Best Shoes for Traveling in 2026: Comfort & Support for Every Journey

The right travel shoes can transform your trip from exhausting to exhilarating. Whether you're navigating airport terminals, exploring cobblestone streets in Europe, or walking miles through city attractions, your footwear needs to deliver exceptional comfort, reliable support, lasting durability, and versatile style. At Peltz Shoes, we've spent decades helping travelers find footwear that keeps their feet happy from departure to destination.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about choosing the best shoes for traveling, plus our top product recommendations for every type of journey.

Essential Features to Look for in Travel Shoes 🌎

Before investing in travel footwear, prioritize these critical features that separate exceptional travel shoes from ordinary ones:

1. All-Day Comfort for Extended Wear

Travel days routinely involve 10,000 to 20,000 steps or more. Look for shoes with cushioned footbeds, superior shock absorption, and anatomical arch support. Comfort isn't negotiable when you're exploring a new city or standing in museum lines for hours.

2. Lightweight Construction to Reduce Fatigue

Heavy shoes accelerate foot fatigue and consume valuable luggage weight allowance. Modern travel shoes use advanced materials that provide structure and support without unnecessary bulk, making them easier to pack and more comfortable to wear all day.

3. Versatility for Multiple Occasions

The best travel shoes transition seamlessly from morning walking tours to afternoon shopping and casual evening dining. Choose neutral colors like black, navy, gray, or tan, and clean silhouettes that complement multiple outfits without looking overly athletic.

4. Breathable Materials for Temperature Regulation

Breathable uppers made from leather, mesh, or technical fabrics help regulate foot temperature and prevent moisture buildup. Cork footbeds naturally wick moisture and provide antimicrobial benefits, keeping feet fresh during long travel days.

5. Durable Construction for Miles of Walking

Quality travel shoes withstand diverse surfaces—airport tile, city sidewalks, cobblestone streets, gravel paths, and more. Look for reinforced stitching, quality outsoles with good traction, and materials that resist scuffing and wear.

Best Walking Shoes for Travel: Maximum Comfort for Sightseeing 🏞️

A premium walking shoe is the foundation of any travel wardrobe. These shoes handle the demands of all-day exploration while providing the support your feet need.

Key Features in Travel Walking Shoes:

• Supportive midsoles with shock-absorbing technology
• Cushioned, removable insoles for custom orthotics if needed
• Flexible outsoles that move naturally with your gait
• Secure lacing systems that prevent slipping
• Moisture-wicking linings to keep feet dry

Our Top Walking Shoe Recommendations:

Women's Vionic Walk Quest Walking Sneaker - The Walk Quest walking shoe is an excellent choice for travel, offering comfort, support, and versatility for long days on your feet. Its lightweight, breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool while moving through airports, sightseeing, or exploring new destinations. The EVA cushioned orthotic insole with arch support and heel stability helps reduce fatigue during extended walking, while the shock-absorbing midsole and flexible rubber outsole provide smooth, reliable traction on a variety of surfaces. With a classic lace-up design and APMA acceptance for promoting foot health, the Walk Quest delivers dependable all-day comfort wherever your travels take you.

Clarks Pace Walking Sneaker - Available for both Men and Women, the Clarks Pace walking shoes are an ideal travel companion, designed to keep you comfortable and supported through long days of exploring. With instant comfort straight out of the box, the molded S-curve heel and dual-layer C360 foam midsole absorb impact and help propel you forward, reducing fatigue while walking through airports, city streets, or tourist attractions. The breathable woven knit upper keeps feet cool, while the stable TPU heel clip and grippy rubber outsole provide confidence on a variety of surfaces. APMA-certified and engineered specifically for walking, the Clarks Pace offers reliable comfort, energy return, and stability for travel days that don’t slowdown.

Women's Skechers, Slip-ins: Glide-Step - Pursuit Sneaker - The Skechers Glide-Step – Peak is an ideal travel shoe, designed to keep you comfortable and moving with ease from airport terminals to city streets. Its hands-free slip-in design with stretch laces makes it quick to put on and go, while the breathable, machine-washable upper keeps things fresh on the road. The Glide-Step geometric midsole promotes smooth, natural momentum, and the Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole delivers all-day cushioning. Finished with a secure Heel Pillow, flexible traction outsole, and 100% vegan materials, this sneaker offers reliable comfort, convenience, and versatility for every step of your journey.

Men's Skechers, Slip-ins Relaxed Fit: Oak Canyon - Consistent Winner Sneaker - The Skechers Slip-ins Relaxed Fit: Oak Canyon – Consistent Winner Sneaker is a dependable travel companion built for comfort and versatility on the go. Its durable suede, synthetic, and mesh upper stands up to long days of sightseeing, while the hands-free slip-in design makes airport security and quick changes effortless. The relaxed fit offers extra room for all-day comfort, complemented by an Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole and shock-absorbing midsole for cushioned support. Finished with a secure Heel Pillow and flexible traction outsole, this sneaker is perfect for exploring new destinations with confidence and ease.

Best Sandals for Travel: Warm-Weather Comfort ☀️

Travel sandals are essential for warm-climate destinations, beach vacations, cruises, and summer adventures. The right sandals provide support comparable to closed shoes while keeping feet cool and comfortable.

What Makes a Great Travel Sandal:

• Contoured footbeds that support natural foot shape
• Adjustable straps for customized fit
• Shock-absorbing soles for walking comfort
• Lightweight, packable design
• Quick on-and-off convenience for airport security

Our Top Sandal Recommendations:

Men's Ecco, Yucatan Sandal - The Yucatan adventure sandal is an excellent travel companion for warm-weather getaways and active sightseeing. Designed with three adjustable hook-and-loop straps, it offers a secure, customizable fit that’s easy to adjust on the go. The anatomically contoured footbed supports natural foot movement for all-day comfort, while the compression-molded midsole provides reliable shock absorption. Finished with a durable nubuck leather and manmade upper and an omni-directional rubber outsole for confident traction on varied terrain, this sandal is ready to take you from city exploring to outdoor adventures with ease.

Birkenstock Arizona Sandals - Available for both Men and Women, the iconic Birkenstock Arizona remains a travel staple for good reason. The contoured cork footbed molds to your unique foot shape over time, providing personalized support. Available in multiple materials including Birko-Flor and Birkibuc, and in both regular and narrow widths, these sandals offer legendary comfort for all-day wear.

Men's KEEN, Newport H2 Sandal - This iconic hybrid sandal is a must-have travel companion for adventures that move seamlessly between land and water. Designed with quick-dry webbing, a secure bungee lacing system, and legendary rubber toe protection, it keeps your feet comfortable and protected while exploring trails, rivers, and city streets alike. The cushioned EVA midsole and contoured footbed support all-day wear, while the razor-siped outsole delivers dependable traction on wet and dry surfaces. Versatile, rugged, and water-ready, this sandal is perfect for travelers who want one do-it-all option for every destination.

Women's Merrell, Terran 4 Post Wrap Sandal - The Terran 4 Post Wrap sandal is a perfect travel essential for breezy days and on-the-go comfort. Crafted with a mix of full grain leather and recycled textiles, it offers a lightweight, casual style ideal for sightseeing or relaxed adventures. The plush FloatMax foam insole and shock-absorbing midsole provide soft, supportive cushioning for long days on your feet, while the adjustable strap ensures a secure, customized fit. Finished with eco-conscious materials and a durable outsole, this sandal blends comfort, versatility, and sustainability for effortless travel wear.

Best Slip-On Shoes for Travel: Convenience Meets Comfort ✈️

Slip-on shoes are a traveler's best friend, offering effortless convenience for airport security, quick hotel room exits, and casual exploration days. 

Benefits of Travel Slip-Ons:

• Lightning-fast on and off for TSA checkpoints
• No laces to tie or come undone during travel
• Comfortable for long flights when feet may swell
• Perfect for casual sightseeing and relaxed travel days

During flights, feet often swell due to cabin pressure and prolonged sitting. Choose shoes that accommodate this natural expansion while remaining comfortable for immediate post-flight walking.

Ideal Flight Shoe Features:

• Soft, flexible uppers that accommodate swelling
• Roomy toe boxes with adequate wiggle room
• Lightweight construction that doesn't add bulk
• Easy slip-on design for bathroom trips and deplaning
• Versatile styling for immediate sightseeing after landing

Our Top Slip-On Recommendations:

Women's Easy Spirit, Traveltime Classic Clog - This slip-on clog is a smart travel choice for all-day comfort and easy wear on the go. Designed with breathable mesh panels, it promotes airflow to keep your feet cool and dry while exploring new destinations. The cushioned, removable sock liner offers supportive shock absorption for long days of walking, and the closed-toe design adds versatility and protection. Finished with a durable rubber outsole for reliable traction, this clog delivers effortless comfort and stability wherever your travels take you.

Men's Hey Dude, Wally Stretch Sox Slip-On - The Hey Dude Wally Stretch Sox Slip-Ons are an ideal travel shoe, especially for breezing through the airport with ease. Their lightweight, foldable design and slip-on fit with elastic laces make security checks and long travel days effortless. The stretch mesh upper with a water-repellent finish keeps feet comfortable and protected, while the wide toe area allows for natural movement and airflow. Finished with a cushioned ankle collar and removable memory foam insole, this airport-friendly shoe delivers relaxed comfort and packable convenience from takeoff to touchdown.

Women's Clarks, Breezey Izzy Slip-On - The Clarks Breezey Izzy slip-ons are an excellent travel shoe designed to keep airport days and sightseeing effortless. Their lightweight Cloudsteppers construction and slip-on styling with elastic panels make them easy to take on and off at security, while providing a secure, flexible fit throughout the day. The breathable perforated knit upper helps keep feet cool, and the removable Cushion Soft footbed delivers plush comfort for long hours on the move. Finished with an ultra-light, flexible sole, this airport-friendly sneaker is perfect for travel days, vacations, and everyday wear alike.

Men's Reef, Swellsole Neptune Slip-On Sneaker - The Swellsole Neptune is a travel-ready sneaker designed for comfort, speed, and simplicity—making it especially airport friendly. Its breathable knit upper with stretch panels and slip-on design allows for quick on-and-off convenience at security, while providing a flexible, adaptive fit throughout the day. The ultra-cushioned SWELLsole footbed delivers soft, responsive support with enhanced arch comfort, and the lightweight EVA outsole keeps every step energized. Easy, lightweight, and supportive, this shoe is perfect for travelers who want effortless comfort from terminal to destination.

Travel Shoe Shopping Tips: Getting the Perfect Fit 📏

Even the best travel shoes won't perform well if they don't fit properly. Follow these expert fitting tips:

• Shop later in the day when feet are naturally slightly swollen, mimicking travel conditions
• Measure both feet and fit to the larger foot—feet often differ in size
• Wear appropriate socks when trying on shoes to ensure accurate fit
• Walk around the store to test comfort, support, and any potential pressure points
• Check for proper length with about a thumb's width between your longest toe and shoe end
• Ensure adequate width without pinching at the widest part of your foot
• Consider your arch type and choose shoes with appropriate support levels

Breaking In Travel Shoes: Don't Skip This Step 🚨

Never wear brand-new shoes on a trip without breaking them in first. Follow this timeline:

• 3-4 weeks before travel: Purchase your travel shoes
• Week 1: Wear for 1-2 hours daily around the house
• Week 2: Increase to 3-4 hours, including short walks
• Week 3: Wear for full days and longer walks
• Week 4: Confirm comfort with a practice walk matching your expected daily travel distance

This gradual break-in period allows materials to soften, footbeds to mold to your feet, and reveals any fit issues before you're thousands of miles from home.

How Many Pairs of Shoes Should You Pack for Travel? 🧳

The ideal number depends on trip length and activities, but follow this general guideline:

• Weekend trips (2-4 days): 2 pairs—one walking shoe and one versatile sandal or slip-on
• Week-long trips: 2-3 pairs—walking shoes, sandals or slip-ons, and optional dressier shoes
• Extended travel (2+ weeks): 3 pairs—rotate walking shoes to allow drying time, plus sandals

Rotating shoes allows them to fully dry between wears, reduces odor buildup, prevents excessive wear on a single pair, and gives different muscle groups in your feet a break from repetitive stress.

Additional Travel Shoe Care Tips 

Protect your travel shoe investment with these care strategies:

• Apply water and stain protector before your first wear
• Pack shoes in shoe bags to protect clothing and keep shoes clean
• Stuff shoes with socks or tissue paper to maintain shape during packing
• Air out shoes each evening by removing insoles
• Spot-clean shoes during your trip to prevent stain setting
• Use cedar shoe trees for leather shoes to absorb moisture and maintain shape

Why Choose Peltz Shoes for Your Travel Footwear?

At Peltz Shoes, we've been fitting travelers with comfortable, supportive footwear since our founding. Our heritage is built on three pillars: exceptional selection, expert fitting, and genuine service.

When you shop with us, you benefit from:

• Curated comfort brands: We stock only proven brands known for quality and comfort - Brooks, Skechers, Birkenstock, Clarks and more
• Expert fitting services: Our knowledgeable team understands foot biomechanics and can recommend shoes for your specific needs
• Wide size and width ranges: From narrow to extra-wide, we carry sizes that actually fit
• Real-world testing: We recommend shoes designed for actual walking and standing, not just fashion
• Styles for everyone: Comprehensive selections for men and women across all age groups

Whether you're planning a European adventure, a tropical beach getaway, a cross-country road trip, or a weekend city escape, we have travel shoes engineered to go the distance.

Start Your Journey With the Right Shoes

Your feet carry you through every adventure, landmark, and memory you make while traveling. Investing in proper travel footwear isn't just about comfort—it's about ensuring you can fully experience your destination without foot pain, blisters, or fatigue limiting your exploration.

The best shoes for traveling combine proven comfort technology, durable construction, versatile styling, and proper fit. With the right footwear from trusted brands, you can walk confidently from airport to attraction, knowing your feet are well-supported every step of the way.

Shop Travel Shoes at Peltz Shoes

Ready to upgrade your travel footwear? Explore our complete collection of comfortable walking shoes, supportive sandals, convenient slip-ons, and travel-ready styles at www.peltzshoes.com. Visit one of our Florida locations for personalized fitting assistance or shop online with confidence knowing you're choosing from our carefully curated selection of comfort-focused brands.

Your next adventure deserves footwear that keeps up. Step into your journey with Peltz Shoes—where comfort, quality, and service have been our foundation for generations.