Quick answer
Use a dedicated shoe cover or pouch to separate your footwear from clothing, preventing dirt, odor, and wrinkles. Pack them at the bottom or sides of your suitcase for easy access and to maximize space.
Why use shoe covers instead of just wrapping shoes in plastic bags?
Plastic bags trap moisture and can cause odors or mildew. A breathable shoe cover or pouch allows air circulation while keeping dirt contained. It also prevents shoe soles from rubbing against and damaging delicate fabrics like silk or wool.
When to skip shoe covers
If you are packing only one pair of sandals or flip-flops and your luggage is mostly empty, you may not need a cover. But for any closed-toe shoe, especially after outdoor use, a cover is worth the small space it takes.
How to pack shoe covers for carry-on travel
- 1. Choose the right shoe cover size: Select a shoe cover or pouch that fits your largest pair of shoes. A snug fit prevents the cover from bunching, which wastes space. If you have multiple pairs, consider separate covers for each. One cover per pair avoids cross-contamination of dirt.
- 2. Clean and air out shoes before packing: Wipe off visible dirt and let shoes air dry for at least an hour. Damp shoes inside a cover can lead to mildew. A quick brush or wipe is usually enough for city travel. Never pack wet or muddy shoes even inside a cover.
- 3. Place shoes sole-to-sole inside the cover: Put the shoes with soles facing each other to minimize contact with the cover fabric. This also reduces the chance of scuffing the upper material of the other shoe. Soles against soles keeps the cover cleaner longer.
- 4. Position the covered shoes at the bottom or sides of your bag: Place the shoe cover flat along the bottom of your suitcase or against the side wall. This distributes weight evenly and prevents shoes from pressing into the middle of your folded clothes. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of the shoe cover.
- 5. Fill empty space inside the shoes: Stuff socks, underwear, or small electronics inside each shoe before closing the cover. This uses dead space and helps the shoes hold their shape during transit. Do not overstuff—leave enough room to close the cover easily.
Product spotlight
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Shoe Covers: This travel accessory will decrease crinkling, creasing and keep your garments clean in your luggage. Packing shoes in a separate pouch means you can toss them in without worrying about dirty soles touching your clothes.
Shoe Covers
