The Very Best Travel Shoes, According to Travel Editors
Kiss those blisters goodbye with Thrillist staffers' expert picks for vacation footwear.
In some ways, the most important decision a traveler must make is deciding what goes on her feet. As we roam from place to place, we place all our trust in those walking shoes, praying to Achilles that we end our days without any blisters. And choosing between pairs is often one of the hardest packing decisions to make, as they take up considerable real estate in our luggage.
What makes a really great travel shoe? One that’s lightweight and easily compressible? Suitable in style for all kinds of occasions? Durable and waterproof? We at Thrillist believe the very best in on-the-go footwear should hit all of the above points. We’ve rounded up our favorite travel kicks, perfect for days of endless exploration, no matter the terrain.
“I would not go anywhere without my Salomon XT-6s. They’re the perfect travel shoe for a number of reasons, starting with the airport. The Quicklace closure means you don’t have to worry about untying your shoes at security, and you can easily slip them on and off while on the plane. They’re stylish (depending on who you ask) and comfortable enough to walk around any hip metropolis for hours on end. But if you find yourself on a hike somewhere in nature, they’ll work for that, too. Not to mention, they’re incredibly light, which makes packing them a breeze. And the quality has stood the test of time—I’ve enjoyed my pair for years.” – Jessica Sulima, Staff Writer
“Basic black Tevas make the cut for pretty much all of my trips. They're good for beach trips obviously but also anywhere that might have a spa or hot tub scenario. I love to bring them hiking so I can change into them after removing my hiking boots and peeling off my thick socks. They are thin enough to fit into any bag, clean easily, dry quickly, and are supportive enough for everyday walking if need be.” – Amanda Kludt, Publisher
“I sing the praises of Birkenstock’s EVA sandals to anyone who will listen. This rubbery version of the classic cork sandal is just as comfortable and supportive as the original, but the light weight is a dream for packing and you won’t feel icky about throwing them in your suitcase because you can run them under the faucet for a quick clean. These are also the only open-toed shoes I’ll wear in a city, as the sole provides a bit more elevation than the average sandal so your vacation pedicure is safe from even the dirtiest streets.” – Liz Provencher, Editor
“First, I have to second Liz—I completely cosign on the Birkenstock EVA sandals. But! For all the times I don’t want my toes out, I turn to any number of the Chelsea rainboots from Cougar (pro tip: Google around to find past styles in multiple colors that are still for sale). They slip on and off with ease, which makes them perfect at the airport, they’re waterproof and can take a beating, which makes them great for tromping around, and they also just look good, which makes them adaptable and appropriate for most outfits.” – Becca James, Senior Editor
“My go-to travel shoe is nothing too groundbreaking. As a goth kid for life, I love bringing that vibe with me when I travel. The Dr. Martens Adrian loafers serve the dual purpose of not only broadcasting a touch of counterculture, but also being super convenient and very versatile to style in various outfits. They are of course easy to slide on and off while getting through TSA, and they’re also decently cozy to wear on the flight itself. Also in the Adrian loafers’ favor, in my opinion, is the fact that they are slightly dressier than the typical airplane shoe, which I like to pretend lends a bit of sophistication that maybe even Jon Hamm would admire? One can only dream of Don Draper’s stamp of approval.” – Joe Erbentraut, Editorial Director
“Like Carrie Brownstein, I am a big fan of Teva's quilted ReEmber slippers, a certified ugly shoe that's also comfy as hell. I like to bring them on an outdoorsy vacation to slip on when I'm hanging out at a lodge, cabin, or campsite (and they're great for walking the dog, too). Bonus: They smoosh down small in my bag.” – Kori Perten, Senior Editor
“After years of pining for them, I finally got my first pair of Blundstones, and they completely live up to the hype (I have the #500 Women’s Original Chelsea Boots, but am yearning to try other styles as well). I’ve worn them walking, biking, and hiking, and they have yet to fail me. Plus, they slip on easily and fit with practically any outfit, whether you’re in overalls or a frilly sundress. They don’t take too long to break in, but I recommend walking around in them for about a week before heading on your travels so they mold perfectly to your feet.” – Kelsey Allen, Associate Editor
“When I travel, I take my packing very seriously. We're talking about creating outfit mood boards with my friends. That seriously! I bring around four pairs of shoes when I travel because I need to be ready for long walks, hikes, swimming, and dressing up for dinner. My go-to shoes for traveling are the New Balance 530. These sneakers are cute, comfortable for long distances, and timeless; you can wear them with any outfit, whether it's dressy or sporty. I hiked with them in Oaxaca at Hierve el Agua, cleaned them up, and wore them with a dress for dinner at night. If water activities are involved, my Tevas Hurricaine Drift are coming with me. Lastly, I always bring a pair of leather sandals and kitten heels because I need photos, even if I don't post them on my socials.” – Kisai Ponce, Audience Development
“My go-to shoe is the Dr. Marten 1460 Pascal Women's Mono Lace Up Boots in Black. It is very important that it is this exact shoe from the company. I’m not a fan of the yellow stitching that is a dead giveaway for the brand—the all-black boot is easier to dress up or down. Plus they didn’t take any time to wear in, meaning no blisters, even after 12-mile walking days. The soft leather also makes it easy to pack in small spaces—winning the spot as my go-to travel shoe. For flying, I always wear my Croc platforms—they are easy to take on and off at securityand, like Abbott Elementary actor Josh Segarra pointed out, they are perfect for walking around your hotel. Plus, they make a perfect beach shoe.” – Opheli Garcia Lawler, Senior Staff Writer