The 12 Best Shoe Bags for Travel (2024)

There’s a possibility you haven’t thought twice about tossing your shoes directly into your suitcase — but you should. Not only do shoe bags make for space-efficient and neat packing, but they also keep your clothes safe from dirt and grime from your shoe soles.

They’re great for travel and come in handy for other uses — tote your shoes in a gym bag or backpack, use for shoe storage, or even use as packing cubes.

Things To Consider With Shoe Bags for Travel

If the idea of shoe bags is new to you, or if you’re in the market for new ones, you want to consider some key points before you purchase.

Capacity

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Travel shoe bags often come in multi-packs meant for single pairs of shoes but can also be larger duffle-style bags intended to accommodate a few different pairs. If you need multiple shoe options while traveling, get a shoe bag with multiple compartments.

For sunny destinations and beach vacations, a lightweight shoe bag that fits your walking shoes and a pair of sandals is perfect. If you’re traveling with minimal clothing or want ones you can use daily, simple shoe bags meant for 1 pair are probably the best fit.

Design

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When purchasing a travel shoe bag, you want to look for a few features. Drawstring bags are the most basic of all, and bags with translucent mesh or transparent panels allow you to see the contents without opening them.

If you prefer zippers over drawstrings, ensure that they’re sturdy — and you may also like double-zippers or flat zippers. You might also choose a bag with a loop handle so you can carry it or hang it up.

Cleaning Requirements

This detail probably doesn’t dawn on many people, but it’s crucial for when your travel shoe bag inevitably gets grimy. Sure, they’re meant to get dirty, but you should clean them so that dirt doesn’t transfer to the next pair you put in.

Synthetic materials like nylon are really easy to clean. A damp cloth mostly removes mud or grime, and you can quickly wipe the bag dry. This type of material might take longer to clean and dry than bags made of cotton or other fabrics that aren’t waterproof or water-resistant.

Hot Tip: If you choose natural fibers, chances are you can just toss your bags in the washing machine for even easier cleaning.

Water Resistance

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Many shoe bags are listed as water-resistant because their zippers or drawstrings aren’t waterproof, making them weak areas that could allow water in. However, water-resistant is still a win and keeps your shoes safe and dry.

The flip side is that they’ll also keep your belongings dry if your shoes had to be packed wet or muddy — especially practical if you’re traveling in the spring or fall months. Shoe bags are also handy for trapping odors, which is useful given how wet shoes can smell!

Size and Storability

Some people might be lucky enough to have lots of storage room for suitcases and bags — others, not so much. If your shoe collection requires a bigger travel shoe bag, and you have somewhere to store it, then that’s a great option.

If you only need one for 1 or 2 pairs at a time, live in a small apartment, or have minimal storage space, you may want soft-shell bags. What they lack in structure, they make up for in versatility, and you can fold many of them up to save space.

The 12 Best Shoe Bags for Travel

We’ve rounded up our top 12 travel shoe bags — check them out to see which one suits you best for your next big travel adventure or business trip.

1. Multi-sized Shoe Bags

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10,281 Reviews

BEST OVERALL: YAMIU Travel Shoe Bags Set

Packing your shoes is simple with these bags. You don't have to worry about getting anything else you packed dirty because your shoes will be tucked away in their own bags.

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Yamiu Travel Shoe Bag

This affordable 4-pack shoe bag set comes with 2 each of the standard and x-large sizes. The standard size measures 9.8 x 4.7 x 9 inches, fits shoes under U.S. size 10, and is great for sneakers, flats, slides, and heels.

The x-large is the same width and depth but 12.2 inches tall and better for shoes up to a size 14. Made with waterproof nylon, a quality center zipper, and a small loop handle, it can also double as a storage bag for other items when needed.

When not in use, they fold down flat for easy storage until your next trip. They also come in a standard 2-pack and a 12-pack that’s perfect for shoe lovers or sharing.

What We Like:

  • Sturdy, durable zipper closure

What We Don’t Like:

  • Slightly thinner fabric

2. Water-resistant Mesh Shoe Bags

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5,486 Reviews

UPGRADE PICK: Water Resistant Shoe Bags for Travel

A great way to keep your shoes safe. If you're heading to the beach, you need these bags to make sure your shoes don't get soaked while you're in the water.

Pack All Water Resistant Shoe Bags

With a simple, efficient design, this 2-pack travel pouch has a reinforced loop handle for easy carrying or hanging up. It’s made of polyester and composite mesh, making it water-resistant and easy to clean. The bag will trap any dirt or odors, which is especially handy for muddy hiking boots or sneakers.

The translucent mesh lets you see which shoes are inside, which is handy if you’ve packed up a few pairs for your trip or if you’re using them for regular shoe storage.

With dimensions of 8.66 x 3.15 x 15.75 inches, they can fit up to a men’s size 11 dress shoes or sneakers. Easily packable, it folds flat, weighs just 2.6 ounces, and comes in various colors.

What We Like:

  • Translucent mesh for easy identification

What We Don’t Like:

  • Not completely waterproof

» Related: The 10 Best Packing Cubes for Travel [2023]

3. The Stylish Travel Shoe Bag

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4,416 Reviews

Mossio Shoe Bag

Keep your packing streamlined and organized. You can fit up to 3 different pairs of shoes in this bag. Not only does it keep you organized, but it reduces packing clutter.

Mossio Shoe Bag

Functional objects don’t always have to be boring — they can be stylish too. Smartly designed, the Mossio bags are made with water-resistant polyester and 3 separate compartments with 2 zippers.

The main compartment is the roomiest one — think sneakers, skater shoes, or low-rise hiking boots. The other 2 are smaller mesh compartments, one inside and one outside, with a separate zipper. The mesh compartments aren’t as large and are better suited for slimline shoes like sandals.

Extra capacity makes it ideal for longer trips or vacations where you might require a few footwear options.

A study top handle makes it easy to carry or hang the shoe bag, and a luggage strap makes it easy to slide onto your luggage handle if you’re short on space. For more customizable options, it comes in multiple colors and prints.

What We Like:

  • Cute, stylish options

What We Don’t Like:

  • A little smaller than others

4. Tear-resistant Shoe Bags

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2,778 Reviews

MISSLO Portable Nylon Travel Shoe Bags with Zipper Closure

These bags are multifunctional. They won't rip, and they're water-resistant. They're also fully lined. Furthermore, they're designed for shoes, but they're also a great option for toiletries or even your electronics and cords.

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MISSLO Portable Nylon Travel Shoe Bags

Available in a 4-pack of either all black or multicolor, these travel bags are a simple, effective design. Made with breathable, tear-resistant nylon, they can endure a little bit more wear and tear without ripping. They are also super simple to clean inside and out — a damp cloth will do the trick.

These bags can hold up to a men’s size 13 shoes or a women’s size 11 and accommodates sandals, sneakers, boots, high-heels, dress shoes, and more. If you don’t need to use all 4 for shoes while traveling, they double as great cosmetics bags or even as small travel laundry bags.

Just 4.2 ounces each and easy to either fold flat or roll up when empty, this is an easy way to organize your luggage without tipping the scale.

What We Like:

  • Tear-resistant nylon for durability

What We Don’t Like:

  • Reports of zipper issues

5. Wallet-friendly Shoe Bags

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2,050 Reviews

SPIKG Portable Travel Shoe Bags

You'll have plenty of bags for your shoes if you opt for this set. Each bag has a clear window built-in to let you see what you have packed in them.

SPIKG Portable Travel Shoe Bags

These are a great choice if you need a simple drawstring shoe bag to get the job done. Available in an XL 10-pack, they’re one of the most affordable on the list.

They’re made of cloth and lined with nylon for a simple, sleek look with a thick drawstring closure to keep your shoes secure. A small transparent plastic window on the front bottom lets you quickly see which shoes are inside without guessing or unpacking.

Small and easy to store, the benefit of this design is that they don’t have working parts like zippers that can often break or get jammed. The XL can fit up to a men’s 13, and they’re available in packs of L and 2XL to suit everyone’s needs.

What We Like:

  • Simple drawstring closure

What We Don’t Like:

  • Fabric may not be as durable

6. Durable Travel Shoe Bags

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2,086 Reviews

Travel Shoe Bags, Foldable Waterproof Shoe Puches Organizer-Double Layer

Each of the organizers in this kit can fit up to 2 pairs of shoes. The main compartment can hold sneakers, heels, or small boots. The top portion has a spot for flats.

JJ Power Travel Shoe Bags

This shoe bag has a double zipper for easy use, double stitching for durability, a thicker, reinforced handle, and is made of waterproof nylon.

The main zippered compartment holds a pair of shoes up to a men’s size 14 in casual shoes or hiking shoes. A small mesh pocket on the inside holds another pair of flip-flops, socks, or shoe accessories.

The durable material makes cleaning mud or dirt from shoes easy, and they fold up flat for easy storage when you’re back home. Lightweight at 60 grams each, they are available in a multicolor 4-pack.

What We Like:

  • Sturdy design reinforcements

What We Don’t Like:

  • Not as breathable as others

7. Simple, No-frills Shoe Bags

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735 Reviews

FashionBoutique Waterproof Nylon Shoe Bags

If you're planning to go on a boat or spend a day by the pool, pack these bags. You can tuck your shoes away safely to keep them dry all day.

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FashionBoutique Waterproof Nylon Shoe Bags

A great way to organize, these are suitable for traveling, daily trips to the gym, or protecting your shoes in your closet. Available in multicolors for easy distinction, they’re made of durable, water-repellant nylon.

Easily pull the drawstring to close, and keep your shoes firmly separated from the clean clothes in your suitcase. They measure 15.1 x 12.2 inches, easily accommodating shoes up to a men’s size 13 and various types of women’s shoes.

Small and lightweight, they also come in handy for other items like socks or even small laundry items you want to keep separate.

What We Like:

  • It comes in multicolor packs

What We Don’t Like:

  • Drawstring could be thicker material

8. Shoe Bags for Serious Sneaker Fans

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822 Reviews

Premium Sneaker Bag & Travel Duffel Bag

Designed to hold 4 pairs of size 14 shoes, this is the perfect way to keep your things organized. You might even squeeze a few more pairs in if you wear a smaller size.

KXKS Premium Sneaker Bag

Top-quality or collectors’ sneakers don’t come cheap, and they’re an investment worth protecting when you travel. If you have a collection you can’t imagine putting into soft-shell shoe bags, there’s an option for you.

Kicks Kase is a shoe duffle bag with 3 Velcro dividers, making each compartment adjustable or even removable if needed. Large side, front, and interior pockets add lots of room for accessories, while a broad shoulder strap makes toting easy.

It’s TSA carry-on approved and can fit up to 4 pairs of men’s U.S. size 14 sneakers or a mixture of carry-on items — shoes, clothing, and electronics. Structured design means it won’t bend or fold, which might cause damage to your kicks.

For extra peace of mind, the material is non-bleeding, so your valuables are safe inside.

What We Like:

  • Structured design

What We Don’t Like:

  • A little heavier at 3.24 pounds

9. Waterproof Travel Shoe Bags

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434 Reviews

5 Pack Travel Shoe Bags for Packing

A must-have for people traveling for elegant events. You can tuck your dress shoes into these shoe bags, knowing they'll make it to your fancy occasion protected and as good as new.

Lermende 5 Pack Travel Shoe Bag

This travel shoe bag has a little extra durability with thick, high-quality nylon and heavy-duty zippers. It has a simple, hassle-free design with a nylon loop handle that can bear up to 10 pounds — perfect for heavier shoes.

Big enough to fit up to a U.S. men’s size 14, they’re able to carry casual shoes, heels, and even higher-rise boots. One side of the front panel is clear plastic, so you can easily see what’s inside without unpacking.

Available in a convenient 5-pack, this travel shoe bag gets extra points because it’s completely waterproof. If you only need to use 1 or 2 for shoes, the others can double as packing cubes for toiletries or clothing.

What We Like:

  • Waterproof nylon keeps items dry

What We Don’t Like:

  • The plastic window could have better visibility

10. Shoe Bags Made of Natural Material

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846 Reviews

Shoe Dust Bags

A great way to keep your shoes pristine. These dust bags will keep out debris that could make your shoes dusty or even discolored. They also help to keep out moisture.

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ZENPAC Shoe Dust Bags

Many options are available if you’d rather store your shoes in a bag made with natural vs. synthetic fibers. Travel shoe bags by Zenpac are made from organic, dust-resistant cotton with a rope drawstring closure that doubles as a handle.

Although not water-resistant, natural fibers are breathable, an important element, especially if you plan on storing your shoes for longer stretches. It ensures that air circulates enough to avoid mold, and your shoes won’t smell like they’ve been locked up in storage.

Reasonably priced for a pack of 4, they fit all kinds of shoes, from sky-high heels to hefty boots. You can either handwash or just toss them in the washing machine to keep them clean and fresh for your favorite shoes.

What We Like:

  • Made with natural, breathable fibers

What We Don’t Like:

  • The inside lining isn’t soft flannel

11. Shoe Bags for Multiple Shoes

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412 Reviews

SOLOAD Travel Shoes Bag Waterproof Storage Shoes Pouch

You can use this packing cube for a multitude of things, but it was designed specifically for shoes. It can tuck nicely into your suitcase or loop around your bag's handle.

SOLOAD Travel Shoe Bag

These shoe bags come in 2 sizes: Large, which accommodates up to a size 9, and Extra-Large, which will fit up to a size 12.

The main inner compartment has a detachable Velcro separator to fit 2 pairs of flats side by side or 1 pair of sneakers. An internal mesh pocket can hold a pair of sandals, and a zippered outer mesh pocket can store your slides or socks.

The material is waterproof and dustproof in a few different colors and patterns, while the external mesh pocket provides breathable storage. It’s also got a luggage strap to slide it onto your bag handle, with an extra easily accessible pocket.

What We Like:

  • Multiple compartments for shoes

What We Don’t Like:

  • Zippers could be more durable

12. Easy-to-Clean Travel Shoe Bags

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354 Reviews

Simple Houseware 4 Pack Travel Shoe Bags

An effective way to keep your shoes organized. This is a great choice both at home and while you're traveling if you tend to take a lot of shoe options with you.

Simple Houseware Store

Easily foldable for storage, these travel shoe bags will do the trick if you’re looking for a no-frills option. It’s waterproof and easy to clean, made from black nylon with a flat zipper on the front and a handle at the top for hanging or carrying.

The 4-pack comes in 2 of each size: Standard and X-Large, which will fit men’s sizes 9 and 13, respectively. If you travel often, these are a practical way to separate your shoes and tidy up your bag. When you’re back home, you can use them to store shoes or travel accessories until your next big trip.

What We Like:

  • They fit hi-top shoes and boots

What We Don’t Like:

  • The handle could be bigger

Final Thoughts

Whatever your travel needs are, there is bound to be a travel shoe bag that matches up. Shoe bags can significantly affect how efficiently you organize your carry-on, suitcase, or backpack.

Your shoes travel all over the place with you on all kinds of surfaces, and it’s well worth the money to keep them in a travel shoe bag to keep the rest of your items clean and tidy.

The 12 Best Shoe Bags for Travel (2024)

FAQs

What is the best material for shoe bags? ›

Cotton and linen are the ideal fabrics for footwear bags as they resist moisture and allow shoes to breathe.

Are shoe bags necessary for travel? ›

It's a must-have packing accessory that will keep your shoes from ruining the rest of your gear. It's a good idea to pack your shoes in a shoe bag because your leather boots or sneakers could get scratched up by sharp objects in your suitcase.

What is the bag that comes with shoes? ›

The bag that comes with shoes is usually called a dust bag or shoe dust bag.

How to travel with luxury shoes? ›

Place shoes heel to toe with soles facing outward, like in a shoe box, place them in shoe bags for protection, and line them up in the zippered compartment side of your luggage – starting at the bottom. If your shoes don't fill up the whole compartment, pack clothes in between to keep everything in place.

What makes a bag high quality? ›

A high-quality bag should not only be durable but also lightweight and comfortable to carry. Assess the weight of the bag, as an excessively heavy bag can lead to discomfort and strain on your shoulders or back.

Should shoes go on top or bottom of suitcase? ›

Shoe packing. If you decided to wrap your shoes, place them at the base of the suitcase with one sole sitting against the bottom wall. If you didn't wrap your shoes, place them individually on one side of the metal rods that protrude from the suitcase. Aim to position one shoe at the base.

How many pairs of shoes can you take on a plane? ›

Personal Item vs.

For example, you might be able to fit 2-3 days' worth of clothes and 1-2 pairs of shoes in a bag that's small enough to be a personal item, but you can pack 3-4 days' of clothes and 2-3 pairs of shoes in a carry-on bag.

How many shoes should I bring when Travelling? ›

Whittling down your choices to just a few pairs can be tough, so we're sharing a favourite travel tip: the '3 shoe rule. ' Yes, you guessed it – the '3 shoe rule' is only pack THREE pairs of shoes. For a summer vacation, this typically means a pair of sneakers and two pairs of sandals – one dressy and one casual.

Why do people put shoes in bags? ›

Cotton travel shoe bags

You'll also find that many handbag and shoe companies package items in these for dust-free storage purposes. These are my go-to shoe bags, since they keep the dirt and grime from my footwear off everything else in my suitcase, but are super lightweight and don't take up extra space.

What is the little bag in shoes called? ›

Silica bags are found with new shoes and electronics. They contain silicon dioxide, aka "silica." Silica can absorb moisture and keep things dry. Here's how: 1. Water-damaged phone?

Is it better to wear sneakers or sandals on a plane? ›

Making the Best Decision for Your Air Travel Footwear Needs

When it comes to selecting sensible shoes for air travel, you have options that cater to both comfort and style. Sandals can offer convenience and breathability, while closed-toe shoes provide added support and protection.

What shoes to wear in airplane? ›

“Laces can complicate things, so slip-on sneakers are by far one of the most comfortable options for air travel,” says Moore. “Easy to take off at any point in your air travel journey, especially before airport security. But the lack of laces provides all-around comfort for your feet.”

What is the best material to store shoes in? ›

Acid-free paper is great for low shoes and ankle boots, but for knee-high boots it's a good idea to use rolled-up, acid-free cardboard to maintain their shape. Stuff the feet with acid-free paper, then use cardboard to prevent your boots from flopping and creasing while in storage.

What is the most durable material for a bag? ›

Nylon is a synthetic material that's known for its durability and water resistance. Nylon bags are lightweight, easy to clean, and can withstand heavy use without showing wear and tear. They're often used for backpacks, messenger bags, and travel bags, as they can hold up to the demands of frequent travel.

What is a suitable material for packaging shoes? ›

Choose the Right Packaging Materials

Sturdy shipping bags or envelopes reinforced with bubble wrap are ideal for shoes shipped without their original box. When shipping shoes in their original box or shipping shoe boxes, opt for a durable outer box to protect them during transit.

What fabric should I use for a bag? ›

You will want to look for a medium weight canvas, in the range of 5-10 ounces per yard. Here are a few cotton canvas fabric that I like to use when making bags. Rifle Paper Co makes some really dreamy floral patterns.

References

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