Finding the best walking shoes for travel can be tough. You want something comfortable enough to get you through a full day of wandering around, but not so comfortable that it screams “I'm a tourist!” And since nobody wants to tote around a bag (checked or otherwise) filled with shoes, the ones that do make the packing list cut need to be versatile enough to wear with multiple outfits. Knowing that a bad pair of shoes can ruin an otherwise lovely travel day, we asked Condé Nast Traveller writers and editors to share their tried-and-true kicks, so you don't have to take a gamble on whether they'll actually be comfortable or not.
Whether you're looking for sneakers, boots, flats, or sandals, we have recommendations for you. Below we've listed our favourite high-quality, easy-to-pack walking shoes for travel – all cushy, supportive, and versatile – that will take you just about anywhere. Scroll through to see all of our favourites, or jump straight to the category you're looking for below.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Elaheh Nozari and Andrea Whittle. With my awkwardly wide feet, I’ve become a convert to barefoot shoes – but the Vivo Barefoot Forest Tracker ESC is the first pair of barefoot hiking boots I’ve owned.
Traditionally, I’ve found too many hiking boots both heavy and prone to rubbing, so these have been a revelation. While the Michelin rubber outsole is grippy and heavy dut.