1 Best Kids Travel Shoes (That Do Double Duty)

There’s only so much room in your suitcase, so when packing for family vacations, you usually have to choose only a pair or two of shoes per person. We’ve found the best footwear options for kids when traveling, whether you’re headed to the beach or trekking through the snow. Check out these stylish, versatile and oh-so comfortable options for toddlers, little kids and big kids.

1. Tom’s Canvas Tiny Classics

Classic and comfortable, TOMS are a great choice for gallivanting around town. Plus, for every pair of shoes purchased, TOMS will donate a new pair of shoes to a child in need.  “(My son) loves TOMS because they are easy for him to put on himself and we don’t have to deal with laces,” says Jessica Sanchez of The Jet Setting Family. “A neutral pair goes with all his clothes.” TOMS are available in all sizes for kids and adults.

2. Mini Melissa Ultragirl II Bow Mary Jane Toddler

Mini Melissa soft, jelly shoes are super adorable and 100-percent recyclable. “They are easy to wipe and very durable,” says Sanchez. “(My daughter) is obsessed with them. At 2, she can put them on herself, which we love.”

3. KEEN Newport H2 Sandal

KEEN’s reign supreme as the kids’ hiking shoe choice because they’re comfortable and durable. They also protect tootsies with their front-toe bumper. Available in a range of styles and sizes from toddler to big kids, as well as adult options, these sandals are up for any adventure. The Bowman Family, from The American Field Trip, says they’re great for hiking, water, and everyday use.

4. Crocs Kids’ Girls Keeley Charm Sandal

Crocs have many more styles than just clogs. “These Keeley Charm Sandals are not only adorable but comfortable and versatile,” says Dominique Parrish of Well Traveled Child. “My daughters wear them everywhere, no matter the terrain, and if they ever get dirty, I just give them a quick rinse!”

5. Nike Kids’ Kawa Slide Athletic Sandal

Simple to slip on and off, even with wet, sandy feet, these Nike slides are available in everything from bold to basic styles for sizes 1 to 7. The best part is the plush, flexible feel. One reviewer described wearing them as “walking on marshmallows.” Who could say no to that?

6. Havaianas Kids Slim Crystal Swarovski Flip-Flop

Rose gold is all the rage, and these Havaianas flip-flops top it off with the subtle bling of a single Swarovski crystal on each shoe. European sizes translate to U.S. toddler size 9 to U.S. big kids size 3 to 4. You can find Havaianas for big kids and adults, too.

7. Under Armour Assert 8 AC (Little Kid)

Lightweight and breathable, these Under Armour sneakers stand up to hours and hours of exploring. They also feature a Velcro closure to make getting in and out the door even easier for families.

Related Article: 8 Best Travel Sneakers for Moms

9. Sorel Youth Flurry-K Snow Boot

Never worry about little feet not being warm or getting wet in these Sorel snow boots, some of the best waterproof winter boots for kids. The rubber sole makes them easy for kids to tromp around in, while the instep straps keep them on and the top closure prevents snow from coming in.

10. Bogs Kids Classic High Waterproof Insulated Rubber Rain Boot

Looking for a lightweight, waterproof boot for rain or snow? Search no further than these Bogs waterproof boots, which are insulated and come with handles that make pulling them on a snap. Toddlers on up to tweens will find styles that satisfy.

11. CIOR Toddler Water Aqua Shoes

If you’re in the market for water shoes for kids, CIOR aqua shoes are an affordable way to protect little feet from rocky beaches or slippery pool surfaces. These lightweight, breathable shoes feature quick-drying materials, making them perfect to pack for water park vacations.

Cortney Fries (pronounced “freeze”) is an award-winning Chicago-based writer and mom to two spunky elementary school-age kids. She loves nothing more than traveling with her husband and kids, having adventures with friends and exploring the gorgeous outdoors. Cortney believes that you should definitely do things that scare you just a little bit. Follow her on Instagram, @cortneyfries.

What to Pack for Your Next Trip