5 Best Summer Shoes to Pack During a Vacation

April 17, 2024

How many shoes does one need to pack during a summer vacation? Here, MEGA breaks down the practical and fashion-forward footwear to wear this season

Shoes are probably the hardest items to pack for a summer vacation. Not only do they take up a lot of space in your luggage, but different activities call for different footwear needs. So, choosing versatile shoes that can effortlessly transition from day to night, and provide you comfort and protection, all while aligning with your personal style is crucial. To make sure you’re prepared without having to overpack, we identified the top 5 summer shoe must-haves and what type of activity they best fit for..

Classic Flip-Flops for Everyday Wear

Hate it or love it, but flip-flops are a need during summer outings. Whether you’re spending the day by the pool, walking on the beach, or washing off in public beach showers, it’s the most practical summer shoe option out there. While classic flip-flops are designed for practicality and are suitable for both wet and dry environments, modern ones are characterized by their minimalist construction with a Y-shaped strap for easy wear. Trusted flip-flop brand Havaianas offers customizable pairs. Choose from their wide selection of straps, soles, and pins to create one that is uniquely yours.

^{Flip-flops come in a variety of designs and colors that can easily match your outfit for the day}

Strappy Heels for Party Dinners

For more formal activities, the versatility of strappy sandals extends from casual daytime looks to elegant evening affairs. Pair it with a flowy maxi dress to nail the boho-chic trend or a short mini skirt to highlight your glowing, tan legs. We recommend PLNGKE’s Knaur Cube heels that offer different colors of interchangeable leather straps that you can use to match your outfit. You can even intertwine two straps together for a multi-colored braid effect. Since it also has a chunky block heel, they are easier to pack and more comfortable to wear because let’s face it who wants to suffer in stilettos when you’re on vacation?

^{Block heels are less likely to sink into grass or sand making them the safer option for summer destinations}

Platform Sandals for Daytime Strolls

Think of them as trendy heels but for the summer season. Platform sandals provide both height and style without sacrificing comfort and durability. It’s perfect for those walkathon days wherein you’ll be getting your steps in from going around town to discovering restaurants or hanging out in coffee shops. A local cult favorite is the Fettucine Platforms from JOS mundo which are sustainably made, even well-known Japanese model Kiko Mizuhara owns one. Each pair uses deadstock materials from Marikina and is made with a padded footbed to provide support to the feet.

^{Despite their bulky appearance, some platforms are made with lightweight material to make it easier to walk around in}

Woven Mules for Travel and Boat Days

Instead of wearing sneakers to the airport—a pair you will less likely use during the actual trip—opt for woven flat mules. They’re backless but close-toed, making it easy to slip on and off. If you’re also going on boat or yacht activities, go ahead and embrace nautical fashion. Wear the weaved mules with a blue-and-white striped day dress or polo, alongside a raffia-adorned bag, and a huge sun hat and you’re good to set sail. Check out Munimuni Studio’s Sierra which features a solihiya pattern, making the shoe breathable, or their Padman design which is made with handwoven natural fibers.

^{Flat sandals can tend to look bland, so opt for those that have extra design details via texture and dimension}

Sports Sandals for Trekking and Adventure Trips

For those sightseeing trips through mountains to get to waterfalls and rivers, a sports sandal is essential. Think molded footbeds, supportive straps, and shock-absorbing soles that can survive heat, rain, mud, and rocks. Sports sandals come with adjustable straps that allow you to get a perfect fit and keep your foot in place. We recommend Andanté Footwear’s The Sportif Sandal which is made with 100% genuine leather that molds into your feet as you wear them and soft leather insoles that prevent sweat.