The Best Shoes for Travel

Selecting the best shoes for travel is one of the most important parts of preparing for any trip. The key item to remember is comfort, as most times you’ll be doing A LOT of walking regardless of where your destination might be. In saying this, having uncomfortable shoes will really put a damper on your trip. We’ve made a list of the shoes that have been reliable allies during our trips and hope they can provide you comfort too.

WOMEN’S SHOES

Walking/Hiking

I recently purchased the Merrell Capra Bolt hiking shoes ($110) and I have really enjoyed breaking them in on our latest hikes. Not only are they comfortable they have extremely good support and structure that will keep you moving when walking or hiking long distances.

Casual Boots

I’m definitely a consumer of Lucky Brand shoes for their fashionable taste, quality, and decent comfort. I was pleasantly shocked at how much I fell in love with these Lucky Brand Booties ($65+). In fact, I loved them so much I bought two pairs in different styles.

Casual Sneakers

Everyone loves the classic look of Keds ($20-$40)! But I also love them because they’re comfortable, easily slip on and break in quickly.

Athletic Sneakers

If I am bringing my hiking shoes I typically skip bringing any athletic sneakers, but my athletic running shoe of choice is my Nike Free tennis shoes ($100). I love them because they’re washable, breathable, and work well with my Superfeet insoles.

Flats

I have yet to find the perfect pair of flats that allow all day comfort but I do know that Tieks are widely popular among many. The downfall? A whopping price of $175+. Currently, I have a pair of Sperry flats that are comfortable to wear to work, but I start to feel fatigued after a few hours and certainly wouldn’t be my top choice of shoe for walking long distances due to a lack of heel/arch support. Typically I save these for a night out or dinner when traveling.

Sperry Annabelle Suede Glitter Cap Toe

Sandals

For a casual sandal that can be dressed up with everyday outfits, I have really fallen in love with Korks (similar $50). 

For a more durable casual sandal, these Merrells (similar $85) or my Teva sandals (similar $49.95) are my go to. Bonus? The Tevas are also waterproof.

From left to right: Teva Zirra, Merrell Nunbuck Leather Braided Strap

My favorite pair of flip-flop style sandals is my new Superfeet OUTSIDE Sandals ($19.95). You know that annoying “any second now I’m going to have a blister” feeling when you’re wearing a cheap pair of flip-flops? You’ll never feel that again if you purchase a pair of these! The OUTSIDE sandals are hands down the best pair of flip-flops I’ve ever worn. They’re comfortable and supportive which are my two biggest qualifications when looking for shoes.

Dress

While I usually don’t pack high heels during international travel, sometimes you need to pack one pair of dress shoes for special occasions. Typically I opt for wedges because they are more comfortable to wear for a longer amount of time and they can be dressed up or dressed down.

MEN’S SHOES

Walking/Hiking

The Merrell All Out Crush ($90) have been terrific on our latest hikes. They have an amazing grip that moves with your feet so you shouldn’t have to worry about twisting your ankle when trekking.

Athletic Sneakers

While I don’t think my Nike Free Running Shoes ($100) are terrific for walking or running long distances, they are great for shorter distances because they are comfortable and lightweight which is also great for packing purposes.

Sandals

My Teva Sandals ($37.50-$50) are honestly one of the best purchases I’ve ever made. They’re waterproof, durable, and provide just enough support and grip when walking long distances. 

I recently got these Superfeet OUTSIDE Sandals ($25) and love the quality, support, and comfort they provide me. They are perfect for the beach, pool, hot summer days, or after a long hike or run.

Dress

I have always been a fan of Sperry’s shoes and these Sperry Loafers ($65-$100) prove me right once again. These are comfortable enough to wear for quite a few hours and can be worn with dress slacks, jeans, or shorts.

Other Tips for Lasting Comfort

–Quality Socks: Until recently we always bought socks in bulk to cut the cost. We didn’t know what we were missing until we each bought a pair of wool socks ($15+) and have noticed a dramatic difference. A pair of quality socks can help provide support, compression, and can help avoid painful blisters.
–Supportive Insoles: Adding insoles not only help with arch support but heel support as well. We recommend Superfeet insoles ($29.95-$69.95) for stability, support, and all-day comfort.
–Break In Your Shoes: It seems like common sense, but make sure you wear your shoes frequently before you travel in order to make sure they will give you comfort while walking during your trips!

Now, what are some of your most comfortable shoes to wear while traveling?