Picking travel shoes can be a tricky endeavor. On one hand, you’ll be walking miles upon miles, and will want something comfy and durable. On the other hand, you’ll likely be taking lots of photos, and would prefer not to have a pair of bulky, orthopedic sneakers featured in every shot.
I am lucky enough to be packing my bags and heading to Europe this weekend. As I start to gather my suitcase and things, shoes tend to be a little tough- especially me, who has a shoe addiction problem.
Lucky for us, there are so many great travel shoe options today. With the rise of athleisure (hallelujah!), in addition to brands taking into account comfort along with style, the travel shoe options are limitless. Check out a few of my favorite styles – and ones that will definitely be coming with me on my upcoming Europe trip!
Slide Sandal
A slide sandal is my go to when traveling in the summer months. They are comfy yet will look cute with any casual outfit. It is the perfect shoe for a day of walking and exploring a new city. I love these Steve Madden slides because they do not rub on the top of your toes, and allow your feet to breathe so they won’t be all sweaty. I have these rose gold ones, and I think the little shine makes them extra cute. When you are shopping for a good slide make sure the the heel has good support and the foundation is sturdy. You know I buy 95% of my shoes from Steve Madden, so these are a great option for a travel shoe.
White Sneaker
There is something I find so cool and refreshing about a white sneaker. I love how they look with a summery dress, or with some denim shorts. I think white sneakers work with almost any outfit. Packing a sneaker for your trip is an extremely smart idea. I remember when I was in high school, I refused to bring a sneaker in my suitcase and would come home with so many blisters and sore feet. But now that athleisure is hot and trending, it gives you more options to find a good sneaker – that is not a bulky dad sneaker. I have recently discovered the shoe brand Qupid, and I am loving them. All of their shoes are super affordable, and durable. I have a similar white pair of sneakers from them, and they will for sure be in my suitcase next week.
Mule
For a more dressy option, I love throwing a pair of mules in my suitcase. They elevate any outfit and give it a more dressed up look. Mules would be great for a nice dinner and other nighttime activities. I usually look for a small heel or no heel because heel and me on vacation do not mix well. Especially if you are traveling to Europe, I will give you major props if you are able to walk down the cobblestone streets in some heels. I love the pop of color of these mules. I love a good pop of red in the summertime.
Slip On
Another great casual option for wandering around on your vacation is a slip on. These from Soludos are absolutely adorable and would be PERFECT if you are traveling to Italy. The little lemons are so darling. I would highly recommend wearing your slip ons quite a bit before you jet set to your destination. Breaking them in so you know you will not get blisters on the back of your heels is a must. No one wants to be on a walking tour with blisters just ripping up your feet.
Espadrille
For a shoe that you can dress up and dress down extremely easily is an espadrille. You can easily wear it more dressy to dinner, but they are still comfy enough to walk around for the day. The platform heel will be comfy because it will keep your foot flat. I know espadrilles are everywhere this summer. I love the neutral black color because you know you will be able to wear them with almost every look you packed. It is a great staple shoe.
Fashion Sneaker
If you are someone like me and really hate the look of bulky sneakers, and would rather tear your feet up than bring a pair of running shoes to a vacation that does not involve hiking or extreme physical activities – then fashion sneakers are for you my friends. I love wearing these to the airport since they tend to be a little more bulky and taking up more room in your suitcase. I love the blush color of these fashion sneakers because pink is a prominent color in my wardrobe so these would go perfectly. I also like how these just slip on making them quick and easy. My family walks on average 8-10 miles a day if we are exploring a city. We like to see every bit of it as possible and tend to walk to experience everything up close instead of by car. So these would be amazing for my upcoming Europe trip.
To be honest I usually pack 5-6 pairs of shoe each vacation. I know that isn’t the most smart way to pack. I have a whole post about overpacking and how to be a smart overpacker. I am so looking forward to get to the other side of the pond in a few days! Any guesses where I am going?
Let me know your favorite travel shoes!
Vionics make great cute shoes to walk in. They even have flip flops with support. Pricey, but worth it.