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Leg pain, fatigue, and swelling don't have to put a damper on your travel plans.

Booking a flight to a far-off destination is exciting, but travel isn't always easy on our bodies; in fact, it can come with a lot of discomfort, particularly in the lower body region. Compression socks are a popular solution for the leg pain, swelling, and fatigue that can come along with long plane rides or 12-hour days on your feet spent exploring a new locale — but it's important to know exactly what you're buying and why before filling up your carry-on with compression socks.

Compression socks are measured in mmHg (which stands for millimeters of mercury), and the higher the number, the greater the compression. Most compression socks offer what's called graduated compression, which puts the greatest squeeze on your ankles and lightens the pressure as it goes up your leg. For travel purposes, graduated compression socks offering light to firm compression is likely what you're looking for. That being said, it's important to talk to your doctor about whether compression socks are a good option for you, and the right level of compression for your needs. (You can also read more about compression socks at the Cleveland Clinic.)

The best compression socks for travel include those that are breathable, moisture wicking, and cushioned, plus shorter length options for those who don't want a knee-high sock. Some brands offer extended size ranges for wide calves, and fortunately for those who like to stay stylish while jetsetting, they come in a bunch of cute styles too.

Level of compression: 18–25 mmHg (moderate/firm)

Wellow compression socks check all the boxes for a solid pair of travel compression socks. They come in a bunch of cute colors and wide calf sizes, and they offer moderate compression to help support blood circulation in your legs, reduce fatigue, and prevent swelling in your feet. Wellow socks are made from bamboo-derived viscose, which means they're moisture-wicking and breathable, in case you're prone to sweaty feet. And they're super soft (not scratchy) — they were literally designed to feel like a gentle hug on your legs.

Promising review: "My legs feel so much better when I wear compression socks on a long flight. I normally have three complaints about normal compression socks: I get too hot, they come up too high and pinch behind my knee, and my calves are wide so they're too tight. These socks are really nice — they're thick but not too hot. I managed to keep them on for most of a 10-hour flight." —Paula

Get a pair from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes S–XL and M–XL Wide (on a separate listing), and many styles).

Level of compression: 15–20 mmHg (moderate)

Comrad nylon compression socks that are thinner and stretchier than some other pairs, so they're a great lightweight option for long travel days. And if you're in need of odor control, these have antimicrobial silver ion technology that helps stop the stink so you can wear them 3–4 times before washing — definitely a plus if you're traveling with just a carry-on. Also, lots of pregnant reviewers mention these really helped with swelling while flying.

Promising reviews: "Just wore these on a 14.5-hour flight in my second trimester, and my feet did not swell at all! I also got up every two hours and drank a lot of water / electrolytes, but I’ve never gotten off a long flight with no swelling before." —AtticusF

"These have been my favorite compression socks to wear while pregnant. I like that they are thinner and nylon so my feet don't get too hot. They stay in place, go up to my knee, and really help with the swelling." —Shayna

Get a pair from Amazon for $33.99 (available in sizes S–XL and M–L Wide, and 27 styles). 

Level of compression: 15–20 mmHg (moderate), 20–30 mmHg (firm), and 30–40 mmHg (medical grade)

Vim & Vigr compression socks that come in a ton of styles and include wide-calf sizing, and they even let you pick between three levels of compression. Their socks also come in four different materials — cotton, merino wool, nylon, and moisture-wicking nylon — so you can shop by your preference!

Note: Vim & Vigr socks are available with 30–40 mmHg medical-grade compression, but talk to your doctor before choosing that level of support.

Promising review: "These socks put the fun in functional. They are super comfy and not hard to put on. Plus, they look great. I love stripes so I had to get a pair. I rocked them out on recent flight and my legs thanked me for it. I have 16-inch circumference calves and they fit great." —Kathryn C.

Get a solid-colored pair from Vim & Vigr for $38+ (available in sizes S–XL and S–XL Wide, and three compression levels). And shop all their other compression sock styles, with four material options.

Physix Gear compression socks, an Amazon-popular pair with over 60,000 5-star ratings. Reviewers rave about how these help with fatigue, leg cramps, and swelling during long travel days, and they're popular for workouts and sports use as well.

Check out our full Physix Gear compression socks review for more deets.

Promising review: "These are my favorite, go-to compression socks for travel. This is the second pair I’ve purchased. I wear these on short-haul flights (1.5–5 hours) and long-haul flights (10+ hours) and my legs feel great, no swelling, no fatigue at all. I bought this second pair for flights to France and the UK, and they didn’t bunch up, roll down or feel too tight — but be sure to get your correct size so they fit comfortably." —California Pointe

Get a pair from Amazon for $18.63+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 13 styles).

Fitrell compression socks with a breezy mesh design around the calf to keep you cool while still delivering firm, graduated compression to combat swelling and improve circulation. If you run hot or are traveling somewhere warm, this moisture-wicking pair will keep you comfortable and dry.

Promising review: "I was a little skeptical about these socks, but decided to try them for a trip to Italy. I always get swollen legs while traveling and feel very bloated in general. Our trip was approximately 20 hours in total, and I have to say that the socks were life changers. No swelling or heaviness; the material is very breathable and comfortable. My husband also tried them, and he said that he felt the difference, too. I wear them now often and see a big difference." —Marjorie

Get three pairs from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 19 sets).

Level of compression: 15–20 mmHg (moderate)

Sockwell compression socks made with 31% merino wool that isn't scratchy at all, reviewers attest. The wool also helps with temperature regulation so your feet are never hot or chilly in these (they'll feel just right — OK, Goldilocks!), and it absorbs excess moisture too. Because of the high percentage of natural fibers, they're a little splurgier, but reviewers say they're worth every penny.

Promising review: "I bought these for a cross-country drive, and they were worth every penny. The wool content kept my feet at a comfortable temperature, neither too hot nor too cold. The graduated compression was just right: comfortable, not too tight (especially at the top, behind the knee), but enough to keep my usual foot/ankle swelling to a minimum. Nor did they slide down. Due to an unexpected delay in our plans (thanks, #WinterStormFrida), I ended up having to wear them two days in a row on our return trip. They were just as comfortable and supportive on the second day. And although I have now washed them in the washing machine twice, they show very little pilling or wear. (I did hang them to dry.) I will absolutely buy these again. I found them to be much better overall (more comfortable, better at regulating temperature, better performance, and more long-wearing) than the similarly-styled, all-synthetic Dr. Scholl's compression socks I wore on the same trip." —Lark of the Bookwyrm's Hoard

Get a pair from Amazon for $32.95 (available in sizes S–L and 24 styles).

Level of compression: 15–20 mmHg (moderate)

Charmking compression socks in an eight-pack, letting you stock up or buy enough pairs for the family without digging into your vacation budget. This affordable set has the approval of pilots, flight attendants, nurses, and other professionals who need to stock up on compression socks as a staple in their wardrobe, so they're a great option for any frequent flyer. And with all the fun color combos they come in, they'll give you something to smile at, even when you find out your flight has been delayed...again.

Promising review: "I fly often, and many of my trips include 10+ hours in the air. I’ve heard plenty of stories about the risks of blood clots from sitting too long, so I decided to try these compression socks. So far, I’m very impressed. The socks are comfortable, fit true to size, and feel like they’re made with great quality material. I’ve worn them on two long-haul flights already, and I didn’t notice any issues with durability or tearing. What really stood out to me was the difference in how my legs and feet felt after flying. Normally, I get that tingly, cramped feeling from sitting too long, but with these socks, I felt much more comfortable and refreshed when I landed. For anyone who travels often or just wants good compression socks for circulation, I highly recommend these. Great value, great comfort, and great peace of mind." —Solid choice

SB Sox compression socks that can actually go the distance — you won't find holes in these after a few months like other brands. Seriously, reviewers rave about their sturdy construction and high-quality feel, and that they prefer these even to some more expensive brands. These are about to be your best travel companion for years to come.

Promising review: "These knee-high compression socks are not to be taken lightly. They’re incredibly strong — yes, hard to put on, but that’s exactly how you know they’re doing their job. The compression is powerful and effective, and the moment they’re on, I feel amazing — like my legs are being supported by invisible superpowers. These socks are so well-made, I wouldn't be surprised if they lasted a lifetime. They're that durable. Of course, for hygiene’s sake, I’ll buy more — but not because I have to. I’ll buy more because I want to. I'm very satisfied." —Enya

Get a pair from Amazon for $17.95+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 16 styles).

Clove compression socks with "luxurious" cushioning on the bottom that makes them popular with nurses, teachers, and other people who are constantly on their feet. It'll also come in clutch when you're on that hours-long walking tour or strenuous hike.

Promising reviews: "These are some of the best compression socks I’ve owned. I love the extra cushioning on the heel and foot pad. The color is fun and I like that they come all the way up to the knee and don’t fall short." —Karina S.

"Great socks! I wear compression socks every day (I work in aviation), and these have a nice compression without suffocating my calves. The feet have a little extra padding, which make them more comfortable than cheaper pairs I’ve owned, but not so much as to make my shoes tight." —Mary H.

Get a pair from Clove for $28 (available in sizes S–L and 18 styles). 

Level of compression: 15–20 mmHg (moderate)

Lalapapa compression socks made with 80% cotton, with cushioned soles designed to help absorb shock and targeted arch support for stability. The left and right sock are each labeled, a thoughtful design that ensures there's not undue pressure on your toes. The fact that they come in colorful shades and cute packaging is just the cherry on top.

Promising review: "As a nurse pulling 12-hour ER shifts, compression socks are a must, but most feel like sandpaper or squeeze too tight. These Lalapapa cotton ones? Total revelation — the thick, plush fabric is like wearing cozy house socks with real 15–20 mmHg support. No sweaty feet, no slipping down my calves, and my usual post-shift swelling? Gone. The cushioned sole saved my heels during a marathon double, and the subtle gray pattern looks pro under scrubs. Washed them 10 times already — still like new. If you're on your feet or flying economy, these are your new go-to. Worth every penny for the comfort upgrade!" —Juanita Gwen

Get a pair from Amazon for $19.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and eight styles).

Level of compression: 15–20 mmHg (moderate)

Ailaka compression socks with a durable zipper that makes putting them on and taking them off a breeze, which you'll probably be grateful for when you're rushing to the airport at 6 a.m. They're also a great option for anyone with limited mobility. There's fabric under the zipper that prevents it from rubbing!

Promising reviews: "I bought these for a nine-hour plane flight. With a recent knee replacement, I wanted to ensure no issues sitting so long. I am not a fan of compression socks that are difficult to put on; I had that type after the surgery. These I could put on while waiting for the plane and take off without a struggle. They were tight when on, which is what you want. Never had an issue on both flights and no swelling in the leg, which tells me they worked." —RS

"I ordered these for my 89-year-old mother as she was having issues putting on standard compression socks. These socks are amazing. They’re easy for her to slip on, and the zipper makes everything accessible for her. She loves the comfort and the fit." —Kary

Get a pair from Amazon for $15.99 (available in sizes S–4XL and four colors).

Bombas compression calf socks in a shorter style if you can't stand the feel of knee-highs and mainly seek compression around your lower calves and ankles. These have targeted "honeycomb" arch support and strategic cushioning around high-impact areas, so they'll keep you feeling supported as you dash to make your flight connection or that hard-to-get dinner reservation.

Promising review: "I really love these socks! They look a little heavy for summer, but, when I travel, my feet and ankles swell. I travel a lot, so I really need something for my ankles. For years I have worn compression hose, but they are even worse in summer! These socks are cute and really comfortable and do not make my feet hot. I highly recommend them!" —Jacquelin M.

Get three pairs from Bombas for $90 (available in sizes S–L and four sets).

Paplus compression ankle socks to help prevent feet swelling and fatigue while keeping your legs uncovered and breezy (because sometimes it's too dang hot for knee-highs, even breathable ones). These have a compression band at the arch, mesh on the instep to help keep your feet dry and odor-free, and a elastic band at the heel to prevent slipping if one of your pet peeves with ankle socks is your shoes "eating" them (which no one has time for, especially when traveling). These babies stay put alllll day. 

Promising review: "I am unsure why I have never used compression ankle socks but SO glad I did! I recently got home from a three-week trip in Europe and walking over 10,000 steps a day; these saved my feet and my legs! Going to order in white next — these are a game changer for me!" —Kristen B

"Love these socks and the variety of colors. While traveling in the RV, my feet were swelling. I bought these socks and they kept the swelling down." —Barbara Ann Hull Labbe

Get six pairs from Amazon for $19.99 (available in sizes S–XL and five sets).

Doc Miller open-toe compression socks that won't smush your toes together — you can wear your favorite open-toed shoes while enjoying firm compression on your ankles and calves. 

BTW, Doc Miller is a small business based in Atlanta. They specialize in calf compression sleeves that are durable and supportive!

Promising reviews: "I wear these 24/7. An essential part of my wardrobe. My legs never feel tired with these on. Traditional closed toe compression socks cause my toenail beds to become red and swollen. I love how I can wear my flip flops with these on, too!" —StimulusChick

"I purchased these in anticipation of an upcoming five-hour flight and the fact that I would be wearing open-toed shoes. I waited until just before boarding to put them on and was pleasantly surprised at the immediate relief I felt. I didn't realize my legs and feet were achy but it had already been a long morning between transport from parking to the airport, long TSA lines, then walking through the huge terminal to get to our boarding area. Then the real test, the long flight, during which I was seated the entire time and only got up once to let the person in the window seat get up. Upon arriving at my destination, I felt no pain and I had minimal swelling in my feet and ankles." —Amazon Customer

Get a pair from Amazon for $19.95+ (available in sizes S–5XL, tall sizes that provide an extra 2 inches of height, and 12 colors).

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Note: Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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Jenae Sitzes is a shopping editor with over a decade of experience working in online media, covering everything from affordable beauty and unique home finds to genius pet products, and she's constantly saving interesting finds on TikTok (in *very* organized folders, mind you) to share with BuzzFeed readers.