Other than puffy down-filled winter coats, nothing swallows more luggage space than footwear. So when deciding what to take along, remember: less is always more. It's as if the Blundstone 490s were made with that adage in mind; simply put, they're the only shoes you'll need. A slight modification from the already-iconic Blundstone 500s, the 490s have a fashion-conscious swerve of stitching across the front of the boot and a chunky, thermoplastic polyurethane sole with aggressive treading that can conquer any terrain, from snow to pavement to sand to dirt, as well as weather-sealed leather uppers, and a massaging Aero footbed for days-long comfort. Elastic slip-on ease, a signature traits since the boots first kicked through the red dust of the Aussie Outback back in 1870, simplify shoe removal at the security check into a quick balancing act. And the fashion-forward aesthetic of the boot makes them at home at any locale, from the backcountry to a dive bar to the latest must-dine French-infused brassiere. And, true to Blunnie's oft-praised reputation, these shoes will survive years of globe trekking, especially if you take heed to occasionally re-apply the weatherproofing that comes with your boots.

$145; www.blundstoneusa.com