You’ve probably heard it before: “The right travel shoes can make or break your trip.” And it’s true. But let’s be honest—finding a pair that won’t leave your feet aching is easier said than done.
If you’re anything like me, vacations mean walking double or even triple your usual steps. That’s when you realize your everyday tennis shoes or casual sneakers just don’t cut it.
Before our 7-week honeymoon around the world, I was determined to find the perfect travel shoes—lightweight, comfortable, and versatile enough to handle any adventure.
I needed shoes that were easy to slip on and off at temples in Japan, comfortable enough for dancing all night to Taylor Swift in Europe, and sturdy enough for hiking to breathtaking waterfalls in Bali.
After 591,000 steps across 7 countries, I finally found my answer: a pair of extremely comfortable travel shoes that offered the perfect blend of support, durability, and style. Keep scrolling for our favorite travel shoe!
Choosing the Best Walking Shoes for Travel
Keep in mind that what I consider the best travel shoes might not work for you—it’s all about finding the right fit for your needs! With that said, choosing the right travel shoes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning, you can find a pair of walking shoes to keep your feet happy through every adventure.
Here are my tried-and-true tips for finding the best walking shoes for your next trip:
1. Prioritize Comfort and Support
Comfort is everything when it comes to travel shoes. Look for features like arch support, cushioning, and stability to keep your feet happy during long days of walking.
A roomy toe box is key, especially if you have wide feet or plan to log daily miles. And if you suffer from issues like plantar fasciitis, seek out shoes specifically designed for your foot type.
Tip: If you need a little extra comfort, adding insoles like Dr. Scholl’s can really help give your shoes a comfort boost.
Comfortable Plush Foam Cushioning Inserts for Walking, Hiking, and Standing on Feet All-Day with Arch Support - Walk 50% Longer Without Muscle Fatigue
2. Pack Versatile Shoes
I’m all about versatility when it comes to shoes. Try finding comfortable shoes for walking long distances but still stylish enough to wear with any outfit.
While bright sneakers might be the trend, I prefer classic-style shoes in neutral shades like nude, tan, grey, or off-white for travel.
I also avoid stark white sneakers—they look great in photos but can be a pain to keep clean! If you’re set on white shoes, make sure they’re easy to wipe down or machine washable.
3. Go Lightweight and Breathable
Heavy shoes can turn every step into a workout. Instead, opt for lightweight sneakers made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas.
They’ll keep your feet cool, prevent overheating, and ensure you stay comfortable during long days of exploring.
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4. Waterproofing
Consider waterproofing to keep your feet dry. Rainy days or puddles can quickly ruin a day of sightseeing if your shoes aren’t waterproof.
If your shoes aren’t already waterproof, treat them with a waterproofing spray before your trip or opt for shoes that dry quickly.
5. Break Your Walking Shoes In Before Your Trip
This one’s simple but crucial: don’t pack brand-new shoes without giving them a test run. Wear them with both thin and thick socks, and take them on a few walks to make sure they’re ready for all-day wear.
Breaking them in will also allow you to see if you need to make any adjustments—like adding insoles or treating them with a waterproofing spray.
Trust me, there’s nothing worse than realizing your shoes need a break-in period when you’re already halfway around the world!
Now lets dive into our top travel walking shoes for your next adventure!
Best Travel Shoes For Your Next Adventure
After testing countless options, I’m excited to share my top picks for the best travel shoes—plus a few runner-up options for you to consider!
1. On Cloud 5 (Our Top Pick!)
Our go-to travel sneaker is the On Cloud 5, and before you roll your eyes, hear me out. Yes, these shoes are a cult favorite, and yes, they’re an investment—but they’re worth every penny!
I walked 591,696 steps in 7 countries on our 47-day, around-the-world honeymoon in my On Cloud 5 lightweight shoes, and they did not disappoint!
“The On Cloud 5 are hands-down the most comfortable walking shoes I’ve ever worn!”
Even after thousands of steps, my feet felt amazing—no soreness, no fatigue, and no need for the extra insoles I usually depend on for long-distance walking.
On Cloud also offers a waterproof version, though this model has fewer color options than the standard On Cloud 5.l
During a Zappos sale, we scored our On Cloud 5 Men’s and Women’s shoes for just $95!
These cute walking shoes transitioned seamlessly from strolling through the casual city streets of Amsterdam to hiking nature trails in Bali, consistently delivering unbeatable comfort and support.
Where to find On Cloud 5 Shoes:
- Amazon
- Zappos – *typically the best pricing
- Dicks Sporting Goods
- On Cloud
Note: I did notice a slight stretch after wearing them for a while. Initially, they felt a bit snug on the outer edges of my feet (I have slightly wider feet), but once broken in, they were perfect.
No rubbing, no discomfort, and most importantly, no blisters.
Need more convincing? Here’s why the On Cloud 5 earned the top spot.
Why You’ll Love the On Cloud 5:
- Neutral Colors for Travel: Perfect shades like off-white and tan make these shoes easy to pair with your travel capsule wardrobe. I loved the off-white option in the color Pearl White because it didn’t show dirt easily and cleaned up beautifully after the trip.
- Sustainability Materials: Made with 44% recycled materials, so you can feel good about your purchase!
- CloudTec® Technology: CloudTec® in Zero-Gravity foam provides exceptional cushioning, so every step feels effortless.
- Lightweight Design: Won’t weigh down your suitcase or your feet. Made with breathable mesh with taped reinforcements.
- Waterproof Option: Comes in basic, plush, and fully waterproof models.
- Easy to Clean: After the trip, I was impressed with how well they held up. Despite all the wear, a quick scrub brought them back to nearly new condition.
- Game-Changing Bungee Laces: No tying or untying required. These are a lifesaver for busy travel days—easy to slip on and off for airport security and places of worship throughout Japan and through cobblestone streets in Europe.
Cons to Consider
- Not made for runs.
- The soles have grooves that can trap small pebbles (see below image)
Whether traveling or just running errands at home, the On Cloud 5 have become my go-to shoe. They’ve even earned a spot in my daily routine for weightlifting classes and casual outings.
2. Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
Coming in second on my list of best travel shoes is the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2.
If you’re looking for a lightweight and breathable travel sneaker, the Tree Dasher 2 is a fantastic option for everyday walks, jogs, and light workouts—making them perfect for travel or active days.
Breathable Knit Active Shoe, Made From Natural Materials for Everyday Performance
Most of the Allbirds line has been a favorite for our family, but the updated Tree Dasher 2 takes it up a notch with more responsive foam, improved treads for extra grip, and a better fit, making them even more versatile for all your adventure needs.
I wore the Tree Dasher 2s for three weeks in Portugal, and they held up beautifully. The extra grip made walking on cobblestone streets feel secure, and the cushioned design kept my feet happy during long days of exploring.
Plus, their machine-washable feature made cleaning them after the trip a breeze—perfect for keeping them fresh and ready for the next adventure.
While they’re not ideal for intense hikes, they’re excellent for urban exploring, casual workouts, and light jogs. The breathable knit upper and lightweight design make them especially great for warm-weather trips.
Why You’ll Love The Tree Dashers 2:
- No-Slip Heel Fit: The improved heel collar locks your ankle in place for added stability.
- Sustainable Materials: Made with eco-friendly materials like eucalyptus tree fibers, sugarcane-based midsoles, recycled plastic bottle laces, and merino wool.
- Machine Washable: One of my favorite features! After a long trip, toss these sneakers into the washing machine (just skip the dryer), and they’ll come out looking fresh. I usually hand wash the laces and insoles separately for the best results.
- Lightweight Shoes and Breathable: The eucalyptus tree fiber knit upper is breezy and cool, perfect for warm days or long hours of walking. Despite being lightweight, they still provide built-in arch support for comfort.
- Perfect Fit: They come in half sizes, which is great if you’re between sizes—or if, like me, you appreciate a little extra wiggle room for foot swelling during long flights or days of exploring.
- Versatility: While they’re not ideal for intense hikes, they’re perfect for urban exploring, jogging, or casual workouts. They come in six classic neutral color options, along with 20 additional rotating limited-edition colors. The Weathered White (with Weathered White Sole) limited-edition color or the Medium Grey Classic are our top picks for a capsule wardrobe travel shoe—versatile, stylish, and easy to pair with almost any outfit.
Keep scrolling to discover more top-rated travel shoes, including Chelsea boots, comfortable sneakers, and ballet flats!
More Top Picks – Sandals, Flats, & Boots!
If the On Cloud 5 and Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 aren’t the perfect fit for you, here are 5 more top-rated travel shoe options to consider, each designed for different needs:
Teva Hurricane Xlt2
Best Outdoor Warm-Weather Shoe | Hiking Sandal
A lightweight and durable sandal, perfect for warm-weather adventures, hiking trails, or days by the water.
Quince Platform Sandal
Go-To Sandals for Vacation
$69.90
These stylish yet comfortable leather sandals transition effortlessly from casual beach days to dinners out, making them versatile travel shoes.
Allbirds Tree Breezers
Most Comfortable Ballet Flat
$100
Lightweight, breathable, and easy to pack, these flats are perfect for warm-weather trips, city exploring, or dressing up without sacrificing comfort.
Hoka Clifton 9
Comfortable Shoes for Wide Feet
With exceptional cushioning and a spacious fit, these are ideal for travelers with wide feet or those who need extra comfort for long walking days.
Available in regular and wide options.
Sam Edelman Chelsea Boots
Best Weatherproof Boots
Stylish and weatherproof, these Chelsea boots are perfect for cooler climates and light rainy travel days, keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
Choosing the right travel shoes is essential for enjoying every step of your journey. The wrong pair can quickly turn an awesome European vacation into a hotel stay with ice on your feet! That’s why it’s so important to prioritize comfort, versatility, and support when picking out the shoes you’ll depend on for your adventures.
Whether you need lightweight sneakers for warm-weather getaways, durable boots for rainy days, or slip-ons for airport convenience, the perfect travel shoe will keep your feet happy while complementing your style.
I hope this guide has helped you find your next go-to pair of travel shoes. If you’re still undecided, the On Cloud 5 is a personal favorite that I swear by.
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