Holidays are meant for moving. Airport corridors, uneven streets, and markets that seem to go on forever. The last thing you want is sore feet cutting your day short.
The right travel sandals can make all the difference: light enough for packing, strong enough for long walks, and supportive enough to keep you comfortable from take-off to touch-down.
At Forbes Footwear, we’ve helped travellers find comfort-ready sandals for decades. Here’s how to choose a pair that will feel good every step of the way.
Choose Travel Sandals With Structure, Not Just Softness
Many people assume soft equals comfortable, but even the best travel sandals need firm support to keep feet aligned. Too-soft soles can make feet work harder, leading to fatigue. A supportive base is more important than extra cushioning.
Look for:
- Contoured arch support to distribute weight evenly.
- Firm heel counter that holds the heel steady.
- Midfoot stability. The sandal should bend at the toes, not in the middle.
- Heel rise around 8–12 mm to reduce strain on calves and arches.
- Deep heel cup that keeps the foot centred and balanced.
Think of these features as the “frame” that keeps your foot aligned while the straps handle comfort and fit.
Check the Fit Before You Pack
Your feet can swell on long flights and warm days. Sandals that fit snugly in winter might feel tight by lunchtime in Bali.
A travel-ready fit leaves some space around the toes and heel, with adjustable straps that hold the midfoot without pinching. If you use custom orthotics, look for removable insoles or a sandal with enough internal depth to fit them comfortably.
A quick test before you go:
- Stand and shift weight side to side. Your foot shouldn’t slide or hang over the edge.
- Press the heel counter. It should feel firm, not floppy.
- Flex the sole. It should bend only at the ball of the foot.
Those small checks can prevent blisters, arch pain, and unwanted shoe-shopping detours while overseas.
Plan for Walking, Not Just Strolling
Even if your itinerary says “relax,” most holidays involve more walking than expected. From city sightseeing to last-minute airport dashes, the best sandals for travel are built for distance.
Prioritise:
- Lightweight yet stable construction to reduce fatigue.
- Shock-absorbing midsoles for long days on pavement.
- Textured outsoles that grip on wet tiles or gravel.
- Secure heel strap — slides or thongs can strain toes during long walks.
For maximum versatility, many travellers choose sandals from orthopaedic or active brands such as Klouds, Taos, or Naot, available through Forbes Footwear. These combine casual looks with hidden support.
Balance Breathability and Protection
Hot climates call for breathable travel sandals, but even open designs should still protect your feet. Thin soles and open designs expose you to uneven surfaces, while thick leather uppers can trap heat.
A few comfort-proof rules:
- Choose uppers made from soft leather or breathable knit rather than rigid synthetics.
- Pick sandals with smooth, padded linings to prevent rubbing.
- If you’ll be walking on rough ground, closed-toe styles shield against scrapes without sacrificing ventilation.
Travellers often ask if waterproof sandals are a must. For beach or boating holidays, yes; water-friendly materials dry quickly and resist odour. For city trips, breathable leather is usually cooler and more supportive.
Keep Weight and Versatility in Mind
Packing light doesn’t mean compromising comfort. Ideally, your travel sandals should pair with multiple outfits and handle both sightseeing and dinners out.
A neutral pair of travel sandals works from daywear to dinners and saves space in your luggage. Prioritise minimal seams and easily adjustable straps so you can fine-tune fit after long days.
Weight also matters. Heavier sandals may feel secure at first but add unnecessary bulk in your luggage. Lightweight designs with structured soles often offer the same stability without the extra grams.
Mind Your Foot Health Mid-Trip
Even the most comfortable travel sandals can cause discomfort if your feet aren’t cared for on the road
- Alternate pairs if possible; different footbeds use different muscles.
- Rinse off sand or dust to prevent grit rubbing inside straps.
- Let sandals dry overnight in a cool, shaded spot. Avoid leaving them in direct sun, which can warp materials.
- Stretch calves and arches daily to ease travel stiffness.
If soreness persists, swap to a sandal with stronger midfoot support or a deeper heel cup. Forbes Footwear’s blog on supportive shoes for plantar fasciitis explains how these specs help relieve pressure on the heel and arch.
Try Before You Fly
Online shopping makes it tempting to order last-minute, but a professional fitting can save headaches later. Feet change shape over time, and the right width can be as important as the right length.
At the Forbes Footwear Hornsby showroom, trained fitters measure your feet and offer advice and recommendations on the best options. That extra 15 minutes often means the difference between a sandal that “just fits” and one you can walk in all day without pain.
Enjoy the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Supportive sandals are about freedom. When your feet feel good, you walk further, see more, and remember less about discomfort and more about the trip itself.
Pack one pair that looks great, another that walks great. Or better yet, find one that does both.