Flying Soon? 15-20 or 20-30 mmHg Compression Socks for Travel

If you are flying soon, here is the short answer. For most travelers, 15-20 mmHg is a comfortable, sensible place to start. Choose 20-30 mmHg if your doctor or lymphedema therapist recommends it, if you already wear that level, or if you have swelling or a medical history that calls for more support. Whichever you choose, fit matters just as much as the number.

What do 15-20 and 20-30 mmHg actually mean?

mmHg stands for millimeters of mercury, the standard unit for compression pressure. A higher number means firmer compression. Graduated compression socks are firmest at the ankle and ease off as they move up the leg, which encourages fluid to move upward instead of pooling in your feet and lower legs.

• 15-20 mmHg (mild): The lightest level we offer. Well suited to mild swelling, long travel days, general leg fatigue, and anyone new to compression. It does not typically require a prescription.
• 20-30 mmHg (moderate): One of the most commonly prescribed levels. Appropriate for mild to moderate lymphedema, recovery after lower limb surgery, and people who have found 15-20 mmHg is not enough. We always suggest confirming it with your healthcare provider.

Which one should you choose for flying?

Studies of air travelers have tested stockings in the 15-30 mmHg range, so both levels sit inside what has been studied. In those studies, wearing stockings was linked to less leg swelling and fewer silent blood clots. Here is how we think about choosing between them.

15-20 mmHg is a good fit if you

• Are healthy and want comfortable support on a long flight or a long travel day.
• Notice tired, heavy, or slightly puffy legs and ankles after sitting.
• Are new to compression and want to ease in.

20-30 mmHg is a good fit if you

• Have lymphedema, or have been told to wear this level by your doctor or therapist.
• Already wear 20-30 mmHg day to day and are comfortable in it.
• Have noticeable swelling that 15-20 mmHg has not controlled before.
• Are at higher risk for clots, and your doctor has recommended stockings for the flight.

If you have lymphedema

Your prescribed garment is the right level for travel too. Please do not go lighter for the flight to save a little effort. Cabin pressure and long periods of sitting can both add to swelling, so this is the day to be consistent. If you are wondering whether you need extra support for a long trip, ask your therapist before you go. And if your therapist has recommended 30-40 mmHg, that is the level to wear.

Fit matters as much as the number

A 20-30 mmHg sock that is too big will not give you 20-30 mmHg, and a sock that is too small can dig in or roll at the top. Before you buy, measure your ankle and calf with our sizing guide, ideally in the morning when swelling is lowest. If your numbers fall between sizes, send them to us and we will do a free fit check.

How to wear compression socks for a flight

• Put them on before you leave for the airport. In the flight studies, travelers wore them from at least two hours before takeoff.
• Smooth out wrinkles and folds. A bunched sock can press unevenly.
• Keep moving. Flex and point your feet, circle your ankles, and walk the aisle when you can.
• Stay hydrated and go easy on alcohol and salty snacks.
• Pack a spare pair in your carry-on in case one gets wet or soiled.

How far ahead should you order?

Our garments are made to order, and orders ship within 5 business days. After that, transit time depends on where you live. If your trip is close, we offer expedited shipping, including overnight and 2-day options, so you do not have to skip your socks. As a rule of thumb, order a couple of weeks before you fly, and try them on at home before travel day.

When to talk to your doctor first

For many healthy travelers, compression socks are a comfort choice rather than a medical necessity. They matter more if you have added risk. Please check with your doctor or lymphedema therapist before flying if you:

• Have had a blood clot (DVT or pulmonary embolism), or have a known clotting tendency.
• Are being treated for cancer, or have had cancer treatment or surgery recently.
• Are pregnant.
• Have a circulation problem such as peripheral artery disease, or a skin condition on your legs.
• Are unsure whether compression is safe for you.

Frequently asked questions

Are 15-20 mmHg socks enough for a long flight?

For many healthy travelers, yes. 15-20 mmHg offers gentle support that helps with leg fatigue and swelling on long travel days. If you have lymphedema, a clotting history, or a prescribed level, follow your provider's advice instead.

Is 20-30 mmHg too much for travel?

Not if it is the level you are comfortable in or the one your provider recommends. It is moderate compression and a common prescription. If you have never worn compression, it can feel firm, so 15-20 mmHg is an easier place to begin.

When should I put my compression socks on?

Before you leave for the airport. Putting them on first thing in the morning, when swelling is lowest, is easiest, and in the flight studies travelers wore them from at least two hours before takeoff.

Do I need compression socks for a short flight?

Short flights are lower risk, but if you have lymphedema or already wear compression, keep wearing it. If you are healthy, they are optional and a matter of comfort.

Can I wear my regular lymphedema stockings on a plane?

Yes. For most people with lymphedema, wearing your usual garment on a flight is recommended. Make sure it fits well and is not near the end of its life, since a worn garment will not protect you as well.

My trip is next week. Can I still get socks in time?

Possibly. Orders ship within 5 business days, and we offer overnight and 2-day expedited shipping. Reach out to us with your travel date and we will help you figure out the best option.

This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Please check with your physician or lymphedema therapist about your specific travel plans and compression level. Flight study information is from InformedHealth.org. For more on travel with lymphedema, see our guide to flying and traveling with lymphedema.

Written by the LympheDIVAs team. We have made beautiful, medical-grade compression for people living with lymphedema since 2006.