Usually fewer than you think
I remember my first backpacking trip. I packed hiking boots, trainers, flip-flops, and a pair of casual shoes because I wanted to be prepared for everything. By day two, I realized I had carried nearly 2 kg of shoes I never wore. Since then, I've learned that experienced backpackers are often ruthless about footwear: every extra ounce has to earn its place.
The Short Answer
For most backpacking trips, bring:
- 1 pair of hiking shoes or trail runners (essential)
- Optional: 1 pair of lightweight camp sandals (for comfort)
That's all most backpackers need.
Option 1: One Pair Only
Many backpackers use just:
- Trail runners
- Hiking shoes
- Hiking boots
Benefits:
- Less weight
- More space in your pack
- Simpler packing
This is especially common on:
- Weekend trips
- Lightweight backpacking trips
- Well-maintained trails
Option 2: Hiking Shoes + Camp Shoes
This is probably the most popular setup for multi-day trips.
Main Hiking Shoes
Used for:
- Walking
- Climbing
- Most trail activities
Camp Shoes
Used for:
- Relaxing at camp
- Walking around campsites
- River crossings
- Letting your feet breathe
Good camp shoe options:
- Lightweight sandals
- Foam slides
- Minimalist camp shoes
Why Backpackers Avoid Extra Shoes
Shoes are:
- Bulky
- Heavy
- Difficult to pack
Unlike clothing, they don't compress well.
A spare pair of shoes can easily weigh more than:
- Your rain jacket
- Your sleeping bag liner
- Several days of snacks
What Matters More Than Multiple Shoes
Proper Fit
Your main hiking shoes should:
- Feel comfortable immediately
- Have enough room for your toes
- Be broken in before the trip
Good Socks
Many backpackers would rather carry:
- Extra socks
Than:
- Extra shoes
Fresh socks can make tired feet feel almost new.
When You Might Want A Second Pair
Consider camp shoes if:
- Your trip lasts several days
- You expect water crossings
- You'll spend a lot of time around camp
- You enjoy giving your feet a break after hiking
Three Common Footwear Mistakes
1. Bringing Too Many Shoes
Extra weight with little benefit.
2. Wearing Brand-New Boots
A leading cause of blisters.
3. Choosing Fashion Over Function
Comfort matters far more than appearance on the trail.
A Quick Rule Of Thumb
For most backpackers:
- Short trips: 1 pair
- Multi-day trips: 1 pair + optional camp sandals
- Long-distance trekking: still usually just 1 main pair, with very lightweight camp footwear
My Personal Takeaway
For backpacking, one reliable pair of hiking shoes is usually enough. If you want additional comfort, add a lightweight pair of camp sandals. Beyond that, extra shoes rarely justify their weight. Most experienced backpackers would rather carry more food, water, or warm layers than a third pair of shoes.