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15 Shoes You Should Never Pack for Vacation (I Learned the Hard Way!)

15 Shoes You Should Never Pack for Vacation (I Learned the Hard Way!)

Packing for vacation is a delicate balance—bring too little, and you’ll end up desperately searching for a last-minute fix. Bring too much, and you’ll be hauling around a suitcase that feels like it’s carrying bricks (spoiler: those bricks are probably your poor shoe choices).

Trust me, I’ve been there. From blisters that nearly ruined a dream getaway to shoes that made sightseeing feel like a survival challenge, I’ve made every packing mistake in the book. And after learning the hard way, I’m here to save you from the same fate.

Before you zip up your suitcase, do yourself a favor and leave these 15 shoes at home. Your feet (and your sanity) will thank you!

1. High Heels

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Sure, they make any outfit look chic, but high heels are one of the worst shoes to pack for vacation. They’re uncomfortable for long walks, unstable on uneven terrain, and take up unnecessary space in your suitcase.

If you’re heading to a city with cobblestone streets or lots of stairs, wearing heels will quickly become a nightmare. Instead, opt for stylish flats or wedges that offer both comfort and elegance.

2. Brand-New Shoes

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I once packed a brand-new pair of sneakers for a sightseeing-heavy trip, thinking they’d be perfect. Big mistake. Within hours, I had painful blisters, and by the end of the day, I was desperately searching for band-aids.

Always break in new shoes before your trip to avoid turning your vacation into a foot-pain disaster.

3. Flip-Flops (As Your Only Shoe)

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Flip-flops are great for the beach or pool, but relying on them as your main footwear is a huge mistake. They offer zero support, which can lead to aching feet and even injuries if you’re walking long distances.

Plus, they’re not practical for exploring cities, hiking, or visiting museums. Pack them as an extra pair, but always bring comfortable walking shoes too.

4. Heavy Hiking Boots (If You’re Not Hiking)

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If you’re not trekking through rugged trails, there’s no reason to pack bulky hiking boots. They take up a huge amount of suitcase space, weigh you down, and can make your feet uncomfortably hot in warm climates. Unless your vacation involves actual hiking, swap them out for lightweight sneakers or walking shoes.

5. Cheap Sandals

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I once brought a pair of flimsy sandals on a tropical vacation, thinking they’d be perfect. By day two, the thin sole had worn down, and my feet ached from the lack of support.

Worse, the strap broke in the middle of a city tour, leaving me scrambling to buy an emergency replacement. Always invest in well-made, supportive sandals that can handle hours of walking.

6. Overly Fancy Dress Shoes

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It’s tempting to pack sleek dress shoes for a nice dinner or night out, but they’re often not worth the space. They’re usually stiff, uncomfortable, and completely impractical for anything beyond a short stroll.

Instead of packing a pair of shoes you’ll wear once, bring a stylish yet comfortable option, like loafers or dressy flats.

7. Platform Sneakers or Chunky Soles

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Trendy? Yes. Travel-friendly? Absolutely not. Chunky platform sneakers add unnecessary weight to your luggage, and their bulky shape makes them a hassle to pack. Worse, they can be unstable on uneven streets, making you more likely to trip. Stick to lightweight, supportive sneakers for all-day comfort.

8. Slip-On Mules

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Mules may be fashionable, but they’re a terrible choice for vacation walking. Because they don’t secure properly to your feet, you’ll constantly be adjusting them or risking a painful slip.

I once wore mules on a sightseeing day, and after hours of struggling to keep them on, I regretted every step. A pair of secure, comfortable flats is a much better choice.

9. Ballet Flats (With No Support)

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Ballet flats seem like a great option—lightweight, easy to pack, and stylish. But after hours of walking, you’ll realize their biggest flaw: lack of support. They provide no arch support, which leads to foot fatigue and pain. Instead, choose flats with proper cushioning and arch support for all-day comfort.

10. Stiff Leather Shoes

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If your shoes need a long break-in period, they’re not vacation-friendly. Stiff leather shoes can cause painful blisters, especially if you’re walking more than usual.

I made the mistake of bringing a pair of brand-new leather loafers once, and by midday, my heels were completely raw. Soft, flexible shoes that conform to your feet are always a better option.

11. Plastic or Jelly Shoes

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Plastic shoes may seem waterproof and practical, but they come with hidden downsides. They don’t breathe, which means sweaty, blister-prone feet, especially in hot climates.

Plus, they often lack proper cushioning, making them uncomfortable for long wear. A pair of breathable sandals or water-resistant sneakers is a smarter pick.

12. Tall Boots (Unless It’s Winter Travel)

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Tall boots take up an enormous amount of space in your suitcase and are rarely practical for vacation. If you’re not traveling to a cold destination, they’ll just make your feet hot and uncomfortable. Instead of packing heavy boots, opt for ankle boots or lightweight sneakers that offer versatility without the bulk.

13. Thin-Soled Espadrilles

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Espadrilles may look cute, but they’re often a terrible choice for sightseeing. Their thin soles provide little to no cushioning, meaning your feet will ache after just a short walk.

Plus, they wear out quickly and don’t hold up well on uneven pavement. If you love the look, choose a pair with better arch support and padding.

14. Unstable Wedges

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Wedges might seem like a comfortable alternative to heels, but they can still cause issues when traveling. If they’re too high or have an unstable sole, they can make walking on uneven streets difficult.

I once nearly twisted my ankle walking on cobblestones in a pair of wedges—never again! Stick with low, supportive wedges or comfortable block heels if you want some height.

15. Slipper-Style House Shoes

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Hotel slippers or soft house shoes are cozy, but they’re not practical for vacation. They provide no support, making them terrible for any kind of walking beyond your hotel room. If you need something comfy for lounging, pack lightweight slides or cushioned flip-flops instead.