As you know, fall is here and winter is coming, which means gone (for now) are the days of throwing your little summer sandals in your suitcase and being on your merry way. Your footwear will soon be competing with bulky sweaters and coats for space, and cold-weather shoes are typically much bulkier than their spring and summer counterparts. Packing for fall and winter trips is honestly such a predicament, but the least I can do to help is to tackle the shoe component.
It really doesn't help that bulky shoes have been trending since last fall, and while you may want to bring your chunky lug-sole Chelsea boots, they might take up half of your suitcase. (For this reason, I advise wearing those on the plane.) Instead, you're going to want to pack shoes made of flexible materials that can be folded or smooshed a bit if needed, with thin(ish) soles.
I did lots of searching and found 29 pairs of packable, stylish shoes that fit the bill. They may not take up as little room as your summer shoes, but we're doing the best we can.
The ultimate cozy flats, and they have a slim profile.
I own these and often pack them for trips. They're so lightweight and comfortable, and you can even fold the shaft without messing them up.
Be prepared for inclement weather with these flexible boots.
These adorable flats are obviously better for fall than winter.
The low heel and slim and sleek shape make these great for travel (plus the price is right).
You're going to need sneakers, and New Balance's are always nice and lightweight.
Give me all the shearling-lined shoes.
The sole on these lug-sole boots is far slimmer than most, and the shaft is slim and flexible.
Like I said about shearling…
If you want to pack a pair of heels, you can't go wrong with these.
These popular loafers will take up very minimal space, and they're wildly comfortable.
The 2021 version of sock boots.
You can't go wrong with a pair of penny loafers.
The knit makes these a little lighter (and more squishable) than an all-leather pair.
Loafers are so versatile, which is why I included so many in this roundup.
These bendy, squishable shoes are the only flats you'll need to pack.
Mules take up less space than loafers, and they're just as on-trend.
These may have a bulkier block heel, but the thin upper material makes up for it.
These walkable heels are such a vibe.
They're chunky, but you'll wear them so much they may be the only shoes you'll need to pack.
A great option for nights out during your travels.
These newly released boots are probably going to sell out fast.
This is as wintry as sneakers get.
Very cozy, minus the bulk.
Scrunchy boots are great for packing.
These iconic boots are extremely light and much smaller than most Ugg boots.
Just for fun.
As chic as they are warm.
Like I said, you're going to need sneakers on your trip, so they might as well be cute (and not too bulky).
Next up, the most stylish travel destinations of 2021.
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