50 of the Best Cute (and Comfortable) Sandals for Travel

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It’s the eternal dilemma when packing for an upcoming trip: should I pack my comfortable sandals or the ones that look good? Is it possible to find sandals that are cute and comfortable?

Especially if you’re travelling with carry-on luggage only and limited in the number of shoes you can pack.

The ideal travel sandal is comfortable for long days of sightseeing yet cute and strappy enough to style up for casual evenings out. Hardcore hikes will require something more substantial, but the perfect sandal for your summer travels should be versatile and sturdy, ideally with more support and treat than your standard high-street sandals.

Those beautiful marble streets in European cities get damn slippery when it rains.

I’ve lost count of the hours I’ve spent online searching for the perfect travel sandal. Looking for the one shoe to rule them all. So I’ve compiled an epic list of the best sandals that I’ve come across, to save you the legwork (boom-tsshh!).

TOP 50 SANDALS FOR TRAVEL

Chaco Maya II


These are #1 on my list for my 2019 travels. Chacos are one of the big brands making ‘proper’ footwear and have a devoted following. Be careful with thong styles if you plan do light hiking though, it’s better to have a strap around the ball of your foot. Sizing tends to run large on Chacos.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Chaco Rowan

Sofia is the strappier sister of the Maya. This flip-flop design has added straps around the ankle to secure it, and with a decent tread is a good choice if you’re planning on pounding the pavements in Europe. Available in a few different colours.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Chaco Juniper


The leather Juniper has plenty of ankle straps but is more practical than your average gladiator sandal – and without being bulky.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Teva Capri

 

Teva Capri sandal

Tevas are well known for their comfort and sportier look. It’s velcro fastening around the ankle is the best you can get in terms of securing your foot, but is offset by a cork-wrapped midsole and leather straps. Sizing tends to run small. Also available in brown and red.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Teva Originals

The iconic Teva Originals are the last word in comfort and having a resurgence thanks to the normcore trend. Wear them now whilst it’s socially acceptable! They come in all manner of fabrics, colours and sole choice these days (including flatforms). Fabric sandals are the way to go if you’re planning on walking in wet or damp climates.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Teva Ysidro

Teva Ysidro sandal

Similar in shape to the Teva Originals but slightly more streamlined, with leather straps and a cork footbed which should mould to the shape of your foot over time.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

URRAX


With a good grippy sole, arch support, and cute braided straps, these URRAX sandals are a great option if you want something casual with foot support.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Sorel Ella


Guys, did you know that winter-boot-maker supreme Sorel also make sandals? I only just found out. The Ella comes in a bunch of different colours and is secured by elastic around the ankle. Sizing runs small so be sure to order up.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Crocs Sexi Flips

Crocs Sexi Flips sandal

Most of the sandals on this list are leather as I find them the easiest to dress up. But if you’re going to be spending significant time near water on your travels, then Crocs are worth a shout out for their range of surprisingly cool plastic sandals.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Crocs Isabella

Crocs Isabella sandal

Flip flops with an upgrade. Although these plastic sandals will be too sweaty for hardcore walking, these pack down to almost nothing and look cute teamed with a dress.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Crocs Isabella Flat

Crocs Isabella Flat sandal

Now you wouldn’t guess these were Crocs, would you? Another plastic sandal option, with a slightly sturdier sole and more strap support than a flip-flop.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Havaianas Luna

Havaianas Luna sandal

Crocs aren’t the only ones making simple plastic sandals for your beach vacations. Brazilian company Havaianas have cornered the market (and our hearts) with their extremely comfortable (but slightly pricey) flip-flops, and the Luna has an extra strap around the back of the foot but still slips on and off.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Havaianas Freedom SL

Havaianas Freedom SL sandal

Even better than the Luna, these ones have a buckle so you can adjust the fit around the back of the ankle. Available in plenty of colour options. Excellent if water – rather than walking – is the focus of your trip.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Keen Dauntless

Keen Dauntless sandal

Keen are another brand that fare well with those who demand a lot from their sandals. This studier toe-post style sandals will slip on but still withstand a lot of walking.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Reef Gypsy Wrap

 

Reef Gypsy Wrap sandal

If boho vibes are your thing, check out this sandal from Reef made with braided cotton straps and a leather footbed. Did someone say island-hopping?.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

OluKai Upena

OluKai Upena sandal

OluKai are a Hawaiian brand which make quality footwear with a surfer vibe – ‘inspired by the feeling of bare feet in wet sand’. Exactly what you want, even when not travelling. The Upena has leather straps and a contoured footbed. Sizing runs small.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

OluKai ‘Awe ‘Awe


The Po’iu is a strappy strappy gladiator sandal but featuring arch support from the super OluKai molded foodbed.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

OluKai Eheu T Strap

OluKai Eheu sandal

Another versatile option from OluKai the Eheu is a leather toe-post thong with slingback strap and buckle fastening.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

OluKai Upena

 

The Upena has a classic strap configuration with adjustable ankle strap. Complete with its molded footbed and non-marking sole, this is one versatile sandal.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Birkenstocks Yara

 

Birkenstocks Yara sandal

You either love them or hate the look and feel of Birkenstocks. But if you’re already a devotee, these ones are probably the most secure.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Birkenstock Gizeh

 

Birkenstocks Gizeh sandal

The classic Gizeh has plenty of fans, but make sure the sandal fastens securely to avoid gripping with your toes – which is the biggest problem with flip-flop style shoes.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Blowfish Granola

 

Blowfish Granola sandal

This Blowfish Greek-style sandal has faux-leather straps, a faux cork footbed, and comes in loads of different colours.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Merrell Sandspur Delta Wrap

 

Merrell Sandspur Delta Wrap sandal

If you need something a bit more rugged for hiking, this Merrel sandal in classic brown leather with strappy styling is a good compromise between fashion and function.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Timberland Earthkeeper’s Sheafe

Timbaland Earthkeeper's Sheafe sandal
Timberland win no prizes for the name of this one (or maybe they do…).

There’s no arch support and a fairly thin sole but the strap coverage is good and it’s a simple, classic gladiator design.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Timberland Cherrybrooke

Timberland Cherrybrooke sandal

Another classic design here with the Cherrybrooke. My previous pair of Timberland sandals lasted a long time and many miles.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Clarks Tustin Sahara

Clarks Tustin Sahara sandal

Clarks is not a name that’s associated with fashionable shoes but they do come up with the odd corker. I pretty much live in Clarks shoes these days, nothing else comes close comfort-wise. Their summer selection isn’t out yet, but the Sahara would make a great robust city shoe.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

ECCO Flowt

 

ECCO has a great selection of sandals at the moment that would be suitable for travelling. These look super comfortable and I love the minimalist colours and casual style.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

ECCO Flash Lattice Huarache

 

ECCO Flash Lattice Huarache sandal

A great combo of classic strappy huarache design with a flexible, moulded synthetic footbed.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

ECCO Flash Lattice T Strap

 

ECCO Flash Lattice T Strap sandal

For even strappier still, check out this gladiator T-strap sandal from ECCO. It doesn’t fasten securely around the ankles though so I wouldn’t recommend it for walking long distances.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

ECCO Touch

 

ECCO Touch sandal

This would be perfect for walking around cities. Good secure straps with a classic leather design. I like.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

ECCO Touch Braided

 

ECCO Touch Braided sandal

If you’re after something a bit different, these silver ECCO sandals could be easily dressed up but still stay nice and snug on your feet.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

ECCO Damara Gladiator

ECCO Damara Gladiator sandal

If you have a minimalist vibe going on and are ok with tan lines from chunky straps, the Damara Gladiator looks comfy and has a cunningly hidden velcro strap.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Ipanema Len


If a T-bar sandal is all you need for your vacation, check out the Ipanema for a more solid alternative to high street versions.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Born Mai

Born Mai sandal

Born is another brand with an excellent selection of travel sandals and they get great reviews for comfort. The Mai is simple and strappy but secured around both over the top of the foot and the heel.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Born Lake

 

The Lake is a classic T-bar shape with a fancy braided style and heel strap.

I’ve worn sandals like these for travelling in hot countries and they’re ideal for styling different ways, although be aware your foot can slide out to the side without a strap over the top of the foot.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Born Tegal

 

Another lovely shoe from Born, I could fill a suitcase with sandals from their range.

The Tegal comes in a couple of different colours but I love the textured tan version.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Born Tripoli

 

Born Tripoli sandal

Of all the gladiator-style sandals in this list, these ones look the most secure and also have a solid, grippy sole.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

BOC Sophina


 
Flip-flops with added elastic crossover straps to keep them in place. I love the look of these on the foot but the elastic will not be the most secure fastening, so best for casual beachy trips.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Sanuk Yoga Sling

Sanuk Yoga sling sandal

Another sandal well suited to casual use and beach trips, the Sanuk Yoga Sling gets rave reviews for comfort. It’s basically like putting your foot in an environmentally-friendly hammock that’s made from recycled yoga mats.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Naot Kayla

Naot Kayla sandal

Naot is another brand with great options for travellers. If you want something with a slight wedge heel then the Kayla looks like a solid choice.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Naot Bonnie

Naot Bonnie sandal

The Bonnie has lots of fans. Easily dressed up, it has a cork and rubber footbed and laser-cut details.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Naot Nora

 

Naot Nora sandal

Heading slightly normcore again with the Naot Nora, which is adjustable over the top of the foot as well as in front of the ankle. The footbed is made of cork, moulded latex and suede.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

TOMS Lexie 

 

Casual footwear brand TOMS are continuously expanding their range. And now they’ve brought out the Lexie sandals which is perfect for lightweight summer trips.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Vionic Lizbeth

 

Vionic Lizbeth sandal

Vionic get rave reviews for their ridiculously comfortable orthotic soles, particularly good if you have high arches. The Lizbeth is cute and dressy.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Vionic Kirra


 
The Kirra sandals pairs a sophisticated leather design that is easily dressed up with an adjustable ankle strap and a super comfortable orthotic moulding.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Vionic Nala

 

Vionic Nala sandal

Another dressy but ridiculously comfortable sandal from Vionic, this time with geometric studs. It’s available in a few different colours.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Pons Avarca

I’ve been after a pair of these Balearic-style shoes for a while now. You can buy them in a huge range of colour combinations, and they’re great for dressed-down chic and mooching around town or the beach. If you have wide feet (like me) you probably want to try before you buy.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Taos Trance

Taos Trance sandals

Another option for lovers of comfortable cork-latex footbeds, this one a simple strappy T-bar with heel strap and some stud detailing, available in a few different colours including this jazzy pewter.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Taos Beauty 2


 This Taos sandal has adjustable straps around the ball of the foot, ideal if you have wide feet or a tendency to swell in the heat.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Sperry Cala Jade

Sperry Cala Jade sandal

I have worn and loved a pair of sandals similar to this. I love the laser cut-out detail, however they’re secured by elastic only so best for short trips to warm places rather than long-term travel.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Aerosoles Conchlusion

 

Aerosoles Conchlusion sandal

Aerosoles have a good reputation for making comfortable shoes, and the styling on the Conchlusion is a bit different to the rest of the sandals on this list.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

BOC Lauper

 

BOC Lauper sandal

 

The leather braiding on these sandals is so cute and retro. Team with a floppy hat for your Euro trip to Italy.

Check the latest prices and reviews on Amazon.

Steve Madden Donddi

Excuse me, I might have to go buy these right now. I’m in love with the white version (they come in several different colours). Admittedly they’re not going to stand up to long treks, but for exploring cute Greek villages these will do nicely, thankyou.

Check the latest prices and review on Amazon.

BONUS PAIR – WIIV SANDALS

I was recently sent a pair of WIIV sandals to review. If you’ve never heard of them, WIIV scans your feet with a swanky app and then custom 3D print the flip-flop style sandals to fit your feet exactly. You can choose from a range of colours (in fact the straps are interchangeable), but the best part is the custom arch support. If you usually wear orthotics or supportive insoles then you’ll appreciate this option.

You can read my full review of them over at my other site.

And there we have it!  I hope this list helps you find the perfect travel sandal.

Read more:

How to Keep Your Stuff Safe at the Beach

50 Stylish (But Practical) Bags for Travel

50 Warm and Waterproof Jackets for Travel

50 Cute (But Comfortable) Flat Shoes for Travel

12 Flowy (and Cheap) Skirts for the Ultimate Travel ‘Gram

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Image credit: Santorini © Maridav / Adobe Stock