This article contains affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases.
If you are looking for the best hiking shoes for beginners, you are in the right place! We know it can be hard to choose from all of the hiking shoe options out there.
We have done a LOT of hiking in the states and around the world. We've hiked in deserts & rainforests, on sunny days & in the rain, we've hiked through rivers & over mountains. We are here to give you our top recommendations so you can rest easy knowing you've chosen the perfect shoes to start your hiking journey.
If you have burning questions regarding what makes the best hiking boots for a beginner, no worries. We’ve done the homework so you don’t have to, covering everything from half sizes and wider fittings to sandals, shoes, and boots for rookie hikers.
🏆The winner is…Our number one pick overall as the best beginner hiking shoes for men and women is the Salomon Speedcross 5.
We love the Salomon Speedcross 5 because it’s ultra-tough, yet uber-lightweight. It can take on any trail, yet is stylish enough for city wear too.
For an all-rounder ideal for exploring, exercising, and traveling, you cannot beat this hiking shoe from one of the world’s leading outdoor brands.
This guide to the best hiking gear for beginners focuses on footwear, narrowing down the options for those seeking the best hiking shoes for travel, hiking short or long trails, and everyday wear.
Keep reading for all you need to know about finding the best hiking shoes for beginners.
The Best Hiking Shoes For Beginners Comparison Chart
Shoes are the first thing to think about when making a list of basic hiking gear for beginners. So make sure you’re well-shod every time you take to the trails – or even the city sidewalk trails – by comparing the options via this quick-reference comparison table.
Next, you’ll find in-depth reviews of each of the best hiking boots for beginners, in women's and men’s sizes. Plus we've covered suitable hiking sandals and shoes as well.
| Picture of item | Name | Fit | Key features | Price |
 | 🏆Salomon Speedcross 5 | Men | Wide/half sizes, Quicklacing, Salomon style, Sensifit, lightweight | Check here |
 | 🏆Salomon Speedcross 5 | Women | Large grips, Quicklaces, cool colors, intuitive fit, suits any day wear | Check here |
 | Merrell Moab 2 | Men | Supportive, breathable, wider & half fittings, well priced | Check here |
 | Merrell Moab 2 | Women | Waterproof, half & wide sizes, adjustable fit, ankle support | Check here |
 | Keen Targhee | Men | Spacious toe box, padded collar & tongue, all-terrain sole | Check here |
 | Keen Targhee | Women | Reliable brand, good grip, 6 colors, stable shank, removable footbed | Check here |
 | Timberland White Ledge | Men | Rustproof hardware, great grip, sealed seams, good looks | Check here |
 | Keen Targhee Chelsea | Women | Stylish looks, pull on/off, all-terrain & non-marking sole, support shank | Check here |
 | Altra Lone Peak 6 | Men | 7 colors, ultra lightweight, low impact landing, award-winning | Check here |
 | Altra Lone Peak 6 | Women | Wide & half sizes, soft & responsive ride, great traction, 7 colors | Check here |
 | Teva Hurricane XLT2 | Men | Stabilizing sole, cushioned heel, great traction, quick drying | Check here |
 | Teva Tirra | Women | 19 colors, fast drying, Shoc Pad, stable & comfortable base | Check here |
 | Adidas Terrex Swift R3 | Unisex | Gore-Tex finish, supportive shape, great grip, half sizes | Check here |
The Best Hiking Shoes For Beginners Recommendations
MEN’S SALOMON SPEEDCROSS 5
Best men’s beginner hiking shoes overall 🏆
- Type: Trail running shoe
- Fit: Men
Finding the best walking boots for beginners is all very well, but when you want an all-rounder it’s hard to beat a trail running shoe. Like the Salomon Speedcross 5 for men, which is for us the best of the whole bunch.
If you want footwear that will see you through summer and winter conditions – and can take you off the trails too – then just buy the Salomon Speedcross 5.
We love the fact that this is such a hybrid. It’s sturdier than the average trail running shoe, yet lighter in weight than a typical GTX hiking shoe (which you'll appreciate when lugging around your suitcase).
What’s also great is that you can order this shoe in half and wider sizes, giving everyone a better chance of getting the best possible fit.
It can tackle exactly the sort of trails a beginner hiker will take on, and you can even run in these. In fact, you’d get plenty of wear out of your pair even if you never took to the trails again!
Why buy the best men's hiking boots for beginners when you could be so much lighter on your feet? These Salomons will take you practically anywhere.
The Sensifit design ensures all-day comfort, while Quicklace technology makes them easy to secure on the go. A great, lightweight all-around hiking shoe offering comfort, style, and substance in abundance.
👉Speedcross 6 is now available as well, so Speedcross 5 may be in short supply. Check out Speedcross 6 here.
We’re obsessed with:
- Super stylish
- Quicklace technology
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Sensifit for all-day comfort
- Shoes that can take you anywhere
Not so hot:
- Not the most waterproof option
WOMEN’S SALOMON SPEEDCROSS 5
Best women’s beginner hiking shoes overall🏆
- Type: Trail running shoe
- Fit: Women
We’re recommending these Salomon hiking shoes over women’s hiking boots for beginners. Why? Because when you’re not used to wearing heavy boots, a style like this can get you off the ground so much quicker.
They are designed for the trails, however. In fact, as they’re made with trail runners in mind, they are great for walking and running too. Whether you’re exploring a new place while traveling, or taking on a multi-day hike.
They look pretty much like a regular pair of sneakers, but are built to handle so much more. Just as you might expect from Salomon.
This robust footwear is made to minimize weight, which can be a godsend for those who dislike wearing boots or trying to pack light. If you’re not keen on finding the best beginner hiking boots for women but would prefer a lighter feel, then this is the type to think about buying instead.
Like the men’s version, these absolute hiking essentials for beginners come with Sensifit for a comfortable feel, Quicklace technology for speed of fitting and big grips to provide excellent traction.
You can also pick between some gorgeous shades. If you can resist wearing these all day long, then we will be surprised!
👉Speedcross 6 is now available as well, so Speedcross 5 may be in short supply. Check out Speedcross 6 here.
We’re obsessed with:
- Salomon style
- Tough yet lightweight
- Quicklacing on-the-go
- Larger grips for improved traction
- Sensifit adjusts to each wearer
Not so hot:
- Some people prefer traditional lace-ups
MEN’S MERRELL MOAB 2 HIKING BOOT
Best beginner’s hiking boot for men
- Type: Hiking boot
- Fit: Men
A waterproof hiking boot covers almost every base – and the Merrell Moab 2 is one of the biggest sellers of all. They make really good hiking boots for beginners and experienced trekkers alike.
One of the best features is the fact that this mid waterproof hiking boot for men comes in a choice of half, full and wide sizes. Ensuring a perfect fit is achievable for more people. You can also pick between 18 colors.
The mid height gives just enough ankle support when tackling challenging terrain, without being so high that it impedes freedom of movement.
A waterproof yet breathable finish ensures fresh feet all year round, while a protective toe cap and bellows tongue guard against knocks and dirt.
The footbed on the men’s Merrell Moab 2 is made to offer support and comfort, and cushioning in the heel offers both shock absorption and stability.
A Merrell Vibram outsole also provides good traction and added dependability. The Merrell Moab also made it on our perfect hiking shoes for flat feet and our top hiking boots with a wide toe box list!
We’re obsessed with:
- Supportive, comfortable footbed
- Waterproof yet breathable
- Half, full and wider sizes
- Good ankle support
- Competitive price
Not so hot:
- Functional appearance
Need a gift idea for the hikers in your life? Here are some great hiking gift ideas for him & for her!
WOMEN’S MERRELL MOAB 2 HIKING BOOT
Best beginner’s hiking boot for women
- Type: Hiking boot
- Fit: Women
The Merrell Moab 2 is also our top pick when it comes to the best beginner hiking boots for women. This mega-popular footwear also comes in a range of colors, and receives a huge number of high ratings from current owners.
The neutral tones available include shades of gray and brown with complementary or contrasting trim.
Like the men’s version, wider and half sizes are offered here. These waterproof, lightweight hiking boots are also fully breathable to prevent overheated feet, and the upper features a combination of leather and mesh.
A traditional lace-up closure means every woman can easily achieve the perfect fit, while the bellows tongue and protective toe cap ward off dust, debris, and the damage that could be caused by banging your toes against an unyielding rock.
If you’re a woman who wants to get into hiking and prefers the idea of hiking boots to shoes or sandals to have more ankle support, then the Merrell Moab is an excellent choice.
We’re obsessed with:
- Breathable yet waterproof upper
- Lace-up style ensures ideal fit
- Full, half and wider sizes
- Added ankle support
- Well priced
Not so hot:
- Less color options than men’s
MEN’S KEEN TARGHEE HIKING SHOE
Best beginner’s hiking shoe for men
- Type: Hiking shoe
- Fit: Men
Keen is another top brand that offers reliable, robust footwear for outdoor activities. The Keen Targhee for men is available as a low-height shoe.
A pair of these makes really good hiking shoes for beginners as it’s suitable for everyday wear as well as on the trail.
This beginner hiking footwear is designed for indoor use as well, as the soles leave no trace when walking on interior floors. When tackling trails, rocks, and other types of surfaces, however, the sole provides trustworthy traction.
A contoured heel also supplies both comfort and stability.
The Keen Targhee range is also waterproof, but with a breathable membrane to let excess moisture escape. With this shoe, the toe box also provides ample room for your feet, even if they swell up during hikes due to hot weather or other causes.
For support, comfort, and dependability from a responsible footwear manufacturer, the Keen Targhee belongs on many lists of essential hiking gear for beginners.
These shoes also made our list of the best hiking shoes for wide feet. If you need a wide fit, check them out!
We’re obsessed with:
- Breathable, waterproof membrane
- Cushioned collar and tongue
- Supportive, spacious fit
- Subtle, low-profile style
- All-terrain outsole
Not so hot:
- Limited ankle support
WOMEN’S KEEN TARGHEE HIKING SHOE
Best beginner’s hiking shoe for women
- Type: Hiking shoe
- Fit: Women
If you need to find a waterproof hiking shoe for women that has a lower profile, then the Keen Targhee for women is a top-rated product. This female version comes in a choice of six colors, and you can order half or full sizes.
A stabilizing shank on this top hiking shoe provides assurance with every step, while the toe box again offers plenty of space for hardworking feet. There’s also a removable footbed with arch support built in.
The Keen Targhee women’s hiking shoe also offers great grip on the trails or other slippery surfaces and features a breathable membrane for ventilation.
It’s another winner from a leading outdoor brand. If you prefer shoes to beginner hiking boots, this could be the product to opt for.
We’re obsessed with:
- Waterproof, breathable membrane
- Removable cushioned footbed
- Reliable outdoor brand
- Stabilizing shank
- Good grip
Not so hot:
- Less ankle support than boot
👍ARE YOU TRAVEL OBSESSED? Join ‘Our Travel Obsession' Facebook group!
MEN’S TIMBERLAND WHITE LEDGE HIKING BOOT
Best stylish hiking boot for men
- Type: Hiking boot
- Fit: Men
When you want to buy the best beginner walking boots for men that will look equally suitable in the city or on the trails, then this massively popular pair of Timberlands has to be in the running. Though it looks rugged, it’s in a more subtle and stylish way than other hiking boots.
Another bonus is the fact that these men’s Timberland boots come in half and wide sizes as well as regular fittings. They’re available in a choice of shades too, running from the lighter ‘wheat’ shade to darker brown and black.
Care has been taken by the manufacturer to ensure this footwear stays looking good for a long time. The hardware is rust-proof, while the full-grain leather finish stays stylish even after these boots have been worn for many days.
Those who want to hike in wet conditions will appreciate the sealed seams that keep water out, plus the multi-directional grips that provide great traction on slippery surfaces.
This responsible company has been making reliable footwear since 1973, and when it comes to the men’s White Ledge that experience sure does show.
We’re obsessed with:
- Go-anywhere style
- Wider and half sizes
- Wheat, brown or black
- Sealed seams and multi-directional grips
- Full-grain leather and rustproof hardware
Not so hot:
- Not as cushioned as some
WOMEN’S KEEN TARGHEE CHELSEA BOOT
Best stylish hiking boot for women
- Type: Hiking boot
- Fit: Women
Maybe you want a pair of really good beginner hiking boots that you can wear for other occasions too. Such as when traveling and trying to pack as lightly as possible.
If that’s the case, this women’s Chelsea boot doesn’t look like the average hiking boot.
Yet this outdoor footwear from Keen offers the usual advantages of the Targhee range. So you get a non-marking, all-terrain outsole. Plus a pioneering External Support Shank for stability, and a contoured heel to provide reliability and comfort.
Again there’s also a roomy toe box, plus a breathable mesh lining for better ventilation. Unlike the usual sort of lacing system, you can also simply pull these boots on and off. A large elasticated panel to the outer side makes light work of this task.
Though these boots are designed to resist water, Keeen does recommend the use of a specially formulated leather protection product when you want to use these boots for daily wear.
We’re obsessed with:
- Stylish looks
- Pulls on and off
- Breathable mesh lining
- External Support Shank
- All-terrain, non-marking sole
Not so hot:
- Not as robust as regular hiking boots
Ladies…don't forget to grab yourself a quality backpack before you hit the trails!
MEN’S ALTRA LONE PEAK 6 TRAIL RUNNING SHOE
Best trail running shoe for men
- Type: Trail running shoe
- Fit: Men
For a trail runner rather than a walker, shoes specially made for this pursuit can be a more suitable choice. They also make the most lightweight hiking shoe you can get.
So if sturdy, lace-up boots aren’t for you, do consider the Altra Lone Peak 6 for men. The number of highly positive reviews certainly impresses us!
If you’re a male who likes a bit of color in your life, then these shoes could also be the ideal choice. They come in a range of tones, from monochrome black to deep red, olive, teal, and more. You can also buy the Lone Peak 6 in half and wider sizes.
This is an award-winning shoe that was named ‘Best Trail Shoe’ by Runner’s World in 2022. The tread is designed for maximum traction, and the skeletal design is also a fun touch that looks good when you kick back your heels.
These running shoes are also cleverly designed to provide a low-impact landing, offer plenty of space in the toe box, and to supply a soft feel when worn. The best trail shoes for beginners seeking value for money, style, and substance.
We’re obsessed with:
- 7 hot colors
- Ultra lightweight
- Soft, low-impact landing
- Wide and half sizes available
- Runner’s World’s ‘Best Trail Shoe’ 2022
Not so hot:
- Not waterproof
✔PRO TIP: Make sure you grab your free packing checklist! It has everything you'll need in an easy-to-use PDF checklist that you can use over & over!
WOMEN’S ALTRA LONE PEAK 6 TRAIL RUNNING SHOE
Best trail running shoe for women
- Type: Trail running shoe
- Fit: Women
While we looked around, we couldn’t find a better trail running shoe for females than the Altra Lone Peak 6. As with the men’s variety, this is award-winning footwear for trail runners, and this version comes in colors including coral, denim blue, or black and turquoise.
You can order these trail running shoes in wide and half as well as regular sizes, and again the balanced platform assures active types of a soft, low-impact landing every time.
The midsoles are made to provide a comfortable ride, while the FootShape toe box doesn’t restrict your feet. Whether you’re walking around town, pounding the tarmac, or hiking in the hills.
Though these are not waterproof hiking shoes, they are made using fast-drying air mesh so they can dry out quickly, all ready for your next run. There’s even a more adjustable lacing system to ensure a custom fit every time.
We’re obsessed with:
- 7 cool colors
- Reliable grip
- Soft, responsive ride
- Half and wide sizes are available
- ‘Best Trail Shoe’, Runner’s World 2022
Not so hot:
- No waterproofing
MEN’S TEVA HURRICANE XLT2 HIKING SANDAL
Best men’s hiking sandals
- Type: Hiking sandal
- Fit: Men
The best shoes for beginner hikers headed to hot places and plan to stick with easy trails, then a pair of sandals rather than boots or shoes might be one of your hiking must-haves for beginners.
The Teva Hurricane XLT2 for men comes in 16 color options, and these range from ethnic prints or plain shades to pair with multi-colored straps. You only need to look at the sole here to see that these sandals are made for walking.
A closer look at the spec reveals a tough, comfortable EVA footbed and a rugged, grippy outsole too.
Attention has been paid to every detail when this footwear was designed. They’re some of the best hiking equipment for beginners you’ll find due to a padded heel tab, water-ready fabric, a simple and adjustable hook-and-loop closure, and a stabilizing shank.
For support, traction, and comfort in a sandal ideal for hot weather, you can count on the Teva Hurricane XLT2 for men.
We’re obsessed with:
- 16 colors
- Great traction
- Stabilizing sole
- Cushioned heel tab
- Quick-dry, water-ready fabric
Not so hot:
- No good for cold weather
WOMEN’S TEVA TIRRA HIKING SANDAL
Best women’s hiking sandals
- Type: Hiking sandal
- Fit: Women
For everyday wear in hot weather, you cannot beat the Tirra for women from Teva. It’s a mega-popular sandal sold in a multitude of colors and has all the features you’d expect from hiking footwear in a stylish, streamlined design.
For travelers who want to hike during their trip to hotter climates & plan to stick to easier trails, this is a great option.
This design proves that the best women's hiking shoes for beginners aren’t necessarily boots or sneakers (as long as you aren't planning any super-challenging hikes).
You can order half or full sizes, and each sandal comes with all the features you need for the trails, including a cushioned heel pad to absorb shock, a stabilizing shank, and a contoured, supportive midsole.
Other great benefits include female-specific shaping, a simple hook-and-loop strap closure, and a fast-drying upper. The outsole is patterned for added grip, while the insole is cushioned to provide more comfort as you move.
There are some really pretty designs available too, ranging from classic black to a multi-tonal taupe, a mix of pastels or baby blue, and more. If you want shoes for exploring in general as well as some light day hiking, the Teva Tirra will surely fit the bill.
We’re obsessed with:
- 19 colors
- Shoc Pad to heel
- Quick-dry webbing
- Cushioned, stabilizing base
- Adjustable hook-and-loop closure
Not so hot:
- Not machine washable
UNISEX ADIDAS TERREX SWIFT R3 HIKING SHOE
Best unisex beginners’ hiking shoe
- Type: Hiking shoe
- Fit: Unisex
Do you want to find a waterproof hiking shoe for your starter collection of hiking equipment for beginners? Then the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 is worthy of consideration. It’s a unisex product available in a good range of colors to suit any rookie hiker.
If you’re a beginner, then you might want hiking footwear that’s more multi-purpose than the average pair. These make good men’s and women's beginner hiking shoes for that precise reason.
Looking more like a regular pair of sneakers means you can wear them for all sorts of occasions – and that can also help with wearing them in.
Something else a new hiker might not yet realize is how often you might come across wet, muddy and slippery terrain. Plus how commonly rain is on the trails in some places (even tropical islands like Hawaii, for example).
This shoe is made using Gore-Tex, so it’s ideal for keeping your feet dry at all times.
You can wear this product as trail running shoes, for exploring a new place or even to tackle challenges like via ferrata routes. It’s supportive, offers great traction and the Adidas brand ensures good looks.
You can order half or full sizes too.
We’re obsessed with:
- Gore-Tex waterproofing
- Supportive shaping
- Half and full sizes
- Great traction
- Good looks
Not so hot:
- Needs more wearing in than some
Choosing The Best Hiking Gear For Beginners
Next up is what to look for when choosing the best women’s hiking boots for beginners – or a pair for a man. We also address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding this type of footwear, such as ‘what are the best hiking boots for beginners’, how and why hiking shoes are important and ‘what are some good hiking shoe brands?’
Type
What type of shoes do you have in mind? While hiking boots are often what comes to the minds of many people, there are other options. Including lower-profile hiking shoes, trail running shoes, and even sandals.
Which to choose might depend on the climate where you’re headed & the terrain you plan to hike. If it’s a really hot country or state, then sandals may be a more practical choice for anyone who hates having hot feet.
Trail running shoes provide good traction and comfort in a more lightweight type of footwear, or you can go for hiking shoes rather than boots if you don’t require extra ankle support.
Grip
Traction is key when it comes to differentiating between regular and hiking shoes. Hiking footwear is made for the sport because it offers superior grip, and this can make or break a hike when it comes to the key issue of safety.
Having shoes with a good grip will make you feel more confident when tackling the trails. Look for features such as large grips, good treat patterns and rubber soles if you want footwear with great traction.
Weatherproofing
Waterproof or quick-drying footwear can be a real plus. Even if it’s not raining, taking to the trails could involve tramping over slippery, wet ground. It may even involve entering the water, such as when trekking to the falls.
If you plan to take long hikes or walk during wet weather, then waterproofing may be something to look for. Alternatively, seek out fast-drying shoes that you can wear again the next day without putting up with wet feet from the start!
Ventilation
Keeping your footwear well-ventilated is crucial during hot weather. Surely no one is comfortable when their feet are overheated. Having hot feet can also make the rest of your body feel stifled and like you desperately need to cool down.
So look out for hiking footwear with good ventilation, as this will help to keep your feet cool. Ensuring the rest of your body follows suit.
Looks
How much does style matter? While substance may be more important when hiking, style might win out when you’re dressing to impress in a new destination.
If you want a multi-purpose pair of shoes rather than one reserved purely for hiking, then try to choose a pair you love the look of. It’s sure to mean you’ll get more wear out of them – and may even be able to travel lighter too.
Heading to Hawaii? The terrain on Hawaiian trails can be tricky – here are our top recommendations for Hawaiian hiking shoes.
Hiking Essentials For Beginners FAQs
So what kind of shoes should you wear for hiking? What are the best shoes to wear for hiking depends on a variety of factors. Some prefer hiking boots because of the added ankle support they offer.
For beginner hikers, the best footwear will be a shoe, boot, or sandal that offers great grip and comfort – even when worn for hours or days at a time. Other features to watch for include good breathability and waterproof or quick-drying materials.
You may wonder if walking shoes are good for hiking, or why you can’t just wear regular sneakers, sandals, or boots. Or what shoes should I wear for casual hiking, if you’re not yet sure how much time you’ll spend on the trails?
While you can get away with sneakers on some trails, having shoes designed for the trails will provide you with the grip & all-day comfort you will need. A quality pair of hiking shoes should be at the top of your list of hiking essentials.
Can you use running shoes for hiking?
There’s nothing to stop you from hiking in regular footwear. But the pain and even danger caused by unsuitable shoes could prevent you from ever setting foot on a trail again!
If you can, invest in tough hiking sandals, shoes or boots, or even a pair of trail running shoes before taking to the trails.
Hiking shoes will provide better comfort – and improved grip. The latter could be critical when it comes to safety too. 
Some hikers do prefer hiking boots, as they offer more support for the ankles than shoes or sandals. The downside, though, is that hiking boots are heavier. But, if you need support, it will be worth it.
Lighter options include hiking shoes – which are pretty much the same minus the ankle guard. Trail running shoes are another, more lightweight choice that can help you move quickly and safely along the trail.
So what brand is best for hiking boots, shoes, and sandals? Some of the top hiking footwear brands are Salomon, Merrell, Teva, Altra, Keen, Timberland, and Adidas.
New brands and products are appearing on the market all the time, but established brands like these are always a good bet.
Any beginner hiker is giving themselves a headstart when wearing the right clothing and footwear. Sturdy shoes that are suitable for the weather and terrain are the starting point.
You can also add a t-shirt plus shorts, walking pants, or leggings. Extra layers will be required for colder climates, and fast-drying or waterproof clothing is recommended for areas prone to rain. Pack a lightweight rain jacket if there is a chance of rain.
Wearing a daypack is ideal for carrying spare socks and additional layers – plus of course water, a first aid kit, and so on.
What Will Make It Onto Your Hiking Gear List For Beginners?
Hopefully, this guide has given you some food for thought when it comes to hiking footwear for beginners! What to choose is very much a personal matter, and takes account of factors like where you’ll be hiking and when.
Plus whether or not you want hiking shoes for travel, as if that’s the case a more lightweight pair could be the best choice.
The right hiking footwear can make sure you have a safe, enjoyable time on the trails. So it’s really not worth skimping on. Find the right pair of hiking boots, shoes or sandals and they could give you years of use while seeing the world.
As you become a more experienced hiker, you may want specific shoes for different terrains like the desert or colder temperatures.
Until next time…
About The Author
My mission is to inspire and empower families to prioritize travel now, creating unforgettable memories and deeper connections with their loved ones.
I provide guidance and practical solutions to help busy parents integrate travel into their lives, fostering joy, fulfillment, and stress-free adventures. Don’t wait until it’s too late; the time to travel is now.
Learn more about me & My Travel Obsession here.
My Favorite Travel Booking Apps & Websites
⭐MY TRAVEL OBSESSION:
- Products & Services – My Travel Obsession's travel planning products, services, and freebies!
- What To Pack – See all of my personal favorite travel items.
- Travel Resources – Resources that I use most when planning, booking & traveling.
🏡FOR FINDING GREAT PLACES TO STAY:
- VRBO – My #1 recommendation for family-friendly lodging options.
- Expedia – My favorite for hotel bookings.
🚗FOR CAR & RV RENTALS:
- Discover Cars & Sixt – My favorite sites for rental cars worldwide.
- Turo.com – Rent a car from an individual owner – It's like VRBO for cars!
- RVShare – Rent an RV for your next family road trip!
🚁FOR ACTIVITIES, EXCURSIONS, & TOURS:
- Viator & Get Your Guide – The best sites to find and book activities & excursions.
- Gypsy Guide – An AWESOME audio tour app. ALWAYS check to see if they have a tour available.
🩺FOR TRAVEL INSURANCE:
- SafetyWing – The lowest-cost travel insurance out there. Several options starting as low as $42 for 4 weeks of coverage.
✈FOR FINDING GREAT FLIGHT DEALS:
- Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) – My #1 recommendation for saving big $$$ on flights. Sign up for a free 14-day trial.
🥾FOR HIKING:
- AllTrails – THE APP for hikers. I recommend paying for the pro version so you can use the navigation feature while hiking.
Once you're done here, head to the homepage to explore or jump to one of these categories: Texas Travel ~ US Travel ~ International Travel ~ Travel Tips & Tricks ~ Travel Gear & Gadgets ~ What To Pack ~ Travel Planning ~ Shop