Best Travel Shoes for Women 2019
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Any trip extending more than 3+ days means facing the most challenging part of packing— narrowing down which shoes to bring along! You want to look stylish enough for that perfect Instagram photo, but you also know that you’re going to be walking on concrete sidewalks for miles each day. And while you want to wear shoes that offer comfort, you also don’t want to look like a total weirdo wearing a trendy little outfit paired with your… Adidas sneakers. *Sigh, the struggle.*
It always seems like Mission Impossible to find the best travel shoes. But don’t worry, your girl has got you covered! I’ve packed my suitcase for pretty much any type of trip you could imagine… from a quick weekend getaway to 6+ months on the road, I can almost guarantee that I’ve been in your shoes before (no pun intended). So without further ado, read on for the best travel shoes for almost any destination!
Feel free to skip to any specific section using the links below. :)
Table of Contents
Best Travel Shoes for Women
The first thing you should know is that I never pack high-heels, pumps, etc. for any destination that I’m traveling to. Alright, alright — I lied. I packed a pair of wedges once for a long trip, but I definitely regretted my decision because I never wore them. The truth is, ya just gotta be practical with travel shoes— they do take up the most room in your suitcase, after all.
I typically pack the following types of shoes for general travel destinations:
A cute pair of sneakers/ comfortable walking shoes
A stylish yet comfy pair of flats
A stylish yet comfy pair of sandals, open-toed-shoes, flip-flops, etc.
Best Sneakers for Travel
The one type of shoe that you seriously cannot begin your travels without— a comfy and practical pair of sneakers! It always seems like the ultimate struggle to find a pair of sneakers that are both comfortable enough to walk all day in, yet stylish enough to sport in your Instagram photos (converse just weren’t cutting it for me).
Read below for a few of my best recommendations for comfy (and stylish) women’s travel sneakers!
Lightweight Sneakers
JOOMRA Women Lightweight Sneakers 3D Woven Stylish Athletic Shoes in Peach Pink
Alright— how adorable is this sporty little pink sneaker?! Joomra’s lightweight, woven sneakers are perfect for any travel activity. Go ahead— feel free to galavant all over Europe in them!
Lightweight feel, making them perfect for anyone on-the-go
New 3D technology incorporates natural motion flex grooves that react to every movement
Dressy Sneakers
Tretorn Women's EVE Sneaker
If you’re looking for a bit of a dressier option for sneakers, then definitely check out the Tretorn Women’s EVE Sneaker! These are perfect for travel— they are super comfortable AND they give you a little height/ are a perfect replacement for heels!
Perfect to wear with a variety of summer outfits— rompers, jumpsuits, dresses, shorts, jeans, you name it!
Incredibly practical— comfy & stylish option for travel shoes
Most Comfortable Womens Tennis Shoes
NIKE Women's Zoom All Out Low Running Shoes
Alright, I’m not gonna lie. While I typically suggest most people bring 3 pairs of shoes for travel, I always bring at least 4… the 4th being my trusted Nike’s. You never know when you’re gonna want to spontaneously go for a run along the beach in Cape Town, South Africa, or hike a mountain in Switzerland. Ya feel me? Nike’s always got my back. :)
Super comfortable— perfect for walking all day, jogging, hiking, you name it!
A variety of colors to choose from— yay options!
Slip on Sneakers for Women
Roxy Women’s Rory Slip On Sneaker Shoe
This slip on sneaker is super comfortable! You can wear them for just about any occasion, making them the perfect travel shoe!
The shoes are made of a soft breathable cotton, so you could even wear them without socks if you wanted to (although I’m not sure I would recommend doing this if you have a long day of travel…)
Side Note: This sneaker is trendy and perfect for everyday travel wear! However, it is known to run a 1/2 size too small, so you may want to keep this in mind before ordering your regular shoe size!
Best Shoes for Walking on Concrete
Sketchers Walking Shoes for Women — Sketchers Women’s D’Lites Memory Foam Lace-up Sneaker
Didn’t ya get the memo?! Sketchers are back in style (as if they were ever out…). With a Memory Foam cushioned insole and soft fabric lining, you can seriously travel all over Europe in these bad boys and never get tired!
TONS of colors to choose from— ranging from neutrals to Bright Mint Knit!
Side Note: This sneaker is super comfy and perfect for travel… but it is known to be a little snug, so I would definitely recommend going up a 1/2 size!
Best White Sneakers for Travel
I sadly only realized this on my most recent trip… every gal absolutely needs a solid pair of white sneakers for travel journeys! I snagged a pair recently, and honestly ended up wearing them for 90% of my outings. They’re practical, cute and comfy— where could you possibly go wrong?! Except when dirt gets involved— but that’s what Mr. Clean Magic Erasers are for. :)
Cole Haan Women’s GrandPro Tennis Leather Fashion Sneaker in Optic White
Super comfortable— perfect for walking all day
Affordable (save that money for your trip— trust me, you’re gonna need it)
A number of of practical colors to choose from
Blowfish Women’s Marley Sneaker in White Color Washed Canvas
This comfy sneaker is perfect for everyday/casual wear throughout your travel journey. Featuring elastic bands & a super flexible sole, you can feel free to galavant all over Europe in them!
Super affordable— yay for saving money!
A variety of colors AND patterns to choose from (they even have a fun tropical print!).
Side Note: This sneaker is super comfy and perfect for travel… but it is known to be a little snug, so I would definitely recommend going up a 1/2 size!
Best Flats for Travel
Before I dive in, I figured I should be honest with you. I actually can’t stand “traditional” flats and almost always regret bringing them on my trip. However, they are definitely a versatile shoe to have if you’re going somewhere for longer than a few weeks. And you don’t have to bring traditional flats on your trip— there are tons of different styles you can choose from! With that being said, here’s a few of my best recommendations for all you flat loving gals out there:
Closed Toe Summer Shoes
VISCATA Handmade in Spain Montgo Flatform Sandal, Soft Ankle-Tie, Closed Toe, Espadrilles Flats in Beige
Definitely not your traditional flat, and I am absolutely in love with these pretty ladies! Aside from being handcrafted in Barcelona, Spain (hence the name) and inspired by the Mediterranean, these gorgeous shoes feature:
Soft leather padded soles & leg enhancing ankle ties
Natural and durable materials— soft linen, natural rubber and jute soles
Comfortable, practical colors and incredibly trendy! Perfect for all your Insta-worthy travel photos (and you won’t be crying when you’re done wearing them!)
Side Note: if you’re in between sizes, it’s best to half-size up with these shoes!
Comfortable Travel Flats
Soludos Women’s Classic Espadrille Sandal
In case ya haven’t heard, Soludos are all the rage for affordable travel shoes these days— and for good reason! Here’s the lowdown:
Super affordable and perfect for travel
A variety of styles to choose from— sandals, espadrilles & more
Super comfortable— but not meant for all-day walking. Save them for a special day/night event (4-5 hours and you will be just fine!)
A variety of fun color/pattern/shape options to choose from
Women’s Closed Toe Shoes
Soludos Ciao Bella Espadrille Flat / Sneaker in Dusty Rose
I mean, this one really doesn’t need an explanation. Sport these adorable pink sneakers on your next trip to Italy— you will (obviously) have all the boys shouting, “Ciao Bella!”.
Perfect walking shoe for an extended amount of time (just make sure you break them in first, of course).
The Soludos brand has a number of styles to choose from if you want more options. Sandals, espadrilles, sneakers— you name it!
Affordable— yay for not spending all of your paycheck on a pair of shoes!
They say Ciao Bella— I mean, come on.
Comfortable flat shoes for women
Dr. Scholl’s Womens Shoes — Scout Slip On Sneaker in Beige Leather
Perfect walking shoe for long travel days
A variety of colors to choose from (but in my opinion, the beige option is definitely the most practical)
Dr. Scholl’s designed this shoe— need I say more?!
Slip on shoes for women
TOMS Women's Jutti Ballet Flat in Drizzle Grey
Tom’s Ballet Flats are not only perfect for travel, but they are dressy enough for work as well! However, as much as I love these, I will be completely honest with you— these bad boys do require a little breaking in. If you want to avoid the bandaids and pain, then consider snagging some high quality foot pads. Your feet will thank you later!
Completely Vegan
Fits as expected
Microfiber Sock Liner
For every pair of shoes purchased, Tom’s gives a pair of shoes to a child in need!
Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet
Diig Espadrille Sandals for Women, Lace Up Closed Toe Espadrilles Tie Up Flat Shoes in Silver Brown
The best part about these shoes is that they are super comfortable right from the start— no breaking in necessary! And they go with just about anything— rompers, dresses, jeans or any trendy travel outfit your heart desires!
Super versatile— you could wear them in spring, summer & possibly even fall (depending on the travel destination, of course!)
Comfy meets stylish!
These adorable espadrilles are pretty much completely flat— making them the perfect walking shoes for flat feet!
Casual Shoes for Women
Circus by Sam Edelman Women's Leni-31 Moccasin in Light Blue/ Shell Yeah
Can I get a Shell Yeah?! Alright, how stinkin cute are these Shell Yeah shoes by Sam Edelman?! Although not pictured (you’ll need to click on the link), the other shoe features an adorable little emoji shell. Seriously perfect for any beach vacation!
100% textile, synthetic sole
Easy slip on style
Adorable “Shell Yeah” emoji style
Practical enough to be worn for long days of travel walking, yet cute enough to be worn for dressy/casual beach dinners
Best Sandals for Travel
Every gal needs a good pair of sandals for pretty much any trip (as long as your destination isn’t Antarctica AKA somewhere cold, of course). So as long as the weather permits during your trip, read below for a few of my best recommendations for comfy (and practical) travel sandals.
Stylish Walking Shoes
Vince Camuto Women's Kathalia Espadrille Wedge Sandal in Dusty Mink
Summer is certainly in swing with these beautiful espadrille sandals by Vince Camuto! While maybe not my number 1 choice for most comfortable walking shoes, they definitely take the cake for most stylish! These pretty ladies feature the following:
Synthetic soles
Practical color options to choose from (neutrals, black, gold & more)
Perfect for almost any travel destination!
Walking Sandals for Women
Plaka Sandals for Women Brazilian Sand
Simple enough to wear for most vacation days, yet dressier than your average pair of sandals/flip-flops— making this option perfect for almost any destination (except Antarctica… let’s be smart here)! Here’s the lowdown:
Features adjustable ropes— perfect for any & all types of feet
The rope on the shoe is made from polyester, while the soles are rubber
Super comfy!
Tons of color options to choose from
Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet
Crocs Women’s Isabella T-Strap in Bronze
I know there’s a weird rep surrounding Crocs… but how can you deny the cuteness of these strappy sandals?! Here’s the lowdown:
Features 100% Soft TPU translucent straps
Comfy, jelly wedge sandal that features a thong strap and textured footbed
The rubbery, jelly-like material make these suitable for any occasion— bring them out on the boat or walk all day in them for a guided tour. Your feet will thank you later!
Side Note: This strappy sandal is incredibly comfortable and perfect for casual travel days… but it is known to run a bit small, so I would definitely recommend going up a 1/2 — full size!
Best Walking Shoes for High Arches
Vionic Women’s Rest Kirra Backstrap Sandal - Ladies Sandals with Concealed Orthotic Arch Support
Vionic’s Kirra Backstrap Sandals are about to be your new favorite travel shoes (really, I’m being serious). Not only do these super trendy shoes feature a podiatrist-designed footbed for complete stability, the Vionic brand even offers innovative bio-mechanical technology for each pair of shoes in its line!
Microfiber wrapped EVA footbed, durable outsole
Received the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance (so you know this bad boy is legit…)
Comfy and stylish!
Comes in every color option a gal could ever possibly need!
Side Note: While the Kirra Backstrap Sandal is perfect, it is known to run a 1/2 size too small, so you may want to keep this in mind before ordering your regular shoe size!
Most Comfortable Sandals
Toms Women’s Sicily Sandals in Tan Leather
Simple enough to wear for most vacation days, yet dressier than your average pair of sandals/flip-flops— making this option perfect for almost any destination (except Antarctica… let’s be smart here)! Here’s the lowdown:
Features adjustable ropes— perfect for any & all types of feet
The rope on the shoe is made from polyester, while the soles are rubber
Super comfy!
Tons of color options to choose from
Soda Womens Casual Clip Espadrilles Trim Flatform Studded Wedge Buckle Ankle Strap Sandals
Alright, I’ll be honest with ya here— these might not be the comfiest for everyday travel use. BUT if you’re looking for the perfect shoes for that Instagram shot, these sandals have got you covered! And honestly, the wedge isn’t that bad… beauty is pain sometimes. :)
Features adjustable ropes— perfect for any & all types of feet
The rope on the shoe is made from polyester, while the soles are rubber
Super comfy!
Tons of color options to choose from
TOMS Women's Clara Birch Suede Silver Specchio Espadrilles in Black Tribal
One of my favorite things about Toms is that you know you’re giving back to greater good! With every pair of shoes you purchase from the brand, they’ll give a new pair of shoes to a child in need! And with travel shoes as cute as these, how could you say no to that deal?!
Features adjustable straps
Super practical colors to choose from
Both comfy & stylish— walk all day in them and still look trendy enough for the Instagram photoshoot you’re about to take (been there, girlfriend)
Frequently Asked Questions:
How many pairs of shoes to pack for a trip?
While this is going to be completely at your discretion, my honest answer would be to bring 3 pairs of shoes for your trip. While this may be a painful decision (particularly now that I just gave you a very extensive list of travel shoes), you need to buckle down and get realistic with your travel needs. Do you need the heels that you’re going to wear just for that ONE Instagram photo? Probably not. Skip them and bring the shoes that you’ll actually wear for the majority of your travels.
The three types of shoes I recommend:
Cute/Comfortable walking shoes (white shoes are the most practical, in my opinion)
Comfortable flats or closed toe shoes
Comfortable & stylish sandals (possibly for dressier occasions/nights out)
Depending on the occasion, you also might want to consider boots: i.e. rain boots if it will rain a lot at your destination, or hiking boots if you plan to hike a lot or partake in adventurous activities.
I hope that you found this guide to be handy in scouting out the best travel shoes for women! Feel free to leave a comment below with more suggestions; I would to hear about them and know which travel shoes YOU recommend! :)
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If you liked this post, you may be interested in: How to Pack a Suitcase Like a Pro
Hi there! I’m Fallon. A Florida native who, after receiving my masters degree in the U.K., decided to nix the 9-5 path in search of something more. Now, I run my graphic design & photography business straight from my laptop, all while traveling the world. I’ve now traveled to over 25 countries and have knocked some pretty big adventures off my bucket list… and I’m just getting started. Follow along my journey as I present tips, guides and resources on solo female travel, photography, videography, entrepreneurship & the crazy lifestyle of a digital nomad.