As someone who frequently travels with just a carry-on bag — and sometimes even with just a personal item — I know firsthand that every square inch of luggage space counts. Considering the stringent carry-on size restrictions of major airlines, an extra pair of shoes can be enough to push your bag beyond its limits, earning yourself a hefty checked bag fee in the process.  

Because of this, I’ve learned to cut back on the number of shoes I bring by first packing one “daily” pair of shoes that’s comfortable and versatile enough to work with anything. Then, if I end up having some extra space left over, I’ll end up squeezing in a second or third pair of “special” shoes (like beach sandals or hiking boots) meant for a specific excursion or event.

To help you free up space in your carry-on, I’ve gone ahead and rallied up 12 reliable, easy-to-style pairs of sneakers, loafers, and slip-ons that all check all of my “daily shoe” boxes. Featuring high-quality picks from brands like New Balance, Skechers, Sam Edelman, and Dr. Scholl’s, all of the options on this list are top-rated for their comfort and versatility. Happy shopping!

Skechers Women’s Court Classics Jade Feline Instinct Sneakers

You don’t have to stray away from vibrant prints and fun colors while shopping for a “goes with everything” shoe; you just have to use them sparingly. These Skechers sneakers have a leopard print panel on the back of each heel, plus pops of orange, peach, and mint throughout. In conjunction with the neutral gray and beige uppers and soles, these colors form a palette that can work with a wide variety of outfits. Easy to pair with blue jeans, a flowy cream linen skirt, or neon bike shorts, these fashion-forward kicks are also on sale for 30 percent off. 

New Balance Women’s 237v1 Sneakers

These retro-inspired New Balance sneakers have a foam-padded collar and tongue, a thick, cushioned midsole, and a flexible TPU heel insert that make them comfortable enough to wear “eight-plus hours a day,” according to one reviewer. Cream, peach, beige, and gray come together in this neutral palette that can be worn with just about any color. The best part? They’re on sale for $20 off right now. 

Olukai Women’s Pehuea Slip-on Sneakers

These perforated mesh slip-on sneakers are like a breath of fresh air for tired, sweaty feet. They’re casual yet cute, and look great against jean shorts, tennis skirts, and wide-leg pants alike. The anatomical footbeds offer support without adding unnecessary bulk to your suitcase. If the $100 price tag gives you pause, know that they’re machine-washable and built to last: One five-star reviewer reported that they “still adore them” after wearing them for a year, adding that they “look like new” after every wash. 

Plus, a portion of the proceeds from each purchase supports the Ama Olukai Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to serving Hawaiian communities and Hawaiian land and ocean conservation efforts. 

Sorel Women’s Ona Ave Low Sneakers

You may already know and love Sorel for its line of comfy yet rugged hiking boots, but the shoe brand also produces casual sneakers that are just as comfortable. These Ona Ave sneakers come in five easy-to-match colorways, including black and white and all-over gold. Plus, they’re made with waterproof materials and have treaded rubber outsoles that can provide traction on slippery surfaces. 

Sam Edelman Women’s Layla Sneakers

Footwear brand Sam Edelman’s dedication to quality and style is evident in these Layla sneakers. These chic sneakers are jam-packed with standout details from top to bottom, including an X-patterned rubber outsole, contrast stitching on the heel, and shiny gold lettering throughout. Per the brand’s description, you can “dress them up or down” depending on the occasion — and feel comfortable while doing so, thanks to the round toe boxes, padded collars, and foam insoles. 

Reebok Unisex Lifestyle Sneakers

Carried all the way up to a women’s size 16.5, these unisex leather sneakers are perfect for any kind of itinerary. Made with a molded sockliner, a cushiony EVA midsole, and abrasive rubber outsoles, these quintessential Reeboks have earned nearly 5,000 five-star reviews for their fit, comfort, and style. Wear them with athletic shorts and sunnies for a sporty ensemble, or slip on relaxed trousers and a button-up shirt for a classic, casual look.

Steve Madden Men’s Fenta Sneakers

From strolling around the city to cocktails back at the hotel, these Steve Madden sneakers are going to be your new go-to for travel. Available in suede, linen, and leather options, these lightweight sneakers are versatile enough to wear on trips year-round. And thanks to their low profile, you won’t have to sacrifice extra luggage space when you pack them. 

Rockport Men’s DMX Bowen Sneakers

Add some pep to your step with these orthotic-friendly Rockport sneakers. Made with Reebok’s DMX technology, these sneakers come with lightweight, dynamic cushioning that adds additional spring and shock absorption with every step. The suede exterior and leather details on the tongue and heel elevate them enough to look stylish on business trips, while the sneaky perforations on the upper add extra breathability.

Rocket Dog Women’s Cheery Sneakers

In the market for a quality pair of tennis shoes? Look no further than these Rocket Dog sneakers, on sale for $30. They’ve got a classic, casual shape and a chunky midsole that provides just the right amount of height. They also come with plush foam insoles that, according to one shopper, “feels like walking on a cloud.” Available in a wide variety of tonal, neutral colorways, this style is sure to suit your existing travel wardrobe. 

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Nova Slip-on Shoes

Podiatrists and Travel + Leisure editors agree: Dr. Scholl’s is worth the hype when it comes to supportive, travel-friendly footwear. The anatomical cushioned insoles, stretchy side panels, and padded collars make these Nova slip-ons a dream for long travel days. Plus, they’ve got a minimalistic style that looks great with “business casual clothes” and is easy to pair with “pants, skirts, and dresses,” according to one five-star reviewer. 

Hey Dude Men’s Wally Jute Loafers

Sydney Sweeney-beloved shoe brand Hey Dude is best known for its line of comfy, ultra-lightweight slip-ons and sneakers. This khaki jute version of the widely popular Wally loafer is perfect for a Spring Break getaway, thanks to its odor-reducing memory foam insoles and breezy linen uppers that’ll help your feet breathe on sunny outings. With its flexible treaded outsoles, chevron panel detail, and relaxed lace closure, this versatile style works just as well for relaxing on the beach as it does for dinner at the resort. 

Naturalizer Women’s Ingrid Slip-on Sneakers

A pair of supportive loafers can serve as a more elevated shoe alternative to slip-on sneakers. These Naturalizer Ingrid loafers combine comfort and style: On sale for $70, they’re constructed with a cushioned footbed and have a classic penny loafer silhouette that can dress up flowy linen dresses, wide-leg trousers, and boyfriend jeans alike. Plus, they’ve got heel pull tabs that make them easy to slip on and off at TSA security checkpoints. 

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