They say you should try walking a mile in another person’s shoes – so long as they are comfortable! If you are planning on traveling around the country or around the world, you will gain a new perspective on life. You might also gain a few blisters if you do not plan your shoe wardrobe correctly.
Travel shoes need to be versatile to take you from mountain trails to nice restaurants. Depending on where you are going, you need to consider the weather, terrain and mode of transportation. You also need to keep in mind the limitations of your suitcase: you can’t lug around changes of shoes for every occasion.
Here are ten of the best shoes for travel. The selections on the list below offer several options to help you be properly dressed for almost any adventure you may encounter.
1. Hiking Boots
A great pair of hiking boots will work at almost any location. You can wear them in the cities or on the mountaintops. You can pair them with shorts, jeans or even a cute skirt.
Make sure your boots are broken into before you set sail (or plane or train). You may also wish to add a cushiony pair of insoles to make sure your arches and insteps are protected for long trudges. A good pair of socks or two is also key.
2. Riding Boots
If you want a pair of boots that are comfortable and yet stylish enough for sophisticated restaurants and shops, include a nice pair of riding boots in your packing plan. Flat heels will help protect against the sore ankles and knees that high heels can cause, but the style is suitable to be worn with dresses, skirts and pants.
If you are traveling to Europe in the cooler months, a pair of riding boots is a great way to look chic and stay comfortable as you prowl the museums and sights. Make sure you spray them with a waterproofing wax that protects the leather, and check out the lined versions for colder climates.
3. Teva Sandals
If you are traveling to a warmer destination where you will be enjoying the beach and water activities, a pair of waterproof sturdy sandals like Tevas is perfect. You may need them when you go swimming at a resort with a rocky shoreline, or when you are doing vigorous sports like white water rafting or kayaking.
They protect your feet, provide good arch support and they even come in a variety of styles which can be dressed up if necessary.
4. Flats
If you are traveling for work, you may still have to be racing across airports or walking long distances in strange cities. Luckily, shoe designers have come up with a wide variety of comfortable, casual shoes which can be worn on almost any occasion.
A pair of flat penny loafers goes well with jeans, pants or skirts. Brands like Rothy’s offer a range of designs for flats including pointy toes, smoking slippers and round-toed versions to suit everyone. These shoes are also easy to fit in a suitcase, so go ahead and pack a couple of pairs.
5. Tennis Shoes
For decades now, athletic footwear has moved to everyday wear, providing comfort and support beyond the tennis court or the basketball court. A great pair of sneakers will carry you through any kind of travel, and can usually withstand a fair amount of wear and tear.
Depending on your preference, you can choose from scientifically engineered models like Nike to stylish hightops from Converse to kicky Keds. Check out some reviews to find out more about which brands suit your individual needs.
6. Duck Boots
The L.L.Bean brand style boot is a staple amongst hardcore hunters, campers and other outdoorsy types. It can be a good style of footwear if you are planning a trip which will take you through muddy terrains like mountains or forests.
While not suitable for more formal occasions, a duck boot will keep your tootsies warm and dry in the most challenging outdoor environments. You can still look cute while you are roughing it!
7. Uggs
Australian Uggs’ popularity has persisted because they are so comfy, warm and durable. You can wear them with sweats or a pair of shorts. Curl up in front of a campfire with a pair of Uggs, or pair them with a funky outfit at a music festival.
Available in a rainbow of colors, Uggs can be worn with just about anything- anywhere, anytime.
8. Oxfords
A cute pair of Oxford-style lace-up shoes can travel from a fancy cafe to a stroll in the park to the dance floor. The manly style compliments chic pants, casual outfits and even dresses when matched with fun tights or socks.
Oxfords can also offer much-needed arch support. Make sure you pack some portable shoe polish to keep them shiny and nice-looking on your travels.
9. Slip-On Sneakers
The slip-on sneaker trend is not going anywhere, and these are a perfect style for traveling. Available in many colors including leopard print and sequined, these flat shoes with nice support also come in hightop zippered styles or fleece-lined.
These shoes are available in any price range, from designer brands to reasonably priced Vans and Keds. If they wear out on your travels, you can easily toss them out and replace them with a new pair.
10. Chelsea Boots
Styled after the Beatles’ sharp black ankle boots, these kicky faves can be dressed up or down. Wear them on the plane because the traditional style has no pesky laces or zippers to struggle with as you go through airport security.
All ankle boots are in fashion this season, including pointy-toed Western styles. Booties also have the advantage of being less cumbersome than taller boots, so you can throw them into a duffle bag or knapsack as an extra footwear alternative on the go.
Best Shoes for Travel: Home Is Where The Sole Is
The best shoes for travel fit in a suitcase and adapt to many situations. They make you feel comfortable and at home, no matter where on earth you are.
For more tips on fashion for any occasion, check out our blog.
