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Once considered a fashion faux pas, having a comfortable pair of thongs while travelling is essential. Aside from being undeniably comfortable, thanks to their featherweight design, flexible straps, contoured footbeds and improved arch support, you should consider adding a podiatrist-approved pair to the top of your ‘to pack’ list.

A quick and easy shoe choice that pairs well with any casual and relaxed outfit, waterproof travel thongs have a thick and robust sole that will save the day when you’re walking on hot sand, jumping across rock pools or showering in a hostel. They’re also great to slip on during the heat of summer when you need a breathable and comfortable shoe option that doesn’t require long socks or heavy materials that prevent your feet from feeling the cool breeze.

If you’re still unsure why thongs are included in our best lightweight travel shoes list, read on to find out why you’ll be packing a pair in your suitcase ahead of your next holiday.

Why travel thongs should be included in your luggage

• Lightweight and compact — If you’re backpacking around Europe or travelling the outback in a tiny camper van, it might not be possible to squeeze an extra pair of hiking shoes in your bag. If you ditch those bulky, thick and heavy soles for ultra-lightweight thongs, you’ll have more room for all of your essentials — whether it be extra layers of clothing, toiletries, towels or food. Plus, after you’ve finished your activities for the day, you can pack your travel thongs into any small and confined space.

• Comfort is critical — The best lightweight travel shoes should be comfortable and supportive. While thongs were once given a bad rap, the latest designs boast extra padding, arch support and rugged soles that provide excellent traction. As part of their sleek, minimalistic design, travel thongs also feature water-resistant upper straps and durable rubber soles — so you can walk long distances with ease. Whether you’re exploring a European city on foot, walking by the beach or heading to breakfast near the pool, this style of travel shoe is comfortable enough to be worn all day, every day. Plus, they’re easy to pair with any casual fit — so wherever you go, there’s no need to fear you’ll look out of place.

• Practical arch support — Nowadays, thongs are no longer reserved for days by the beach. Thanks to their popularity, premium shoe brands now partner with podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons to ensure their travel thongs offer ideal arch support and are safe for long-term wear. With this in mind, look for a style that provides optimal foot posture, so your body’s entire alignment is supported. After all, a lack of support and increased pronation can alter how stress and strain are absorbed through the body, leading to injury.

• A waterproof design — Whether you’re vacationing by the beach or you’re staying in a hostel that requires shoes while bathing, most of the best thongs for travel are waterproof.

• Easy to clean and maintain — Most waterproof thongs are crafted from a sturdy rubber sole, meaning they’re easy to clean, scrub and rinse. Just by soaking them in a bucket with warm water and letting them dry in the sun, your travel thongs will be as good as new when it comes time to slip them on again. You should avoid washing your thongs in a machine as it could damage or pull at the delicate straps.

Find the best thongs for travel at Greens Footwear

If you’re searching for the perfect pair of flip flops, Green’s Footwear’s selection guarantees an unmatched level of comfort and support. With moulded inner soles that cradle your feet and take the stress off your heels and legs, you’ll find styles for men and women, along with waterproof designs that can deal with everyday wear and tear. If you’re looking for a sporty pair that’s perfect for all-day-long wear, opt for a style with mesh upper fabric and a contoured footbed that’s as soft as a sponge.

If you’re searching for a pair of travel thongs to support your foot in a more biomechanically appropriate position, opt for a style from Archies, Orthaheel or Ascent Footwear. Offering the same amount of support that you’d find from an off the shelf orthotic, the elevated heel alleviates the stress that would otherwise be transferred to the musculoskeletal system. As a result, this innovative and high-tech design is the ideal choice for people with Plantar Fasciitis or Achilles Tendonitis. Browse our range of thongs and scuffs online today to find the best lightweight travel shoes for your next holiday.