It’s time to travel again. We all know that there are magnificent destinations in many countries that are perfect for vacations. You are now getting ready and packing up your stuff while whistling out happy tunes. You have made a list of things that you have to bring with you making sure that every item is in your luggage.
But wait. Are you sure you have everything you need on your list? Let me ask you this, do you think you need to wear something else or hand carry an essential piece of clothing as you board a plane?
No?
Nothing?
Do compression socks ring a bell?
Unbelievably so, it is one of the most valuable items that you need to wear or have in your hand-carry bag as you travel. While on a plane, you are stuck in a seat for hours with minimal space to move. Do you still remember how it felt like having cramps and feeling pain, and slowly, your shoes are getting tighter? It is not the altitude that is doing that to you. Those are your legs.
1. Benefits of Wearing Compression Socks When Flying
Sitting for long periods inhibits blood circulation down to your lower extremities. When blood flow is restricted, nutrients and oxygen can’t travel down your legs. This results in those symptoms above.
To avoid this scenario, you need compression stockings or socks to help with blood flow to circulate on your legs and feet. If you have no medical concerns, there are over-the-counter compression legwear available online and in drugstores that you can immediately buy.
The benefits are:
2. What to Look for in Compression Socks
This is all about your preference for socks since you will be wearing them. What is important is that you won’t feel uneasy once you put them on.
Comfort and style – with the function, it also comes with different styles and designs. No need to worry about that. For comfort choose the right size and lightest compression for a snug feel.
Compression level – there are different levels of pressure for specific needs.
The best pressure level to wear during a flight is mild compression. It will prevent the legs from developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Material – it is available in different fabrics such as nylon, spandex, Lycra, polyester, or a combination of other materials. It is stretchable yet durable and resistant.
3. When To Put On Compression Socks When Flying
Now you know why you are supposed to be wearing compression socks when flying. However, you are still wondering when should you be putting them on.
Compression socks can test your patience when you put them on. It is a bit difficult due to its purpose. It is resistant compared to regular socks or stockings. Thus, you need to wear compression socks even before flying. Otherwise, after the plane has taken off, you can go to the toilet and just put it on in there. However, it will be challenging to wear them if you don’t have enough room to maneuver yourself.
But to avoid inconvenience on your end, it would be best to wear compression socks while at home, in your car at the airport parking lot, or even in the airport.
There is, however, another obstacle that you have to deal with; it is how to put them on. You may try wearing compression socks or stockings the conventional way, but you have to wrestle your way into it. And this is why it would be best to wear them where you have enough space.
Although, there is a technique that you can easily slide those socks or stockings on. All you need to do is to fold it halfway into the foot area, inside out, put your foot in and then pull it right up towards where it needs to be.
4. How Long Can I Wear Compression Socks on A Plane?
You can wear them even for the duration of your flight and take them off before your plane lands or when you’re at the airport. It depends on your preference. If you already feel uncomfortable, you can remove them and just put them back on after a few hours.
Do not forget you are wearing compression socks to avoid pain and discomfort during your flight. It also prevents DVT from happening and inhibits the growth of spider and varicose veins. You may also ask your flight attendant how they benefited from compression socks or stockings since they most definitely wear them all the time.
Unisex
8-15 mmHg