We all have that pair of pants we reserve for a long day of traveling — one that isn’t too tight, has a bit of stretch, and is cute enough for the grand arrival at your final destination.
Some swear by traveling in denim for its versatility, while others will only wear their joggers for comfort (thank you, athleisure trend). But some people, like model and entrepreneur Karlie Kloss, choose compression leggings. Kloss told us that changing into on a pair of compression tights is the first thing she does after boarding the plane for a long flight.
Related: 15 Cozy Cardigans to Keep You From Freezing on a Plane
We've all heard of the negative effects sitting still for an extended period of time can have on your body, whether it's at an office job or on a transcontinental travel day. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, anyone traveling for more than four hours by plane, train, car, or otherwise, may be at a higher risk of developing a blood clot, and there are several factors that increase this risk, too, such as pregnancy or the use of estrogen-containing birth control.
You should take care to stretch regularly, walk in the aisles when the fasten seat belts sign is off, drink lots of water, and if you're at a higher risk, wear compression leggings. Similar to compression socks, these pants are designed to compress the legs, core, and ankles in specific areas to aid in circulation and keep your limbs from swelling — from takeoff to landing.
They can also be versatile as part of your travel wardrobe. Layer them under a tunic for a day of shopping and gallery hopping, and then pair them with your favorite trainers for a scenic run. The compression will also help with recovery after a workout, whether it be a bike tour or a hilly hike.
Read on to see our recommendations for the best women's compression leggings on the market.
2XU Elite Recovery Compression Tights
These stirrup tights are designed to speed muscle recovery after intense exercise by using graduated compression to increase blood flow and minimize lactic acid buildup — they're also helpful to wear in a preventative way while flying.
To buy: zappos.com, $140
Spanx Active Leggings
The Slim-X compression on these camo-print Spanx leggings will hug the skin while providing dig-free comfort in the waistband.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $110; (plus-size) nordstrom.com, $114
CW-X Stabilyx Tight
These top-rated compression leggings provide targeted support to the lower back, core, and the knee joints and surrounding muscles.
To buy: zappos.com, $110
Homma High-waist Leggings
These thick performance leggings come in a variety of fun colors that you can mix and match within your travel or workout wardrobe.
To buy: amazon.com, from $15
Lands' End Women's Active High Waisted Yoga Leggings
High-waisted and body-hugging, these tights from Lands' End can be worn on their own or layered with a tunic or dress for a polished outfit. They're available in regular, petite, and plus sizes.
To buy: landsend.com, $75
Puma Everyday Graphic Leggings
Not all compression leggings have to be solid — try a pair with an eclectic pattern like these by Puma.
To buy: amazon.com, from $25
Old Navy High-rise Compression Leggings
Old Navy’s uncomplicated high-waisted legging is a great budget pick.
To buy: oldnavy.com, $30
Ultracor Ultra Botanical Leggings
Made of a silky Italian compression fabric, these mid-rise leggings are just as supportive as they are stylish.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $185
Gap GFast Mid Rise Leggings in Sculpt Compression
These next-to-skin compression leggings are moisture-wicking and the contoured seams will help to prevent chafing.
To buy: gap.com, $38
Girlfriend Collective High-rise Legging
Everyone is loving these ethically made compression leggings by Girlfriend Collective. They come in numerous colors and the fabric is made from recycled water bottles.
To buy: girlfriend.com, $68
CompressionZ High-waisted Leggings
The tight fit of these leggings will support your circulation and hug your curves in the best way.
To buy: amazon.com, $29
Outdoor Voices 7/8 Springs Legging
These stylish Outdoor Voices leggings are wildly popular for a reason. The brand's proprietary "textured compression" fabric feels comfortably snug, sculpts the body, and is made to last.
To buy: outdoorvoices.com, $80
Nike Epic Lux Cropped Compression Leggings
Nike made this pair of plus-size compression leggings comfortable with a wide, drawstring waistband and a super breathable fabric.
To buy: macys.com, $85
