Travel Shoes: The Ones That Actually Survived My Trips

If there’s one thing I take very seriously when travelling, it’s shoes.
A bad pair can absolutely ruin a day or worse, an entire trip.

One of the questions I get asked the most (and see constantly online) is: “What shoes do you wear when you travel?”

The honest answer?
Whatever you already own, that is comfortable.

You don’t need to buy a brand new pair of shoes just for one trip. In fact, that’s usually not a great idea.

Here’s a small reality check: If you don’t regularly walk 20,000 steps at home, but suddenly plan to walk that much every day while travelling… your feet will probably hurt. No matter what shoes you’re wearing.

My Travel Shoe Must

I usually pack two pairs of shoes, so they need to tick a few important boxes:

  • Comfortable for long days

  • Weather appropriate

  • No blisters

  • Works with most of my outfits

It took years of trial and error (and a few questionable shoe decisions) to find the ones that work for me. There are still a couple of brands I’d love to test, but this lineup has been very reliable so far.

My Everyday Travel Boots: Blundstones

I like to call these my adventurer’s boots.

They’re:

  • Waterproof

  • Extremely comfortable

  • Blister-proof

  • Easy to style with almost anything I pack

I’ve been wearing Blundstones for over seven years, and I recommend them to almost everyone who asks about travel boots.

They’ve survived cities, countryside walks, unexpected rain, and long travel days which is really all you can ask from a pair of shoes.

Mid-Season & Summer: Birkenstocks

I own two pairs:

  • Boston for a quick run to the shop or a coffee date with a friend

  • Mayari for slightly cuter outfits when I want to feel a bit more put together and let the toes breathe

The sole does need a little breaking in at first, but once it adapts to your foot, they become incredibly comfortable for walking.

The only downside?
I avoid wearing them in wet conditions which is where my next pair comes in.

Beach, City & Adventure Days: Teva Sandals

I wanted a sandal that could handle beach days, city walking, and a bit of adventure.

A friend recommended Tevas. At first I wasn’t convinced, the classic thick straps weren’t really my style. But after a little research I found a version with thinner straps and a nicer colour, and they turned out to be a great find.

I walked 15,000 steps on the very first day wearing them in 30°C heat — no blisters, no sore feet. Immediate win.

New Favourite: ASICS Cumulus 16

These have recently joined my travel rotation.

They’re:

  • Breathable

  • Great for everyday exploring

  • Perfect for more active days

I wanted a pair that worked for long city walks, park strolls, and busier travel days. They proved particularly useful on New Year’s Eve when I knew I’d be standing for hours.

My Best Advice

Use what you already own and know is comfortable.

The biggest mistake travellers make is starting a trip with brand new, untested shoes only to discover halfway through the first day that they cause blisters.

Break your shoes in before travelling. Your feet will thank you.

Happy exploring and take care of those feet. They’re doing a lot of work on your adventures.