Stop Packing This In Your Suitcase (It's A Complete Waste Of Space)
If you want to pack your suitcase efficiently in a way that maximizes space, you're going to want to pay special attention to how you pack your shoes. For fashion-lovers, planning those vacation outfits is one of the highlights of the trip planning process, but if you aren't careful, you could end up with an overstuffed suitcase. During your vacation, you'll have to lug that suitcase on planes and trains, shuffle it between rental cars and taxis, and haul it up steep staircases when you reach your hotel. There's a reason why so many travel experts, like Rick Steves, emphasize the importance of packing light.
Fitting bulky shoes in your suitcase is one of the biggest packing challenges to overcome. Ultimately, you should avoid packing extra pairs of shoes because they are a complete waste of space in your suitcase. If you're trying to pack light in a carry-on suitcase, a maximum of two pairs of shoes should get you through a vacation that lasts anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. You should also make sure that you avoid packing your heaviest and bulkiest shoes.
Packing multiple pairs of shoes for a vacation wastes space
Shoes are some of the most awkward items to pack in a suitcase. If you place them at the bottom, you'll have limited room on top. If you try to squeeze them on top of your clothes, you may end up with an overfilled suitcase that won't fit in the overhead bin. As a recovering overpacker, I have been forced to leave a pair of vintage boots at the airport because my suitcase was so overfilled that the employees at the boarding gate wouldn't let me bring it on the plane. Travelers who have mastered the art of packing light usually suggest bringing a maximum of two pairs of shoes on vacation.
Comfortable shoes are crucial when it comes to traveling. If you're visiting a brand new city, you'll likely spend a ton of time on your feet. Many travelers think that it's a good idea to bring along a few extra pairs of shoes so that they have the opportunity to switch them out to avoid discomfort or painful blisters. That's smart thinking, but most of the time, you don't really need more than two different pairs.
If you're a fashion lover, it may feel really challenging to narrow your packing list down to two pairs, but when you're carrying your suitcase around on vacation, you'll be glad that you did. Limited-use shoes like high heels are one of the items travelers often regret packing for vacation as they usually end up sitting in the suitcase unworn. Save the room in your suitcase for clothing, light layers, and other crucial travel items.
The best strategy for packing shoes that won't waste space in your luggage
The key to maximizing space in your suitcase is to wear whichever pair of shoes is larger and more bulky on the plane. The other pair can be packed in your suitcase without taking up too much room.
You'll want to pack one pair of shoes that are super comfortable and easy to walk in. Many travelers opt for a stylish tennis shoe that will be comfortable for all kinds of activities like hiking, biking, and sightseeing. You'll also need at least one pair of shoes that could be dressed up or down for dining out at restaurants, or hitting the city to enjoy some nightlife. In some destinations, particularly European cities, people tend to dress up more, so do a little research about your destination to figure out what kinds of things people are wearing before you choose which shoes to pack.
Personally, my go-to travel shoe is a leather Chelsea boot with a slight heel. They are comfortable enough to wear during a day of sightseeing, and they can be dressed up for a night out on the town. In a neutral color, they're able to be mixed and matched with every type of outfit. They look equally stylish with jeans and t-shirt as they do with a nice midi length dress. For summer travel, I opt for a comfortable pair of leather sandals instead of flip flops. If you absolutely can't narrow it down to two pairs of shoes, consider bringing three: a comfy pair of tennis shoes, a slightly more elevated closed-toe shoe, and a pair of leather sandals that can be easily stowed in the front pocket of your suitcase without taking up too much space. Check out our complete guide to packing light for more great tips.