This simple doodad is saving our feet on long flights
With features like memory foam and sole cradling designs, these foot hammocks will make your feet feel like you’re in first class—even if you aren’t.
You cross and uncross your legs. You push your personal item to the side. You attempt to use said personal item as an ottoman, but nothing makes the space around your feet comfortable. Except, perhaps, a foot hammock.
They may look funky, but these simple slings attach to the tray table on a plane or train to create a suspended foot rest that may help improve circulation and ease lower back pain, according to Amish Dudeja, a Georgia-based foot and ankle surgeon. Not every airline is a fan—some even prohibit them. But if your flight allows them, they could put an end to foot fidgeting.
After researching several foot hammocks, we think the Everlasting Comfort Airplane Foot Hammock will suit most travelers. It’s designed to keep feet separated and prevent them from tilting uncomfortably in toward each other.
There are plenty of other options out there, most of which are affordable, packable, and easy to install. Read on for more of our top picks for foot hammocks.
Our picks for the best airplane foot hammocks
• Best padded foot hammock for airplane: Angemay Upgraded Airplane Foot Rest
• Best airplane foot hammock set: Homeify Travel Kit
• Best budget foot hammock for airplane: Beskar Airplane Footrest
• Most luxurious airplane foot hammock: BlueSkye Airplane Foot Hammock
• Best airplane foot hammock for tall people: AnsFind Wide Foot Hammock
• Best airplane foot hammock for short people: Sleepy Ride Airplane Footrest
• Best airplane foot hammock for kids: Cozybonder Toddler Airplane Bed
The best foot hammocks for airplanes
When shopping for a foot hammock, the main factor you want to look for is a sturdy base. Without it, the ankles tend to roll toward each other—which can be about as uncomfortable as the cramped space you’re trying to escape. Additional features like extra padding, height adjustability, and cost are up to personal preference.
Best airplane foot hammock overall: Everlasting Comfort Airplane Foot Hammock
Why we like it Separate feet are happy feet, and this foot hammock is designed to keep tootsies from stacking or tilting inward, which can be uncomfortable. The dual footrests give you plenty of space and the reinforced ribs provide a stable base that helps prevent the hammock from collapsing under pressure. Plus, it’s made with memory foam to help minimize foot fatigue during long flights.
The best part of this foot hammock is the adjustability. If you find your legs are the source of discomfort, you can set the straps so that the hammock supports your calves or knees. It’s super easy to install, but there’s a how-to video, just in case.
Keep in mind: This hammock is great for packing (lightweight, folds, and comes with a storage pouch), but the dual footrests make it a little larger than most. As a result, some reviewers say they didn’t have enough space for both the hammock and their personal item.
Product details: Material: Memory foam | Weight: 8.2 oz. | Base size: 10 x 12 in. | Adjustability range: 23-32 in.
Best padded foot hammock for airplane: Angemay Upgraded Airplane Foot Rest
Why we like it: With thick memory foam padding, the Angemay Upgraded Airplane Foot Rest provides lots of cushy comfort. The curved shape gently cradles feet, while the foam provides support and cushion. We appreciate that the Angemay has air holes for ventilation too, making this thick hammock surprisingly breathable.
Another reason this hammock is a top pick is the size. At over 17 inches, it’s one of the largest hammocks on our list.
Keep in mind: Because this hammock has a traditional sling design (meaning there’s no flat base), your feet will likely tilt in toward each other. However, Dudeja says this type of rounded base may be beneficial for people with restless legs.
Product details: Material: Memory foam | Weight: 6.5 oz. | Base size: 10.6 x 17.1 in. | Adjustability range: Up to 21 in.
(These expert tips will help you get through a long-haul flight)
Best airplane foot hammock set: Homeify Travel Kit
Why we like it: The Homeify Travel Kit has everything you need to stay comfortable on your next flight. Besides the foot hammock, it comes with a travel pillow, a phone mount, earplugs, and an eye mask—all of which fit into a carry-on for easy packing.
At $20, the cost alone is enough to make this all-in-one set a great value, but we were also impressed with the quality of the accessories. The neck pillow is made of a contouring memory foam that’s designed to relieve pressure, and the eye mask is made to block 100 percent of light—a must for red-eye flights.
The cherry on top of this comfort sundae is the lightweight foot hammock that easily attaches to your tray table so you can do the unthinkable—kick your feet up and relax.
Keep in mind: This foot hammock does not have a flat base and feels less sturdy than others on our list. That said, we think this is still a great option for anyone looking to try out a foot hammock without breaking the bank.
Product details: Material: N/A | Weight: N/A | Base size: 8 x 16 in. | Adjustability range: N/A
Best budget foot hammock for airplane: Beskar Airplane Footrest
Why we like it: This budget-friendly foot hammock is made with good quality materials, including a soft flannel liner and premium memory foam, which Dudeja says is great for both extra cushioning and better shock absorption. Unlike many under $20 options, this hammock is made with a flat base that prevents your feet and ankles from falling into each other during unexpected turbulence.
We love the light weight and the drawstring storage bag—pack it or hang it from your carry-on for easier access. Like other quality hammocks, it comes with adjustable straps and a foldable design. This one comes in multiple colors (though basic black is the cheapest).
Keep in mind: Some reviewers say this hammock doesn’t have the strongest buckle, claiming that it broke after one use.
Product details: Material: Flannel and memory foam | Weight: 9 oz. | Base size: 7.2 x 20.5 in. | Adjustability range: 10-32 in.
(These compression socks are actually pretty comfortable)
Most luxurious airplane foot hammock: BlueSkye Airplane Foot Hammock
Why we like it: If you want to test how comfortable your economy seat can be, you may not mind splurging on the BlueSkye Airplane Foot Hammock. It’s made with plush memory foam cushioning and double-stitched straps, to help improve the chances that you won’t experience any mid-flight snapping. Plus, the foldable design and storage bag make it a breeze to pack.
What really sets this foot hammock apart is the adjustable base. Most elevated footrests come in either a sling or flat design, but the BlueSkye hammock is constructed with a removable base that allows for both options. This versatile design also makes it suitable for cars, trains, and even your desk.
Keep in mind: This foot hammock is a little heavier and larger than most, so it may not be the best option for people who like to travel light.
Product details: Material: Nylon and memory foam | Weight: 13.4 oz. | Base size: 7.9 x 11 in. | Adjustability range: 21-35 in.
Best airplane foot hammock for tall people: AnsFind Wide Foot Hammock
Why we like it: Tall folks have a hard time getting comfortable while sitting in tight airplane seats. The AnsFind Wide Foot Hammock won’t magically give you more leg room, but the elevation may help reduce the strain on your knees, while the memory foam cushion provides much-needed support for tired arches. It’s also got a 10-inch wide base to accommodate larger shoe sizes.
We especially like the bamboo panels that help make the base sturdier and more supportive. This design also makes the footrest easier to store. You can roll up the AnsFind hammock and tuck it in the included drawstring bag.
Keep in mind: This foot hammock should fit most people who are taller than 6 feet. However, the height adjusts up to 24 inches. Taller folks may need a hammock that can reach up to 32 inches.
Product details: Material: Bamboo and memory foam | Weight: 11 oz. | Base size: 8.2 x 10 in. | Adjustability range: Maximum 24 in.
(The secret to traveling comfortably? Easy-to-pack slippers)
Best airplane foot hammock for short people: Sleepy Ride Airplane Footrest
Why we like it: Petite travelers may have a bit more room than most on a flight, but a foot hammock can still come in handy. This one is designed for travelers shorter than 5 feet, 4 inches.
Though it doesn’t come with a sturdy base, the Sleepy Ride Airplane Footrest’s sling design can actually work great if you have shorter legs. Not only can you use it to give your feet a break, but you can also adjust it to sit under your calves or knees for added support. Plus, it’s built with thick memory foam, so you’ll feel cushioned no matter where you choose to put it.
Keep in mind: The sling design and limited height adjustment means the Sleepy Ride Airplane footrest isn’t suitable for anyone taller than 5 feet, 4 inches.
Product details: Material: Memory foam | Weight: 7 oz, | Base size: 7.5 x 20 in. | Adjustability range: N/A
Best airplane foot hammock for kids: Cozybonder Toddler Airplane Bed
Why we like it: An airplane bed like this one can make long flights a bit more bearable for kiddos. Like any foot hammock, it attaches to the tray table in front of you and the seat belt on the other side, so the hammock covers the gap from the table to the seat. Kids have a flat surface to lay on, without being able to climb or slide down to the floor.
The top side is made with a soft velvet fabric that the maker says is breathable, waterproof, and dries quickly, while the bottom is made with an anti-slip gripping mat. We like that it’s machine washable and comes with a little built-in pocket for a bottle or a couple small toys.
Keep in mind: The manufacturer says this footrest bed is only suitable for children under 55 pounds.
Product details: Material: Velvet | Weight: 13.7 oz. | Base size: 17.7 x 31.4 in. | Adjustability range: N/A
(Whether you’re going on a long flight or hike, recovery shoes can help you get back on your feet)
How we chose the best airplane foot hammocks
In addition to consulting with Dudeja to determine which features were most beneficial for overall foot health, we also considered the following factors when selecting the best airplane foot hammocks.
• Adjustability: A foot hammock will only feel comfortable if you can adjust the length to accommodate your height. So we only included options with adjustable straps and hooks.
• Design: Though some may prefer the traditional hammock style, we opted for foot hammocks with a flat base. A sturdy base prevents feet from falling in together, which can be uncomfortable.
• Lining material: For sandal or slipper wearers, we looked for foot hammocks lined with soft materials like fleece.
• Padded: You don’t need padding to enjoy the benefits of a foot hammock, but it can elevate the experience. We included a few hammocks designed with memory foam for extra comfort.
• Third-party reviews: We scoured customer reviews to ensure that our selections were well-received by other travelers. We also weighed any potential issues or drawbacks mentioned in the reviews.
Tips for buying an airplane foot hammock
Choose the right height
A foot hammock that’s too high or low can make an already uncomfortable airplane seat worse. Most elevated footrests have the capacity for a range of heights, but it’s always better to double check before purchasing. Dudeja recommends adjustable straps between 18 and 30 inches for people taller than 6 feet and 15 to 24 inches for people shorter than 6 feet.
Find your ideal height before you fly
There’s no getting around the fact that airplane seats are tight. To avoid disrupting the person seated in front of you, test out your foot hammock in a car or at a desk to find the best height for you. That way, you’ll only have to make minor adjustments on the plane.
Pair it with compression socks
According to Dudeja, the biggest threat to foot health while traveling by plane is swelling and poor circulation, which can lead to blood clots in your legs or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that while the risk for developing DVT on a flight is low, that risk is greater if the flight is longer than four hours and passengers have other risk factors, such as recent surgery, birth control use, varicose veins, or a history of blood clots.
To avoid these risks, Dudeja recommends pairing a foot hammock with mild-to-moderate compression socks, which can help promote healthy circulation and reduce swelling.
Frequently asked questions
How does an airplane foot hammock work?
An airplane foot hammock attaches to the tray table of the seat in front of you and allows you to elevate your feet and legs while sitting. Elevating feet may help improve circulation and reduce swelling, making your flight more comfortable.
What are the benefits of an airplane foot hammock?
According to Dudeja, airplane foot hammocks help promote healthy circulation and reduce swelling, stiffness, and discomfort during long flights. Keeping feet and legs elevated may also reduce the risk of developing blood clots.
Are foot hammocks allowed on flights?
Some airlines prohibit any devices that attach to airline seats, and foot hammocks fall under that category. Check your airline’s website for restrictions on items that fall under the category of comfort aids, special equipment, or seat accessories.
How do you hang a foot hammock on a plane?
Each airplane foot hammock may have different instructions for installation, but generally you attach the straps to the tray table in front of you and adjust them for a secure fit. Try to install the hammock in your car or at home before your flight so you can get familiar with how it works.
