The 12 Best Shoe Bags for Travel [2023]

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

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

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

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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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

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

3. The Stylish Travel Shoe Bag

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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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

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

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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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

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

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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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

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

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.