The Only Travel Shoes You Need to Pack on Your Next Vacation (2024)

Our top picks

• 1

  

  Best Overall Travel Shoe

  New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12

  $155 at Amazon

  $155 at Amazon

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• 2

  

  Best Vintage Travel Shoes

  Reebok Club C 85

  $75 at Amazon

  $75 at Amazon

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• 3

  

  Best Comfortable Travel Shoes

  Rothys Slip On Sneakers

  $119 at Rothy's

  $119 at Rothy's

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• 4

  

  Best Travel Shoes for Walking

  Allbirds Tree Runners

  $98 at Allbirds

  $98 at Allbirds

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• 5

  

  Best Travel Flats

  Birdies Goldfinch

  $130 at Nordstrom

  $130 at Nordstrom

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• 6

  

  Best Travel Sandal

  Chaco Z/1 Classic Sandals

  $105 at chacos.com

  $105 at chacos.com

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• 7

  

  Best Lightweight Travel Shoes

  New Balance Fuelcore Nergize V1 Sneaker

  $43 at Amazon

  $43 at Amazon

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• 8

  

  Best Travel Fashion Sandals

  Vionic Rest Amber Backstrap Sandal

  $54 at Amazon

  $54 at Amazon

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• 9

  

  Best Versatile Travel Shoes

  Brooks Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe

  $140 at Amazon

  $140 at Amazon

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• 10

  

  Best Travel Slides

  Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed

  $135 at Amazon

  $135 at Amazon

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For a trendy, vintage look, consider these classic Reeboks that our very own product analysts own and love. "I love the simple, classic look that’s easy to dress up or down," says Senior Textiles Analyst, Emma Seymour. "I find them comfortable to wear, but they’re stiffer and offer less cushioning," she warns, so anyone with joint pain or sensitivity should be cautious before purchasing. Still, their goes-with-anything vibe will easily take you from planes, trains and automobiles to restaurants and bars.

We all know that classic sneakers don’t always make you look like a local (or pair well with your cute dinner outfit), so why not consider these trendy slip-ons from Rothy’s? They’re casual, super comfortable and require very little breaking in, according to our footwear experts. Better yet, they’re machine washable so they’ll look as good as new even after your trip.

A Family Travel Awards winner, these popular Allbirds will easily squeeze into any suitcase without adding much weight or taking up much precious space. Our editors swear by how comfortable they are, naming them a must-have for trips to European capitals or destinations that require a lot of walking. On top of their lightweight design, breathability and supportive cushioning, We love the Tree Runners' classic style that comes in a variety of colors.

Sneakers aren’t the only shoes that can be comfortable, we promise. For those looking for a stylish flat for chicer destinations, our fiber scientists turn to this super cute pair of travel shoes from Birdies. Perfect for evenings out to dinner or visits to museums, we're fond of the seven-layer footbed that conforms to your foot and were impressed by the shoe's support and softness. Plus, they’re available in a variety of prints, patterns, colors and even half sizes.

Featuring support that rivals some sneakers, Chacos are a go-to if you hate being stuck inside sneakers or you're heading to a warm destination but still want plenty of security. A 2024 Travel Awards Winner, testers were impressed not only by the sandals’ support but also by the shoe’s built-in traction that helps prevent slipping on a variety of surfaces. Our experts also appreciate that the straps are adjustable so you can customize the perfect fit and that they're offered in a range of colors and prints.

Whether you’re bringing a carry-on or checking your luggage, it’s best to stick with lightweight travel shoes. To keep your total weight to a minimum without sacrificing comfort, our pros suggest this versatile pair of sneakers from New Balance that weighs just 150 grams per shoe. A favorite among our pros, these travel shoes allow for freedom of movement thanks to their breathable, mesh design at the front and can be easily slipped on. They were also recommended by the podiatrists we worked with to put together our list of the best walking shoes.

Vionic shoes are popular among our Lab experts for their high-quality construction and supportive designs. We love this orthotic disguised as a fashionable sandal for all occasions, whether you want to wear them during daytime tours or out for drinks in the evening. We appreciate that the footbed is made of soft microfiber so you’re comfy at all times and that the style is available in various sizes, widths and shades.

If you like to work out while you’re on vacation or think the best way to discover a town is by foot, consider bringing the Brooks Ghost 15 along for the trip. This neutral sneaker can be used for running and walking and is a top choice for anyone seeking stability and control. Our testers loved the Ghost 15 for its cushioning, support and traction and raved about their comfort.

Birkenstocks have even around since 1744 for a reason, and our product analysts and editors swear by the brand’s shoes for those who suffer from foot pain, bunions or other common issues. The Arizona is one of the brand’s most iconic designs and will look stylish (and feel comfortable) as you make your way around a new city while letting your toes breathe. We appreciate the shoe’s durable construction, which features a supportive cork footbed and genuine leather straps. For an even lighter option that’s perfect for the pool, consider the Arizona EVA model that's made entirely from plastic.

Look around and you’ll probably see someone wearing HOKA sneakers. The brand's chunky sneaker style has a huge following. Though popular among runners, this French brand is also suitable for travel days thanks to its shoes' structure and support. To keep you on the move while walking through new cities (or if you’re someone with flat feet), our experts recommend the Bondi 8 for its plush cushioning and breathable mesh upper.

It’s hard to find shoes more lightweight, comfortable and convenient than Crocs, especially if you’re headed to a beach resort or plan to spend some time by the pool. Available in tons of fun colors and designs, our pros love how easy Crocs are to get on and off as well as their waterproof design. Just keep in mind that they lack the support needed for longer walks, so it’s best to keep them back at the hotel.

Heading to a national park this summer? These hiking shoes from Merrell are an absolute must. A top performer in Lab tests and a favorite among our testers, the Moab 3 is both super comfy and supportive. We love that they provide stability on rocky terrains and feature mesh panels to help keep your feet cool. Best of all, they’re on the lighter side for hiking shoes, so they won't weigh you down on your future adventures.

Our editors can't get enough of these classic sneakers from Cole Haan. They're the perfect match to any outfit, whether you're wearing a sun dress or a casual pair of jeans. We love their lightweight construction, soft cushioning and all-leather design that's built to last. They may be the only pair of shoes you'll need for a casual weekend getaway.

Our Textiles Lab analysts rave about these small, lightweight waterproof booties that are perfect for a city break, whether you're heading to Seattle, London, Paris or another rainy destination. The waterproof design should keep your feet dry throughout your travels, and their value (under $40) is hard to beat. We also appreciate that they're available in other fun colors like red or yellow so you can match them to your raincoat.

Not only are these fan-favorite Teva sandals extremely lightweight, but they’re super comfortable and perfect for all types of beachwear or water adventures. They’re available in a variety of colors and patterns, as well as a platform style for those who want a little added height. We also appreciate that they feature adjustable straps for a secure fit around your foot, whether you have wider or narrower feet. Plus, they pack down so small that they make great backpacking shoes.

Planning a trip to a snowy destination or hitting the ski slopes? These snow boots from Columbia are a favorite among GH Institute analysts. Not only are they noticeably lighter and more flexible than many other snow boots, but this Amazon bestseller has a wide, roomy toe box so your feet never feel cramped. Testers found that the boots offer excellent traction, generous cushioning and just enough warmth and support.

OOFOS are technically recovery shoes that aren’t meant to be worn all day, but you'll be grateful to slip them on at your hotel after a long day of getting your steps in. We also don't see the harm in wearing them during a long flight or by the pool (just rinse them off in the shower should they get dirty). Consumer testers rave about OOFOS' arch support and comfort, as well as how easy they are to slip on and off. Plus, they're so light that you likely won't notice any added weight in your suitcase.

The Blundstone brand hails from Australia so you can count on these rugged shoes for your next outdoor adventure. Not only are these Chelsea boots durable, but they’re made of water-resistant leather so your feet stay dry no matter the weather. Testers found this model to be both stylish and super comfortable once broken in and appreciate the built-in pull tabs to make it easier to take the shoes on and off.

Heading to the Yucatan? Whether or not a trip to Mexico is in the books, our pros recommend these sandals for hikes, walks and outdoor activities. Those seeking arch support and stability will appreciate the sandal’s high-quality design and soft, EVA molded footbed, in addition to three adjustable straps. Our testers also claim that the sandals don’t cause blisters and have great traction on all types of terrain.