The ultimate guide to preventing and treating blisters while travelling

The best way to deal with blisters is to stop them before they start. Here are some useful tips for effective blister prevention and enjoy your travels blister-free:

1. Wear properly fitted shoes
   
   Ill-fitting shoes are the number one cause of blisters, especially blisters on the bottom of your foot when walking long distances. Always choose shoes that fit well but don’t pinch and break them in before your trip.

2. Wear good quality socks
   
   The right socks can make all the difference. Look for moisture-wicking socks made of synthetic materials or merino wool. These help reduce friction and keep your feet protected, minimising the risk of a blister on your toe from walking or on other sensitive areas.

3. Keep your feet dry
   
   Sweaty feet are more prone to blisters. If you’re traveling in warm or humid climates, moisture control is key. Change your socks if they become damp, and air out your shoes at the end of the day.

4. Use an anti-blister stick
   
   An anti-blister stick is a travel must-have for hikers and walkers. It creates a friction-free layer on your skin, perfect for avoiding blisters while hiking or sightseeing. Simply glide it over high-risk areas, like your heels and toes, before putting on your socks and shoes.

For maximum protection, try the Compeed Blister Stick — its compact design makes it perfect for travel, and it’s proven to reduce friction and prevent blisters before they start.

Even with the best planning, you can still end up getting a blister. Don’t let them ruin your trip! Here’s how to handle them quickly and effectively so you can get back to enjoying your adventure:

Should you pop the blister?

If a blister forms, resist the urge to pop it right away. The skin is your body’s natural defence against infection, so leaving it intact is usually best. But if the blister is large, painful, or making it hard to walk, you may need to drain it. Clean the area thoroughly with antiseptic, then use a sterilised needle to make a small hole and gently press out the fluid.

Clean it up and cover It

Once a blister has popped, or if it’s open on its own, you need to make sure it stays clean. Wash it gently with clean water and mild soap or use an antiseptic wipe to disinfect. Apply an antiseptic ointment, then cover it with a sterile bandage or blister plaster like the Compeed Blister Plaster, which cushions the area and protects it from dirt and bacteria. If the blister is particularly painful, adding a cushioning pad can reduce pressure while it heals.

Give your feet a break

Sometimes one of the best ways to treat blisters is just giving your feet some rest. Blisters need time to heal, so resting your feet can make all the difference. If possible, take a break from walking or hiking and elevate your feet to reduce swelling. You can switch to loose-fitting shoes to stop the rubbing and let the blister breathe

Watch out for infections

If the blister shows signs of infection, like redness, pus, or increasing pain—act quickly. Clean it again, apply antibiotic ointment, and monitor it closely. If there’s no improvement, make sure you get medical advice immediately.

One of the best solutions for treating and preventing blisters the Compeed Blister Plaster range. These plasters are specially designed to cushion the blister, protect it from further friction, and speed up healing.

Blisters are usually minor, but they can sometimes escalate. Knowing when to see a doctor can save you from complications. Seek medical help if:

Travel tip: If you’re in a foreign country, research nearby clinics or hospitals in advance. Keep a list of emergency contacts and consider investing in travel insurance that covers medical issues.

Blisters don’t have to ruin your adventure. With Compeed Blister Plasters and the Compeed Blister Stick, you can prevent and treat them effortlessly.

Step up your travel game — shop Compeed today!