Finding Perfect Travel Shoes for Your Next Trip

Packing the right shoes, like a pair of comfortable boots or sneakers, before a vacation is obviously important. You’ll enjoy your trip a lot less than you could if you pack uncomfortable footwear.

That said, it’s easy to understand why some people find the experience of choosing travel shoes to be overwhelming. Pack too few pairs, and you might not be ready for all the activities you’ll participate in on vacation. Pack too many, and you’ll struggle to handle your luggage.

This guide will make the process much easier. To choose the right footwear for your trip, keep these points in mind.

Shoes for the City

The environment you’ll be vacationing in is one of the most important factors to consider when packing shoes. By taking the time to think about where you’ll be spending most of your time, you can more easily decide which shoes are ideal for your needs.

For instance, if you expect to spend most of your trip walking around a city, you need shoes that are lightweight, comfortable, and supportive. Sandals or flats often make for smart choices.

That said, some pairs are better-suited to city travel than others. You want to make sure the sole of your footwear is flexible. This is a sign it offers quality shock-absorption when walking on pavement for hours at a time. Additionally, if you’re not wearing sandals, make sure your shoes are made from a breathable material. This will keep your feet from getting sweaty and uncomfortable during your trip.

Backpacking Footwear

If you’re the more adventurous type, you might be planning to backpack across a country or region. That means you need shoes that are well-suited for a variety of environments.

Look for a pair that’s waterproof or water-resistant. If you find yourself caught in the rain (or if you’re simply visiting a humid area), this will prevent issues such as athlete’s foot. Again, flexible soles and breathable materials are also features worth keeping in mind.

Additionally, although sandals may keep you comfortable backpacking through warm climates, they may not be appropriate if you find yourself at a classy bar or restaurant. Pack a pair of flats as well if you think you’ll be doing most of your walking in sandals.

Choosing Hiking Boots

Hiking vacations require shoes that are durable enough to stand up to wear and tear. Choose a pair of tough boots designed for this purpose.

Make sure the soles don’t bend when choosing boots. They simply won’t protect you from foot injuries. It’s also smart to wear boots that are a half-size bigger than your typical shoe size. As you hike down a mountain, your toes can fall forward. A larger size helps you stay comfortable if this happens.

No matter what pair you choose, it’s also a good idea to wear them around for three weeks or so before your trip. Breaking them in will prevent discomfort while you’re traveling.

What to Wear for the Beach

A relaxing beach trip is even more relaxing with the right footwear. Durable sandals are best, as they’ll guard against the discomfort that comes from sand getting in your shoes. Avoid leather, which can become misshapen or cracked if it gets wet.

Your sandals should also have relatively thick soles. This keeps sand away from your feet. When putting them back on after a swim in the ocean, be sure to dry your feet thoroughly, as saltwater can cause irritation.

Again, finding the right shoes for your trip doesn’t need to be difficult. All you need to do is think about where you’ll be traveling to. By planning ahead and remembering these tips, you’ll stay comfortable without packing your entire shoe closet.