Traveling Soon? Make Sure to Pack These Chic, Editor-Approved Shoes

Elle

17 hours ago

In the midst of packing your designer luggage and travel tote, you can't forget to put on your best travel shoes. As you may only be taking a few pairs, these need to check off all the boxes. Considering the hours you'll be walking and sightseeing, comfort and versatility are the first things to come to mind—but, no doubt, you also want options that pair well with multiple looks. You may choose to go the summer sandal route or opt for a sneaker—two great options. But you are going on vacation, after all; why shouldn't they be cute and practical?
When discussing the more logistical aspects of what shoes to bring, consider the potential wear and tear on your feet. You want to come back from your trip rested and relaxed, not worried about problems caused by wearing improper footwear. To start your trip on a positive note, Dr. Danielle Edwards, a New York-based podiatrist, suggests that a pair of sneakers should be your go-to during long travel days, especially when you may be at an airport for hours and then on a plane.
While a sneaker is ideal for the day you travel, feel free to bring supportive sandals for leisurely activities that don't involve walking for long periods of time, Edwards says. With that in mind, I've rounded up 13 pairs of comfortable and chic travel shoes, from sneakers to flats, that will set the foundation for a memorable trip. Read on for more.
Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen's chic Teva sandals are perfect for travel. Not only are they undeniably comfortable, but the strappy design looks great with everything—even your vacation dresses. Plus, this pair is made from eco-friendly materials, making them a win-win.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: 11 options
Materials: Recycled plastic and Repreve polyester
Customer review: After reading the reviews, I felt a little nervous about the straps being uncomfortable. However, I've had them for about a week and maybe have worn them for a total of 15 hours. I love them! As someone who has flat feet, these sandals do not lack in the comfort department. I love that I can throw them on with most summer outfits. The color is neutral enough to go with most things. I went on a little hike with my dog yesterday and felt really grounded and supported. They feel very durable and they're most definitely easy to clean.
Sometimes you need a fancy flat to pull out while on vacation. Perhaps you're heading to a romantic dinner or meeting up with the girls for brunch. This is the sandal that sprinkles a bit of elegance into any travel outfit without sacrificing comfort.
Sizes: 4-13
Colors: Black, brown, and white
Materials: Leather
An Editor Says: When it comes to investing in quality shoes, Gucci's Italian craftsmanship never lets me down. I have walked several miles in these sandals, from sightseeing in Mykonos to stylishly running errands in New York City. They hold up well and look great with everything in my closet.
Platform sandals provide a bit of extra padding between your feet and the pavement. The velcro straps on Tory Burch's design ensures a secure fit on your feet without compromising style.
Colors: Black, Shell Pink, New Ivory
Materials: Leather, rubber
Customer review: 'These sandals not only go with every pair of shorts, jeans, and dresses I packed, but they are incredibly comfortable. They were my favorite walking sandals while on vacation in Europe. I purchased black and white.'
Sometimes you need something that you can just step into and go, especially when the itinerary is jam packed. These timeless flip-flops make it easy to run out of the door with a casually cool edge.
Colors: Sunkissed
Customer Review: 'I know these are pricier than a lot of other flip flops but these are by far my favorite! I bought these last year and they are so comfortable. I attend a lot of events where a lot of walking is involved and flip flops just look cuter so these definitely hold up. They also last. I can't wait to add more colors. These may not be for everyone but they are for me.'
If you're someone who needs arch support, but you love a beautiful thong sandal, this platform option checks all the boxes. With a thick, cushioned sole and pretty faux leather strap that goes in between your toes, you'll be able to walk several steps in this must-have travel shoe.
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: Black and leopard
Materials: Leather upper
When it comes to stylish walking shoes, the Adidas Samba reigns supreme. Of course, you could grab a pair with the classic black stripes, but you're going on vacation. This is the moment to have fun with a crochet design that matches the playful vibes of travel.
Sizes: 5-10.5
Colors: Army green
Materials: Crochet, suede, and leatherCustomer Review: 'I didn't even consider these shoes for over a year because I thought they would be too narrow for me, but upon trying them on, I was really surprised how comfortable they are. I have a really problematic right foot (plantar fasciitis) so I had no idea if this shoe would be for me, but it definitely is my go to now. The only issue is the sizing for Adidas is crazy so I had to size down a full size.'
Loewe and On's ongoing partnership is the coolest collaboration in the sneaker world. The chic kicks are back for another round with the Cloudventure 2.0—a performance-level shoe with a sleek silhouette.
Colors: 7 options
Materials: Translucent TPU and semi-translucent recycled polyester mesh
If thong flip-flops aren't your thing, consider packing this timeless silhouette into your carry-on for your next trip. With a thick, cutout strap, it's the perfect companion for your travel style.
Colors: 8 options
Customer Review: 'I'm really glad I purchased these shoes! I have a small foot and wear a 4. 5 shoe; I purchased the 5, and it is perfect! The width and length fit me well, so I believe they tend to run a bit small. I bought a pair in white, cognac, and black. And they all fit the same. I have found some shoes fit differently depending on the color you purchase. They are comfortable to walk in, I wear them almost every day and needed no break-in period.'
When it comes to casually cool sneakers, Nike does it best. This retro design has a low profile that makes them versatile enough to wear with denim shorts or maxi skirts, so they're definitely worthy of earning a spot in your luggage.
Colors: White
Materials: Max Air cushioning
Go on a trip anywhere, and I am sure you will find people wearing these sneakers. They are a great choice for those looking for a stylish sneaker to wear all day long.
Sizes: 36-42
Colors: 6 options
Materials: Leather, rubber, cotton, recycled polyester
Customer review: 'I bought these to wear on our trip to Ireland this summer, and I'm so glad I did! They were so comfortable to walk in and went with many of my outfits! I would definitely purchase these again.'
Those looking for something airy that offers a bit of coverage, turn to Hvoya's mesh ballet flats. The soft net makes it feel like you aren't wearing anything at all. And that comes in handy during scorching, hot days.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: Brown and white
Materials: Mesh
Vacations are all about having fun. Let your shoes match that same energy with an on-trend animal print. This leopard option comes from beloved footwear brand Vibi Venezia and the Mary Janes come in multiple colorways to fit your needs.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: 5 options
Materials: velvet
Taking the ballerina trend to the next level, we have Miu Miu's thong-inspired rendition. It mixes sneaker elements with the breeziness of a thong sandal to create a unique shoe that will certainly stand out on your trip.
Colors: Black/anthracite gray
Materials: Recycled polyamide
The key to preventing foot fatigue is utilizing a few different components to work together. Dr. Edwards recommends doing some things while en route (if you're flying) to proactively help prevent fatigue. This includes taking magnesium prior to sleep, walking the aisles of the plane, wearing compression socks, and walking throughout the airport. You can even pack sandals (like the lightweight Birkenstocks) in your carry-on to switch into on the plane if that is something you choose to do.
While it is best to wear sneakers during strenuous travel days, as Dr. Edwards mentioned, supportive sandals are perfectly fine depending on the activity. Don't wear them for long activities like tours or hiking! The perfect sandal isn't going to be one-size-fits-all.
Of course, you want them to be cute, but also consider two things. Look at what kinds of straps work for you; maybe it's two. Your foot type can help guide you with this as you figure out if a shoe is comfortable or not. The other key component to this is the support. Dr. Edwards specifically recommends the sole being at least 2 centimeters.
Dr. Edwards suggests two to three hours max before taking a break for rest. Doing little stretches can also help with keeping your feet up to speed while out and about. In terms of whether or not to alternate your shoes, the short answer is yes. Don't just wear the same pair of shoes every day, and remember to exercise, as it can help prevent injury and pain.
Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.
Dr. Danielle Edwards, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist.