Traveling Soon? Make Sure to Pack These Chic, Editor-Approved Shoes

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If you feel like you need a vacation, you aren’t alone. After a long winter, the spring and summer travel season is fast approaching, which means it’s time to think about what you’ll pack. In the midst of packing your designer luggage and travel tote, you can’t forget to put on your best travel shoes. As you may only be taking a few pairs, these need to check off all the boxes. Considering the hours you’ll be walking and sightseeing, comfort and versatility are the first things to come to mind—but, no doubt, you also want options that pair well with multiple looks. You may choose to go the summer sandal route or opt for a sneaker—two great options. But you are going on vacation, after all; why shouldn’t they be cute and practical?

When discussing the more logistical aspects of what shoes to bring, consider the potential wear and tear on your feet. You want to come back from your trip rested and relaxed, not worried about problems caused by wearing improper footwear. To start your trip on a positive note, Dr. Danielle Edwards, a New York-based podiatrist, suggests that a pair of sneakers should be your go-to during long travel days, especially when you may be at an airport for hours and then on a plane.

While a sneaker is ideal for the day you travel, feel free to bring supportive sandals for leisurely activities that don’t involve walking for long periods of time, Edwards says. With that in mind, I’ve rounded up 20 pairs of comfortable and chic travel shoes, from sneakers to sandals, that will set the foundation for a memorable trip. Read on more about the top tips for foot health while traveling and shop the top travel shoe picks.

Hannah Thong

A chic pair of sandals that fold into a pouch is not only incredibly convenient but also a space-saver for packing. Plus, these will go with any outfit you wear, making them extremely versatile.

Sizes: FR 36-FR 42

Colors: Black, Silver, Gold

Materials: Leather, suede, rubber

V2K Run

Yes, metallic sneakers are still in—and a fun way to add some shine and comfort to your travel outfits.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: 6 options

Materials: Rubber, foam, plastic, mesh

Customer review: “I’ve had these shoes for about 5 months now and they have kept my feet comfortable. They go along with many outfits and can be used for work, gym, pretty much anything. My shoes are still in good condition even after wearing them almost everyday.”

Arizona Big Buckle Sandals

The years may pass, but a pair of Arizonas will always remain a constant in my closet. The big buckle is an updated version I can’t stop thinking about!

Sizes: 36-41

Colors: 10 options

Materials: Leather, EVA

Customer Review: “These shoes are incredibly comfy and have become my newest favorite pair of Birkenstocks!! Very worth the money”

The Weekend Slide

For those who love the fact that you can throw Rothy’s in the washing machine, you will be thrilled to learn you can do the same thing with these slides.

Sizes: 5-12.5

Colors: Black, Sandy Cat, Oat, Sangria Stripe, Toffee Stripe

Materials: Hemp, rubber

Customer review: “I just love my sandals. They are beautiful and so comfortable!”

Torpedo Sneakers

Pops of pink and green elevate these white sneakers just enough, and the gummy sole adds a nice contrast.

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: White, Black & White

Materials: Leather, rubber, textile

Midform Universal Canvas Sandal

Tevas have gotten me through every trip of my childhood, so I am overjoyed to know they’ve become a popular fashion choice today. The platform on this pair is just enough to give you some height without making them too tall to walk in.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: 44 options

Materials: Rubber, polyester

Customer review: “These sandals are SO comfortable. I got them to wear on a trip this past fall to Hawaii, and they were the best thing I brought. Easy to walk in the sand, so commutable to walk on any terrain. You can wash them off if they get dirty. So cushy and soft. Velcro for easy walking and adjustments. Such a good sandal for a walking or beach trip. I can't wait to wear them this summer. They are so cute too!! The mid height is the perfect height and can be dressed up or down. So cute with active wear or with a summer dress. Love!!”

Sambae Shoes

Enter the Sambae, Adidas Samba Sneakers’ newest sibling—complete with a platform gum sole. You get all the style of the classic counterpart with a new, elevated take.

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: Almost Blue/Cloud White/Silver Metallic, Cloud White/Better Scarlet/Cloud White, Wonder White/Cloud White/Silver Metallic, Ivory/Ivory/Pink Fusion

Materials: Leather, rubber

Customer review: “I’m in love, so comfortable, beautiful and stylish. Love the platform”

The Sabina Flatform Sandal

Signature Cloudlift padding makes it way into these strappy platform sandals. Pair them with all your travel outfits. Denim, dresses, shorts; these will look great with everything.

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: Desert Camel, True Black

Materials: Leather, rubber

The Cerchio

Slip-on sneakers make traveling a breeze. The woven texture on these makes them unique, while the removable padded sole lets you decide your own comfort level.

Sizes: 35-42

Colors: 7 options

Materials: Leather, nubuck, rubber

Customer review: “Beautifully constructed shoe. Stylish, comfortable + extra cushioning and arch support. Great for travel + touring.”

Millie Sandals

A fisherman sandal is great for travel thanks to its versatility. You will still look put together going from sightseeing to a nice dinner, which means more room in your suitcase for souvenirs.

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: Natural

Materials: Leather, calfskin, rubber

237 V1 Classic Sneaker

The colorways on this classic sneaker may be endless, but the subtle gray and pop of green make it the perfect choice for spring and summer vacations.

Sizes: 4-17

Colors: 20+ options

Materials: Synthetic

Customer review: “This is my second pair of these shoes, and I bought them specifically for walking on a long European trip. They are the most comfortable and lightweight shoes. Highly recommend. They are stylish and go with anything”

Kira Sport Sandal

Stay timeless without sacrificing comfort in these sandals with gold accents. The velcro straps ensure a secure fit on your feet without compromising style.

Sizes: 4-13

Colors: Black, Shell Pink, New Ivory

Materials: Leather, rubber

Customer review: “These sandals not only go with every pair of shorts, jeans, and dresses I packed, but they are incredibly comfortable. They were my favorite walking sandals while on vacation in Europe. I purchased black and white.”

The Day Sneaker

When you find yourself truly unsure of what shoe to bring with you on a trip, go back to a classic white sneaker. Comfortable, cute, and classic. What more could you want?

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: White, Canvas Tan/Shadow, Parchment, Pale Pink

Materials: Rubber, polyester, leather

Customer review: “Works for day or evening. Comfy for hitting 25k steps in a foreign city. Thumbs up.”

Two Band Platform Sandals

Looking for a pair of sandals that won’t leave you feeling like you might slip out of them? The three straps on this woven pair will keep you secure for those long days spent exploring.

Colors: Natural

Materials: Rubber, leather

Sizes: 5-11

Cloud 5 Running Shoe

No need to tie your shoes here. The slip-on nature of these sneakers makes them ideal for all-day travel. Go from the airport straight to the city streets without needing to change!

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: 10 options

Materials: Rubber, textile lining, recycled polyester

Customer review: “Very comfortable and lightweight. Great travel shoe for long walks.”

Indie Sandal

Metallic shoes will dress up any outfit, which makes these sandals perfect for taking on a trip. Wear them while relaxing, then style them with a dinner look for a seamless transition that doesn’t sacrifice style.

Sizes: 6-11

Colors: Metallic Silver

Materials: Leather, rubber

Customer Review: “I have several pairs of these flip-flops, and they are so comfortable. Love the new colors!”

SuperLight Tree Sneakers

The lightweight version of the standard Tree Runner, these sneakers are perfect for traveling without weighing down your suitcase. When you’re back home, you can even throw them in your washing machine to get them clean.

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: 7 options

Materials: TENCEL™ Lyocell, foam, TPU

Customer review: “Truly the only shoe I need for traveling. Incredibly light and comfortable. So thrilled with this purchase!”

Dream Ballet Flats

Ballet flats are among the most versatile pairs of shoes you can own, making them a great choice for traveling. This style features the slightest heel, and what makes them better is that they’re well-made and comfortable.

Sizes: 5.5-11

Colors: 6 options

Materials: Leather

Customer review: “Love these shoes. So comfortable and stylish at the same time”

Campo Leather Sneakers

Go on a trip anywhere, and I am sure you will find people wearing these sneakers. They are a great choice for those looking for a stylish sneaker to wear all day long.

Sizes: 36-42

Colors: 6 options

Materials: Leather, rubber, cotton, recycled polyester

Customer review: “I bought these to wear on our trip to Ireland this summer, and I’m so glad I did! They were so comfortable to walk in and went with many of my outfits! I would definitely purchase these again.”

Leather Penny Loafer Espadrille Mules

A penny loafer-espadrille combo is the travel shoe you didn’t know you needed. It’s ideal for all those upcoming trips to a warm destination.

Sizes: 35-41

Colors: Black

Materials: Leather, jute, rubber

How Do You Prevent Foot Fatigue While Traveling?

The key to preventing foot fatigue is utilizing a few different components to work together. Dr. Edwards recommends doing some things while en route (if you’re flying) to proactively help prevent fatigue. This includes taking magnesium prior to sleep, walking the aisles of the plane, wearing compression socks, and walking throughout the airport. You can even pack sandals (like the lightweight Birkenstocks) in your carry-on to switch into on the plane if that is something you choose to do.

If Bringing a Sandal, What Should You Look For?

While it is best to wear sneakers during strenuous travel days, as Dr. Edwards mentioned, supportive sandals are perfectly fine depending on the activity. Don’t wear them for long activities like tours or hiking! The perfect sandal isn’t going to be one-size-fits-all.

Of course, you want them to be cute, but also consider two things. Look at what kinds of straps work for you; maybe it’s two. Your foot type can help guide you with this as you figure out if a shoe is comfortable or not. The other key component to this is the support. Dr. Edwards specifically recommends the sole being at least 2 centimeters.

How Long Should You Wear Your Shoes Before Resting and Should You Alternate Shoes?

Dr. Edwards suggests two to three hours max before taking a break for rest. Doing little stretches can also help with keeping your feet up to speed while out and about. In terms of whether or not to alternate your shoes, the short answer is yes. Don’t just wear the same pair of shoes every day, and remember to exercise, as it can help prevent injury and pain.

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Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.

Meet The Expert

Dr. Danielle Edwards, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist.

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