How to Pack Shoes in a Suitcase

Co-authored by Caitlin Jaymes

Last Updated: August 4, 2021

Packing shoes can seem like a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be! Maximize space in your suitcase by packing large shoes separately. Additionally, place your shoes in plastic bags to protect your clothes from dirt and smells. Use the extra space inside of your shoes to pack small items like socks, jewelry, and toiletries. Bon voyage!

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Arranging Your Shoes

1
Place your shoes at the bottom of your suitcase. If you are using a roller suitcase, place the soles of your heaviest shoes flat against the walls of the suitcase near the wheels. Line the walls of your roller suitcase with any additional shoes. Make sure to place the soles of the shoes flat against the walls of the suitcase as well.^{[1]
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2
Pack bulky shoes separately. Instead of placing bulky shoes next to each other, pack them separately to utilize the space in your suitcase. If you have to place them side by side, then arrange them heel to toe.^{[2]
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- For example, place boots and wedges heel to toe if you cannot pack them separately.
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3
Pack flats and flip-flops last. Tuck flats and flip flops inside pockets or extra space when you are finished packing. You could also place them on top of your clothes once you are finished packing.^{[3]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Protecting Your Items

1
Cover your shoes to protect your clothes. You can use a plastic grocery bag, a resealable gallon bag, or a shower cap to cover your shoes. Or, place your shoes inside the drawstring dust bag that they came in when you bought them. This way, you can protect your clothes from dirt and smells.^{[4]
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- If you do not have a bag, use tissue paper or saran wrap instead.
- Place bulky shoes, like sneakers and boots, in different bags, so you can pack them separately in your suitcase.
2
Place socks in your shoes to help them keep their form. Shoes can become squished into overly stuffed suitcases, warping their shape. Place rolled socks in your shoes, platforms, and stilettos. If your shoes get squished, the socks will help them retain their shape.
3
Wrap delicate shoes in a scarf or a t-shirt. Keep your formal shoes clean and safe from damage and dirt by wrapping them in something soft. Place your shoes inside a bag. Then wrap pajamas, a sweatshirt, or a scarf around your shoes to protect them.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Maximizing Space in Your Suitcase

1
Pack versatile shoes. Pack shoes that can double as formal and informal shoes, like ballet flats or dress sneakers. Additionally, pack solid-colored shoes, like black, brown, or white shoes, since they can be paired with a variety of outfits.^{[5]
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2
Pack a maximum of 3 pairs of shoes if you are traveling for a week. Pack a pair of casual, formal, and athletic shoes. If you are taking a weekend trip, just pack the necessary shoes.^{[6]
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- For example, don’t pack formal shoes for a weekend camping trip.
3
Wear the bulkiest shoes when traveling. Wear your sneakers or boots on the plane or in the car. This way, you can save space in your suitcase for other items.^{[7]
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4
Fit small items inside of your shoes. To save space, place your socks and underwear inside of your shoes. You can also place fragile items like jewelry, watches, and sunglasses in your shoes to protect them.^{[8]
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- You can also place some of your toiletries inside of your shoes. Just make sure to place your toiletries in a plastic bag to protect your shoes from leaks and spills.

Expert Q&A
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Question

What shoes should I pack for travel?

Caitlin Jaymes
Professional Organizer
Caitlin Jaymes is a Closet Organizer and Fashion Stylist based in Los Angeles, California. With a background in Fashion PR and Fashion Design, she specializes in creating wardrobes for her clients with pieces they already own. She has experience working with celebrities, editorial shoots, and men and women of all ages. Caitlin uses fashion and organization to help instill and influence confidence, ambition, and stress-free lifestyles for all her clients. She runs her business by two guiding principles: “fashion has no rules, only guidance on how to look and feel your best” and “life has too many stressors, don’t let clutter be one of them.” Caitlin’s work has been featured on HGTV, The Rachael Ray Show, VoyageLA, Liverpool Los Angeles, and the Brother Snapchat Channel.

Caitlin Jaymes

Professional Organizer

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

It depends on how long your trip is, but in most circumstances, you can get away with bringing 2-3 pairs of shoes when you travel, a casual pair, a formal pair, and an athletic pair.