5 ways to wear compression socks on long-haul flights

I like to play things safe health-wise. Maybe it comes from having a theatre nurse for a mother. So when I’m flying more than about 4 hours, I always wear compression socks. Also known as flight socks, they’re those special knee-high stockings you get at the chemist, which use compression to help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and to minimise swelling of your feet and ankles. One of the risk factors for developing DVT is being immobile for long periods and, given that getting almost anywhere from Australia takes a very long time, I like to err on the side of prevention. But they’re not pretty and can pose some serious outfit limitations, so today I am sharing 5 different looks which will camouflage the little buggers.

Firstly, it’s completely up to you whether you want to wear them from home or change into them on the plane. Changing on the plane is going to greatly increase your outfit options, but I find them quite awkward to put on, so I prefer to wear them from home. But it means you need to put some planning into your travel outfit and wear something that will hide the socks.

I prefer to dress up a little for flying, but let’s face it, with kids in tow we’re not likely to score an upgrade, so we may as well be comfortable. With the sport luxe look being popular at the moment, it is very much possible to wear track pants AND look stylish. And a large wool scarf is always handy on a plane in case the air con is too cool.

1   French Connection blue drape top
2   Sussan winter jogger
3   Asos biker boots
4   Country Road scarf
5   Witchery zip jacket

Neutrals are always a great option when travelling. It’s so much easier when you can mix and match the contents of your suitcase.

1   Sussan metallic top
2   Asos suede boots
3   Seed pocket pants
4   Country Road cardigan

There’s nothing better than stretchy clothes for getting comfy on a plane. And, if you’re heading somewhere cool, you might be keen to take knee high boots. Don’t let them take up valuable suitcase space though. Wear them!

1   Country Road asymmetrical tunic
2   Metalicus ziggy legging
3   Wittner riding boots
4   Country Road ovoid cardigan

1   Witchery linen tshirt
2   Katies soft pant
3   Converse high-tops
4   Country Road v-neck tunic

Taking a mega-trip to Europe? Perhaps a EuroDisney/Louvre combo? Then this is the one for you. You won’t be out of place amongst all those smart French ladies for a minute.

1   Sussan print dress
2   Seed seamless leggings
3   Wittner boots
4   Country Road scarf

 

Just remember to take some snuggly woolly socks in your carry-on, so you can take off your shoes and pop the thick socks on over the top of your compression socks for the duration of the flight.

And the best prevention of DVT is movement, so take the kids for a walk to the other end of the plane occasionally to get the blood flowing. Just try to avoid the drinks carts!

Click here for more information on DVT.