Let’s be real — most people don’t give shoelaces a second thought when packing for a trip.
Why would they? They don’t seem all that important, except for making your shoes fit nice and snug. But hear me out: Shoelaces can actually be one of the most useful little items in your bag.
On one trip, I happened to have an extra shoelace in my bag, and thank goodness I did. When the strap on my bag started to fall apart, that little lace held it together long enough to get me through the week.
They might not look impressive, but a simple shoelace can solve all kinds of travel headaches — from wardrobe mishaps to keeping your stuff organized, and even helping in emergencies.
If you want a tiny item that can make a big difference while you’re on the move, a shoelace deserves a spot in your packing list. Here’s why.
6 ways you can use a shoelace when traveling
1. Shoelaces can fix broken straps and belts on the go
Ever had a bag strap snap or a belt break at the worst possible moment? Instead of panicking or hunting for a repair shop, grab a shoelace.
Loop it through the broken strap or belt, tie it off, and just like that, your bag or belt is usable again. It’s not a permanent fix, but it’s enough to get you through the day. This trick works for backpack straps, purse handles, camera straps — basically anything that needs a quick, temporary repair.
2. Shoelaces can be used as a makeshift clothesline
Traveling often means washing clothes on the go. But what do you do if there’s no drying rack? You guessed it — that’s where a shoelace comes in.
Tie it between two hooks, a railing, or maybe even a tree branch, and suddenly you have a mini clothesline. It works in hotel rooms, hostels, and campsites. Your clothes stay off the floor, dry faster, and avoid that musty smell that comes from being stuffed in a corner.
It makes doing laundry while traveling way less frustrating.
3. Shoelaces can help keep your stuff organized
Have you noticed that cords, chargers, and headphones have a special talent for tangling at the worst possible times? Luckily, shoelaces are perfect for keeping them neat.
Wrap one around your bundle of cables, tie it tight, and you’re done. Shoelaces can also help organize other small items — pens, hair ties, and spare toiletries.
4. Shoelaces make emergency shoe repairs easier
Shoes take a beating while traveling. A loose sole, a broken buckle, or a missing fastener can turn a walk into a nightmare.
A shoelace can be your temporary fix. Tie a loose sole together, replace a broken buckle, or secure a strap. It won’t replace professional repairs, but it will get you where you need to go without limping or slipping.
5. Shoelaces can be used as a personal safety and emergency tool
Shoelaces are stronger than they look, and in an emergency, they can be pretty useful. For example, you can use one to secure gear in windy conditions and tie down items in transit.
Hopefully, you’ll never need it for something serious — but having a shoelace in your bag and an idea of how you can use it in an emergency could save the day.
6. Shoelaces can help you pack and secure luggage
Finally, shoelaces can help with general packing. Use them to tie rolled clothes together, attach items to a backpack, or secure loose things inside a suitcase. They take up almost no space but can save you from the frustration of a messy bag and lost items.
