Summer vacations are the best. Nothing beats knowing you are catching a flight somewhere hot and relaxing in just a few hours, with nothing to do but work on your tan for a week. However, while this is all well and good, if you don’t pack the right footwear, your enjoyment of this much-needed break will be tempered by the realization you should have packed your favorite shoes. So what shoes do you actually need for a summer vacation?

1. Sandals

Sandals are essential footwear for a summer vacation. A cute pair of sandals can be worn with virtually any outfit, from skinny jeans to a pretty Bo-Ho dress. Cheap sandals are available from all kinds of stores, including cheap online e-stores. Cheap sandals are a good choice if you are taking a beach vacation, as it won’t matter if they are damaged by salt water, but if you want to look like an A-Lister on the beach or in the local nightclubs, look for embellished sandals sprinkled with Ascot Diamonds.

2. Comfortable Flats

Comfortable flats are a useful pair of all-purpose shoes. Summer vacations inevitably involve shopping and wandering around aimlessly, enjoying the views and fine weather. You could wear sandals, but it is a good idea to pack a pair of comfortable flat shoes too, as these are great for longer walks or travel to and from your destination. This type of shoe also takes up very little room in a suitcase, which is a bonus if you are travelling light.

3. Sneakers

Are you planning on doing a spot of hiking? If so, you will need a pair of robust sneakers to protect your feet from the trail. Many vacation destinations are blessed with ancient ruins or scenic, often remote, tourist attractions. Some are difficult to reach, so you may have to hike there on foot. You won’t be able to do this if you are stuck wearing sandals or slip-on shoes. Pack a pair of sneakers, just in case.

4. Heels

Heels are essential vacation wear. It wouldn’t be much of a vacation if you didn’t spend at least some of your evenings enjoying a nice meal out in a fancy restaurant, or exploring the local bars and clubs. Heels can be worn with pretty much any outfit, but they work best with a slinky dress or skinny jeans and a glamorous top.

5. Beach Shoes

Beach shoes are perfect for walking on the sand. You can step on to the sand in bare feet, but in hot countries the sand is generally scorching hot by midday, so unless you want second-degree burns on the soles of your feet, this is not recommended. Look for cheap flip-flops or slip-on plastic shoes. That way it won’t matter if you lose them in the sand or sea.

These are the only five pairs of shoes you will need for a summer vacation, but if you want to push the boat out, pack a few pairs of each style, just in case.