Whether you are exploring big-city fun, rugged mountain adventures, relaxation on the beach, or anything; you would want to be sure you have a good pair of shoes. Having a good pair of shoes will make traveling more enjoyable. You can easily walk 5-10 miles when visiting a city and even spending a few hours in a museum can do a number on your feet.
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I have always struggled with picking the right shoes and the right amount of shoes when I traveled. I have packed a suitcase just full of shoes even for a few days because I could not decide what I would wear and what I would need to go with it. Tell me I am not the only one that does this!
A few years ago, my husband had informed me prior to packing for one of our trips that I was only allowed to bring 3 pairs of shoes and I had to make it fit with everything else I needed to bring. This was including everything for our little family of four in one suitcase and one carryon. And for 2 weeks. YIKES!!
For that trip, I was able to narrow it down to one pair of sandals, sneakers and ankle booties. I was definitely nervous about that and really had to plan all my outfits to be able to wear with them. However, since then, I have been able to pack smarter and lighter and still able to enjoy myself.
What to look for when evaluating your shoes for travel
Comfort
You will be doing ALOT of walking and would want to have a pair of shoes that you would be able to walk in comfort for more than 20 minutes. One bad blister can ruin your entire trip.
Style
Who says that you can’t have style AND comfort? You can have a good pair of travel shoes without having to look hideous. With so many styles out there, there are definitely some that would fit you to a tee.
Ease
Packing these shoes into an already limited space is quite challenging so being able to find one that you can easily “cram” into it will be awesome. Something that is lightweight and does not take a lot of space. On the of the packing of these shoes, you want to be sure they are easy to slip on and off.
Proper support and insoles
Every foot is different and having the proper support can make a difference. Adding insoles to your shoes can make them more comfortable.
Make sure the shoes match your destination
Nothing is worse than bringing a pair of shoes to a destination that you later find out you cannot use. Be sure to match your shoes to your destination. For example, when visiting Paris or any big city where you will do a lot of walking, maybe a pair of sandals may not be appropriate.
Time of year and weather
The same thing with considering the destination, you would want to consider the weather. You would not want to pack a pair of sandals if it’s rainy season or even wintertime.
Versatility
I have learned to limit my shoe choices to 2-3 pairs. Choosing shoes that can be worn for a variety of situations has really helped me pack lighter and smarter.
Break into your shoes
Nothing is worse than getting a new pair of shoes and not breaking into them. People forget this important step as they may have purchased the most comfortable pair of shoes. Be sure to start wearing the shoes a few weeks before your trip to break them in.
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Best Travel Shoes For Women
Arcopedico has some of the best shoes for travel! Why? Their patented, metal-free twin arch-support soles protect the foot arch and allow the distribution of body weight through the entire plantar surface.
Best Casual Ankle Booties
If you are looking for a year-round shoe, the Luana MT is a must-have. The side goring allows for even more flexibility to fit the shape of your feet. The supportive twin arch support sole features a slight wedge to give a fashionable appearance while maintaining the comfort you would expect. Arcopedico has a wide array of travel shoes and this by far is my favorite!
Best Flats
Flats are an ideal choice for travel at least in three of the four seasons. They are perfect for a day exploring the city with comfort and style. This Arcopedico L2 features their twin arch support system so you will never have to sacrifice comfort for style.
Another huge plus with flats is that you can easily transition from TSA security lines to dinner at your destination!
Best Sandals
Sandals are perfect for the warmer months/ destinations. Monterey is a great option for those looking for both healthy foot support and style for the summer months. It features elastic and suede uppers that hold the foot in place.
These sandals pair so perfectly with a skirt as well!
Best Casual Sneakers
Looking for a pair of sneakers that are casual enough but not too athletic-y (Is that even a word?)
This is Arcopedico’s most popular style. It is lovingly known as “Shocks,” because they are practical like shoes and comfortable like socks! The flexible and forgiving upper material will not restrict your feet in any way and the lace-up design allows for a truly custom fit. The knit material molds and moves with the shape of your foot providing the utmost comfort for even the most problematic feet.
Best Athletic Walking Shoes
If you are looking for a good old fashion pair of sneakers, my favorite is this ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture Running Shoes. I have 2 of these. One is this color and another one in purple.
Related post: The Ultimate Family Road Trip Planning Guide
Foot Care Advice
Even with the best shoes for your travels, your feet may still get sore and banged up after a day of walking. I recommend you pack these essentials along just in case you need to provide some care to your feet.
Quality Socks
Now that you have ideas about what types of shoes are good for travel, we cannot forget about socks. Having a pair of good quality socks makes a huge difference. I prefer wool or wool blend as they keep my feet dry and do not cause sweat or odor. I love these socks.
Blister Band-aid
These blister bandaid always goes with us wherever we go. They are super handy and are a lifesaver, to say the least.
Foot Powder
To reduce sweat and odor, we use this foot powder before we head out for the day.
Foot Cream
This is so handy to keep our feet soft and moisturized, especially with sandal season.
Keep Your Nails Trim
Always throw in a pair of nail clippers in your travel bags. Long toenails will do a number on your feet. We always have this kit with us as we find that we may need more than just the nail clippers.
Switch Up Your Shoes
There is no need to suffer. Put that shoe to rest and switch it up. That is why it’s so important to bring 2-3 pairs of shoes with…
Let me know your thoughts on these. Do you have a favorite pair of shoes for travel?
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These are great. I have only recently been caring about taking care of my feet. Thanks for this list.
Shoes are definitely my biggest downfall when it comes to packing. My suitcase is always full of shoes, it seems. Having a few all-purpose pairs is definitely the way to go. Thanks for sharing your tips!😀
I’m all for shoes that are comfortable when traveling. Also a good work shoe is helpful too! Thanks for these tips ❤️
I used to be a huge heel wearer. I mean i took pride in not even having more than one pair of sneakers in my closet. But as I’m growing up, I’ve definitely been switching to more comfortable shoes and this list is amazing.
Thanks for the recommendations! I like that these are metal-free – key to getting through TSA pre-check without having to take them off!
Great post and just what I needed! We are planning a cruise this summer and I’ve started to think about what shoes to bring. It’s so hard with limited space and activities that require dressy shoes and ones that you can walk around the historic sites. I’ll check these out.
Awesome! Have a great cruise!
These are great suggestions. There’s nothing worst than having sore feet when traveling!!!
Shoes make a world of difference, especially when you are on your feet all day! Thanks for sharing!
I love Chacos! If I had to pick a travel shoe, that would be it for warm weather, definitely (: But you had some really good options for Winter time!
Too many people pick up the cheapest pair of flip flops on the market, but I’ve learned for the purpose of travelling that it’s important to invest in a better quality pair of sandals. You need something that’s going to provide support when you’re on your feet out and about.
Most definitely agree!
I haven’t heard of this brand before. Thanks for introducing them. 🙂
Love it and a lot of women don’t realise how important it is to have comfortable shoes
I always have the biggest issue with winter shoes, which snow boots would you recommend for a little snow?
I love this one on Amazon https://amzn.to/2tvY77f
Living in Minnesota, we definitely need a good pair of winter boots. I loved it so much I ordered one for my mom as well.
Shoes truly make or break a travel experience!!
They really do! Thanks for stopping by.
I found casual sneakers to be my favorite, is like and all-terrains 🙂
my wife usually travels with 2 pairs of shoes and by the end of the trip, her feet hurt like hell! your article will really help me when buying her new shoes as a gift thanks
What a great article Lina and very helpful and informative especially everyone is planning for summer travels soon.
Thanks April!
What great ideas! I go away for the weekend and bring 3 pairs of shoes I can’t imagine only 3 pairs for 2 weeks. But your tips are very helpful in planning for my next trip, thanks
Right! I was so nervous but had no choice. Now it has gotten easier. I felt the relief of not having so much stuff with me 🙂
This is such a great post! Wearing good and comfortable shoes is so important,especially when travelling and walking a lot.
These are all great tips and thoughts about shoes. Personally, I look for comfort and versatility in mine.
I could have used this post about 2 months ago! My feet supinate, so my shoes last about 2 years before I have to replace my travel/walking shoes. This year right before our vacation last month, I started having tendinitis in my foot. I ended up with new Brooks Ghost 11 sneakers. I also learned yoga stretches that are helpful for tendinitis! 5 years ago I purchased Wolky sandals, and those have been worth it despite being expensive. Please keep updating this list because I’m sure I’ll be looking for it again before long.
That is so good to hear. It is so important to have a good pair of shoes despite it being expensive. It is definitely worth it. Thank you for sharing.
I learned the hard way on the importance of comfortable shoes while traveling! Great tips. 🙂