long-distance flyers and pilots. Level of Compression Measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), the compression level is a metric to describe how much graduated compression a garment has. They range from light (8 to 15 mmHg) to prescription strength (40 to 50 mmHg), and anything below 30 mmHg can generally be found over the counter. If you have any medical concerns related to circulation or just had an operation, your healthcare provider may prescribe more compressive socks or stockings to aid recovery. Frequently Asked Questions How do you know if your compression socks fit? Once on, compression socks should lay smoothly against your skin. They should feel snug, but they shouldn’t feel painfully tight. If they hurt or if the band at the top is digging into your skin, you may need a larger size or a better-fitting brand. How long should you wear compression socks per day? Compression socks are designed to be worn for long periods. Unless a medical professional advises otherwise, you can wear them all day. However, they should not be worn while you sleep just in case they bunch up and restrict your circulation. Laying down and reclining in compression socks is also fine, but you'll want to stay awake if they need to be adjusted. How do you clean compression socks? Machine wash or hand wash your compression socks. For either method, use cold water. Use a mild detergent without bleach, and never use fabric softener. If you machine-wash them, select the gentle cycle and wash with like colors. Let them air dry, do not use a dryer, as this will weaken their elasticity. Why Trust TripSavvy Ever since a run-in with swollen feet after a trip to New Zealand five years ago, freelance travel journalist Ashley M. Biggers has worn compression socks on lengthy flights to encourage circulation. As a runner, she’s also donned them for long-distance training runs and marathons. Article Sources TripSavvy uses only high-quality, trusted sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial policy to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy. Cleveland Clinic. "What You Should Know About Compression Socks." Oct. 19, 2020. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Share Pin Email Tell us why! Submit Continue to 5 of 9 below. Continue to 9 of 9 below.