Nothing spoils a trip faster than sore feet. On holiday you often walk far more than at home, on cobblestones, sand, ship decks and airport floors, and usually in the heat. The right travel shoes keep you comfortable all day and still look nice enough for dinner. Here is what to look for and how many pairs to pack.
What makes a good travel shoe
1. A cushioned footbed
A soft, padded footbed absorbs impact on hard surfaces. Press the insole with your thumb: it should give a little and spring back.
2. A secure fit
For long walks, your foot should be held in place. Closed shoes, slingbacks and sandals with an ankle or back strap are more secure than backless slides, which make your toes grip with every step.
3. Adjustability
Feet often swell in heat and after flights. Adjustable buckles, hook-and-loop straps or stretchy uppers let you loosen the fit as the day goes on.
4. A low, stable heel
A flat sole or a low wedge is easiest for walking. A wedge spreads your weight across the whole sole, which many women find more comfortable than a thin heel.
5. Light weight and packability
Knit and soft woven uppers weigh less and squash into a suitcase without losing shape.
6. Tested before you go
Always wear new shoes for a few days at home before a trip, so any rubbing shows up before you are on the other side of the world.
The best shoe styles for travel
Knit slip-on shoes
Light, flexible and easy to take off at airport security. Ideal for flights, city sightseeing and long days on your feet. Try the Holkham Knit Slip On Walking Shoes. If you need more room across the forefoot, look at the Calella Wide Fit Cutout Slip On Shoes.
Closed-toe flats
A neat flat protects your toes on uneven streets and looks smart enough for museums, churches and restaurants. See the Zinnia Woven Closed Toe Slingback Flats and the Uzes Rounded Toe Mary Jane Flats.
Strappy comfort sandals
For hot destinations, a sandal with several adjustable straps and a cushioned sole gives both airflow and support. Try the Estepona Stretch Strap Comfort Sandals or the Seguret Cushioned Platform Sandals.
Low wedges for evenings
A cushioned low wedge dresses up a maxi dress without the discomfort of a heel. The Lindos Cushioned Cork Wedge Sandals are a good example.
Browse all comfort shoes, flats and sandals.
How many pairs should you pack?
| Trip | Pairs | What to take |
|---|---|---|
| City break | 2 | Knit slip-ons or walking shoes for the day, closed-toe flats for dinner |
| Beach holiday | 3 | Strappy sandals for walking, slides for the beach, low wedges for evenings |
| Cruise | 3 | Secure shoes for shore days, flat sandals for the deck, low heels for dinner |
| Touring holiday | 2 to 3 | Two different walking pairs to rotate, plus one dressier pair |
Tip: wear your bulkiest pair on the plane to save suitcase space, and rotate two walking pairs so each has a day to air out.
More packing help: what to wear on a cruise and what to pack for a beach holiday.
Travel shoe mistakes to avoid
- Packing brand-new shoes you have never walked in.
- Relying on backless slides for full days of sightseeing.
- Only packing heels for evenings on cobbled streets.
- Choosing shoes with no room for swelling on long flights.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most comfortable shoes for travel?
Light shoes with a cushioned footbed, a secure fit and room to adjust, such as knit slip-ons, closed-toe flats and strappy comfort sandals with a low sole.
Are sandals good for walking all day on holiday?
Yes, if they have adjustable straps around the ankle or heel and a cushioned footbed. Avoid thin, backless sandals for long walks.
How many shoes should I pack for a week away?
Two to three pairs covers most trips: one or two for walking and one dressier pair for evenings.
What shoes are best for a long flight?
Slip-on shoes with a soft, flexible upper. They are easy to remove at security and more comfortable if your feet swell.
For everyday summer shoes, read how to choose comfortable sandals for summer, or see our main guide to summer outfits for women over 50.
