Eleven Things Your Feet Want You to Ask Yourself Before Your Next Vacation

What shoes will you pack for your upcoming vacation?

Your feet want you to give this some serious thought as shoes are one of the most important items you can pack for any trip. I’m serious!  If our feet aren’t happy, we’re not happy! It’s important not only for the duration of your trip but also for the rest of your life. Wearing the wrong shoes can do serious foot and back damage. Just ask Sarah Jessica Parker. After wearing all those gorgeous shoes during Sex & the City, she ruined her feet. She has sworn off stiletto heels, but it is too late. The damage has been done.

Most of us tend to do more physical activities than usual on vacation. This can be hard on our feet.

So here’s what your feet expect from vacation shoes:

1. They should be comfortable, practical, and stylish. COMFORT. No matter how far or long you walk, your feet should not scream “Help!” PRACTICALITY. Most of us only pack 2-3 pairs of shoes when traveling, so your shoes need to do double duty. Don’t waste space with a “maybe” shoe. Either you need it or you don’t. Show some tough love when selecting travel shoes! STYLE. There’s absolutely no reason why a shoe can’t be comfortable, practical, and stylish.

2. If you’ll be doing a lot of walking, consider foam or gel insoles. These go inside your shoes to provide added support for your entire foot.

3. Buy shoes designed for the purpose, such as trekking (hiking boots), walking (walking shoes), or kayaking (water shoes). I have seen women in Disney World wearing three-inch heels. Seriously? Do you think high heels were meant to wear in a theme park? You don’t have to wear sneakers. There are plenty of stylish shoes designed for walking, such as Jarlif’s.

4. Never pack shoes you haven’t “broken in” prior to your trip. If you need new shoes for a trip, buy them in advance and wear them for at least a week or two beforehand. If you’ll be hiking, take a short hike to make sure your feet tolerant them well. If you buy a new pair of shoes to go dancing while on your cruise, be sure to boogey before you go!

5. Good athletic socks are as important as good shoes. Be sure to buy socks that wick moisture and provide added cushioning in the toe and heel areas. Good socks help prevent blisters and chafing.

6. Make sure your shoes are waterproof if you’ll be encountering wet conditions.

7. Make sure you’re clear about what kinds of activities you’ll be doing so you pack the right shoes.

8. Flip flops are not shoes! They are meant for locker room showers and a short walk to the beach. Period. Foot doctors advise against prolonged use of flip flops as they are not meant for that purpose and can cause damage to your feet.

9. Wear the one pair of shoes you couldn’t replace (live without) on your trip in case your luggage is lost or delayed. I always wear my hiking boots because they take up the most room in my luggage and are irreplaceable on most trips. Also, there is always a chance of theft, especially since we can’t lock our suitcases these days except with a universal lock.

10. Buy fabric and colors that are servicable. Buying creme-colored suede is not prudent! Go with darker colors, such as camel and tan, and sturdy material, such as rubber soles and leather uppers.

11. Last, but not least, invest in yourself. Buy high quality shoes. The investment is worth it because you will be protecting your feet and saving money. I have shoes that cost good money but they have held up for years, making them a good investment. One pair of hiking boots is going on seventeen years now!