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Birkenstock sandals have been the center of attention recently, with women discussing whether or not they are back in style and if they are actually a fashionable sandal to wear when traveling. Find out what our readers said about Birkenstocks for travel, including the best styles, comfort features, and why they’re considered some of the most popular travel shoes for women today!
Birkenstocks for Travel
Table Of Contents
Once known primarily for their orthopedic benefits, Birkenstock sandals are now considered among the best comfortable walking sandals for travel, offering fashion-forward designs that are perfect for sightseeing, navigating airports, and even casual evenings out.
Whether you’re exploring European cities, relaxing on the beach, or walking along cobblestone streets, Birkenstocks remain a top choice when it comes to travel shoes for women. With their contoured cork footbeds, durable construction, and range of stylish options, they’re a smart addition to any capsule travel wardrobe.
In this guide, discover the most recommended Birkenstock sandals for vacation, along with expert tips on comfort, style, sizing, and a selection of Birkenstock-style alternatives, including affordable and vegan-friendly options.
Shop: Nordstrom
Editor’s Top Pick: Arizona Big Buckle Sandal
This upgraded version of the iconic Arizona sandal features oversized buckles for a bold and elegant touch. Built on Birkenstock’s signature contoured cork-latex footbed, the Arizona Big Buckle provides long-lasting support with every step. The EVA outsole offers lightweight cushioning and grip, making it ideal for all-day wear during travel.
A traveler says, ”This is my first pair of birks and I’m obsessed! The color is beautiful with the large gold buckles. I have a slightly more narrow foot so they are perfect for me! I’m so excited to wear these all summer!“
Here’s the original Arizona sandals if you prefer the small buckle!
Shop: Nordstrom
Editor’s Second Pick: Gizeh Thong Sandal
The Gizeh sandal is a minimalist option with a sleek thong design and flip-flop-style strap. The synthetic Birko-Flor upper is durable and easy to clean, while the cork footbed conforms to the shape of your foot for custom support.
Editor-in-chief Alex is a big fan of thong sandals and used to wear the Birko-Flor Gizeh Birkenstocks for travel throughout Southeast Asia. They are convenient to take on and off when visiting temples.
One reviewer echoes this, “I love these shoes, I buy them over and over, year after year. I have owned at least 10 pairs. They are a lifesaver for my plantar fasciitis. They have strong arch support. The shoes are well made, I wear them almost every day.”
Shop: Nordstrom
Mayari Sandals
The Mayari combines graceful design with practical comfort. Criss-cross straps and a toe loop give this sandal a refined silhouette, while the cork footbed and suede lining ensure lasting wearability and breathability. Comes in numerous colors so you’d surely find the right ones for you!
One happy traveler says, “I waited to review this so I had time to break them in. Those first few days I was skeptical of the sandals that I heard so many high reviews of. Take the time to break them in! Now after having them for a month or so, these are super comfortable! We have done some walking tours on our travels this summer—walking five hours a day and I’ve been wearing these sandals almost daily.
Shop: Nordstrom
Madrid Sandals
A nice simple choice, the Birkenstock Madrid slides are great for casual summer outfits while traveling. These also make good airport shoes as they’re easy to take on/off. The insole is made of sturdy leather, and the cork footbed and EVA sole offer support.
This reviewer is certainly content, “The quality of the patent leather is amazing! They’re super comfortable and offer great support!” This is available in regular and narrow sizes, and has several shades, from red to gold metallic!
Also available in big buckle here and here!
Shop: Nordstrom | Bloomingdales
Uji Slide Sandal
For another strappy choice, the Birkenstock Uji Slide sandal has sleek touches with the same corkbed comfort.
Grippy bone treads and a contoured cork footbed lend rugged grab-and-go comfort to a cushy slide sandal topped with a duo of adjustable leather straps. One wearer shares, “I broke my toe and the podiatrist recommended Birks. I’m so delighted by the adjustable snugness of this style. The classic style wasn’t as comfortable in my opinion. They are cute! Love these!”
Shop: Nordstrom | Anthropologie
Milano Big Buckle High Shine Sandals
These Birkenstock Milano sandals will stay put due to the adjustable buckle straps with big buckle for a fun design. Throw in the cushioned cork footbed and arch support that encourages proper foot alignment; this may be the perfect summer travel sandal!
One review says, “Comfortable and so pretty! The patent leather and gold buckles elevate this sandal. I’ve worn these to work on warm days with a maxi skirt dress, and the outcome is professional and comfortable.”
Shop: Nordstrom
Gizeh Essentials EVA Sandals
When you’re traveling, you may need beach shoes that could double as shower shoes. Birkenstock has a plastic version of many of their popular shoes that can easily serve these functions. Perfect for water-based travel, the Gizeh Essentials EVA sandals are waterproof, lightweight, and washable.
One frequent walker is happy with these, “This is the most comfortable shoe I’ve ever worn, no joke. I have terrible heel pain when I wear anything other than Birkenstocks, and wanted something more water-resistant than my leather and cork Mayaris for the summer. I actually find the Gizeh EVA more comfortable than the traditional cork! All of the arch support is there, plus the deep heel cup.”
Shop: Nordstrom
Papillio Soley Wedge
For a dressy option, the Birkenstock Papillio Soley wedges have a slight heel and come in gorgeous shade. Other color available here.
You can wear these for a night on the town or light sightseeing as they still have the company’s comfort cork footbed as support. Pair with a maxi dress, or a shorter summer dress.
In fact, these cuties defy the typical reputation of Birkenstock, as this reviewer says, “I’m very happy with these sandals. They fit more like a generous medium width than narrow width, but otherwise true to size. I have wide feet and I’m able to wear them comfortably by adjusting the straps to the last hole. They have significant arch support, (but I’d actually like them better without it). ”
Shop: Nordstrom | Free People | Anthropologie
Arizona Platform Chunky Slide Sandal
Talk about easy to wear! The Birkenstock Arizona Chunky sandals has gorgeous, soft suede or leather in some chic colors (we love this warm sand suede). The classic two-strap Birkenstock sandal gets a bold update with a chunky EVA platform design while retaining the brand’s iconic anatomically shaped cork footbed.
These are ideal for more formal occasions during a trip or for a business conference setting. “Love these Birkenstocks so much! I get compliments on them every time I wear them. They are a bit heavier than your traditional Birkenstock but it’s not even an issue because they are seriously so comfortable.,” gushes one wearer.
Similar Birkenstock-Style Sandals
Shop: Nordstrom
Teva Original Universal Sandals
If you love the look of Birkenstocks but want a more athletic, water-friendly option, the Teva Original Universal is a standout choice.
With adjustable hook-and-loop straps, a cushioned EVA footbed, and a grippy rubber sole, this sandal is made for long sightseeing days or beach adventures. Lightweight and quick-drying, it’s a must-have for active travelers.
Shop: White Mountain | Famous Footwear
White Mountain Carly Sandals
The White Mountain Carly gives you that classic Birkenstock silhouette at a more affordable price. It features a contoured cork-inspired footbed, adjustable buckle straps, and a slight wedge heel for extra lift.
Ideal for those who want the look and comfort of Birks without the higher price tag. Many users say they’re perfect for all-day city walks!
Shop: Macy’s | Famous Footwear | QVC
Blowfish Malibu Devon Sandals
The Blowfish Malibu Devon is a fashionable and budget-friendly Birkenstock alternative, ideal for warm-weather vacations. Featuring soft faux leather straps with adjustable buckles and a cork-inspired cushioned footbed, these strappy sandals offer both style and comfort for all-day walking.
The lightweight platform sole adds a trendy boost without sacrificing support, making them great for sightseeing, dining out, or strolling through markets. Vegan-friendly and versatile, the Devon is a solid pick for stylish travelers on a budget.
Shop: Nordstrom
MIA Gen Slide Sandal
If you’re looking for a sleek, waterproof alternative to the classic Birkenstock EVA, the MIA Gen Slide Sandal is a fantastic option. These slides feature a contoured footbed and adjustable buckle straps for a secure and supportive fit.
Made from lightweight molded material, they’re easy to clean and perfect for beach days, poolside lounging, or quick airport security slips. Comfortable and casual, the Gen Slide brings affordable style to your summer capsule wardrobe without sacrificing function.
Shop: Nordstrom
Mephisto Helen Toe Loop Sandal
The Mephisto Helen sandal is a refined toe-loop style that’s an excellent alternative to Birkenstock’s Mayari. With a contoured cork footbed, soft-air midsole for shock absorption, and adjustable strap for a secure fit, this sandal is made for walking.
Its elegant design pairs beautifully with dresses, shorts, or casual trousers, making it a reliable choice for sightseeing or summer evenings out. A perfect blend of European craftsmanship and travel-friendly comfort, Helen is ideal for your warm-weather packing list.
Shop: Nordstrom
Reef Cushion Vista Hi Slide Sandal
The Reef Cushion Vista Hi offers elevated height with casual comfort. These slides feature two wide straps and a soft footbed with enhanced arch support, similar to Birkenstocks, while the platform sole adds a stylish edge.
Perfect for beach vacations, city walks, or poolside lounging, they’re an ideal alternative if you want the support of Birks in a more modern silhouette.
Shop: Nordstrom
Dr. Scholl’s All Right Slide Sandal
The All Right Slide from Dr. Scholl’s is a sporty-meets-modern sandal that offers all-day wearability with stylish edge. It features a contoured footbed for comfort, adjustable hook-and-loop closure for a custom fit, and a lightweight, flexible sole for ease of movement.
This laid-back design channels Birkenstock vibes but adds a sleek, contemporary twist—ideal for travel days, city strolls, or even casual evenings out.
Are Birkenstocks Good for Walking?
According to reader surveys, Birkenstocks are top-rated for walking due to their long-lasting support, molded footbeds, and quality materials. They perform especially well in hot climates and on uneven terrain like cobblestone streets.
Comfort
One of the most popular aspects of Birkenstock sandals is the fact that they are unbelievably comfortable.
These shoes are a favorite among some female travelers who say they require no break-in period, allowing you to wear them straight from the box without feeling those horrible first-time pains! But just in case, make sure you wear your Birkenstock sandals around the house before heading out on your travels.
The cork footbed allows your feet to feel cushioned with firm arch support while walking, making them comfortable for long periods of time when exploring cities or wandering the countryside.
Other benefits of choosing Birkenstocks for travel:
- Require no break-in period
- Supportive and comfortable
- Adjustable straps
- Sturdy and comfortable
- Fantastic for walking
- Soft footbed
- Great stability
- Great for cobblestones
They’re also recommended for travelers that suffer from back pain. Find out why!
Style
Birkenstocks are a favorite among female travelers because they are deemed not only comfortable but also very stylish. These shoes are popular with women exploring fashionable European cities as they are cute and understated, allowing you to wear them with a variety of different outfits.
They also come in a variety of styles and colors, allowing you to choose your favorite pair based on your vacation wardrobe! We’re currently crushing on this Onyx color but they also have a fab olive green, too.
- Cute and versatile
- Can be dressed up and down
- Stylish
These sandals are easy to dress up or down. Choose neutrals like black, brown, or sand for maximum versatility or go bold with metallic and high-shine versions for evening events. They pair well with jeans, skirts, summer dresses, and resort wear.
Read why one traveler thinks they’re the best travel shoes for Southeast Asia!
Versatility
One of the best things about Birkenstocks is their versatility. These sandals are loved by women traveling to a variety of different places–from beach breaks to city escapes–as they are perfect for relaxing on a summer vacation or even walking around huge cities for hours on end.
While they are not recommended as hiking shoe, they are still popular on cobblestone streets and uneven terrain. The fact that they are comfortable and cute means female travelers can use them to explore and look good, too!
Depending on how you choose to style them, Birkenstocks are great for daytime adventures and evening activities, as you can dress them up with an evening dress, or play them down to match your casual daytime outfit.
- Great for steep hills and cobblestones
- Perfect for hot climates
- Perfect for beaches and towns
Overall, it is clear that Birkenstocks are super popular for female travelers because they are comfortable, stylish, and versatile. They make your feet feel great no matter where you are or what you are doing!
Birkenstock Arizona EVA Slide Sandal in Big Buckle and Small Buckle
Birkenstock Sizing
Birkenstocks use European sizing and are available in two widths:
- Narrow: Best for slim to regular-width feet
- Regular: Best for regular to wide feet
For example, a US women’s size 6.5 usually corresponds to EU 37 narrow. If in between sizes, consider sizing up for a better fit.
Denim Skirt paired with Birkenstock Florida Flex Platform Slide Sandal
How to Style Birkenstocks
Birkenstock sandals are highly versatile and pair well with:
- Summer dresses – Opt for flowy maxis or cotton minis for a breezy resort look
- Tailored shorts or linen trousers – Great for city explorations
- Denim jeans – Try cuffed skinny or straight leg with an oversized shirt for a casual-chic vibe
- Jumpsuits or rompers – Stylish one-piece outfits complement neutral sandals well
- Skirts – Pair with midi or A-line skirts for a feminine yet comfortable outfit, ideal for strolling through European towns or relaxing at a café
Avoid oversized or overly bohemian outfits unless styled carefully to maintain balance and shape. While Birkenstocks lend themselves well to relaxed and effortless fashion, pairing them with overly slouchy or layered boho looks can sometimes overwhelm your frame.
To keep your look polished, add structured pieces like a tailored jacket, a cinched waistline, or fitted accessories. The key is to contrast loose elements with more defined ones to maintain a flattering silhouette while embracing the laid-back vibe.
How to Pack Your Birkenstocks
Use packing cubes to neatly organize your shoes and protect clothing from dirty soles. Place shoes at the bottom of your suitcase or carry-on to maintain weight balance. Birkenstocks pack relatively flat, so they take up minimal space, especially EVA models.
Watch how to use packing cubes in this video guide.
Birkenstock Deluxe Shoe Care Kit
Birkenstock Shoe Care Tips
Extend the life of your Birkenstocks with regular maintenance. Use a shoe care kit including:
- Water and stain repellent – To protect from spills and rain
- Cork sealer – To prevent footbed drying or cracking
- Scuff eraser and suede brush – For keeping straps and soles looking new
Final Thoughts
Birkenstocks are no longer just practical—they’re stylish, supportive, and perfect for modern female travelers. Whether you opt for the timeless Arizona or the elevated Soley wedge, there’s a style suited for your destination and travel needs.
Looking for more sandal tips? Check out the best sandals perfect for summer or explore beach sandals for warm-weather vacations.
Which Birkenstock style is your go-to for travel? Let us know in the comments below!
For more ideas on travel sandals, please read:
- Comfortable Walking Sandals that Don’t Sacrifice Style
- Beach Sandals for Hot Weather Vacations
- Best Sandals for Travel this Summer
- Best Sandals for Wide Feet
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I am a long time Birkenstock fan and have had a number of pairs over the years. I find that the leather Birkenstocks are my go to sandals over the synthetic. However, the EVA Birkies are soooo comfortable, lightweight and travel well! I have the Arizona EVA sandals and love them for everyday wear, travel and the beach. Highly recommend!
I love birkenstocks! I have tried other brands but always come back to my favorite birks 🙂
The synthetic Birks are super; comfy and supportive. The one funny thing about them is the farting sound when my feet get wet!
I’m about to get my first ones as I keep reading they are the perfect sandals for summer. Hope they work for me.
I love Birkenstock shoes and wear them year round. They’re especially good for wider feet. Have you considered doing a post about barefoot/minimal shoes? I am slowly moving towards using them and really love them; although, certainly not for everybody.
I bought Birkenstock luganos. They are really comfortable but can’t walk long distance
I don’t get it. My feet must be odd. I owned a pair and wore them often because everyone told me to break them in and they were so painful. What is the magic trick?
Hi Tina, I think that these are one of those shoes that either work for you or they don’t. 😉
I love my Birkenstocks and converted about a year ago. Will be my sandals for Europe trip as comfortable and past the fashion test. Wish I could get some of the strappier styles in Aust, but we have limited selection here.
Love my burks but I think I need a style with a back strap for travel. My slides are hard to walk fast in.
Wish I could wear these but seem to be in between sizes.
Love my Birkenstocks in gold. They can be dressed up or down and very comfortable for travel. Saw an interesting interview w their CEO and his efforts to cut down on counterfeits to protect the brand — even to the point of pulling his product off Amazon.
I love that Birkenstock sandals come in narrow. I wear them at home for my house slippers and my feet love the support.
Love my Birks!
I wear my Birkenstock Gizeh sandals daily at home, as well as when I travel. I bought them for my trip to Italy in 2008 and they are still in great shape in 2022!
Yay for Birks! Currently traveling in Europe and hoping to buy some in Germany! Now I know which ones I want!! Love looking at all the choices, thank you!
I love my Birkenstocks for travel ! I take a pair on every trip. I usually take my Arizona tan ones but Gizeh sandals I have worn walking all over Europe . I have wide feet and bunions and these never hurt my feeet.n
My feet are so happy since following you , not only for travel, but in my daily life as mom and teacher ! Such great information on what have become my favorite shoes to keep me going and pain free all day!
Overall I am very happy with my Birkenstocks (Arizona) but I decided not to wear them on the plane as my feet swell and I think keeping my feet more confined in a sneaker is better. I don’t love walking on cobblestones with them.
I would absolutely disagree that you don’t need time to break them in. The first time I wore them I had terrible blisters both on top and on the underside of my arch. I had to wear them for very short periods to wear them in. Unfortunately I still get blisters on my arches if I walk in them for a long time. Maybe it’s because I have high arches, I should try a different style. PLEASE break them in first!
I have the Gizeh thongs in black and am taking them to Germany with me in September. They’re so comfortable and they go with everything!
Denver International TSA pre-check Line made me take off my Birks because of the metal buckles. However, overall-it’s now my fave to travel!
Hi Tiffany, thank you for sharing this with us, so pleased to hear your Birkenstocks are your favorite shoes for travel! Always love reading about our readers go-to products. Happy travels ?
I have the same problem too. Need to take off my sandals to due its metal buckle. But I still love them
Love my birkies for everything. My finicky feet perspire a lot. Have tried many sandals but always come back to these for great support and to avoid the blisters or “slipping around” that I get with others.
They’re awesome!
Yes, awesome!
I think you’ve finally convinced me that I should give birkenstocks a try!
Thanks for the comment Lise! It is always worth giving something a try! You never know, they may be the comfiest shoes you’ll ever put on! Happy travels!
I’m so glad young women are embracing comfort and support in their daily footwear choices, but to call the Arizona cute is a bit of a stretch. I still think they are the most awkward looking sandal around.
Thanks for reading Kim! We totally agree, comfort is the most important! Enjoy your travels!
Love the birkenstocks! So confortable!
They are so popular with female travelers 🙂
I say if you like them and they are comfortable then go ahead and wear them for travel if they are season appropriate.
Great tip 🙂
When I was in Germany a few years ago, I decided I wanted a pair of Birkenstocks and searched everywhere for the perfect pair . . but ultimately didn’t get any. Maybe I just prefer soft cushioning, but I don’t get how people think they are “straight out of the box” comfy? They’re so hard!
I totally understand Tiffany! I think everyone needs to find the right shoes for them and everyone is so different!
You should try the soft footbed Birkenstocks. I love m in mine.
The Gizeh Birkie is my favorite style. I got a pair of the EVA ones and they are perfect for beach and poolside activities.
The Gizeh Birks are popular with other female travelers too 🙂 Thanks for sharing this!
Thank you for the confirmation. I only own 5 pairs of Birkenstocks, and YES! The most comfortable footwear. I also have worn Borg and Merrell, Birkos are the best. Now, I will add an EVA and a strappy sandals for dressier evenings and my footwear is taken care of for my up coming European travel. 🙂