The Ultimate Travel Flip Flop

Have you ever seen a backpacker traveling without a pair of flip flops?

Doubtful.

I don’t think I ever have. Flip flops are key backpacker gear. They’re lightweight, portable, and multi-functional. You can wear them while wandering around a city or while lazing at the beach. You slip them on for middle-of-the-night bathroom runs, and you’d never get into a hostel shower without them.

Backpackers tend to seek quality in their hiking shoes, backpacks, and bracelet collections. So, why not in their flip flops?

I, too, used to be a backpacker with a crappy pair of plastic flip flops. They were uncomfortable and short-lived.

My flip flops have evolved.

After my plastic Old Navy sandals, I moved through a natural progression. I first discovered Reefs (higher-quality plastic), then Rainbows (leather variety beloved by frat boys), and then CHACOS. My life hasn’t been the same since.

Even if you haven’t heard of Chacos, you’ve probably seen them. They’re the bread and butter of outdoorsy folk. They produce high-quality hiking sandals that look like this.

Despite the fact I’m not much for appearances, I can’t get into the look of the standard Chaco sandal. Yes, I’ve heard a million times how comfortable they are, but I just can’t do it. Plus, I love the ease of a flip flop, and the fact that they look good with dresses and skirts.

Travelers, I’m here to introduce you to the ultimate travel flip flop: the Chaco flip flop.

Chacos + skirt = yes!

I purchased a pair two years ago and couldn’t be happier. I also bought a pair for my father, and he’s a fan. (He rocks flip flops in December. In New York. So I’m going to say he’s an aficionado.)

Though the most important thing is that they’re SUPER comfortable, I’ve also never received more compliments on anything I’ve worn. People love the look of them. (Maybe that says more about my clothing choices, but let’s just ignore that possibility.)

Here’s why Chacos are the best travel flip flop:

Pros

• Insanely comfortable
• High-quality Vibram sole
• Great arch support
• Lightweight and portable
• Long-lasting
• Lifetime warranty
• Lots of different colors and styles
• Look pretty and can be worn with anything

Cons

• Difficult to break in (hello, blisters!)
• Take longer to dry than normal flip flops
• More expensive

Though these flip flops are much costlier than your average plastic variety, I can promise you that the price is well worth it. I mean, they have a lifetime warranty!

After two years of heavy use, they show almost no signs of wear. The sole hasn’t worn down one bit. And you can actually wear them while walking around a city and not have sore feet at the end of the day. 

Rocking my Chacos while sitting in a funny chair in Tel Aviv.

If you have unusually small or large feet, try checking the Sierra Trading Post or other discounted retailers. Otherwise, you can find lots of options on Amazon.

No matter what, if you’re a traveler, you need a pair of Chaco flip flops. They really are the best flip flop for travel, and they’ll quickly become one of your favorite pairs of shoes!

Chaco did not pay me to say this. I’m writing this post out of my own true love for them. (Though, Chaco, if you’re out there —- heyyyyyy. Need a new flip flop tester? I’m your girl!) If you purchase the sandals through the Amazon link above, I get a teensy commission, at no extra cost to you. Thanks and enjoy!