JUST 26 COMFY SHOES THAT MIGHT BE THE ONLY PAIR YOU NEED FOR THAT UPCOMING TRIP (AKA MORE SUITCASE SPACE)
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.
1. A versatile pair of Chaco sandals that provide *superior* arch support, meaning you'll be happily traipsing about during your travels without racking up blisters or sore feet. They also clean well and easily from mud and water, so take 'em on all your outdoor adventures, too.
Promising review: "Great traveling sandals for both wet and dry weather. I ONLY wore these shoes 24/7 during my three-week trip around Europe. In fact I took a carry-on and brought 3 pairs of shoes — Chacos, workout tennis shoes, and heels for a wedding I was attending — and I wore my Chacos the entire trip to walk around cities, ride bicycles, go out to bars (lol), etc. The black one especially looks like nice sandals, and looked good in any kind of outfit I could possibly match with. Super sturdy as well. Would highly recommend if you are looking for some walking sandals and hate wearing socks like I do!" —mildsky
Get them from Amazon for $46.09+ (available in sizes 5–14, with wide options and 14 styles).
2. A pair of Chelsea boots that not only instantly elevate any outfit in your travel wardrobe, but they're also specially designed to absorb impact which means less tired, uncomfortable toes. No pain, ALL gain.
Promising reviews: "I have plantar fasciitis and my feet always hurt! It's so rare that I can just put on a pair of shoes and they don't wear my feet into blisters and pain. I walk a lot and needed shoes that could stand miles of walking. These are wonderful and I can put orthotics in with plenty of space and not fitting too tight. It was good to find a shoe that I could use both the orthotics in and the arch felt actually high enough!" —S. Smith
"This is my third pair of Blundstone boots in the span of approximately 15 years. I have always been very pleased. These are perfect boots for traveling — easy off at the airport, light, comfortable and waterproof. Good for most weather conditions, and can be worn with jeans or a suit." —T. Merker
Get them from Amazon for $127.13+ (available in sizes 6–14 and 14 colors).
3. Water-resistant Dr. Scholl's slip-on sneakers that make airport security a breeze with their easy on-and-off design. These come in *tons* of adorable prints and styles, so fair warning, you may want to buy several pairs.
Promising reviews: "Travel tested and approved — LOVE!! My hairdresser friend recommended these since she’s always on her feet. They were so reasonable so I ordered them for my South Africa honeymoon trip. They were INCREDIBLE!!! My feet never hurt and I walked a ton of miles in them. They also went with a ton of outfits, so I was very happy!!! I highly recommend!" —Leah Gwin Hoefling
"These shoes were recommended as comfortable walking shoes. They absolutely are the best! I bought these shoes to have a stylish, casual shoe for a NYC/DC seven-day tour. I walked an average of 7–8 miles a day even in a downpour. Not a single blister or pain of any kind. If you are searching for stylish, casual, and comfortable, then these are it. Easy on and off, water-resistant, and coordinates with all outfits." —S. Lee
Get them from Amazon for $46+ (available in sizes 5–13, including wide options, and 29 styles).
4. Sorel Kinetic sandals that wonderfully toe the line between sandal and sporty sneaker, featuring a cushioned bouncy footbed for all-day comfort and a unique design that keeps you stylish and supported on any adventure.
Promising review: "Love my new sandals! Great cushioning and arch support, sporty look, and the adjustable strap is great for the Florida humidity that makes your feet swell when you walk a bit. I found them true to size. I'm usually between an 8 and 8.5 (usually the larger size in athletic shoes) and found the 8 in these to fit well. Got lots of compliments on them my first day wearing them! So comfy!" —Maggie
Get them from Amazon for $105.11+ (available in sizes 6–12 and six styles).
5. Blondo Villa ankle booties which are not only waterproof (which makes them ideal for rainy destinations), but they're totally Instagrammable and perf for wandering chic city streets while shopping for souvenirs.
Promising review: "I bought these for travel after seeing them recommended on multiple travel sites. Although the manufacturer says the boots are waterproofed, I did spray them with a suede protectant. I recently returned from a trip to Barcelona where I wore these all day for several days. We walked about six miles a day, and I had no discomfort. (They’re significantly more comfortable than the pair of Cole Haan Chelsea boots that they were bought to replace.) It rained pretty heavily one day, and I found these to be completely waterproof. What’s more, the rain did not seem to affect the boots at all; they still look brand new. I plan to take them with me to London and Paris next month. They also look great for work with tights. All-around great shoe. I’m very pleased with the purchase and would highly recommend them." —HEO1121
Get them from Amazon for $84.86+ (available in sizes 6–12, including wide options, and ten styles).
6. Chunky Sam Edelman ankle boots with a thick lug sole that won't ever weigh you down but will keep your feet well-protected from city streets and unpredictable weather, all while giving your outfit an edgy, stylish upgrade
Promising review: "I took these boots to a trip to NYC, I walked all day and they did not cause any blister or extra tiredness. They are comfortable, easy to put on especially at airport security. They are so trendy and the platform is not tiring at all. They don’t claim to be waterproof but it rained a lot and my feet never got wet. I would definitely recommend these. ❤️" —Sandra
Get them from Amazon for $15.59+ (available in sizes 5–13 and 14 styles).
7. Cushionaire slides so freakin' comfy you'll NEVER want to take them off. They boast a flexible cork footbed and supportive, padded insole. Oh, and did I mention they're ADORABLE?
Promising review: "I bought these sandals before a three-week trip in Europe; I didn't want to pay for Birks but did want something in similar style with good arch support. I was a little skeptical about the low price, but gave them a shot...and they were the MOST comfortable sandals I've ever owned. I walked over 120 miles in them in three weeks on our trip and never once had foot pain. They broke in so quickly and were very supportive from the get go — and still are! Highly recommend." —Han Lin
Get them from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide options, and 22 styles).
8. Soda flatform espadrilles if you want something easy on your feet to wear out to nice dinners while on vacay. Reviewers also say they're great for long-distance walks, so explore away without worrying over any pain.
Promising review: "I initially bought these shoes to look cute for pictures in my outfits, but was shocked to realize how comfortable they actually were! I wore these sandals throughout a walking tour of Chicago AND to the airport, without any blisters or sores. I highly recommend this product — it's so rare to find affordable cute AND comfy sandals." —Hayles
Get them from Amazon for $44.79+ (available in sizes 5.5–10 and four styles).
9. Affordable, waterproof high-top sneakers with a fun retro vibe that will take up minimal space in your luggage *and* add a burst of color and flair to all your otherwise low-key travel looks.
They're also a popular pick with people who have jobs where waterproof shoes come in handy (like working at a restaurant or dog groomers).
Promising review: "I absolutely love these shoes! I originally bought them for a trip to Washington D.C where it was going to rain most of the time. I have Hunter rain boots, but knew we would be walking a lot and didn't want to be 'weighed down' on the trip. I was four months pregnant and wore these for two of the days where we walked over 9 miles each day (ugh!) and these were SOO COMFORTABLE! My feet didn't have any blisters or sore spots (which I am very prone to) and handled the rain/puddles like a champ! I love that they looked like normal shoes, but wiped clean with a baby wipe! Totally surprised by the comfort and quality of these rain shoes. I now use them when in the garden or anytime it rains! Also, the inside sole of the shoe comes out pretty easily, which annoyed me at first until I wanted to wash it to keep the inside smelling fresh — so now it's a bonus! BUY THESE!" —AmazonFamily
Get them from Amazon for $33.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–11, low-top and high-top options and three colors).
10. Columbia hiking boots if your travels involve some seriously rugged terrain. Designed with a high-traction rubber sole and waterproof leather-and-suede upper, they're basically indestructible in addition to being so comfortable you'll wonder how on earth you ever hiked before them. Reviewers also say they don't even have a break-in period, so they're ideal for last-minute trips.
Promising review: "I went on a muddy hike today to break these in. First they are so comfortable and have nice toe room. I stepped in a deep muddy puddle and when I took my foot out, the mud and water just ran off. They were still clean! My husband did not have waterproof shoes and his feet were wet. By the time we finished, mine were bone dry. They are wonderful hiking boots, very comfortable, sturdy and super stylish too! I can’t wait to see where the bad girls will take me." —Samantha
Get them from Amazon for $58.75+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide options, and 16 styles). You can find a similar men's version here.
11. Travel-friendly Sanuk yoga mat flip-flops made from a similar material as your fave yoga mat, meaning no slipping, no blisters and all-day comfort even in the muggiest of climates.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising reviews: "These are my favorite. As a Southern Californian, I wear flip-flops year-round. The last pair of Sanuk Yoga Mat flip-flops I bought lasted through almost three years of constant wear (they were basically the only shoes I wore for three years, so I'm serious when I say constant). They're comfortable enough to wear for a day at Disneyland, even with arthritic joints." —beth
"I've been wearing Sanuks for about five years now and they are hands-down the best flip-flops I've ever owned. I usually live in them from the time the snow melts until it starts falling again. They are sturdy, comfortable, and lightweight. The yoga mat base is unbelievably comfortable, and stays comfortable even with regular use. The strap is made of cloth and a soft leather/cloth combination. Honestly once you wear these you'll never go to another Old Navy $1 flip-flop day. The last point I want to make about these flip-flops is that they are great for travel. I wore them for nearly three weeks while backpacking in Europe and my feet did not blister or peel and the lightweight material was great for reducing weight while traveling." —Liz
Get them from Amazon for $19.95+ (available in sizes 5–11, with some wide options, and 16 styles).
12. Or Sanuk yoga slings if you need a little extra support with that same amazing yoga mat footbed, only with an added slingback so they won't ever fly off your feet. Bonus points for them being machine-washable, too.
If you're a half-size, several reviewers recommend ordering up (so a 9 if you're an 8.5, etc.).
Promising review: "I LOVE these sandals!!! I bought them originally for some summer travels — I wanted something comfortable and versatile that I could wear with everything. They were supportive enough with non-slip grip to wear on the cliff walk in Newport, RI. I’ve had them for about a month now and I’ve continued to wear them almost everyday, even to amusement park on the roller coasters. So glad I bought them!" —Sheena Faye
Get them from Amazon for $27.32+ (available in sizes 5–11 and five styles).
13. Handwoven Diana leather loafers so stunning, everyone you meet on your trip will be denying to know where you scored them from. Dress them up or down with ease while feeling like you're wearing the world's best (and chicest) slippers.
Miuccia Studio is based in Indonesia and specializes in the *dreamiest* handmade shoes and bags.
Promising review: "Love love love these!! I’ve been looking for the perfect pair of mules for months, I’m so happy I ordered these. They go with everything and super comfy. Shipping was right on time if not a little early." —Stacie Carlson
Get them from Miuccia Studio on Etsy for $76.50 (originally $90; available in European sizes 36–43 and six colors).
14.Ultra-supportive Croc platforms as easy to walk in as they are low-key, lightweight, and durable. You really can never go wrong with a pair of Crocs, no matter the style.
15.Huarache sandals specially designed to mold to your foot as you wear them, so it's ~highly recommended~ you size down if you're in between sizes. Oh yeah, and these beauties are all handmade by Mexican artisans. Super cool.
16.Volcom flip-flops since it's likely high time to toss out your super worn ones from last season and graduate to a much sturdier, comfier pair that's also perf for pedi season.
17.Puma Carina sneakers that'll go with EVERYTHING in your travel wardrobe, not to mention they're incredibly supportive. What a pair of winners.
18.A super chic pair of walking sandals featuring an orthotic insole ~and~ a cushioned outsole so you get max support, even with a traditionally flat shoe. Brilliant.
19. Stylish waterproof leather boots that look like sleek city strollers but are actually technically designed to be worn on hiking trails. These boast sealed seams and "thinsulate" insulation, which means even if it gets super wet outside, your toes will stay toasty warm and dry.
Promising review: "Absolutely love these boots! I needed a pair of sturdy hiking boots that looked cute, would last a long time, were water resistant, and would wipe off easily after a muddy day. I wore these for roughly two miles of hiking and maybe two miles of walking to break them in before wearing them for a nine mile hike in the Appalachians. I was so impressed with how comfortable they were, just the right amount of grip, they were warm, and they kept my feet dry and my ankles supported. 10/10 I would buy these again and will definitely be buying a second pair once the first pair is worn out." —Emma
Get them from Amazon for $70.95+ (available in sizes 5–11 and three colors).
20. Skechers sport sandals that have lightweight responsive cushioning, adjustable straps, and a high-rebound insole, meaning when it comes to keeping your feet feeling good in spite of walking long distance, these are top of the line.
Psst: They're also machine-washable.
Promising reviews: "Love, love, love! I have a VERY difficult time finding sandals that fit my narrow foot. These are the most comfortable sandals I've ever owned. I can tighten them to fit my feet and walk for hours. My first pair went to Italy and Greece with me, and it's the only shoe I wore the entire three-week trip. I have started to buy in other colors and currently own three pairs." —Robin A. Laehn
"I wore these for 10 straight hours with over six miles of walking right out of the box and had zero foot pain. I’m 61, and my feet are often achy. I used to wear thong sandals but can’t stand anything between my toes anymore so decided to try these. Now, I want them in every color. They fit true to size and have great arch support. We had to walk down an extremely steep hill, and they had plenty of traction to keep me from slipping." —EGC
Get them from Amazon for $36.30+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide fits, and 13 styles).
21. Allbirds Tree Runners that not only have an incredibly lightweight eucalyptus fiber material designed for top-notch ventilation (and shoelaces made from recycled plastic bottles), but their foam insoles regulate heat, wick away moisture, and reduces odor. They're pretty much the perfect shoe even though they look deceptively like a cute, otherwise ordinary pair of trendy sneakers.
Promising review: "I bought these for a trip to Turkey and Greece. I didn’t have any break in time, but didn’t need any. They were as comfortable as slippers, but offer support for miles of daily walking. I’ll be buying more." —Mary
Get them from Allbirds for $98 (available in sizes 5–11 and 14 styles).
22. Birdies Starling flats that don't require a pesky break-in period, in addition to being absolutely gorgeous to look at. With a whopping seven layers of cushion plus arch and heel support, you're guaranteed to feel great while looking stunning for the camera in all your travel photos.
Birdies is a woman-founded company that originally created a comfortable and stylish slipper that could be worn at home while hosting parties. But they quickly realized the shoes were too good to *just* be worn inside and created a do-it-all flat, combining the support of a sneaker with the softness of a slipper.
Promising reviews: "Brought these on a trip to Tokyo where I needed a pair of dressier flats. Day three wearing them — so far no foot pain; around 10,000 steps per day so far for context." —Lauren S.
"These shoes are so cute and comfy! I bought them for a work trip and they were the best. I walked all over NYC in them and my feet never hurt!" —Julianne G.
Get them from Birdies for $65+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 34 styles).
23. Skechers boat shoes if you plan on spending time on the water this season or just want an excuse to look extra preppy and put together. Not only are they amazingly comfortable, they look fab with high-waisted shorts, linen dresses and all things nautical.
Promising review: "We were a few days out from our Canadian and Alaskan vacation when I decided to purchase these shoes. They arrived on time as stated (thanks Amazon Prime). I was very skeptical about throwing a brand new pair of shoes in the suitcase when I hadn’t even worn them yet. I would later find out that my husband thought the same. I wore them for the first time on our first full day in Vancouver, BC, with absolutely no problems. I was amazed and in love!! For those with problem toes, note that I am less than one year out after having hammer toe surgery on both feet. Needless to say, I just ordered a second pair." —Leisa Smith
Get them from Amazon for $40.13+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide and narrow fits, and four styles).
24. Crocs flip-flops so durable you never have to worry about them accidentally snapping and breaking when you're walking around in the thick sand (the worst). They're also ultra-lightweight, so they're easy as pie to pack.
Promising reviews: "I walked around Epcot for 12 hours in these flip-flops. Not a single sore. So comfortable! Highly recommended." —tina roya
"These are AMAZING. The only flip-flops I’ve ever owned that I can literally walk all day in comfortably! Took them on an eight-day beach vacation and averaged 5.5 miles per day walking! They stick to your feet firmly — very little 'flopping' lol. I also have a wide foot and have issues finding flip-flops and sandals that my feet won’t spill over the sides of. Amazing shoe. And for a Crocs product, not bad-looking!" —S Doeringsfeld
Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes 4–11 and 13 colors).
25. Flexible leather sandals if you love the feel of being barefoot but still need to wear shoes on your journey (naturally). The straps aren't fixed, making them endlessly adjustable to your unique perfect fit.
Laboo Leather is a family-owned small biz based in Budapest, Hungary, making handmade leather sandals and wallets.
Promising review: "No matter what I’ll write now, it won’t do Botond’s work justice. These sandals are the greatest thing I ever put on my feet — even though I’ve been wearing barefoot shoes for more than 2.5 years. They take the shoe game to the next level. The fit, the flexibility of not only the sole but the entire sandal with all the possible adjustments, the softness of the leather, the comfort, the quality of it altogether. I’ve worn them several times now and I love them so much! Botond was a dream to work with and helped me figure out what I need. I am so satisfied with the entire process, the communication and the final result. Thank you so so much, Botond, I am so grateful for your time, patience and brilliant work. Can’t wait to order again. 15 out of 10 possible points." —sarahkoe
Get them from Laboo Leather on Etsy for $106.32+ (available in EU sizes 35–46 and nine colors or a personalized size for a slightly extra price).
26. And Vionic orthotic sandals you'll be surprised to know are orthopedic as they don't have the usual look of them but do have plenty of arch support, deep heel cups and cushioning from toe to heel. Wear them with all your best vacay outfits.
These have the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, which is granted to products found to promote good foot health!
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising reviews: "Fits awesome! I have plantar fasciitis, heel pain and these sandals are so comfortable and beautiful. I wear them almost every day! I walk 5 miles and my feet are very happy. No pain! The arch support is awesome!" —acdkp1
"I bought the exact same sandals five years ago and wore them all the time including island and European travels. I pretty much wore them out and so I’m thrilled to find the same pair newly available. Yay!" —amaki
Get them from Amazon for $60+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide and narrow sizes, and 45 styles).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.