Tips for choosing the right shoes for your holiday
When it comes to packing your suitcase, you’ll need to make some choices. Depending on your destination and the circumstances, your needs will vary considerably. For a business trip, it’s more a question of which smart shoes will go with a shirt and a suit, or which pair of heels will match a skirt suit.
For your holidays, it’s a different story. As with your outfits, try to prioritise versatility as much as possible to limit the number of pairs you pack. Opt for a few styles that go with all your trousers and skirts to maximise the number of possible combinations once you’re there.
Of course, your choice will depend partly on the activities planned for your holiday: hiking boots for the mountains or sandals for the beach, ankle boots for a winter break or flip-flops for a summer holiday…
If you can’t do without heavy shoes or high-top boots, there’s a very simple trick to help you save space in your luggage. All you need to do is wear your bulkiest shoes on your feet on the day of departure.
You’ll need to give your shoes a good clean before packing them in your suitcase
In your suitcase, your shoes will be stored alongside your clothes and underwear for a period of time that varies depending on the length of the flight. It’s therefore essential to give them a thorough clean.
Fabric, suede, leather, synthetic materials, rubber… Depending on the material, you’ll need to use a brush, a soft cloth or a damp sponge to remove all dirt from the outer surfaces. Please note, this may not be the best time to waterproof your shoes, as some products have a very strong smell. Unless, of course, you’re using natural waterproofing remedies.
It’s also essential to deodorise your shoes before your flight. Again, opt for methods that don’t add any extra scents, as these could end up on all your clothes. Bicarbonate of soda, for example, can neutralise unpleasant odours naturally.
How can you pack your shoes without them losing their shape?
Once you’ve finished cleaning your shoes, the next step is to pack them in reusable bags. You can choose covers specially designed for this purpose, or opt for tote bags or small canvas pouches.
To ensure your shoes stay in good condition whilst travelling in your luggage, opt for flexible, flat styles that are better able to withstand jolts, such as trainers, soft shoes, sandals or espadrilles.
If you want to prevent your shoes from losing their shape, shoe trees are excellent accessories. These wooden or plastic devices help maintain the original shape of your shoes. However, it’s important to note that shoe trees add weight to your luggage, which can be a problem in the cabin or in the hold, where weight limits apply. You can easily replace them with paper, similar to that found in new boxes of shoes. Furthermore, to make the most of the space in your suitcase, you can also use rolled-up socks, a belt or a sunglasses case to fill any gaps.
Where should you put your shoes in your suitcase?
Suitcases with a double bottom or fitted with internal mesh pockets offer a practical solution for organising your belongings. This allows you to group your shoes on one side with items such as your toiletries bag, cables and chargers, and your hair accessory pouch. On the other side, place your clothes, neatly folded Marie Kondo-style, to make the most of the available space.
If this layout isn’t possible, consider placing your shoes along the sides of the suitcase, making sure the soles face outwards, but avoid placing them directly at the bottom near the wheels. For better protection against knocks, start by adding a layer of clothes underneath the shoes. However, for shoes with heels, place them in the centre of the suitcase and fill any remaining gaps with clothes to keep them in place.