If packing clothes feels like a Herculean task, wait until you have to choose between packing the right shoes. But what if we told you that you could travel with just one pair of shoes! As impossible as it may sound, traveling can become much easier and less chaotic when you choose just one pair of shoes to accompany you on your trip. How can you travel with just one pair of shoes? Here’s a complete guide to acing the shoe dilemma in your travel itinerary!
Traveling With One Pair Of Shoes: A Comprehensive Guide
Shoes are the silent saviors that can truly enhance your travel experience. However, one wrong decision in choosing the right shoes can make your travel miserable. Think of uncomfortable or ill-fitting shoes, shoes that do not go with your outfits and occasions, and shoes that make you want to sit inside your hotel room rather than step out to explore.
While you may think that the solution to this problem is carrying ten different pairs of shoes, the solution does not lie in the number of pairs of shoes! Even a single pair of shoes can elevate your travel experience.
First Things First: The ‘One-Pair-Of-Shoes’ Strategy Is Not Applicable To Any And All Travel Plans
There are some travel plans that are more diverse and extensive than others. For example, a travel plan that includes attending a wedding, then heading to explore different places, and partaking in adventurous activities is starkly different from a travel plan that’s focused only on a long weekend spent in a countryside farmhouse.
The former plan will involve different activities and even terrains, so carrying different pairs of shoes becomes essential. However, when a travel plan is largely involved around similar activities or a certain kind of lifestyle, you can work your way through with just a pair of shoes.
Take a look at your itinerary first! If it involves activities that are more or less similar, such as days of hanging out around a town, exploring art galleries and museums, exploring fancy restaurants and cafes, or indulging in adventurous sports on all or most days, sticking to one pair of shoes makes sense.
Also Read: Fashion Girl Travel: Indian Destinations That Match Your Style Aesthetic
The Golden Rule: Choose a Function That Looks Like Style
Your one pair of shoes should pass three major questions:
- Can you walk hundreds of steps comfortably without hurting your feet?
- Can they be styled with at least a majority of your outfits?
- Can you wear them all day for different occasions?
If the answer to any of these questions is a ‘no’, there’s scope for swapping your shoes for those that answer all three questions with a ‘yes’!
So What Kind of Shoes Actually Work?
There’s no single correct answer, but there are categories that consistently win!
- Sneakers
They are the undefeated champions when it comes to comfortable travel. Not gym shoes, not neon-colored trainers, or sneakers with extra pizzazz! Think minimal, well-structured sneakers that are comfortable on your feet. Sneakers that can handle a day of walking without giving up or hurting your feet. The kind of sneakers that can look good in both nature trails and cafes.
Suitable for: Walking for long periods of time, hiking and trekking, casual strolling, attending events and visiting places
- Strap sandals/thong sandals
Sturdy sandals can also be a great option, especially for warmer destinations like beaches. Choose sandals that are sturdy in structure and have reliable straps that won’t betray you mid-walk. You can choose between strap sandals (either single- or double-strapped) or thong sandals or even flip-flops. Both kinds of sandals are quite versatile, especially on loungewear, relaxed beachwear, and casual-chic outfits.
Suitable for: Beach-related getaways, casual strolling, attending events and visiting places
- Versatile flats or loafers
Flats and loafers are also a great choice that can be styled effortlessly with casual as well as chic and glamorous outfits. They’re great for slow and casual exploration and walking that is steady but not extreme. Remember to break in into your flats and loafers beforehand so you’re more comfortable using them throughout your trip.
Suitable for: City-focused trips, casual strolling, attending events and visiting places
Also Read: Summer Vacation Packing List: Essentials for a Hassle-Free Trip in India
Styling One Pair Of Shoes Without Looking Repetitive
Wearing the same pair of shoes doesn’t have to involve you looking the same everyday. With the right styling, you can easily create magic with just a single pair of shoes! Here’s how you can do it:
- Change silhouettes: Experiment with pants (loose pants, ankle-length pants, fitted denim) and tops (oversized tees, cropped tops, loose shirts, fitted tops, etc)
- Play with layers: Layering can truly elevate your outfit game when traveling. We’re talking about draping jackets and scarves and layering waistcoasts and trenchcoats.
- Accessorize: Sunglasses, hats, stacked jewelry, small handbags, etc can help you differentiate between outfits, even if they’re essentially using the same tops/bottoms.
What many travelers don’t realize is that even though they’re carrying just one pair of shoes, many hotels and hostels offer an additional pair of slippers. Depending on the material, they can be used either within the room or the hotel premises. If they are flip-flops made of sturdy materials, you can also use them for casual strolling, at least in and around markets, beaches, or in the hotel premises.
Summing Up
Traveling with just one pair of shoes is difficult but not impossible. While it’s not ideal for a happening itinerary, it definitely works for itineraries where you’re indulging in similar kinds of activities over the duration of your trip. Just remember to keep them clean, deodorize them, and carry a few pairs of socks.
