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The 5 Best Compression Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep organized and pack more with these high-quality compression packing cubes.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Filling a suitcase can be a tedious task but compression packing cubes are an extremely useful travel hack to stay organized and maximize space. While traditional packing cubes are great for keeping items sorted, compression cubes can save even more precious room in a carry-on or checked bag.

We tested a variety of packing cubes to find the best compressible, highly durable options to consolidate clothing in an organized, efficient way, and make traveling easier. Our top pick is the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes set with sturdy zippers and water-resistant nylon. We loved that the cube could be packed full and it was still easy to press the air out and zip the cube down to constrict the items with minimal effort. And if you’re not in search of a three- or four-piece cube set, we found an excellent singular cube as well as lightweight options, too.

Best Overall

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

Both the zippers and nylon material feel sturdy when the bag is packed full and compressed.

The bags weren’t as waterproof as we had hoped.

We love the simple and functional design of our top pick, the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes. These no-frills packing cubes thoroughly impressed us during testing thanks to their extremely tough zippers that easily closed around the packed items. In fact, even after using these compression packing cubes for six months, we didn't notice any signs that this set was losing its durability. All you have to do is fill the cubes with clothes, close the top zipper, and then squeeze out the air, and compress the bag with the center zipper that wraps around the sides. It didn’t require much effort to quickly close the compression zippers which prevented air from getting back into the bag. The seams remained perfectly stitched and didn’t show any signs of expansion or stress even after we packed it to the brim.

While we would consider the nylon material more water-resistant than waterproof after we splashed the bag with a little bit of water, we still think they would protect clothes from condensation or dampness, especially if they’re also packed away in a suitcase. The four-pack compression bags come in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes so you can compress a variety of clothing from pants to jackets. We love that the bags have handles on the top making it easier to grab the bags whether they’re in a suitcase or a backpack.

The Details: 4 bags | 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small) | Water-repellent

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes

 Amazon

• Design 4 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

The set includes three compression bags and a sack for laundry or shoes.

The bags aren’t water resistant.

For travelers in search of a budget-friendly pack of travel cubes, the Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes set comes with three different sized compression cubes and a bag for shoes or dirty laundry. The set also includes labeling cards for travelers to write the contents of each cube and then place the card into the slot on the back. We think the value is unmatched given the amount of bags in the set combined with their sturdy structure and superb compression ability.

We used the cubes to pack an entire suitcase including shoes, pants, tops, undergarments, and toiletries across the varying cube sizes. After three months of use, we especially loved the small size for packing undergarments and separating laundry. While the material isn’t water-resistant, it does feel well-made with strong stitchwork. Plus, the cubes are outfitted with metal zippers that glide smoothly to compress the bags, even when they’re packed full of clothes.

The Details: 4 bags | 7 x 5.5 x 1 inches (small), 11.5 x 8 x 1 inches (medium), 14 x 10 x 1 inches (large), 18 x 11 inches (laundry/shoe bag) | Water-resistant

Best for Group Travel

Leantravel compression packing cubes for travel, set of 3.

• Quality 4 /5

The total weight of all three cubes is just over 1 pound.

The cubes are made of polyester which is generally less durable than nylon.

If you’re looking for packing cubes to stay organized but not to add more weight to an already packed suitcase, consider the lightweight polyester Lean Travel Premium Compression Packing Cubes. After using these for six months of use, we've decided they're truly a game changer when it comes to organized packing. Although polyester is a little less durable than nylon (typically used for packing cubes), the material has more give making it easier to squeeze a few more clothing items into the cubes. We had no issues with zippers getting snagged or stuck and the fabric feels thick enough that, if there was a spill in a suitcase, it could soak it up before reaching the clothes packed inside.

This set comes with two large and one medium-sized cube so you can easily pack clothes like jackets or jeans. While it depends on the size of your suitcase , we found that it might be easier to only pack one or two cubes in a suitcase at a time, due to the fact that the large cubes are incredibly spacious on the inside and can fit plenty of clothes, but take up a good amount of space once full. However, if you’re looking for more sizes, the brand also carries a 6-piece set that has small, medium, and large sizes, but we think the 3-piece is the perfect number for heavy packers or traveling families so you don’t have too many bags to manage.

The Details: 3 bags | 15.5 x 11.5 x 1 inches (large), 11 x 11 x 1 inches (medium) | Waterproof zipper bag included

Best for Backpacking

Suited nomad compression packing cubes.

The ripstop material is durable for even longer backpacking adventures.

Your items may wrinkle if you pack these too full.

Going on a backpacking trip and need to fit all your stuff in one rucksack? Be sure to use these compact compression cubes from Suited Nomad when packing. Each set comes with three packing cubes in varying sizes. They're made from a water-resistant, ripstop material that won't snag or tear during your travels. The cubes also have convenient top handles to make it easier to pull them in and out of your pack.

The double-zipper compression system makes them super compact and small enough to fit inside a backpack while still being roomy enough to pack all the essentials. While testing out the set, we were able to fit all three fully packed cubes into a L.L.Bean backpack ( llbean.com, $70) and still had enough room to pack other items like shoes and travel accessories .

The Details: 3 bags | 11 x 8 x 4 inches (medium), 15 x 11 x 4 inches (large, two included) | Water-resistant

Best Lightweight Cubes

Eagle creek specter compression cube set.

It opens wide, so you can easily pack all of your items neatly.

Only one bag is included, making this a pricier option.

Eagle Creek has been making traveler-loved packing organizers for more than 20 years, and the Specter line is one of the brand's newest innovations. The zippers unzip three-quarters of the way around the cube, which makes it easy to load in a lot, and then, a second set of zippers compresses the cube's size by up to 50 percent if you packed it with flexible materials. We were able to fit a full week's worth of warm-weather clothing — mostly dresses — into this medium-sized packing cube, and the smaller one is perfect for stowing for socks and undergarments.

Also, the material they're made of is incredibly lightweight and it's water-resistant, too, so your clothes won't get ruined if your toiletry bag happens to spring a leak. The best thing about these cubes is how easy they are to use and how durable they are.

The Details: 1 bag | 10 x 13.5 x 3.25 inches | Water-resistant

Other Compression Packing Cubes We Liked

While we tried several sets of compression packing cubes, the two highlighted below almost made our list for the best compression packing cubes but they fell short due to a few flaws during testing.

Bagail Compression Packing Cubes : The material felt soft and the bags boasted spacious capacities, but the quality was questionable due to flimsy zippers and stressed stitchwork when the bag was packed.

Tripped Compression Packing Cubes for Travel : The set of cubes have water-resistant exteriors and solid storage capacities, but the $50 price seems a bit too high considering the zippers and stitching felt weak.

We tested 23 sets of packing cubes in our New York City lab and found there were several sets of compression-specific packing cubes that had stellar performances during our tests where we rated the cubes on a scale of one to five based on capacity, design, and quality.

After unboxing the packing cubes, we thoroughly examined the quality of each bag by twisting and pulling on the cubes with it zipped and open to see how the material and stitchwork held up with some pressure. The cubes scoring highest for quality appeared to be made with durable materials and stitching, and had smooth and tough zippers. Then, we packed the cubes full of clothes, undergarments, shoes, and toiletries to judge the capacity of the varying-sized cubes. It was during this test that we evaluated the consolidation ability of the compression cubes by pressing the air out of each bag and closing the compression zipper before we placed the cubes into a standard carry-on suitcase. Our favorite compression cubes for capacity were able to fit a solid amount of items and zipped down easily.

All of our top-performing compression cubes had sleek designs that helped us pack in an organized and efficient way, and saved a noticeable amount of space in the carry-on with room leftover for other items, if desired. We splashed water on the outside of each cube to see how protective the material was, since many of the brands we tested claimed the bags were waterproof or water-resistant. Lastly, we were unaware of the cost of each set of compression packing cubes and were only made aware of the price after testing was completed to judge the value based on its performance.

After testing the packing cubes in our lab, we sent each set home with testers to use during their real-world travels. Over a period of six months, we checked in with the testers to see how the compression cubes were performing and updated this article accordingly.

Tips for Buying Compression Packing Cubes

Consider how many you want.

There are plenty of packing cube sets ranging from one to six (or more!) cubes included. For travelers looking to fill a carry-on or checked bag with cubes, we recommend getting a set with multiple bags in varying sizes to get the best value. If you’re planning to pack boots or a bulky jacket, a single compression cube could do the trick without having to buy a whole set.

Look for high-quality materials

Most of the compression cubes we tested were made of nylon which is known for being an ultra-durable material for soft goods like sports bags and suitcases. Polyester is lighter in weight than nylon but it’s a little less durable than nylon.

Check the dimensions

Before you purchase a set of compression packing cubes or a single one, double-check the dimensions of each bag to ensure that they will fit in your preferred suitcase. Some large or extra-large packing cubes could work great in a checked bag but they might take up a lot of room in a carry-on or not fit in a duffel bag at all.

Depending on the type of packing cube, some are machine-washable. If it’s not listed in the product description before or after you purchase it, you can always spot clean the fabric with soap and water, and then let it air dry before using the cube or storing it for your next trip.

Both regular and compression packing cubes are designed to organize the items you need to pack in a suitcase, but compression packing cubes are designed to release the air inside of the bag to consolidate the items down to a flattened packing cube. Compression cubes are best suited for travelers looking to save space in a suitcase, especially for packing jackets, jeans, or other larger items that take up a lot of space.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best compression packing cubes based on a series of tests completed in our New York City lab.

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The 9 Best Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These items organize your luggage better

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

Packing for a trip is no easy feat, yet packing cubes can offer the organization and space we seek. But with so many packing cubes to choose from, how can we be sure which are the best?

We took on this challenge and had six travelers test 23 packing cube sets. They stuffed clothes and toiletries into the packing cubes, running them through various tests to determine which worked the best in terms of capacity, design, quality, and value. The result? We found the top packing cubes in a wide range of categories, from the best for maximum compression to the best for durability, families, and more.

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• Others We Tested
• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, rei co-op expandable packing cube set.

Solid value

Durable, protective exterior

Big time space saving

The REI Co-Op Expandable Packing Cube Set only comes with two cubes. However, our tester loved their clever design, which sees the zipper curve around the perimeter of the cube twice for ultimate compression. In fact, the medium cube can go from 13 liters to 8.5 liters, while the large cube’s capacity changes from 21 liters to 14 liters when using the compression zipper.

Testers noted that the Bluesign-approved ripstop nylon fabric was akin to tent fabric and waterproof to boot. Of course, the mesh section won’t do much against water, but it does allow travelers to see what’s in the cube before opening it. The top handle makes pulling these cubes out of your suitcase easy, while the side handle is a bonus. For the price, you get two incredibly effective packing cubes with the kind of long-lasting material and stitching you’d expect from REI Co-op. The set fits comfortably in a carry-on suitcase and allows room for a toiletry bag.

Dimensions: Large: 14.5 x 10.5 x 6 inches, medium: 12 x 8 x 6 inches | Material: Ripstop nylon (Bluesign-approved), polyester mesh (Bluesign-approved) | Number of Cubes:  2

TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Gonex compression packing cubes.

Simple and effective

Could be more protective

Our testers were surprised by the capabilities of this no-frills set of four packing cubes. They stuffed them all to the brim and used the double zippers to compress the cubes down. There was no indication that the threaded seams were stressed. This aspect made the testers overlook that the material is not as water-resistant as advertised. You can always double-wrap liquids, but you can’t always find packing cubes with excellent compression capabilities to fit a lot in a little space. Keep in mind, however, that the zippers do not go all the way around the cube. Our tester didn’t have any problem with that, but it is something we thought best to note.

The four pieces range in size from small to extra-large, giving you plenty of options for organizing all your items. With tons of color options and a phenomenal price point, we had to choose this set as our runner-up.

Dimensions: Extra-large: 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches, large: 4.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches, medium: 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches, small: 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches | Material: Ripstop nylon | Number of Cubes:  4

Veken Packing Cubes With Laundry and Shoe Bag

 Amazon

Large selection of pieces

Hassle-free packing system

Contents are easily visible

Not ideal for over-packers

You get a lot for a low price when it comes to the Veken Packing Cubes set. Buyers receive four cubes of various sizes plus two additional bags—a laundry bag and a shoe bag. The set comes in a wide range of colors but lacks a compression zipper, making them more apt for organization than saving space. See inside the cubes via the transparent strip of fabric and a small mesh section or just pack the cubes according to the clothing label found on the bottom right-hand corner of the cube.

Because the packing cubes don’t have compression zippers, this set works best for travelers with large suitcases who simply want their belongings well organized and easy to find.

Dimensions: Extra-large: 17.5 x 12.15 x 4 inches, large: 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches, medium: 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches, small: 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches, shoe bag: 16.96 x 9.06 x 4.72 inches, laundry bag: 20 x 14 inches | Material: Nylon, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyester | Number of Cubes: 4 cubes, 2 bags

Best Compression

Well traveled compression packing cubes.

Great for highly organized travelers

Choice of various shades

Easy to maintain

Not water resistant

The Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes set includes three cubes and one drawstring bag that can be used to store shoes or as a laundry bag. Available in a few colors, this set is reasonably priced and has an excellent compression zipper that maximizes your luggage space. In the larger cube, our tester fit one pair of jeans, two short-sleeve shirts, and two long-sleeve shirts. The medium cube fit two pairs of socks and two pairs of underwear; we packed the small cube with travel toiletries . When a traveler utilizes the compression zipper, the cubes go from 5 inches in width to 1 inch.

These cubes are not as structured as they appear in marketing photos. And unfortunately, our tester found that they didn't protect against spilled liquids. That said, they are machine washable and have tiny pockets to fit one of the 50 luggage cards included in the package.

Dimensions: Large: 10 x 5 x 14 inches, medium: 8 x 5 x 11.5 inches, small: 5.5 x 5 x 7 inches, laundry bag: 11 x 18 inches | Material: Twill fabric | Number of Cubes:  4

Best for Families

Shacke pak 5 set packing cubes.

Budget-friendly

Ventilation/viewing patches

Also available in set of eight

Could be more functional

Go with the packing cube set from Shacke Pak when packing for a family vacation . This five-piece set comes in a few color options and includes four cubes and one drawstring bag. Although our testers didn’t mention whether the fabric was water resistant or not, Shacke advertises that it is. Of course, that doesn’t include the mesh panels that allow you to look inside the cubes.

The cubes don’t have compression zippers, so they’re primarily intended for those who need a lot of space to keep each family member’s clothes organized and separated. You’ll better fit all these cubes in a large suitcase than a carry-on bag. Investing in multiple sets (one for each family member) is also a realistic option given the set's reasonable price tag.

Dimensions Extra-large: 17.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches, large: 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches, medium: 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches, small: 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches, Laundry Bag: 20.5 x 15.75 inches | Material: Unknown | Number of Cubes: 4 cubes, 1 bag

Best Durability

Peak design packing cubes.

Peak Design

Super light and tough fabric

Two compartments

Sustainably built

Pricey as a set

Somewhat involved to get into

You can buy Peak Design Packing Cubes as a single small or medium cube or shoe pouch or as a set of three, six, or eight. The way our testers raved about the small packing cube they tested, we suggest going for the three-piece set. But keep in mind the sets are expensive.

These packing cubes come in three color options, are designed with two handles, and have a moveable internal divider that lets you separate clothes however you see fit. Thanks to the double compression zippers, you can fit two packing cubes in the space of one. More specifically, the cubes are about 6.7 inches wide when fully expanded and have the capability of compressing to 3.1 inches. It's important to note that you'll have to use both zippers simultaneously when you want to open the main compartment.

These durable cubes are waterproof, though there is a slight gap near the zipper that, theoretically, water could get into. The likelihood of that happening is low. As we said, the price of this packing cube set is considerable, but with the superb craftsmanship and a lifetime guarantee warranty, you'll likely be satisfied with your buy.

Dimensions: Medium: 12.6 x 12.6 x 6.7 inches, small: 12.6 x 6.7 x 6.7 inches | Material: Ripstop 70D nylon/poly shell | Number of Cubes: 1 to 8

Best Personalized

Paravel packing cube quad.

Water-resistant fabric

Sustainable materials

Not the most affordable

Lacks some nice-to-have features

We can see the Paravel Packing Cube Quad being a phenomenal gift for the traveler in your life, mainly because of the excellent colors and the opportunity to have the cubes embroidered with custom monograms.

Of the four cubes, we used the larger one to pack three pairs of shoes and the medium cube to pack a couple of sweatpants, two long-sleeve shirts, two short-sleeve shirts, two pairs of underwear, and two pairs of socks. Basically, you can get a lot of clothes in the larger cubes and use the small cube for extra socks, underwear, or toiletries. Our tester noted that there was still some space left for them to pack more items in the cubes.

Although the cubes have two-way zippers, they aren’t compression zippers. We were also surprised that the cubes didn’t have handles but liked that they do have clear windows to see inside. Environmentally friendly travelers will appreciate that the fabric features 16 upcycled water bottles and meets the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and the Global Recycled Standard . It's also water resistant. The only downside? The hefty price.

Dimensions: Large: 18 x 3.75 x 12 inches, medium: 12.75 x 3.75 x 10 inches, small: 8.2 x. 3.75 x 6.25 inches | Material: OEKO-TEX Standard 100- and Global Recycled Standard-certified, water-resistant Negative nylon | Number of Cubes: 4

Best Splurge

Calpak packing cubes 5-piece set.

Fun and classic options

Feature filled

Long lasting

Only the pouch is water resistant

No compression

Packing cubes can be so bland in style, but not the Calpak Packing Cubes 5-Piece Set. Styles range from astrologically inspired to groovy wavy designs and even a few that have solid colors like hazel, olive, or black. Our tester found the four cubes and envelope pouch to be very durable. All the cubes (not the pouch) have mesh panels, organizing labels, and handles. While these cubes don’t have compression zippers and the price is a bit high, the durability of the material and the design options might be worth it.

Dimensions: Large:   17 x 12 x 3 inches, medium:   15 x 11 x 3 inches, small: 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches, envelope pouch: 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Cubes:  5

Best Budget

Ebags classic medium compression cube.

Good capacity

Packing cubes don’t have to be expensive to be of good quality; at least, that’s what the eBags Classic Medium Packing Cube proves. This single cube is budget-friendly and spacious enough to fit four to five pieces of clothing, plus a medium-weight winter coat. The compression zipper did an excellent job of removing air and saving space. In fact, the cube offers 1.5 inches of compression or expansion. Our testers found that the thin fabric of the cube could get caught in the zipper if the cubes were not packed to the brim.

The small mesh pocket fits a set of keys or a label the size of a business card that spells out what’s in the cube. Small note: the mesh is not see-through. The top handle strap is a nice feature, as are the two different color options. The fabric is more water resistant than waterproof, so it’ll keep your clothes dry as long as excessive liquids haven’t spilled.

Dimensions 14 x 10 x 5.25 inches | Material: Nylon | Number of Cubes:  1

With excellent compression capabilities, durable ripstop fabric, and a price that won't break the bank, the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set earns our top pick. Another set that performed well was the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes , thanks to their double-zipper compression and range of available colors, not to mention that they come in a set of four.

After removing the packing cubes from their packaging, we quickly assessed the materials, checking aspects such as the stitching and zippers for durability. Our next step involved packing the cubes with apparel, shoes, and accessories such as toiletries and cosmetics before zipping them up and placing them in a carry-on suitcase to see how much space they took up. We also splashed them with a bit of water to test the water resistance of the packing cube material.

For each packing cube set, we made extensive notes on the capacity, design, material quality, and value. With any carry-on luggage , space is limited, and we wanted to ensure we chose packing cubes that not only allowed us to fit as many items as possible but had the kind of material and design that would be durable for frequent travel use. To round it out, we wanted the price to reflect the features presented.

Other Packing Cubes We Tested

Béis The Packing Cubes : While we loved the label that came with these bags, we didn't think that the price reflected the space or quality of the material.

Herschel Travel Organizers : This set's small and medium cubes were wonderful, but we found the large cube awkwardly huge. It made packing a carry-on difficult and didn't offer the kind of space-saving functionality we desired.

Briggs & Riley Packing Cubes : These cubes fit a decent amount of clothes, seemed durable, and had an excellent expansion feature, but there wasn't anything that particularly wowed us. One drawback was that one full side of the packing cubes is mesh, which won't protect your clothes if a spill occurs.

Away The Insider Packing Cubes : Mesh is great for breathability, but the mesh cover of these packing cubes isn't going to do much against spilled liquids. Not to mention, they're a bit expensive, which seems to be mainly because of the brand name.

Eagle Creek Pack-it Starter Set : If you only need two regular cubes and a folder-style cube, the Eagle Creek Pack-it Starter Set isn't too shabby, mainly because it held up to our water test. If you haven't used a folder-style cube before, it can be confusing to pack.

L.L.Bean Packing Cube Set : The price point seems accurate for L.L.Bean but may be expensive for what you get—cubes with a little stretch and a partly mesh top. Our tester wanted the cube to have a bit more structure.

Bagail Compression Packing Cubes : The price is right, and the design is pretty standard, but we were a little worried about the seam work, mainly when the compression feature was utilized. These may not last as long as others.

YAMIU Packing Cubes 7-Pcs : These packing cubes are standard, but does one need seven packing cubes? And you'll have to be okay with see-through toiletry bags.

Lean Travel Premium Compression Packing Cubes : These no-frills packing cubes may work for the newbie traveler, but fitting all three in a carry-on was a challenge for our tester.

EZPacking Clear Packing Cubes : These may work if you're comfortable with see-through packing cubes. The small cube only fits a few toiletry items.

OEE Luggage Packing Organizers : Who doesn't love a bargain? Unfortunately, the price reflects super thin material that doesn't do well with thick clothing and flimsy zippers that get caught in the mesh.

TRIPPED Compression Packing Cubes for Travel : These cubes were a bit expensive, especially since they didn't feel sturdy and the zipper didn't go all the way around the cubes, making them a little harder to pack.

What to Look For in Packing Cubes

If you check your suitcase, weight is always a consideration. Choosing packing cubes that are light enough to make a negligible difference to the airline scale is therefore important. For the most part, packing cubes are not particularly heavy, though we’ve seen some structured ones that may add a few pounds to your bag. 

Packing cubes are typically made of nylon, though some use better nylon than others. Ripstop nylon, for instance, is less likely to tear than other types. Although we love to see a water-resistant or waterproof packing cube, many of our testers found that the water resistance or waterproofness wasn’t as effective as expected. Many packing cubes have mesh panels that somewhat defeat the purpose of using water-resistant fabric. Of course, mesh panels let you see inside the bag and are more breathable than plastic panels.

Packing cubes come in various sizes that differ from brand to brand. (A size small from one brand will have different measurements than a small packing cube from another brand.) Look at the dimensions for the packing cubes before buying. Most packing cubes will fit in a carry-on suitcase, though we’ve seen some large or extra-large packing cubes that are too big, take up too much space, or are an awkward size. The same thing can happen with small packing cubes—some are just too small to really fit anything inside. While not everyone likes packing cubes with compression features, they remove air and save space, which is a nice feature to consider.

Number of Cubes

Do you need more than five cubes? That all depends on the size of your family if you plan on buying one set to share, or if you're buying for a checked bag and a carry-on. Packing cube sets can range from two cubes to as many as eight. It never hurts to have a backup cube in case you rip one, lose one, or it just wears out, though if you want to limit how much you pack , it might be a good idea to buy a two- or three-cube set.

How you pack your cubes in a carry-on suitcase will depend on the type of luggage you’re using. No matter what type of carry-on bag you have, you’ll most likely have to play Tetris to figure out the best method for fitting the packing cubes in the luggage. Those with carry-on suitcases might find that positioning the cubes vertically rather than horizontally provides more space, but again, this can only happen if the suitcase is deep enough to allow such a packing strategy.

While you can find many tips and tricks for packing clothes in packing cubes, it’s likely that when you remove your clothing, it will have some wrinkles. Rolling your clothes—once you’ve buttoned and zipped all tops and bottoms—may reduce wrinkles. This is because there are fewer folds in the fabric. You could also try limiting the pressure exerted on the outside of the cube to prevent folds from compressing and forming wrinkles. Or, save yourself a headache and pack clothes made of fabrics resistant to wrinkling. As a last resort, consider bringing along a travel steamer .

Most packing cubes can be put in the washing machine on cold, but you should double-check the tag to see if they need to be hand-washed. If you put them in the washing machine, zip them up so the zipper doesn't snag on anything. Most people suggest air drying the packing cubes as the material tends to do poorly against the heat of a dryer. A hand sanitizing wipe can clean away germs or small spills if you're in a bind. Although some suggest using Febreze or essential oils to refresh packing cubes, be mindful of how oily the product may be, as it could cause the packing cube to get sticky or stain your clothing. Putting a dryer sheet in the cube may be a better option.

Author  Alex Temblador  is an outdoor and travel journalist who lives in Texas. Alex seeks out adventurous travels all around the world, and often uses packing cubes to get to her destination. Throughout her career she has rappelled in Mexico, kayaked in Puerto Rico and Thailand, skied in Telluride and Montana, surfed in Zihuatanejo, scuba dived in Bonaire, and hiked in Peru and Switzerland. Products for this article were chosen according to the results of lab tests carried out by the TripSavvy team.

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The best packing cubes for travel

By Sarah James and Charley Ward

There are two types of travellers in this world: those who pack for a trip with wild abandon, tossing in multiple outfit changes, their entire beauty and skincare regime , three hair tools and enough pants to change underwear three times a day. And then there are those like me, who will do almost anything to avoid having to check a bag into the hold, priding themselves on packing a tight edit of essentials into an even tighter space, and investing in a clever underseat cabin bag .

Steamline's Art Geo packing cubes, ready to go in our tests

If, like me, you are adamantly against checking a bag into the hold, you know there are certain hacks you need to utilise to avoid a complete packing meltdown. If you’re uninitiated, I can explain the secret to carry-on only luggage in two words: packing cubes. The magic trick of this product becomes all the more magical when you add a third word:  compression packing cubes.

It might sound simple (or like the kind of thing your dad might get excited about), but a good set of packing cubes really is the only essential you need to embark on a hand luggage only trip. Not only will a decent compression cube save you space, it will also keep you organised through security, the flight itself and beyond.

The best packing cubes at a glance

• Best packing cubes for price: Nere Stori 3 pack packing cubes
• Best packing cubes for quality: Antler Chelsea 4 packing cubes
• Best large packing cubes: Gomatic packing cubes
• Most stylish packing cubes: Paravel packing cube quad
• Best lightweight cubes: Tumi packing cubes

Top tips for using packing cubes

• Pack outfits together – and in the order you’ll need them . Throwing a bunch of bottoms, tops and outerwear into your carry on luggage willy-nilly will not work. Plan your outfits before you travel to stop you from packing unnecessary items; try to prioritise items that will go with lots of other things, and then pack these items together in the order that you’ll reach for them. I normally pack one big compression packing cube with all my outfits for the time I’ll be away, and a smaller cube containing underwear, pyjamas and workout gear.
• Roll, don’t fold.  Goes without saying, but rolling your clothes will make them more compact, saving so much space.
• Wear your chunkiest items.  Again, this is a simple tip, but it’s worth reiterating – wearing your biggest jumper, coat, and chunkiest shoes will make all the difference. I normally slip a pair of flip-flops into my handbag for the flight, especially for long-haul journeys.
• Edit down your skincare and beauty regime. Whenever I go to the airport, I pick up a few of the plastic bags they give you for liquids at security and stash them at home for future trips. This means I can make sure my liquids will fit, eradicating any possible airport disasters as I realise my favourite perfume won’t squeeze in. (Side note, for perfume, I love this  mega-affordable refillable perfume bottle , which allows you to decant your favourite scent mess-free into a travel-friendly bottle.)
• Packing cube sets can be used for more than just clothes.  The various sizes make these cubes very versatile. I use one for wires, electrics, chargers and more – this means easy access to my passport or boarding pass as I’m not fumbling through rogue wires while searching for important documents. You could also use a packing cube for your shoes – and don’t forget to stuff shoes with socks or any other items that will fit to save more space, too. A small cube can double up as a toiletry bag , and you can reuse one as a laundry bag for dirty clothes, during your trip.

Pros: 6 colours, mesh windows, expandable zips to allow for more or less volume, good quality

Cons: No handles

Editor review: “From big trips to the Maldives and Australia to city breaks in Paris where I've had carry on suitcase only, I have used these on so many trips. Whenever I fly with my son I fill the smallest bag with toys and snacks for him, so it's easy to grab quickly. Antler is one of the best luggage brands in the UK, so the quality is great and the mesh lids make it so easy to spot what's stored inside," Lauren Burvill, commerce editor.

Best patterned packing cubes

Pros: Very pretty, made from 100% recycled plastic water bottles

Cons: Sell out quickly, only available in sets of four

Steamline’s patterned packing cubes fit perfectly inside the brand’s vintage style luggage offerings. We’ve never seen a more aesthetically pleasing spin on a functional item.

Editor review: "I love the Art Deco print on these packing cubes – they make me feel like I'm preparing for an incredibly chic night on the Orient Express (rather than the Ryanair flight I've usually booked). The transparent panel in the corner makes it easy to see what's in each of the four without detracting from the design, which is also really handy." Sarah James, deputy digital editor

Best packing cubes for backpacking trips

Pros: Very lightweight, so good for backpacking and carry-on only travel, grab handles

Cons: Expensive for a set of three cubes, could be larger

These are some of the lightest cubes we’ve tried, ensuring that you can use every last gram of your luggage weight allowance for your belongings. A handle makes them easy to grab, and they’re made from ripstop nylon, so they should remain looking good as new for the foreseeable. One note – they’re on the smaller side in comparison to some of the other cubes in this round-up, so better suited to shorter breaks away.

Pros: Thick and sturdy material, mesh window, compressible, attractive, choice of sizes, anti-microbial inner

Cons: Sometimes not possible to compress cubes the whole way if they're completely stuffed full

Monos’s offering comes in a choice of four or six cubes, sized for its carry-on and check-in cases, respectively, in a sorbet array of colours. They’re compressible, antimicrobial, and have a breathable mesh panel to help banish bad smells on your trip home.

Editor review: I love these packing cubes. The yellow colour greets me so cheerfully when I open my case, and the material is super sturdy, so the cubes hold their shape well. I know they won’t break after a few uses. The zips feel quality and held fast despite my over-packing ways, helping me compress each cube as flat as possible. That means no more sitting on your suitcase to get it closed when it’s full.  Charley Ward, commerce writer

Pros: Made from 100% recycled PET plastic, mesh tops

Cons: Only available in set of four, not compressible

These are as sleek as you’d expect from Carl Friedrik, designed to fit inside the brand’s carry-on cases. They’re sold in set of four only, with cubes for trousers, tops, underwear and shoes. Carl’s options win bonus points for their sustainability credentials – they’re made from 100% recycled PET plastic.

Best value packing cubes

Pros: budget-friendly price, 6 colours, can be stored very flat when not in use

Cons: Can't see what's inside, no handles

Australian luggage brand Nere recently launched in the UK, bringing their affordable and brightly coloured range of hard shell suitcases , weekender bags and tote bags. Their zip up packing cubes come in packs of three and are available in a multitude of bright colours, from hyper pink to light aqua and classic black.

Best washable packing cubes

Pros: Machine washable, stain-proof, carry handles, five-year warranty

Cons: They don’t come in colours to match the brand’s full suitcase range

Editor review: Aussie luggage brand July offers sets of four or eight packing cubes in a selection of colours that matches its suitcase sets, along with some limited edition hues. “I’ve tried a few packing cube brands but these July ones were the sturdiest I’ve tried,” says commerce writer Charley Ward . “The zips felt strong, so shouldn’t break if squeezed full of clothes – which often happens. I especially liked the inclusion of the extra-large cubes, which are designed for holding whole outfits. If you’re heading off for a weekend, a couple of these in your carry-on should be all you need to pack your outfits neatly, and then a third for shoes and your wash bag. I’m a complete convert.”

Best compression packing cubes

Pros: Top carrying handle, large sizes, strong compression zippers

Cons: They sell out quickly, only available in black, cubes sold separately

Editor review: "I have travelled with just a cabin bag for a 12-day winter holiday in Canada and a week in the Greek islands using the fantastic Gomatic compression packing cubes . Not only are they reasonably priced, but from one purchase they've saved me money on checked luggage in the long run, as well as saved time checking in or waiting for a bag on the carousel at either end of my flight, and the overwhelm of discovering you’ve simply packed too much luggage," Sarah James, deputy digital editor.

Best water-resistant packing cubes

Pros: Mesh windows, 6 colour options, high quality, ripstop nylon

Cons: Colours often sell out, no handles

If you're an Away luggage devotee, then these packing cubes are an equally worth investment. Designed to work with the compression system of an Away suitcase, this pack of four will ensure you use every inch of space in your carry on, while still staying organised and taking good care of your clothes. The brand also has a dedicated shoe cube , available separately, to keep your grubby trainers away from your outfits.

Editor review: “These cubes are more robust than they first seem. The zips were strong enough to withstand the half-wardrobe load of t-shirts I squeezed, though I wouldn’t risk putting shoes in these cubes. I would’ve liked another large cube for my trousers and shorts on longer trips, but the set is perfect for weekend trips. The elongated smallest cube is especially useful for my wash bag. The mesh on one side.” Noo Saro-Wiwa, features writer

Best luxury packing cubes

Pros: Can be personalised, recycled fabric, 6 colour options, sheer strip window

Cons: Expensive, no handles

Paravel is easily one of the most stylish luggage brands around, so it comes as no surprise that their packing cubes are equally chic. Doing away with the usual mesh top, these cubes feature a sheer strip on the lid, so you can still see what's inside. The pack of four are available in six smart colour options, and can be personalised with your initials in a contrasting colour.

Best waterproof packing cubes

Pros: Mesh panels, 4 colour options, recycled fabric, a dedicated cube for storing wet items

Sustainable luggage brand Horizn has applied their recycled fabrics and clever design to their packing cube offering. Each cube is designed with different items in mind, including a medium cube to hold tshirts and shorts, and a large cube for trousers and sweaters. In their pack of four there's even a medium cube with waterproof lining, designed to store any wet items – an ideal solution to that tricky last day of a beach holiday.

Best packing cube set

Pros : Cubes can be labelled, mesh windows, top handles

Cons: Expensive, only available in black

For the ultimate in organisation, this set from Beis includes six packing cubes, including three regular cubes, two shoe bags, and a zip pouch. In terms of ease of use, not only do the packing cubes have mesh windows, but they also have a dedicated holder to display a label, so you can keep you items ultra organised, and easily locate what you need when unpacking.

Best slimline packing cubes

Pros: Mesh window, top handle

Cons: Expensive

While Tumi's range of packing cubes are quite simple, they are of course of the highest quality and designed to fit perfectly within their luggage range. The large size but thin height means the cubes can also be stacked on top of each other within a suitcase, and are ideal if you prefer to store whole outfits together.

Pros: Water-repellent, made with recycled durable materials, store flat

Cons: Expensive, sold separately

Of course, Rimowa’s packing cubes feel a cut above – they’re made from a thicker material than any of the others we’ve tried. This means they hold their shape beautifully when full, giving them an aesthetic edge befitting the iconic luxury luggage brand. The price tag is naturally premium and you’ll have to invest in each cube separately, but they look very elegant in situ. There are three different sizes, each which compresses down flat and fits inside each other for storage.

Pros: Handles, strong lightweight material, compressible, 100% recycled nylon

Cons: Sold separately

Editor review: “We’ve tested many packing cubes at Conde Nast Traveller. But this is the first set of cubes designed specifically for weekender bags and backpacks. Honestly? We think they’re even more of a game changer when used with a bag than your suitcase. Forget rummaging around at the bottom of your rucksack – these cubes put paid to all of that, especially given the handle which makes it easy to grab each cube out with minimum fuss. They really do help to improve your bag’s functionality. While you could use these with any rucksack, they are specifically designed to fit with the brand’s F.A.R rucksack, which coincidentally has made the list as one of our best travel backpacks . The compression zip works really well – I’ve never seen a more well-organised and accessible rucksack after using these. Definitely one to invest in for festival season. Each packing cube is sold separately, but if you invest in one of each, you’ll be set for a two-week trip easily.” Charley Ward, commerce writer

Best eco-friendly packing cubes

Pros: Hanging strap, made from recycled plastic bottles, machines washable, available on Amazon, comes with a strap so you can use one as a daybag

Cons: Not compressive

You’ll know Trtl for its innovative wraparound neck pillow that’s been changing the game for long haul flyers in recent years. Now the brand has turned its attention to helping packers as well. Its packing pods have an unusual shape with curves, so-designed to fit snugly in any suitcase. They have a D ring so you can hang them up, which is handy for camping. Interestingly, there’s also a detachable strap, so you can wear one as an ultra-light sling bag should you need. Each set is made from seven plastic bottles, so they’re a good eco-friendly buy.

Pros: Compressive, double-sided, available as sets or individually, available on Amazon Cons: Can’t see inside

Editor review: These are versatile packing cubes that would work equally well in a rucksack – indeed, they’re designed for use in Peak Design’s backpacks – as your suitcase. They’re one of the only brands to offer a choice of sets and individual cubes, so you can build the exact set for your needs at a good price. The compressive qualities are strong and allow you to squeeze a considerable amount in each – and if you need extra space, you can let out the compression zip to accommodate bulkier items. Our favourite feature is the fact they’re double-sized, meaning you can keep dirty clothes in one side and clean in the other, keeping your suitcase neat and tidy.  They’re very lightweight without compromising on quality, as well.

What’s better: compression bags or packing cubes?

For the vast majority of travel, we’d recommend using packing cubes over compression bags. The kind of vacuum bags you’d use for storing winter clothing inevitably leave garments terribly wrinkled once the air has been removed, no matter how neatly folded they went in.

One exception? If you’re packing to travel for over a month, or need to pack lots of bulky winter clothing. In these instances, vacuum bags help claw back valuable space in your suitcase so you can pack in as much as possible.

Essentially, you won’t fit as much in your suitcase with regular packing cubes as compression bags, but the best packing cube sets are designed to fit enough of your belongings for up to three weeks away, giving you the most efficient way to pack for a holiday with minimal fuss.

Do packing cubes work better than rolling?

Utilising both methods is the best way to pack. By rolling your clothes inside each cube, you’ll maximise the amount you can squeeze into each cube in a way that should leave your clothes as crease-free as possible. See above for more tips on how to use packing cubes effectively.

Do clothes get more wrinkled in packing cubes?

In short, no. As long as you roll your clothes carefully, they should come out of the cubes looking as fresh as they entered. Editor’s tip? Bringing along a travel steamer will help tease out any stubborn creases you might find after unpacking.

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The Best Packing Cubes to Keep Your Suitcase Organized

By Kristi Kellogg and Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

We have two main priorities when it comes to packing : saving space and staying organized. The solution to both? Investing in a set of the best packing cubes. Whether you're headed on a low-key weekend away or a weeklong European adventure , these thoughtfully designed cubes help manage even the most unwieldy of travel wardrobes . The great thing about packing cubes is how versatile they are: Use them to organize your belongings by garment type, to keep complete outfits together, to separate clean clothes from dirty clothes, or to hold your shoes.

Our editors tested some of the most popular packing cubes on the market to determine which are actually worth buying. We considered their size, how much they hold, how compressive they are, and any other useful features that make them stand out. Ahead, discover 13 of the best packing cubes that will make your suitcase a whole lot neater.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Shop our top picks:

• The best compressive cubes: Béis compression packing cubes
• The best for customization: Paravel packing cube quad
• The best colorways: Calpak packing cubes
• The best for camping: REI Co-op expandable packing cube set
• The best Amazon find: Amazon Basics packing cubes

The new compressive packing cubes from Béis have quickly become my go-tos. The six-piece set comes with two extra large cubes for bulky items like sweaters and jeans, four standard-size packing cubes for shirts, underwear, and athleisure, and a sheet of labels. I appreciate that each cube has a clear window where the labels can be easily replaced depending on what I pack for each trip. They feature extra zippers that allow the cubes to be expanded or compressed, making them a great option for both short and long trips. Available in black and the brand's signature shade of beige, they look good inside every suitcase. — Meaghan Kenny

Why we chose it: Compressive design, sleek look, and convenient pre-made labels

The sophisticated packer will love this stylish four-piece set from Paravel, a favorite of Condé Nast Traveler articles director Lale Arikoglu , that features a sleek design and peek-a-boo mesh windows. Up the style with a bespoke monogram for an additional $25. As an added boon, the eco-friendly nylon material is made out of upcycled plastic water bottles.

Why we chose it: Customizable, made of recycled materials

Another one of the best packing cube sets comes from Calpak . The five-pack includes large cubes for bulky items, medium cubes for shirts and undergarments, and one water-resistant envelope pouch for dirty clothes or wet bathing suits. These are your classic packing cubes—they're not compressive, but they're lightweight, lay completely flat when empty, and do the trick at keeping your suitcase sorted. There's a small window where you can add your own label to help identify the right packing cube, too.

Why we chose it: Available in over a dozen fun colors and patterns

Whether you’re headed on a business trip or camping adventure , these sturdy, best-selling packing cubes from REI have you covered. They’re made of a durable ripstop nylon and feature polyester mesh. We love the loops at the top that can be used as carrying handles or to hang them up to dry after you’ve tossed them in the wash.

Why we chose it: Expansion zipper and durable water-repellent finish

This under-$25 set of packing cubes from Amazon is among our top sets for travel. Not only has it racked up nearly 40,000 ratings and an average of 4.7 stars, it's a favorite of executive editor Erin Florio . “I love how spacious they are. I used them on a recent eight-day trip across a few climates and I was easily able to sort my different outfits and keep track of my dirty laundry,” she says. Enjoy smart features like double zippers, carrying handles, and mesh top panels to see what's inside. This set of four certainly doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it gets the job done and holds enough for a long vacation.

Why we chose it : Affordable, lightweight, and easy to carry

More packing cubes we recommend:

If you're headed somewhere warm and plan to pack lightweight clothes, say a long weekend in Montauk or an island getaway , these Eagle Creek packing cubes are a solid, no-frills choice. This set comes with three pouches, sized extra small, small, and medium. These were tested by senior commerce editor Madison Flager , who says they're best used for lightweight clothes you can roll up or fold flat, like athletic clothes and T-shirts. “I find the extra small size is well-suited for underwear (about a week's worth, more than I thought could fit on first glance) or socks (around five ankle or no-shows, or two pairs of thicker socks). The small is good for T-shirts (three to five), and the biggest size, the medium, can accommodate one or two pairs of pants or two to three lighter sweaters,” Flager says. She admits she'll gravitate toward larger packing cubes like the Paravel set for extended trips, but will pull these out for weekend trips and overnights.

Why we chose it : Super lightweight, machine washable, and water-resistant

If you're an overpacker, choose a compressible set like these. This set from Monos features a zipper that closes around each cube, plus another zipper that allows you to squeeze everything down after the first one is shut. These fit a ton of clothing—more than any other cubes I've tried, so I typically whip these out for a weeklong vacation or when I'm traveling abroad. I love that the mesh panels allow me to see what's inside without having to open each one—this makes getting dressed on-the-go so easy. If you prefer a more colorful set, snag them in bright shades like banana budding or purple icing. —M.K.

Why we chose it: Water- and tear-resistant nylon, breathable mesh top panels

When it comes to design, SteamLine's luggage and travel accessories always stand out—and this applies to the brand's vibrant packing cubes, too. This set of four comes with three different sizes, all made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles. Commerce producer Paris Wilson gravitates toward these for shorter trips when she has limited space with a carry-on or duffel bag. “The material is durable yet soft and very easy to fold up and store in your closet when you’re not traveling,” Wilson says. She also notes that the zippers glide easily and that these packing cubes are machine washable.

Why we chose it : Vibrant patterns, a transparent window in each cube

One extremely cool feature of the Peak Design cubes is that each one has an internal divider, which means you can separate clean and dirty garments within the cube itself (or just further compartmentalize your items). The cubes are made from a sturdy nylon and poly blend, and feature two-way zippers plus a tear-away zipper that allows you to fully open the pack in less than a second, should you need instant access. The three-piece set (which includes a small cube, a medium cube, and a shoe pouch) is seen here, but you can also purchase these in a six- or eight-piece set, or purchase bags individually to fit your exact needs.

Why we chose it: Internal dividers that offer additional flexibility when you pack

This budget-friendly set of compressible packing cubes comes with one large cube, two medium size cubes, two small cubes, and one flat shoe bag. These are a go-to of commerce bookings editor Jamie Spain —but she warns these are pretty spacious, making them ideal for weeklong trips rather than weekend getaways or overnight stays. She likes these packing cubes for the smooth zippers and compressible, nylon material that's easy to manipulate in a tight suitcase. If you don't need a whole new set, you can also purchase Bagsmart cubes in a set of two or four.

Why we chose it : Affordable price point, available in several bright colors, flat shoe bag included

We tested several Amazon packing cubes and only the highest quality ones made it onto this list. We can attest that the material of the Bagail packing cubes is durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. The six-piece set, an Amazon bestseller, features three sizes, with two cubes in each size. Use them all yourself, or split them up with a partner or kids so you can better organize your suitcase. Another feature we like: The mesh tops that allow you to see straight into the cube.

Why we chose it: Easy to share among travel buddies

Another competitively priced set, these organizers have such rave reviews on Amazon that we had to try them—and they didn’t disappoint. The ultralight cubes are impeccably designed. The mesh panels on top allow you to easily identify your items, and the nylon material is durable and water-resistant, in case you’re anything spills. Between the four cubes, there’s enough room to pack clothing for trips up to 14 days. In the large cube alone, we were able to fit four pairs of bulky sweatpants, three pairs of jeans, and two pairs of leggings—and it all zipped up with ease.

Why we chose it: Great for longer trips, comes with a laundry bag

These budget-friendly packing cubes from Amazon are compressive, helping you save on space in your suitcase. After packing up a cube, we were able to shrink it down by three inches—which goes a long way, especially if you’re trying to fit everything into a carry-on or a single duffel. Other features include a double zipper, nylon material, and a carrying loop at the top.

Why we chose it: Affordable price point

The Best Packing Cubes

In your travels, as in life overall, a bit of organization up front can save you time and reduce frustration down the road.

Enter the packing cube: a simple bag, usually made of fabric and mesh, that tidily zips away your clutter.

After considering and testing 27 packing cubes over the last five years, we’ve chosen four to suit different kinds of travelers: a set of packing cubes for most people , a lightweight set for ultralight packers , a set of compression cubes for heavy packers , and a cube made of upcycled materials for waste-conscious travelers .

The research

Why you should trust us, best for most: eagle creek pack-it reveal cube set, for those who travel light: eagle creek pack-it isolate cube set, for overpackers: rei co-op expandable packing cube set, best upcycled option: cotopaxi cubos 10l travel cube, other good packing cubes, how we picked and tested, should you get packing cubes to match your luggage, the competition, what to look forward to.

Kit Dillon has covered luggage and travel gear for Wirecutter for more than six years. In that time, he’s crisscrossed the country and three continents, and has held, tested, and compared hundreds of different bags. Since he first traveled with packing cubes many years ago, he’s become obsessed with them, and they are the only packing essential he absolutely recommends to anyone who asks.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

Well built with easy access.

Simple and solidly constructed, this three-cube set keeps your bag organized while you’re traveling.

Buying Options

Get this if: You need a set of basic packing cubes that do the job without getting in the way.

Why it’s great: The Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set doesn’t have any frills, but overall, every aspect of this set feels a bit nicer compared with the competition. This three-piece set is an updated design of Eagle Creek’s original Pack-It cube, which we’ve recommended for more than five years. The changes are largely cosmetic—the original Pack-It and the Reveal share the same materials and overall design, except the Reveal has a larger mesh window—and the cubes continue to be a durable choice for keeping up to a week’s worth of clothing organized and easy to move from suitcase to hotel dresser .

The Reveal cubes are made of 300-denier polyester. (“Denier” refers to the thickness of a fabric’s thread. The higher the denier number, the stronger the fabric; “300 denier” indicates a sturdy fabric made to resist tears.) They stay upright when empty, so they’re easy to pack. Their windows use the tightest mesh link of any cubes we tested—better for resisting snags—yet it’s easy to see what’s inside the cube without opening it. However, mesh lets in dust and dirt over time. (If that’s a worry for you , Eagle Creek’s Isolate cubes may be a better option.) The zippers slide smoothly around corners, even when a cube is overstuffed. We also like the cubes’ clamshell design, which opens fully on three sides and lets you easily access everything inside without having to unpack the entire thing.

We find the three-cube set particularly useful when separating clothes, too. The largest cube (labeled “medium”) is great for shirts, shorts, and insulating layers. The half-cube (“small”) and quarter-cube (“extra small”) are perfect for underwear, socks, and other thin fabrics, such as stockings or sleepwear.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: We haven’t had any issues with the original version of these cubes after several years of use. Wirecutter editor Tracy Vence reported, “I’ve used the Eagle Creek packing cubes at least once a month for the last seven years. They’ve held up beautifully—no issues with the zippers, netting, etc. Really, they’re just great.” That said, Eagle Creek updated the design slightly, which means we can’t rely on our past testing as strongly as before. So far, though, the Pack-It Reveal cubes show no obvious flaws, and nothing in the redesign makes us think the quality has decreased .

Dimensions: 4½ by 7½ by 2½ inches (extra small), 7¼ by 10 by 3¼ inches (small) , 1 0 by 14¼ by 3¼ inches (medium) Capacity: 1.7 liters (extra small), 7 liters (small), 14.5 liters (medium) Weight: 1.4 ounces (extra small), 2.1 ounces (small) , 3.2 ounces (medium)

Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set

Lighter, if you need it.

These cubes, sold in a set of three, have the same shape as the Pack-It Reveal cubes, but they are water resistant (to guard against spills) and weigh half as much, thanks to their lighter material. They do cost more.

Get this if: You need a set of lightweight packing cubes with a slight bit of water resistance.

Why it’s great: The Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set — an updated and renamed version of the company’s original Specter Tech design—is a good, ultralight set of three packing cubes that weigh half as much as our other picks. Based on our testing so far, these cubes are nearly identical to their predecessor. If you want the organizational benefits of packing cubes but also want to add the least amount of weight to your suitcase , the Isolate set is a great choice.

The largest Pack-It Isolate cube weighs 1.3 ounces; the same-size Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal cube weighs just over 3 ounces. The Pack-It Isolate’s fabric—a semitranslucent, 50-denier ripstop polyester— looks fragile, but it’s held up well over time in its previous Specter Tech incarnation. The material is both tear and water resistant, and we’ve used the older version of these cubes, the Specter Techs, for four years now with no issues. Like the Reveal, the Isolate bags zip open on three sides and hinge along the fourth.

Also like the Reveal set, these cubes come as a set of three, labeled medium, small, and extra small. Whereas our other picks take up about the same packing volume as a balled-up pair of boxers, these bunch down to the size of a single ankle sock. There’s no mesh, but the fabric is translucent enough for you to see what’s inside.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The biggest flaw of any lightweight packing cube, including the Pack-It Isolate, is that the thin sides can’t stand up on their own. If you prefer sturdier cubes that hold their shape as you pack, you're probably going to dislike any lightweight cube. This set is also more expensive than the Reveal set, so you have to really want the weight savings to justify the extra cost .

Dimensions: 4½ by 7½ by 2½ inches (extra small), 7¼ by 10 by 3¼ inches (small) , 1 0 by 14¼ by 3¼ inches (medium) Capacity: 2 liters (extra small), 7 liters (small), 13 liters (medium) Weight: 0.6 ounces (extra small), 1 ounce (small) , 1.3 ounces (medium)

REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

Compressible bags to save space.

These three cubes hold the most of any set we tested in the smallest amount of space. The compression zippers can be tricky to operate, though.

Get this if: You tend to overpack and need a little more compression to get that last T-shirt into your bag.

Why it’s great: The REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set ( which includes three cubes: small, medium, and large) holds more in total than our other picks but takes up the least amount of space in your suitcase when the cubes are fully compressed. Unlike a regular packing cube, which has a single zipper around the lid, the REI Co-op cubes have two sets of zippers: one around each lid and one around the middle of the cube itself. Opening the middle zipper expands the walls of the cube. Once the cube is packed, you can compress it by pushing down on the bag and then closing the middle zipper .

This process squeezes the cube down to half its size, but it takes some practice for it to go smoothly. When the cubes are properly packed, though, you’ll see that you can squeeze about a third more clothing into the compressed REI Co-op set than into the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal set .

Like the Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate cubes, these cubes are made of lightweight, tear-resistant ripstop nylon. Even with an additional zipper, a large REI cube (14 ½ by 10 ½ by 3 inches) weighs only about a quarter of an ounce more than the nearly equivalently sized medium cube (10 by 14 ¼ by 3 ¼ inches) from Eagle Creek’s Reveal set ; it weighs almost 2 ounces more than the medium cube in our ultralight pick . REI backs its gear with a satisfaction guarantee , which gives you one year to return an item. In the past, REI had a good reputation for honoring its former lifetime guarantee; the wording of REI’s current warranty for REI Co-op branded gear seems to say that if something fails after one year, accepting the return would depend upon an employee’s discretion.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The zippers that compress the cubes can sometimes be finicky to close. This issue exists across every compression cube we tested; however, they’re pretty easy to figure out with some trial and error. When you pack these cubes, be careful to avoid overstuffing them too much. If you overpack or pack unevenly, after you zip the compression panel shut, you may end up with something shaped more like a football than a traditional cube .

Dimensions: 8 by 6 by 3 inches (small), 12 by 8 by 3 inches (medium), 14 ½ by 10 ½ by 3 inches (large) (Note: All three sizes expand in depth to 6 inches.) Capacity (unexpanded): 2.35 liters (small), 4.7 liters (medium), 7.5 liters (large) Weight: 2 ounces (small), 2.8 ounces (medium), 3.5 ounces (large)

Cotopaxi Cubos 10L Travel Cube

A cube made of upcycled material.

This well-made, sturdy packing cube is made out of repurposed remnant materials from other Cotopaxi products. It’s not available in sets, however.

Get this if: You want a high-quality packing cube and also want to support a B-corp with its related social and sustainable missions .

Why it’s great: The Cubos 10L Travel Cube is a well-built packing cube from Cotopaxi, a certified B Corp outdoor-gear company . ( B Corp status means the manufacturer has met “high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency,” according to B Lab , a nonprofit that issues those certifications.) We’ve reviewed and recommend plenty of Cotopaxi gear, and we’ve found that it’s built to a very high quality. All of Cotopaxi’s travel cubes are made using leftover materials from their (and other companies’) backpacks and other products. Using the scrap material here keeps it from ending up in a landfill. However, this also means that every cube has a different motley-color effect that’s unique and maybe not to everyone’s taste .

The Cubos Travel Cube’s mix of mesh and nylon paneling allows you to see inside the cube without opening it up, similar to Eagle Creek’s Pack-It Reveal. The Reveal and Cotopaxi cubes are made of similarly durable materials and have a clamshell opening, but the latter unzips a little farther, fully clearing all four corners so the top hinges open cleanly. However, the Cotopaxi cube’s mesh liner is built into the sides of the bag rather than the lid .

The Cubos also weighs more than a similarly sized medium Reveal cube: 4 ounces to the Reveal’s 3.2. And at 10 liters, the Cubos carries a little less than the medium Reveal (14.5 liters) but a little more than that set’s small (7 liters) .

Cotopaxi has a “ Guaranteed for Good ” warranty and repair program, which it maintains at its discretion: “We will determine the best path forward, whether that’s a functional repair, replacement, or store credit due to a depleted inventory.” We’ve used the warranty several times with various Cotopaxi products and have had excellent results; we’ve also not heard of anyone having problems .

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Unlike our other picks, this cube is sold individually, not as a set, and in only one size; it also costs more per cube. We’d prefer to see the mesh paneling on top of the bag (as opposed to the sides) for a better view of what’s inside. The side walls’ lack of rigidity also means the Cubos doesn’t stand up as easily as the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal. Due to the nature of Cotopaxi’s upcycling, you can’t pick a specific color when you order these cubes .

Dimensions: 13 by 10 by 6 inches Capacity: 10 liters Weight: 4 ounces

If the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set is out of stock: Consider the July Packing Cells , which, like the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveals , have a mesh lid, though July’s mesh feels heavier than Eagle Creek’s. (It’s more like an athletic jersey than a bag material.) The July cubes come in a set of four for $45, and July offers a five-year warranty and 100-day trial period. We haven’t used the July cubes for nearly as long as we have Eagle Creek’s, though, so we aren’t quite ready to make them an official pick .

If the Cotopaxi Cubos 10L Travel Cube is out of stock: Look into the Patagonia Black Hole Cube , which is well made from durable materials. Patagonia also makes extensive efforts to create sustainable products: employing Fair Trade Certified practices, sourcing post-consumer recycled material, and monitoring its supply chain . Plus, unlike the Cotopaxi Cubos , the Patagonia cube is water resistant. However, it’s more than twice the price of the Cubos, which is why it’s not our pick .

If you’re Yeti curious: You’ll probably like Yeti’s well-made Crossroads Packing Cubes , which are surprisingly inexpensive for a famously “premium” company. That said, these compression cubes, which come in three sizes, are still quite expensive compared to our other picks. (A single large Yeti cube costs $35, compared to $45 for the entire REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set .)

We’ve tested and traveled with multiple sets of packing cubes over the last five years, paying close attention to construction, material quality, ease of use, and value to determine what you need from these while you’re on a trip. Those are the qualities we considered most important when we chose which of the dozens of available packing cubes (on Amazon and elsewhere) to test. And when we narrowed down our options and actually tested the 27 (so far) sets, we focused on :

• Weight, size, and capacity: There’s no need for overkill. If you’re going to shell out $25 to $40 for fabric, mesh, and a zipper, it better be lightweight yet still able to store a reasonable amount of clothing and gear. We looked for sets or single bags that could handle enough clothes, towels, gadget cables, toiletries, and medical supplies for a long weekend. Most sets included at least one 12-liter cube (considered “medium”)—which fit about a week’s worth of T-shirts—and two or three additional cubes of varying sizes, though we also tested some cubes that were sold individually. We tested both “standard”-weight cubes (about 4 ounces for a 12-liter cube) and pricier, “ultralight” cubes made of 30-denier siliconized nylon (which weigh about 2 ounces for a 12-liter cube) .
• Ergonomic features: Packing cubes need to be easy to open and close. Zippers should not be prone to catching on neither the cube’s interior nor its corners as you close it. Handles are convenient for carrying and hanging, and are included on all the designs we tested. The ability of a cube’s sides to stand up on their own—generally because the fabric is thick enough to support itself—adds some convenience while packing .
• Visibility and ventilation: Some cubes, usually the models made with polyester or nylon, include a mesh window on the top panel. But mesh is also easy to snag and damage if its weave is too large or if the mesh material is cheaply produced. The best designs expose just enough of the interior for ventilation and visibility without sacrificing the strength of overall construction. Not all models we tested had a mesh panel. Most traditional-style bags similar to those of the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal set have a mesh panel of some sort, but many ultralight bags forego this feature entirely .
• Construction quality: The easiest way to test for fabric quality is to hold the bag in your hand. It should feel substantial, with a pleasant weave under your fingertips. The bags we tested are all made of some kind of nylon or polyester, which is rugged enough not to tear without adding unneeded ounces. Zippers are also a key component: YKK has been the global standard of zipper quality for generations, but there are other reliable zips too. We looked for cubes with zippers that moved smoothly and cleanly around the bags’ corners .
• Overall value: The sets we tested ranged from three cubes to as many as five per set, and were priced between $5 and $80. But we think the best range of quality and value seems to sit between $20 and $40 .

Because most packing cubes have the same basic design, our testing process came down to assessing build quality and practical, real-world use. Over our years of testing, we’ve packed for overnight work trips, long-haul flights, and multi-tour city trips. In that time, we’ve made notes as zippers stuck or mesh snagged or when obstructed visibility slowed down the process of finding a particular item.

Though we’ve tested all the sizes included in each set while traveling, most of our controlled tests were performed using the medium size (roughly 10 by 14 by 3 inches). Into each of these medium cubes we packed things that anyone might bring on a typical weekend away: a rain jacket, two T-shirts, two pairs each of socks and underwear, two polo shirts, a thin fleece pullover, and a small travel towel. When overstuffing to test seams and zippers, we added at least a lightweight down jacket or a pair of jeans until we stressed capacity .

Sometimes the luggage companies we recommend (including Away , Topo , Travelpro , GoRuck , and Peak Design ) make their own packing cubes. Is it necessary to match your packing cubes to your bag? No. We think the packing cubes we chose will fit well in a variety of bags and transfer easily between them. However, if you’re dedicated to a specific brand or design, you may prefer to have cubes that are sized to fit perfectly within the relevant brand’s bags. You can read more about the packing cubes from the companies that make our favorite   carry-on luggage and travel backpacks  in Other good packing cubes and The competition .

AmazonBasics 4 Piece Packing Cube Set : These cubes stand out most for their inexpensive price, but the amount you save isn’t worth the drop in quality compared with our other picks. The AmazonBasics bags are made from a nylon that feels cheap, and we weren’t satisfied with the stitching quality, either .

Away The Insider Packing Cubes : Having deeper walls than most packing cubes, these Away bags resemble very minimalist bricks. Each one has one large viewing window, made of a fine weave mesh, and YKK zippers. They’re about $10 more per set than the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveals , but you do get four cubes in the Away set instead of three. They fit into Away’s suitcases exceptionally well—bento like. However, for the price, we think you’ll be better served with the Reveals .

Bagail 6 Set Packing Cubes (and the nearly identical Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes , Bago 4 Set Packing Cubes for Travel , TravelWise 5-Piece Packing Cube Set , and Shacke Pak 5 Set Packing Cubes ): All of these sets, found on Amazon, are made from similarly cheap-feeling panels of thick nylon or ripstop and ornately separated strips of mesh. They all have similar problems: Their zippers tend to snag, they come with no trustworthy warranty, the fabric feels chintzy in your hands, and the panel stitching seems rushed and uneven. There are much better sets available .

eBags Classic Packing Cubes : We found this set of three cubes, a former runner-up pick, difficult to pack during repeated use in our long-term testing. The combination of reinforced seams and ultralight material is a strange mix: Although the reinforcement makes the ultralight material stand up, so that each cube is easier to pack, this set wasn’t as easy to pack as the Reveals , nor as pliable as our ultralight pick .

Eagle Creek’s Pack-It Isolate Compression Cube Set : Like all Eagle Creek gear, this pair of cubes are well constructed, but we prefer the fully zippered design of our REI compression pick , which are also a little more rigid and easier to pack .

GoRuck Packing Cubes : This packing cube is very well made, but it comes at a premium price—$45 for a single medium-size cube when we tested it. (It’s since dropped in price to $30; a smaller size costs $25.) The cube itself splits down the middle and reveals two sides, both of which have mesh panels for viewing and keeping things separated. Like all of these brand-specific designs, this one fits very snugly in the bag it’s made for, though you need about four to fill the basic GoRuck GR1 .

Peak Design Packing Cube : This stylish choice has unusual “tear away” dual zippers, for one-handed opening (like peeling back the lid on a can of sardines), and compression zippers. Each cube has four separate YKK zippers, plus extra compression netting and a barrier between the two compartments, pushing the weight of the medium version to just over 5 ounces. The price for that size is $40—$5 less than what you’d pay for the whole Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set . (The Peak Design’s smaller size costs $30.) It’s not a bad cube per se, but overly fussy and expensive compared to our current picks .

PKG Union Compression Packing Cubes : The Union compression cubes are $30 more than our top-pick compression cubes for a set of three. They’re similar in design to our Reveal picks with a few higher-end details, such as a faux-leather handle and small storage pockets .

Topo Pack Bag 10L Cube : The Topo cube is made of the same high-denier nylon of most of Topo’s gear, so if you already have a Topo bag, this cube would nicely match. It’s well made and very strong, but it lacks a mesh viewing panel. It’s also expensive. A single small (5-liter) cube costs $20 , and a medium (10-liter) cube costs $24 .

Trakke Foulden Packing Cubes : If you aren’t worried about price and need a very strong and waterproof packing cube, these are a great option. But at $80, plus shipping costs from the UK, these packing cubes are a stretch for most travelers .

Travelpro Essentials Packing Cube Set : These cubes are made of lightweight polyester, with a small strip of mesh paneling, so you can glimpse what’s inside. For $40 you get a set of three, and they fit well inside Travelpro’s carry-on suitcase . However, for the price and build quality, we found that these didn’t compare as well as our top pick . The trim around the zippers tended to catch, and the lightweight material made them slightly more difficult to pack than the similarly lightweight Eagle Creek Isolate set .

We’ll be investigating new packing cubes from Eagle Creek, Sea to Summit, Step 22, Thule, and other companies.

The latest version of this article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan. 

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Carry-On Luggage

by Kit Dillon

After 10 years of airport dashes and overhead-compartment stashes, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is still the suitcase we want to carry.

The Best Luggage Tags

by Geoffrey Morrison

We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases.

How to Maximize Space as You’re Packing

Reducing what you carry with you and organizing the way you pack is the easiest way to lower travel-related stress.

How to Turn Your Existing Carry-On Into Smart Luggage

Want a suitcase that weighs itself, tracks its location, and charges your phone? You can build your own smart luggage for less than off-the-shelf options.

10 Best Packing Cubes for Maximizing Carry-On Space

Travel smoothly with these space saving packing cubes.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

How do they work? Pack your clothes into the cubes first, then fit the pieces into your bag like a puzzle. You can even get ones with built-in compression, so squeezing in that extra outfit (or two!) is no big deal. Whether you're using a carry-on, underseat suitcase or weekender bag , we think packing cubes are the ultimate travel MVP to keep your luggage totally organized.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab is comprised of fiber scientists and travel product experts who test all types of luggage, travel accessories and more. To find the best packing cubes , we put 13 different styles to the test in our Lab and had consumer testers use them on their vacations all over the world (local road trips, international getaways, camping excursions and more).

Calpak Packing Cubes Set (5 Pieces)

Sold as a convenient set of five, these Calpak packing cubes are designed to hold everything you'll need for a trip away. The set includes one large, one medium and two small cubes as well as a zippered pouch for toiletries. Multiple GH editors swear by these cubes, and one said, "They really hold everything I need, keeping my suitcase organized (for once)."

One GH analyst used these cubes on a two-week trip to Japan and said, "These packing cubes helped me keep all my clothes organized when overpacking my carry-on. I appreciated that the sturdy material maintained its shape when I placed the cubes in my hotel drawers."

Each cube has a tab, so you can label it with what's inside; plus, they're mesh on top, so it's easy to see their contents. Calpak is known for its stylish travel solutions, and these don't disappoint. This set is currently available in 17 colors and patterns, including polka dots, cheetah print, florals and checkerboard. Complete your set with shoe packing cubes and compression cubes that make great companions for checked luggage.

Amazon Basics 4-Piece Packing Travel Organizer Cubes Set

This four-piece packing cube set from Amazon Basics gets you everything you'll need for your trip at the great price of about $6 per cube. And you can choose the size of the pieces that come in your set: either four small, four medium, four large or four slim or one of each.

In our Lab testing, we appreciated that each cube has a mesh upper to easily see what's inside and top handles for easy carrying . The polyester material is super lightweight and the zippers have longer tabs than some others we tested making them easy to open and close. The cubes held an impressive amount of clothing in our packing test and they stacked nicely into a carry-on suitcase.

We noticed some loose threads when evaluating these cubes, so they may not be as durable as some other options. Note that this set is spot-clean only and not machine-washable.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Set of Isolate Compression Packing Cubes

If you really want to maximize your packing space, compression packing cubes are the way to do it. In our Lab analysis, these cubes from Eagle Creek zipped down to compress about 1 inch to save more space in your suitcase. "I love their compression function," said one of our testers. "They fit a decent amount of clothing and then compress to take up much less space. They're also smaller than other cubes I've had, so they slot into a smaller carry-on suitcase with ease."

We found the zippers easier to use than those on other compression packing cubes we tested. One tester agreed, saying, " The compression function is really easy to use — the zipper is pretty seamless and doesn't snag or get caught on the cubes. " The top handle is convenient to pull them out of your luggage or backpack when needed. This set is one of the pricier styles we tested, but many GH analysts have owned Eagle Creek products for years and applaud the brand's commitment to durable and long-lasting travel gear.

Gonex Compression Packing Cubes

These Gonex packing cubes compress your clothes, so you can fit as much as possible in your suitcase, and th ey are a more affordable alternative to Eagle Creek at just $22 for a three-piece set. A set of six is also available if you plan on checking a bag. The larger set includes a laundry bag to keep your dirty clothes separate on long trips. The brand recommends rolling your clothes before placing them in the cube to maximize space.

We haven't tested this set in our Lab yet, but we have received promising feedback from our at-home testers. One tester who has used these cubes on multiple vacations said: "I loved the compression aspect and how you can fit so much more because of it. They are also very large cubes. I am very happy with them and will continue to use [them]."

Away The Insider Packing Cubes

Mesh packing cubes allow you to easily see inside and have the added bonus of being lightweight and breathable to keep your clothes fresh. Designed specifically for the mega-popular Away Carry-On , these cubes are the perfect dimensions for most carry-on suitcases. In our Lab analysis, these cubes were a favorite for being simple and easy to use, and of course, fitting nicely into a carry-on.

One tester who used this set on a trip to the Hamptons said, "The mesh made it easy to compact clothes into the packing cubes as the mesh let out any trapped in air. I also liked the configuration of the packing cubes. They fit together really well inside my suitcase." We love Away’s generous 100-day return policy , so there’s no harm in trying them out. Both the 4-piece and 6-piece sets include smaller cubes, but some testers wished they were larger.

RELATED: Away Luggage Review: Are the Popular Carry-Ons Worth the Hype?

Shacke Packing Cube Set

With over 21,000 reviews and an average 4.8-star rating on Amazon, these packing cubes are popular for their easy-to-use design that's perfect when traveling with the whole family. These packing cubes are available in 10 colors, so each family member can have their own set . This set includes a laundry bag, which is a game-changer to keep dirty clothes separate.

Although we haven't tested this set in our Lab yet, online reviewers are extremely impressed with the quality of this set for the price. One online reviewer said, "The material used for the packing cubes is durable and lightweight, ensuring that they do not add unnecessary weight to my luggage. They are also quite flexible, which allows me to squeeze them into tight spaces within my suitcase without worrying about them getting damaged." Another shared, "They are worth every penny and have become an essential travel accessory for me."

Beis The Packing Cubes in Black

Many testers preferred packing cube sets that included shoe bags or laundry bags, like this set from Beis. With three different-size cubes, a toiletry pouch and two shoe bags, this set is ready for any vacation. Uniquely, they come with pre-printed labels for common items like jeans, swimsuits and underwear as well as the days of the week to keep your cubes organized.

One tester said, "The larger zip bags really helped me separate nice clothes for going out from my beach clothes/comfy clothes, which made getting ready much easier since I could find everything without unpacking my entire suitcase." While testers liked the shoe bags, some wished they were bigger to fit larger sizes and bulkier shoes like booties.

Sea to Summit Hydraulic Packing Cube

Keeping your belongings dry and clean is of the utmost importance when heading on an outdoor adventure. In our tests, these Sea to Summit cubes held up on hikes and beach vacations alike.

Sold individually, these packing cubes feature a water-resistant exterior and tight zippers to help prevent water from seeping in. Because the zippers are designed to prevent leaking, they were a bit difficult to open and close in our tests. Note that these cubes are water-resistant (not waterproof!), so they should not be fully submerged or soaked in water.

A big fan of its water-resistant capabilities, one tester said these cubes are "great for when I have to pack away wet or dirty clothes when I am leaving a vacation." She also appreciated that she was able to easily see inside because of the translucent panel. Another tester said, "The textile is indeed water-resistant, which was a nice feature to have during my outdoor camping adventure," and that the "shell is quite durable." These don't compress, so if you want both weatherproof materials and compression, we recommend Peak Design's packing cubes .

Monos Compressible Packing Cubes

Available in sets of four or six, these cubes from Monos fit very well into our carry-on suitcase during our Lab evaluations. These cubes offer compression capabilities as well, and they reduced in size the most out of all the compression packing cubes we tested . The zippers are quite stiff, so it's challenging to compress them fully, which led some testers not to use the compression function at all. We also found the smooth material easy to clean, which is great if sand, dirt and salt water are a factor.

One tester shared, " I really liked the appearance of the packing cubes; they look simple and sleek. I enjoy the mesh top window because I can easily see my belongings and because it allows my clothes to breathe (especially useful for dirty clothes during travel)." He also said, "I appreciate the lightweight lining inside the packing cubes; it is a feature that elevates the appearance and quality of the packing cubes." These cubes are more expensive than other featured styles, but we think they are worth the investment.

RELATED: Monos Luggage Review: We Tested These Popular Sleek Suitcases

Baggu Packing Cube Set

Most packing cubes are only available in solid colors, but these trendy ones from Baggu come in fun patterns like stripes, florals and fruit prints . This set includes two packing cubes made from durable recycled nylon. We were impressed by just how lightweight these cubes are without sacrificing performance — every ounce counts! When evaluating these cubes in our Lab, we noticed they were a bit noisy (and a few testers noted the same thing).

Loving the stylish colors and patterns, one tester said, "Not only are they super cute but they are lightweight and durable. The amount you can fit in these packing cubes is amazing!" Another tester said, "I will definitely continue to use these cubes as I like them better than a set I bought off of Amazon years ago — Baggu strikes again!"

How we test packing cubes

When evaluating packing cubes, Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab pros place a standard packing load in each cube to see how much they can hold. Then, we place them in a suitcase to see how easy they are to organize. We analyze each cube in our Lab to ensure all the zippers are easy to open and close. For compression-style cubes, we pack them with a standard load and measure how much they reduce in size when compressed.

To get real-use feedback, we have consumer testers use the packing cubes on real-life trips. We had testers bring these cubes all over the world on all types of vacations, including camping trips, international getaways and local excursions.

How to choose the best packing cubes:

✔️ Compression vs. regular packing cubes: Some packing cubes have compression capabilities and others don't. Cubes that compress take up slightly less space in your suitcase and are great for overpackers. Generally, compression cubes are more expensive because they have two zippers instead of one and are usually sold individually or as a pair vs. in a larger set. Some compression cubes zip all the way around, which is great if you like to place your cubes directly in the drawer at your destination, while others only open at the top.

✔️ Materials: To avoid extra weight in your luggage, most packing cubes are made with lightweight materials like nylon and mesh. While waterproof capabilities may sound like a benefit, it's probably not necessary unless you're camping, and it comes at a cost — fully sealed packing cubes don't allow for ventilation, which means your clothes may have an odor after travel.

✔️ Luggage compatibility: Depending on what type of suitcase you are using (weekender bag, carry-on or checked luggage), a different style of packing cubes might be better suited.

• For a weekender bag , opt for smaller cubes as only two to three will fit in most weekender bags.
• Carry-on suitcases can accommodate more cubes, including larger ones for sweaters and jeans.
• When checking a larger suitcase , you can fit multiple sets of packing cubes. We recommend using a different color set of cubes for each member of your family for easier unpacking.

✔️ Value: Consider the cost per cube when purchasing a set. Some brands offer excellent value for their larger sets.

✔️ How do I use packing cubes?

Most sets come with different-sized cubes that are designed for certain items — small cubes for your underwear and larger cubes for shirts and pants, for example. Everyone has a preference for either rolling or folding clothes , but when packing in a cube, our pros say you should roll to avoid wrinkles. Rolling likely won't save as much space in a traditional packing cube, but many brands recommend it for compression picks. Doing this, and storing like items together, will make it much easier to find exactly what you want without rummaging through your bag. ✔️ Do packing cubes really save space? Yes! Packing cubes ensure that every item has a spot in your suitcase without it bursting at the seams. To further max out every inch, look for styles with compression. These work by having two zippers — one that closes the cube and a second that tightly compresses it to flatten your clothes and save space. ✔️ Do packing cubes wrinkle clothes? One of the main reasons clothes come out of your suitcase looking wrinkly is because they've shifted around during the trip. Packing cubes keep all your clothes still, so items are actually less likely to wrinkle. Some fabrics will wrinkle no matter what (hello, linen!), so we recommend choosing travel dresses and pants in more forgiving fabrics like polyester and Tencel for your next trip.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. She tested all the packing cubes in the Lab and sent samples to testers to get real-use feedback. She’s been at GH for over four years, overseeing Lab and consumer tests for all types of travel product testing including carry-on suitcases, under-seat luggage, travel backpacks and weekender bags. With a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience and product quality expertise.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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The 7 best packing cubes of 2024, chosen by travel experts.

Packing cubes are the ultimate travel accessory.

The Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

Even the most seasoned travelers can struggle to  pack efficiently , which is why packing cubes – organizational containers for your luggage – are so popular. You don't have to spend a lot of money for a quality set, either; in fact, some of the best packing cube sets are available for less than $20.

Read on to discover our packing cube picks in a variety of categories, based on travel expert recommendations and consumer reviews.

• Best Overall: Veken Packing Cubes on Amazon
• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓
• Best Compression: Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set on Amazon
• Best for Backpacking: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Compression Cube Set on Amazon
• Best Formalwear: Eagle Creek Pack-It Starter Set on Amazon
• Best for Kids: EzPacking Clear Packing Cubes on Amazon
• Best Size Options: Tripped Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes on Amazon
• Best for Style: Lug Compression Packing Cubes on QVC

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and supply chain issues.)

Best Overall: Veken Packing Cubes

Not only do the Veken Packing Cubes have 13,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating on Amazon, but they're also super affordable (and often discounted), making them a traveler favorite. "I never thought I needed packing cubes until I tried out the Veken set and realized how much easier packing (and unpacking!) could be," says Catriona Kendall , associate editor of Travel at U.S. News. "I usually have trouble staying organized, but I've taken these cubes everywhere from weekends away to a campervan vacation in New Zealand, and with all the different pieces in the set I'm finally able to keep my belongings in order."

The eight-piece set includes four mesh packing cubes plus four bags designated for dirty laundry, a pair of shoes, toiletries and miscellaneous small items. The Veken Packing Cubes are available in a dozen different colors.

Price: $23.99 or less

Best Compression: Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

"I swear by the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set," says Christine Sarkis, editor in chief at FamilyVacationist. "They're lightweight, you can see into them without needing to unzip them, and the fabric texture isn't slippery so as you're wedging carefully rolled items of clothing into them, they don't pop out." Made from recycled materials, these durable, water-resistant packing cubes are also backed by Eagle Creek's lifetime warranty. "I'm going on 20 years with mine!" says travel expert Candice Criscione of Mom in Italy. The Pack-It Reveal Cube Set includes three packing cubes in different sizes.

Price: $40 or less

Best for Backpacking: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Compression Cube Set

The Pack-It Isolate Compression Cube Set from Eagle Creek comes highly recommended by frequent travelers, particularly for backpacking trips. Available in a set of two or three, these packing cubes are lightweight yet durable, with self-repairing zippers (standard on all Eagle Creek packing cubes) designed to withstand overpacking. The Isolate packing cubes are also machine-washable – a rarity for packing cubes.

Caroline Teel, managing editor at SmarterTravel, uses packing cubes specifically for adventure travel and appreciates that these compression bags are pre-treated with an anti-microbial agent that prevents odors. "Having used them on an eight-day hiking trip on Mount Kilimanjaro, I can confirm they work in that department!" she says. She adds that while she's tested a variety of packing cubes, she always comes back to Eagle Creek.

Price: $44.95 or less

Best for Formalwear: Eagle Creek Pack-It Starter Set

Slightly different from the Pack-It Reveal and Pack-It Isolate, the Pack-It Starter Set includes a large mesh folder with folder board for minimizing wrinkled garments – a good alternative to a traditional garment bag . The folder can hold up to 12 dress shirts, dresses, and the like, making this set an ideal choice for business travel or cruise vacations with formal nights. The other two cubes (small and medium-sized) are ideal for casual clothing, undergarments and accessories. These packing cubes are also treated with an anti-microbial agent to block odor-causing bacteria and – sans the folding board – they are water-resistant and machine washable.

Price: $54.95 or less

Best for Kids: EzPacking Clear Packing Cubes

Courtesy of EzPacking

"My kids prefer these clear packing cubes," says Sarkis. "They're a little deeper and more rigid, and you can see everything in them, which helps kids pack for themselves and stay organized on the road." Even if you travel with little ones , you may find these clear packing cubes useful for organizing baby gear and locating essentials on the go. The EzPacking Clear Packing Cubes come in a set of four and are available in a variety of colors.

Price: $56.99 or less

Best Size Options: Tripped Travel Gear Compression Cubes

Courtesy of Tripped Travel Gear

Many travelers like the compression cubes offered by Tripped Travel Gear, a small business owned by a globetrotting couple (and their adorable dog). Their innovative luggage line includes a two-, six- and seven-piece set of packing cubes; the seven-piece set is especially noteworthy for its variety of cubes, which includes a shoe bag, laundry bag and a tube-shaped cube that's useful for storing electronics such as hair irons.

These packing cubes also feature an external pocket. "You can use this pocket to store clothing as you use it, to keep the clean and dirty clothes separate," says Andrew Uyal of the travel blog Flights and Footsteps. The packing cubes are available in solid colors as well as national park and other travel-themed prints.

Best for Style: Lug Compression Packing Cubes

Courtesy of Lug

Luggage expert and senior editor of Travel at U.S. News, Rachael Hood , loves the fun colors and patterns – which include tartan plaid, polka dots and florals – on these packing cubes by Lug. The lightweight cubes can store a lot before compressing down to just one inch in thickness, and they each feature a carrying handle. "They make packing so easy," says Hood. "I can fit six to eight tops in the larger one and the smaller cube is ideal for socks and other accessories." She adds that these packing cubes make the perfect travel gift .

Price: $38 or less

How to Use Packing Cubes

• Pack a color-coded set for each person in your group: " We have different color packing cubes for each member of the family so when we open the suitcase, it's easy for everyone to grab their own color and get organized in the hotel room or wherever," says travel writer Terry Ward, who is frequently on the go with her family. She also notes that her family is able to save on luggage fees by using packing cubes in a single checked suitcase .
• Consider buying more than one set: Packing cubes are also useful for organizing toiletries, shoes , travel adapters and cords, and other miscellaneous items.
• Categorize each packing cube: Pack each cube by activity or clothing type, such as activewear, swimwear and underwear.
• Pack with the mesh side facing up: If you buy mesh packing cubes, this packing tip will help you easily identify the contents of each packing cube (which can be especially useful in the event you need to quickly locate items while at the airport).
• Roll your clothing: Many travelers swear by rolling their clothing instead of folding it in their luggage, noting this tactic saves space and minimizes wrinkles. Use the same method when placing items into your packing cubes.
• Use them for dirty laundry: If your packing cubes don't have pockets for dirty laundry like the Tripped Travel Gear bags do, you can still use them to contain dirty laundry; just avoid using mesh cubes if you're concerned about the smell of soiled clothing pervading your bag.
• Take them with you on errands: Packing cubes are useful for everyday outings, too. "I use a smaller packing cube to keep diapers, wipes and a changing pad handy in my backpack when we're out exploring," says Criscione.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most travelers and travel experts agree packing cubes are worth buying – especially considering there are so many affordable, quality options on the market. Because they're designed to save space, they can help you avoid unnecessary luggage fees. Plus, they can be used universally in everything from your luggage set to your weekender bag and even a backpack .

Yes, packing cubes save space by organizing clothing and accessories into individual compartments that neatly fit inside luggage. To maximize space in your luggage, choose compression packing cubes, which eliminate extra air and zip nearly flat.

Compression packing cubes zip nearly flat once packed, while traditional packing cubes maintain their shape and fit neatly into your luggage like pieces in a puzzle. While the decision between packing cubes and compression bags is ultimately a matter of personal preference, most travel experts agree compression packing cubes are best.

Rolling your clothing will help to maximize space and prevent wrinkles, regardless of whether or not you use packing cubes.

Packing cubes are reusable (and in many cases, washable), making them a more economical and sustainable alternative to Ziploc bags.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross strangely enjoys decluttering, a hidden "talent" that's especially useful when traveling. She owns the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set and recommends it to everyone she knows.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Toiletry Bags
• The Best Neck Pillows for Travel
• The Most Useful Travel Accessories
• The Best Compression Socks for Travel

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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How To Choose The

Best Packing Cubes for Travel

From compression packing cubes to ultralight and budget, we’re here to help.

• 01. Introduction
• 02. Our Picks
• 03. Ultralight
• 04. Compression
• 06. Specialist
• 07. Considerations

Packing cubes are used to compartmentalize your items and organize your pack.

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Best Packing Cubes

Click to learn more about some of our favorites packing cubes below.

• 8.5/10: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pods
• 8.4/10: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Packing Cubes
• 8.2/10: Peak Design Packing Cubes
• 8.1/10: Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set
• 8.1/10: Patagonia Black Hole Cubes
• 7.8/10: GORUCK Packing Cubes
• 7.6/10: Topo Designs Pack Bags
• 7.6/10: YETI Crossroads Packing Cubes
• 7.5/10: Aer Packing Cubes (V2)
• 7.4/10: Herschel Supply Co. Travel Organizers

Why Packing Cubes?

When you open your bag, do you prefer a neatly organized system that’s easy to navigate or a jumbled mess of creased clothing? If you’re the former, great! We’ll get along just fine, and you’re definitely in the right place. Everyone on the Pack Hacker team loves the extra organization and convenience packing cubes have to offer. We find that it’s much easier to keep our clothing from getting messed up and wrinkled in our travel backpack, even when we stuff it full. And, if you’re the latter, don’t click away just yet! We have tried and tested a lot of different packing cubes—from all different companies and for every type of traveler—so we’re sure we have the best option for you.

All travel backpacks and rolling carry on luggage intended for travel have a large main compartment for you to fill up. Some will take this to the extreme, like the GORUCK GR3 and Monos Carry-On (which are essentially large buckets), and some will offer a bit of internal organization, like the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and Fjallraven Travel Pack . But regardless of what you’re lugging around, you’re going to need to figure out the best way to fill that main compartment.

This is where the best packing cubes come into play.

First and foremost, packing cubes for travel are used to organize the contents of your bag. But how you do that will depend on the type of packing cube you choose. There are a lot of options out there, but we have recommendations for the best packing cubes for any type of traveler. The best packing cubes for your travel backpack will differ from the option your friend wants to use in her rolling carry on luggage. And if you’re trying to fit a weekend’s worth of gear into a personal item bag that can fit under the seat in front of you, let us introduce you to compression cubes.

Learn more about why you should consider using packing cubes.

In this guide, we’ll be covering packing cubes for travel that include:

• Ultralight: These lightweight and minimalist packing cubes combine thinner fabrics that usually include a ripstop grid for durability and small but mighty zippers to keep everything together. These are the best packing cubes if you frequent low-cost airlines with lower weight limits for the bag you bring on board or if you’re carrying your travel backpack around for a long time.
• Compression: If you’re the type of traveler who brings bulkier gear like jeans, or you’re packing for colder weather and need to bring extra layers like hoodies and sweaters, compression cubes are the best packing cubes for you. While every cube compresses your gear to a certain extent, compression cubes take it to the next level with an extra zipper around the outside that minimizes the space inside the cube when you close it.
• Budget: You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get packing cubes that will still organize your gear well. Sure, you may have to forgo reliable zipper brands, fancy materials, and extra bells and whistles, but if worse comes to worst, your clothes will (likely) still fit in your travel backpack if the cubes break. They’re also great if you’re not a frequent traveler or don’t plan to use them very often.
• Specialist: Do you need a packing cube with extra padding to protect sensitive camera gear, weather-resistant cubes to keep your gear dry throughout rainy hikes, or a style that slots specifically into one travel backpack? There are cubes for nearly any specialty you can think of, and we’ve rounded up some of the most popular for you.

And if you’re still thinking packing cubes are a waste of time, we should mention that these nifty things make packing and unpacking way easier. Whether you’re an ultra-minimalist, an “I need absolutely everything for any situation” packer, or something in-between—being able to just swap a few bags in and out of your pack is a dream.

Video Overview: How To Use & Choose The Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Feel free to watch this guide section in video format. We’ll keep the written content on this page up to date.

Be sure to subscribe to Pack Hacker on YouTube and never miss a video.

What Will This Guide Help You With?

There are hundreds of packing cubes to choose from, and it can get pretty confusing if you’re new to the market. Every cube will offer different benefits at a wide range of price points, and some of them aren’t even cube-shaped! (Right?! Infuriating.)

Fear not, because we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll be breaking down each style and showing you some of the best packing cubes (all tried and tested by us, of course). We’ll also give you the low-down on budget, materials, packability, and the best ways to actually use these things.

We’ll also be going in-depth on what considerations to make before you buy. What are the best packing cubes for your destination? Your budget? What size packing cubes do you need? Are you carrying around a humble laptop bag and just need an extra pair of clothes for the office, or a full-fledged 80L duffle bag ? We’ve got you covered.

And we’ll end with the disclaimer that everyone is different. No, we’re not going into some rant about how you’re all amazing human beings just the way you are (even though you are). What we’re getting at is that the best packing cubes for you may be the worst packing cubes for someone else . It all depends on personal preference and use-case. But by the end of this guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you’ll need to pick the right packing cube for you.

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Some of our favorite packing cubes to kick off your search.

Why Should You Trust Us?

We’ve had our hands on around 100 packing cubes, so we know a thing or two about what to look for. We’ve tested all of the cubes we recommend below for at least two weeks on countless trips, and we’ve been using some of them for years all over the globe. While the best packing cubes for you will depend on your needs, we have the knowledge to weed through the duds to help you find the right fit.

These cubes are the lightest of the light. They practically float when we toss an empty one in the air. They’re more outdoor-focused than others we’ve tested, but we think they’re some of the best packing cubes for travel to a city, as well. After all, it’s not like we’re carrying them around New York City on their own, and trekking from your hostel to Manhattan in the rain can mean that packing cubes in the Big Apple need to be just as durable as in Big Sur. While they may look like plastic bags, they’re way more innovative. The Dyneema fabric is water-resistant and allegedly stronger than Kevlar. If you don’t know what that is, it’s the material used in bullet-proof vests, so if they can stop a speeding bullet like Superman, we think they’ll keep our gear safe enough. However, they’re only available in gray, and the material is a bit crinkly without much stretch. It feels and sounds like an outdoor tarp, which is great for durability but not as much for aesthetics.

We like the Hyperlite logo because it has a big white space we use to label what’s inside since you can’t see if the pod is holding your tops, bottoms, or something else. There are four available sizes, and even the small ones can hold a surprising amount of gear, so there’s no need to overfill one when you can upgrade to a larger model for bulkier gear. In addition to the unique materials, it has a different type of opening than other packing cubes we’ve seen with a flat lid design. You sit it upright, unzip the mostly clamshell opening, and stack your stuff inside. We find that it’s helpful for fully using the interior space, whether you want to pack it full of clothing or other travel essentials.

Why We Like It

• The Dyneema fabric has a great strength-to-weight ratio, so they won’t add much weight to your pack
• We’re able to fit quite a lot of clothing inside one pod

What You Should Know

• They’re pretty crinkly and sound like a tarp blowing in the wind when you’re packing them
• Your gear will rest in several layers with their unique shape

When you’re looking for a lightweight, no-frills option to get the job done, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate packing cubes are a great choice. In fact, we can confidently say that the “Isolate” packing cubes are our favorites in the Eagle Creek Line. The Isolates are lightweight and come in various sizes, from x-small to a laundry bag. There’s even a rolltop shoe pouch, so you can get whatever functionality you want in a matching set. We do like how all of them have tags with a letter indicating their size (S for small and so on) because it helps you differentiate between them and remember what size you’ve got if you want to stock up on more.

You can also choose to get them in either “cube” or “sac” shape. Cubes are, obviously, shaped like a cube, while the sacs are flatter (think of an oversized pencil case). They include a wide range of sizes and colors to suit any load-out, and their angled zippers create a small tub shape, which is easy for packing because you simply set everything inside. We find the medium slim best for rolling up button-up shirts to keep them wrinkle free, for example, and can fit even our warmest puffer jacket inside the small compression cube. Whichever size and shape you choose, they’re made with a washable and water-resistant polyester ripstop, which feels a bit slippery but, on the other hand, slides in and out of your bag pretty easily. The Zoom zippers have paracord zipper pulls that are easy to grip, which is good when you’re pulling hard to squeeze the compression cubes closed.

• Eagle Creek has a great lifetime warranty that we’ve put to the test
• The angled zippers create an easy-to-pack tub shape
• The compression cubes aren’t very easy to zip when packed tightly
• The rolltop shoe sack isn’t airtight

The Peak Design Packing Cubes are made to fit the Peak Design Travel Backpack, but we use them in plenty of other bags, as well. These are some of the best packing cubes when you need to get at your gear quickly because there’s a zipper on each side with a Hypalon tab in the middle. Instead of unzipping around the entire cube every time, pull the tab and peel back the lid to get to what’s inside—it doesn’t get much quicker than that. This can be hard on zippers, but these YKK models can take it and we’ve had no issues with them even thinking about failing after years of use. Opposite that big clamshell opening is a separate compartment to hold your dirty clothing, which works just as intended, and we like the ability to stuff our used gear in the backside when we’re through.

These cubes are also compressible, which we find really useful to save some space and cram in much more clothing without causing wrinkles. While it seems like you’re stressing the material, it’s a stretchy self-healing 70D nylon/polyester blend. We’re not 100% sure how it works, but we have accidentally punctured a small hole in the material and been amazed to see the fabric go back to normal, which is great when you’re half-way around the world and would rather spend cash on souvenirs than a new packing cube.

• Clean and dirty pockets let us easily separate our clothing
• They’re easily compressible
• Multiple zippers around the outside, so you’ll have to pay attention to which one you’re grabbing to open it
• There is only small, medium, and a shoe pouch at the time of writing, and we wish more sizes were available

If you’re looking for a set of ultralight packing cubes that won’t break the bank, the Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set is a fantastic choice. The small, medium, and large sizes are ideal for one bag travel, the craftsmanship is superb, and we’ve been impressed with the bluesign® approved recycled 40D ripstop nylon material’s durability. They’re easy to pull out of your pack with top handles, and while they’re not compression cubes, we have managed to fit quite a lot inside and watch it compact down well. There are two zippers on each cube, so it’s easier to wedge them around corners to close the cubes, even if we overpack them just a bit. The J-zip opening, which extends further down one side than the other, makes them easy to pack with your gear. We tend to wedge clothing we plan to wear later in the trip in the closed-off corner to leave the outfits we want to grab first easily accessible. Plus, you can open them just a little to pull out one sock if you don’t want to dislodge everything just because you forgot and wore Crocs to the airport and don’t want your dogs to touch the dirty floor through security.

Depending on the size of your clothing, you can fit quite a few tees inside the medium; use the large for leggings, pants, and shorts; and fill the small with your socks, underwear, and swimsuit. We managed to fit a week’s worth of warm-weather gear inside with no issue, so we think that makes them the best packing cubes for travel on a budget airline. You can squeeze a lot of gear into a smaller space, saving you money on checked luggage.

• Easy to zip them up, even with a lot of clothing inside
• Double zipper pulls let you open them at any point along the track
• You can’t see what’s inside, so you’ll just have to remember where you put something
• The material is a little slick, making them a little hard to stack in your pack

For travel backpacks that have just one cavernous hole to fill, you’ll want to use the best packing cubes to fill that empty space. We think the Black Hole Cubes from Patagonia are a great option because they’re incredibly durable. The polyester ripstop is laminated with a TPU film, and they also include handles that we think make them easier to pull out of your pack. We’ve struggled pulling out slick packing cubes from other brands, but we had no problem grabbing the large handles on the Black Hole Cubes to change clothing at a rest stop. They also came in handy when we shared changing spaces with friends at an Airbnb. Instead of dragging your luggage to the bathroom, you can just pull out the cube you need.

A daisy chain of loops runs down from each handle so you can hook them to the inside of your travel backpack or duffle bag. The DWR means that you don’t have to worry about accidental spills hitting your gear, and we think the small size works great as a Dopp kit or a small organizer. The medium and large versions can fit a lot of gear inside and include a mesh divider to keep things organized, but they’re not compressible if you need to make more space.

• Large grab handles make them easy to pull out of your pack and take to a changing room
• Incredibly durable materials
• They’re not as compressible as other cubes for storage
• Some sizes include mesh dividers to split your gear between each side

The GORUCK Packing Cubes are exactly what you would expect from GORUCK: durable, well-made, and as purpose-built as other GORUCK gear we’ve tested. They’re the best packing cubes for fans of the brand since they have a similar tactical aesthetic. They’re only available in black and have a hook-and-loop fastener patch in the bottom corner. You can leave it blank or personalize it with a Pack Hacker patch like we do, or you can get write-on patches to label what’s in each cube.

We find that the dual-sided interior helps us stay organized, and the mesh lets you see what’s going on inside. We like to pack tops on one side and bottoms on the other, or all our black clothing on one side and gray on the other. You can use them for clean and dirty clothing, too, but the mesh doesn’t stretch, so you can’t get one side to expand while the other shrinks. There are six zippers on each cube (two outside and two on each side of the interior), and they’re different colors: black on the exterior and red and gray inside. It’s nice to always know what zipper to grab, but the long cords on the pulls frequently stick out and interfere with zipping the cube back together. While it’s frustrating, it’s not a deal-breaker.

• The double carry handles make them very easy to maneuver around
• They fit really well inside GORUCK packs
• You can’t get them in any color other than black
• Available in 10L and 20L sizes, so they’re larger than you’d expect when fully packed

The Topo Designs Pack Bags are not the lightest packing cubes, but we like how durable the 400D recycled nylon material is compared to lighter materials. The YKK zippers are robust and chunky to handle even the largest loads, although they may damage lightweight clothing if you’re not careful as you zip them up. Still, they vibe with the traditional Topo Designs style, as does the large logo on the front. They come in two sizes: 5L and 10L. The 5L and one of the 10L cubes have a similar shape as other packing cubes for travel, and we fit about two layers of clothing inside. However, the other 10L cube is taller. Maybe that fits the shape of your travel bag better, but we find it more difficult to find what’s inside quickly. There’s enough room for multiple layers of clothing, so you may have to dig through to find the desired gear. Even when we pack well, we can’t see below the first or second layer, and find that uncovering what you need can take a little while.

The cubes have a handle on the top, a clamshell opening, and no internal organization. We think the zippers move a little slower than on other gear, but they still work well to contain your items, and they’ve held up well for us over several trips, so they’re a good option if you want something likely to last a long time.

• The top carry handle is easy to grab
• Durable and abrasion-resistant materials are more durable than lighter cubes
• There’s no compression system to help with bulkier gear
• You can catch your clothing on the large zipper if you’re not careful

The YETI Crossroads Packing Cubes have a thoughtful design and plenty of space to keep bulky clothing and small tech organized within your backpack or luggage. While YETI created them to pair with the Crossroads daypack and travel backpack, they’re versatile and durable packing cubes for travel that have worked with other packs or luggage we’ve paired them with. The compression zipper and clamshell opening make packing easier, and they pair a liner with the ripstop shell for additional durability. Once everything is inside, you can use the compression zipper to condense your stuff. The YKK zippers work well, and each cube has a thin handle on the top and bottom when we need to grab them from our bag. The large is great for bulky clothing like jeans and sweaters, the medium can handle anything from thinner T-shirts to a full overnight outfit, and the small is best for tech or a spare pair of underwear and socks.

They’re easy to pack into your bag: if you put the large one on the bottom, the medium fits horizontally across the base so that one or two small cubes can fill up the remaining space on top. And if your lotion spills in your bag along the way, you can empty it, turn it inside out, and toss it in the wash along with your clothing.

• A stripe of mesh on the bottom adds breathability
• The handles are low-profile and stay out of your way if you don’t need them
• It’s hard to see what’s inside each cube without opening them
• While the second layer of material adds durability, it also adds weight

Aer’s Packing Cubes (V2) come in three sizes: 6 liters, 10 liters, and 14 liters. Since they’re so large, we like to pair them with travel backpacks with a wide opening. On the other hand, their sizable capacity makes these the best packing cubes if you need to bring bulkier clothing—we have no problem fitting a thick wool jacket inside, so they’re great for cold-weather travel. We’re big fans of Aer and like pairing the all-black, no-frills cubes with any of their travel backpacks for a similar aesthetic. Plus, we’re happy to report that they are just as high-quality as those bags, with durable but light 80D CORDURA® Ripstop Nylon and YKK zippers. The fabric does pick up marks rather easily, but they’re easy to pack thanks to the large sizes and clamshell design.

We were pleasantly surprised the first time we flipped them to the back. There’s a horseshoe-style zipper that opens a separate compartment for your dirty clothing, so you can keep organized throughout your trip, and move your used tees and socks to the other side as you wear them. We find that makes it easier to repack a bag for the return trip since we didn’t have to make room for a separate laundry bag or cube. If you’re traveling for longer, you’ll know it’s time to do a load when it’s full.

• Their large size works well with the Aer Travel Pack 3
• You can use the secondary compartment for used clothing to keep it separate from clean gear
• It takes some practice to manage the dual compartments
• The cubes attract dirt and are hard to clean without water

The durable Travel Organizers from Hershel Supply Co. are much more than just packing cubes. Since they’re larger than some other brands, you can use these packing cubes for travel to easily organize your carry on luggage or adapt them to gear beyond clothing. The polyester ripstop cubes have a mesh top to help you see what’s inside and a double thickness of fabric for durability at the edges. While that adds a few ounces of weight, it’s unlikely to make much of a difference in your pack unless you’re already teetering on the edge of your airline’s weight limit. We did find that the zippers can occasionally get caught on this extra material around the corners, and the zippers themselves can be hard to find on the black colorway.

The large is really large, but we think it’s one of the best packing cubes for travel if you like to pack your outfits together. It has enough space for several days’ worth of clothing and still fits inside a 40L travel backpack. The small size works well for toiletry tools and even fits a full-size hairbrush, provided you have a separate 3-1-1 bag, and the medium bridges the gap to work well for all your tops or shorts, much like other packing cubes.

• It’s easy to see your gear through the mesh top
• They work well for more than just clothing
• We have trouble fitting the large size cube in smaller bags
• Zippers can be a little difficult to get around corners

Check out the video below for more details on the above cubes and to see some additional options.

These cubes aren’t light…they’re Ultralight!

Why Ultralight Packing Cubes?

These are the lightest and most minimal cubes around. They’re great for when you want to minimize weight as much as possible and save space within your pack.

Whether a packing cube is ultralight or not comes down to materials. And while there are no set rules on what constitutes an ultralight packing cube, there are some industry standards to look out for.

Ultralight packing cubes are almost exclusively a low denier. Usually, you’re looking at 30D or 40D nylon—which is a lightweight (obviously), durable, and tear-resistant fabric that has continued to perform well for us in testing. Some cubes may use a low denier polyester instead, but we’d stick with nylon if possible as it tends to be a stronger fabric and it’s softer to the touch.

Because ultralight packing cubes use such a thin fabric, it will likely be reinforced with ripstop, which increases its resistance to rips and tears. Additionally, if a hole does appear, the ripstop will stop it from getting any bigger, which is great. This is an essential feature for ultralight packing cubes because the materials are so thin, and we’d recommend making sure your cube has this incorporated within its materials.

Some companies will use CORDURA® brand fabric for their cubes, which is highly regarded for their quality control and testing. While a 30D CORDURA® nylon isn’t necessarily better than another brand’s 30D nylon, it is a sign of quality and you can be assured of its durability.

Because of their thin materials, it would be easy to think that ultralight packing cubes aren’t that durable. Fortunately, this isn’t the case and they’ve proven themselves over years of testing.

The most significant durability factor for ultralight packing cubes is the craftsmanship—and in particular, the stitching. No matter how high-tech the materials are, if the stitching holding a cube is shoddy, it’s not going to hold up. The best packing cubes have clean lines of stitching that hold the materials tightly together, no loose stitching or fraying ends. If the stitching is loose before you buy it, imagine what it will be like after a few months of use. It’s hard to see the level of craftsmanship if you’re buying online, but we’d recommend buying from a well-respected brand with solid reviews (like ours).

One small thing to note is that low denier nylon isn’t incredibly abrasion resistant. This is mostly a non-issue, since your packing cube will be protected inside your bag, but it’s something to be wary of.

Packability

Ultralight Packing Cubes won’t take up much room in your pack because of their minimalist style. Plus, they’re the lightest cubes around so that they won’t increase your overall load by much either.

An important thing to note is that ultralight packing cubes don’t provide any structure since they’re usually just two pieces of fabric stitched together with a zip in the middle. This means that even if your clothes are rolled neatly, they will likely come out of an ultralight cube a bit creased. It’s a pain, but it’s the price you pay for ultralight-ness, and the severity of this issue largely depends on your use-case.

Recommendations

WANDRD Packing Cubes’ Perfect Fit System takes a lot of the guesswork out of mixing and matching differently sized cubes by scaling their cube’s size with one another, so the large is the size of two mediums, and so on. They feature a mesh top, so it’s easy to see what’s going on inside, YKK zippers, and a 70D nylon shell.

Ultralight Packing Cube Pros

• Reasonable price-point

Ultralight Packing Cube Cons

• Don’t provide any structure

Packing cubes will help save space inside your pack, but compression cubes take it to the next level.

Why Compression Packing Cubes?

Compression packing cubes are for people who want to save as much room in their pack as possible. Every packing cube will compress your items to a certain extent, but a compression cube takes it to the next level. This is done by adding an extra zipper around the outside that can be zipped up to minimize the space inside—kind of like how a vacuum sealer works—and it’s remarkable how much of a difference they can make.

There is a bit of variety in this category since a compression packing cube isn’t determined by its materials. However, there are some reoccurring themes.

The materials have to be flexible, because these cubes stretch and compress—so most compression packing cubes will be made of a low denier nylon or polyester (under 100D) fabric. We tend to prefer nylon over polyester for compression cubes as you really need the added durability. That said, some compression cube fabrics will even go as low as ultralight cubes (30D or 40D), which makes them both an ultralight and compression cube. We’re big fans of these as you get two significant benefits in one.

A compression packing cube is put under considerably more stress than other cubes, as the material stretches and the cube becomes tight when you compress it. Because of this, they can be more vulnerable to wear and tear. So you’ll want to make sure you get yourself a quality cube that won’t break within a few months.

Here are a few things to look out for:

• The zipper around the side that compresses the cube is put under a lot of stress, so make sure it’s a good zip from a quality brand. We go deep into zippers and what to look out for specifically at the beginning of the considerations section below.

It may sound like compression packing cubes are a recipe for disaster, with all the added stress on the fabric and zippers…but that really isn’t the case. We’ve come across plenty of highly durable compression packing cubes in our day. And as long as you buy a quality cube made with top-notch materials from a reputable brand, durability shouldn’t be an issue.

There’s no getting around it, compression cubes take up the least amount of room inside your pack. (It’s kind of what they’re built do to.) This is a significant check in their packability score, but there are a couple things you should be aware of too.

Compression cubes can become slightly rounded when you compress them. This means they can’t be easily stacked on one another, and you might lose space in your pack because of it. Plus, this increases their tendency to shift around in your pack.

A compression cube can also crease your clothes. This likely isn’t a concern if you’re hitting the beach with a pack full of tank-tops and shorts, but if you’ve packed a few shirts for fancier establishments then it can be a real pain. You can minimize creases by neatly rolling up each item of clothing, but at the end of the day, they are impossible to avoid entirely when you’re compressing your clothes tightly together.

The Gonex Compression Packing Cubes are incredibly lightweight and have held up well throughout testing around the world! Made of nylon, with SBS zippers, they’re water-resistant to protect your stuff and are ideal for people looking to save as much space inside their pack as possible.

The Thule Compression Cube Set will help you save space in your pack—they compress from 4 inches deep down to just 1.25 inches! Thule uses YKK zippers to get the job done. They’re slightly see-through, too, so you can remember which cube contains your favorite T-shirt.

Compression Packing Cube Pros

• Can be used in two different capacities (compressed and uncompressed)

Compression Packing Cube Cons

• Hard to stack on top of one another

On a budget? Fear not! These packing cubes won’t break the bank.

Why Budget Packing Cubes?

Why would you get budget packing cubes? Well, the clue is in the name. They’re cheap!

Here at Pack Hacker, we tend to focus on high-quality, good looking, and extremely functional gear. But there are instances where buying budget just makes sense. Perhaps you’re only traveling for a month and don’t need something that will last a lifetime. Maybe you’re working on a limited budget and picking up the best packing cubes is less of a priority than other, more expensive gear you need to buy. Or maybe you’re simply just not interested in all the bells and whistles of other packing cubes.

The bottom line is, depending on your use-case, budget packing cubes can be a great choice. And they’re also incredibly easy to get your hands on, with places like Walmart and Target now making their own. Not forgetting the gazillion packing cubes for travel available on Amazon. We’re all suckers for that free two-day delivery on Prime right?

Budget packing cubes are cheap because they use inexpensive materials. However, while the materials won’t be as high-quality or as high-tech as others on the market, they should still be up to the task at hand. After all, a packing cube is just a small container for your clothes, it doesn’t have to be be indestructible.

Budget packing cubes are typically polyester, and while we prefer nylon because it’s stronger and softer to the touch, it’s by no means a bad material. Polyester is still lightweight, wrinkle-resistant, and fairly durable. Plus, it’s even more abrasion resistant and quicker drying, so there are pros.

While ripstop technology isn’t overly common in budget cubes, it can be found. If your only concern is to find the cheapest cubes possible, you could forego it. But, if a rip does appear it will inevitably get larger and render your cube unusable over time. Ripstop can stop this from happening (it’s in the name after all). So, if you’re planning on using these cubes for longer than one trip, it could prove a vital addition.

It will come as no surprise that budget packing cubes aren’t heralded for their durability. However, this doesn’t mean they’ll all break one week into your trip around the world. In fact, we’ve tested a set of AmazonBasics Packing Cubes for over a year of perpetual travel, and they’re still going strong. While we can’t guarantee every budget packing cube will survive a year of everyday use, it is possible.

But we should clarify that budget packing cubes are, of course, less durable than higher-quality and more expensive cubes, and buying budget will always increase your chance of something going wrong at some point down the line.

Also, when something does go wrong with a budget cube, you’re most likely going to be out of luck in terms of warranty or repairs. While some of the higher-end brands—like Peak Design or GORUCK—will offer lifetime warranties or handle repairs for you, chances are you won’t find any of that with budget cubes.

We’d recommend treating budget cubes with a bit of care, as they may not be able to handle everything you throw at them. The craftsmanship may not always be impeccable, and stitching may start to loosen if you continuously fill these things to the brim.

The majority of budget packing cubes for travel are surprisingly easy to stack on one another inside your bag. This is because they tend to be a basic rectangular cube shape that holds its form and structure well.

On the other hand, they will take up more space inside your pack than compression cubes, and they will be heavier than ultralight cubes. This is the trade-off for cheaper cubes, and it’s a decision you’ll have to make depending on your situation. If you’re looking to save as much space inside your pack as possible, then it may be worth spending a bit more on ultralight or compression packing cubes.

You don’t even have to buy specific packing cubes if you don’t want to, as you’ll likely have a Ziploc or plastic grocery bag laying around the house already. While we would advise packing cubes, these can work if you’re in a pinch.

These cubes are a tad bulky and they’re not great at compressing your clothes. But we’ve tested them for over a year of perpetual travel and they’re still going strong! That’s some awesome durability for a set of budget cubes. Plus, they’re rocking ripstop technology too.

This set of packing cubes is one of the cheapest we’ve come across. While they’re 100% polyester and don’t have branded zippers, they are ideal for anyone looking to spend as little as possible.

Budget Packing Cube Pros

• Readily available

Budget Packing Cube Cons

• Not the most durable

Looking for something special?

Why Specialist Packing Cubes?

While we’ve already covered the best packing cubes for most situations, there is a chance you may need something more unique for your use-case. Thankfully, there are a few brands that manufacture specialist packing cubes to fill specific niches in the market.

Padded Packing Cubes

Padded packing cubes are like every other cube on the market, just padded for further protection. While you don’t necessarily need added protection for your clothes, these cubes do have a unique set of benefits that could come in handy depending on your use-case.

Versatility: A padded packing cube can be used solely for clothes, but because of the padding, you can also use it for your tech gear too. If you’re in a pinch, you could even put a combination of both inside, like t-shirts and a travel camera .

There are even some padded packing cubes that feature MOLLE webbing for PALS attachments, a modular system that enables you to attach items to a backpack. For instance, you could attach a padded packing cube to the outside of your pack for quick access or because the inside is full. While this won’t be beneficial to everyone, the versatility is pretty rad.

Structure: A padded packing cube is more structured than others on the market, which can be beneficial for a couple of reasons. First, they are easy to stack inside your pack, and it’s easy to utilize all available space when the main compartment of your backpack is rectangular. And clothes are least-likely to crease inside of a padded packing cube, because of the structure inside and padding on the exterior.

Durability: These are some of the most durable packing cubes you can buy. This is because they’re usually made from high-quality materials and high denier fabrics, similar to what you’d find on an actual backpack. If you’re all about durability and want your gear to last a lifetime, these could be the best packing cubes for you.

This all sounds great! BUT, there are a few significant trade-offs you’ll have to make.

Weight: Padded packing cubes weigh a fair bit more than others on the market, especially ultralight cubes. Because of this, it may not be a good idea to fill your pack up exclusively with padded cubes, but one or two are worth considering if they make sense for your use-case.

Size: Because they are padded, these cubes take up a lot more room than necessary. If space is at a premium and you’re solely picking up cubes to save space inside your pack, padded packing cubes may not be the best option for you.

Cost: The price of padded packing cubes can really creep up, and these certainly aren’t the most cost-effective on the market if you’re working on a budget.

The GORUCK GR2 Field Pocket is one of the most durable packing cubes on the market. It’s handmade in the USA with 1000D CORDURA® nylon and it comes with a lifetime warranty. There’s also MOLLE so you can attach it to the inside, or outside, of a compatible backpack.

Padded Packing Cube Pros

• Incredibly durable

Padded Packing Cube Cons

• Heavy and will increase the weight of your bag

Weather Resistant Packing Cubes

If you’re traveling somewhere prone to a downpour, or you like to buy over-spec gear for all potential scenarios, you could consider weather-resistant packing cubes for travel. While not overly common because most people just don’t need them, they can be found, albeit with varying degrees of weather resistance.

For a packing cube to be considered weather resistant, the material and zippers must be resistant to water. We say this because the latter is so often forgotten. It’s all well and good having a material that won’t let water through, but if the zippers offer no protection, water is going to get inside anyway.

However, weather-resistant materials and zippers don’t come cheap, so expect to pay a fair bit more for these cubes. And you’ll have to ask yourself, “do you really need weather resistant cubes?” Probably not.

Some of the most weather resistant cubes we’ve across. They’re made from a dry-finish waxed canvas that won’t let any water through, and the #5 YKK AquaGuard® zipper is the perfect finishing touch. Plus, they’re bright orange so they’re easy to see inside your pack.

If your travels involve a lot of water, you’ll love these packing cubes since they’re waterproof with RF-welded seams and a toothless waterproof zipper. We’re huge fans of the toothless design, and they compress your clothing to help you save space. The sticky zipper and required maintenance make them best suited for those who really need waterproof packing cubes.

Weather Resistant Packing Cube Pros

• Tend to be durable and well-made

Weather Resistant Packing Cube Cons

• Can be pricier than other packing cubes

Integrated Packing Cubes

Some brands will make packing cubes to fit and integrate specifically within their own backpacks. Plus, sometimes it’s just nice (and aesthetically pleasing) to have all your gear match.

Here are a few of our favorite brands that make integrated packing cubes;

Peak Design

The Peak Design Packing Cubes are made specifically for the Peak Design Travel Backpack . While they’re only available in two sizes, they are compressible and feature a neat self-healing 70D nylon and polyester blend material.

TOM BIHN makes a wide range of packing tools that integrate perfectly with their backpacks. And we’re digging the Techonaut/Aeronaut 45 Packing Cubes that are designed specifically for the TOM BIHN Aeronaut 45 . You can use this thing as a large packing cube for travel and take it out to use as a daypack when you’re at your destination.

The Tortuga Packing Cubes come as a set of three and the curved corners utilize all the space in the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L perfectly. They’re not the sleekest packing cubes available, but the 900D Polyester is plenty durable, and the mesh top makes identifying what’s inside nice and easy.

The Aer Packing Cubes (V2) are lightweight, durable, and pair perfectly with the Aer Travel Pack 3 , both in size and aesthetics.

Integrated Packing Cube Pros

• You can save money if they’re sold in a bundle with the pack

Integrated Packing Cube Cons

• They may not be as interchangeable as other packing cubes

Luxury Packing Cubes

If you’re a fashionista looking to make a statement regardless of where you are in the world, luxury packing cubes from high-end fashion brands should be calling your name. While we can’t guarantee these will be the most functional, space-saving, or versatile cubes on the market, if you want to blow your pay check on a Gucci Off The Grid packing cube, then who are we to stop you?

Luxury Packing Cube Pros

• Great way to spend money if you’ve got too much laying around

Luxury Packing Cube Cons

• The materials may feel nice but they’re likely not adventureproof

Make sure you buy the best packing cube for you.

How To Use Packing Cubes

If you haven’t caught on by now, a packing cube is simply a fabric pouch with a zippered opening. Using one is pretty straightforward—you just unzip the opening, put your clothes inside, zip it back up, and place the cube inside your pack. It’s not rocket science.

That said, figuring out the optimal method for using packing cubes for travel is a bit trickier. A typical example of how packing cubes can be used in the real world is to use a small cube for underwear, a medium cube for t-shirts and shorts, and a large cube for sweaters and pants. It can be that simple, but you can also get as creative as you’d like. For example, you can…

• Use a selection of different packing cube types. Depending on your use-case, you can choose to pick up a couple ultralight cubes, a large compression cube, and a padded packing cube. (More on that later.)

Things To Consider Before You Buy

We’ve taken you through all the different types of packing cubes, but there’s still a fair amount to consider. Let’s dive right in.

Broken zippers will render your packing cube useless, so it’s essential to have one you can rely on. And though they may look alike, zippers can range in quality and durability dramatically. You may not think you need anything special, but zippers on packing cubes can take quite a beating when you’re yanking them shut after filling your cube to the brim.

The first thing to consider is the brand—YKK, SBS, Zoom, and Riri are some of the biggest and most reputable. In our opinion, you can’t go wrong with Japanese manufacturer YKK. They are well-regarded in the industry for making quality gear and have performed remarkably well in testing, even after years of use. Popular brands such as Patagonia, Eagle Creek, and Osprey use them on just about all of their gear, which should say something.

While we believe YKK to be the best, the Chinese manufacturer SBS has become quite the juggernaut as of late. Overall, SBS zips have performed well for us in testing and we’ve never had one break, but they’re not as solid as we’d like them to be. You’ll typically find them on more budget-friendly cubes. The bottom line is, as long as your zippers are from a reputable brand, they should have you covered. But, we’d recommend opting for YKK when you can.

It’s also important to take the size of the zipper into account, which will range on a scale from one (small) to ten (large). Typically, zipper sizes on packing cubes will range from three to five. A number three will be perfectly fine, but we’d opt for a number five when possible for the added durability. Anything larger than a five may be a tad too cumbersome and simply isn’t necessary for most use-cases. That said, we’d strongly recommend staying clear from anything less than a number three for durability reasons.

Something else to consider is where the zipper is located on the packing cube and how it opens. Generally, there are two options—a full clamshell-style that opens all the way, and a half opening. A clamshell-style packing cube will give you direct access to the entire cube and enables you to place and position everything neatly—but we have found it can be tricky to zip up if you’re filling it to the brim. In contrast, a half opening style cube is a lot easier to cram a load of stuff into and zip up—but if you want to pull something out, you will likely have to take everything else out too.

Both styles have their merits, but we tend to think that since you can simply close the clamshell zipper halfway—to act as a half-opening, making it easier to stuff clothes inside—it takes the cake.

Finally, keep an eye out for zipper pulls and how many zippers a packing cube has. If you fill your cube to the brim, a zipper pull can be helpful to grab hold of and pull shut, but it’s by no means necessary. You could also just attach your own if you wanted to. And if possible, we recommend opting for a packing cube with two zippers as opposed to one. This is because if one does break, your packing cube is still functional. We’ve also found that two zippers make opening and closing the cube a little bit easier, and you can open it from whichever side you’d like, which is great.

A handle is by no means a vital component on a packing cube—considering they’re designed to be placed inside a bag—but most manufacturers do include them. If done right, it’s a nice feature that can provide some useful benefits. However, they can also get in the way if they’re not implemented well.

Pointing out the obvious, a handle is helpful when grabbing hold of a packing cube. However, we’ve found that most of the time it’s easier to grab the whole cube with your hands. That being said, we have found a handle can be useful when lifting a cube out of a top-loading backpack, specifically. So if you’re rocking one of those, you may want to make sure your cube has one.

Other than being used to take your cube in and out of your pack, a handle can be utilized to carry your cube around, hang it up, or attach it to the outside of your bag with a carabiner clip. These aren’t things we find ourselves doing often, but it’s worth bringing up. It could help you out in a pinch.

In testing, we’ve found handles that sit close to the packing cube to be best, as they don’t get in the way when not in use. But remember that a handle isn’t essential, and certainly don’t discount the cubes that have opted not to include one.

Pockets & Compartments

The majority of packing cubes are just an empty cube, which is perfectly fine. However, some brands like to think outside the box, and they’ve brought some nifty ideas to the party.

Internal Organization: Some manufacturers will include a “clean and dirty” cube in their range. This is a packing cube that’s split into two compartments designed to keep your clean and dirty clothes separate, which is beneficial for obvious reasons—that is, unless you don’t see a problem with your stinky socks touching your clean t-shirt.

You don’t have to use these cubes specifically for this reason, though, and they can come in handy for additional organization. For instance, you can separate your t-shirts and shorts in one cube.

You probably won’t need every cube you own to split into two compartments, but picking up one to complement the rest of your set could be a nice touch.

External Pockets: A quick-grab pocket on a one bag travel pack is a vital addition, and it’s the perfect place to store your passport, phone, and other essentials you need fast access to. So why not have one on a packing cube? Well, you don’t really need one, and you do lose the whole “quick-grab” factor since they’re packed away in your bag.

However, if you do come across a cube with one, don’t discount it straight away, as they can come in handy. You could use an external pocket on a packing cube to hold some cords or small tech accessories. Maybe you just want to be able to find your lucky underwear at a moment’s notice. Who knows. We don’t find these pockets terribly useful, but some might.

Destination

The world is a big place, and choosing the best packing cubes will depend on where you’re going and what you’re doing. Most packing cubes will be fine for most destinations, but there are some locations where certain styles of packing cubes will be a better choice.

If you plan on spending most of your time wandering along sandy beaches, then mesh packing cubes could be an issue. Sand really does get in everything, and the last thing you want is it mixed up among all your clothes.

If you’re traveling to a humid location, like SE Asia, breathable packing cubes are highly recommended. There are some high-tech materials available now, but simple mesh cubes will work too. These will help keep your clothes fresher for longer.

Finally, if you’re headed on a business trip, you’re not going to want any wrinkles. Cubes with a bit of structure are your best bet here, just make sure to neatly fold your clothes before placing them inside.

We prefer packing cubes that contrast in color to the inside of your backpack. For instance, if your main compartment is black, try to source colorful cubes. And if your main compartment is a bright color, try to find black, gray, or darker colored packing cubes. This is by no means a necessity, but it can make finding and grabbing specific cubes from inside your pack a lot easier.

We’ve also found that having a selection of different colored cubes can help further organize your pack. For instance, you could put all of your warm weather gear inside a blue cube and your cold weather gear inside a red cube. However, most companies tend to sell sets of cubes that are all the same color, and it can be more expensive to purchase them individually in a range of colors.

These packing cubes come in four sizes, each in a few bright and saturated colorways, along with black. The nylon pack material is exceptionally lightweight, and the cubes are compressible, too. All four sizes have a handle, a nice inclusion that makes grabbing the cube out of the pack easier.

Packing cubes are available in a vast range of sizes, and you’ll want to consider how much gear you’re taking and what shape your pack is to find the right cubes for you. Most manufacturers will sell a set of their packing cubes that contains a small, medium, and large cube. Using the small for underwear, the medium for t-shirts and shorts, and large for sweaters and pants is a tried and tested method that has worked well for us. But we’d recommend laying all your gear out in front of you in different piles before choosing what size packing cubes to order.

It’s also important to consider how much room you have to fill in your pack. The last thing you want is a large packing cube that’s wider than the pack itself. We’ve found multiple smaller cubes—as opposed to one large cube—can help maximize the space inside of just about any pack.

Finally, take note of what shape your backpack is. If it’s rectangular, try to find cubes with straight edges. If it’s rounded, try to find cubes with curved edges. This will help utilize all the space inside your pack.

We think the cost of packing cubes are reasonable considering the benefits they bring. Price is always a factor though, and luckily, there are cubes for every budget. It’s also important to note that the most expensive ones aren’t necessarily the best packing cubes for you.

First, you’ll want to consider how much and for how long you’re going to need packing cubes. If you’re going on a one month trip to Europe, and don’t plan on traveling much after, you may not want to splurge on expensive cubes, and that’s fine. Whereas if you’re planning on perpetually traveling the world, you’ll want to consider spending a bit more on top-notch cubes that are built to last.

Make sure to check the warranty on your packing cubes, especially if they’ve set you back a fair amount. Take a look at what it covers—such as craftsmanship defects or general wear and tear—and how long it will cover you for. Even if a brand says they have a “lifetime guarantee,” it’s worth reading the fine print to see if that is relegated to just manufacturing defects or wear and tear. With brands like Patagonia or GORUCK , we’ve found their “lifetime guarantee” is actually just that.

A good warranty usually means that a brand stands behind its gear, and you can be assured of its quality and durability. We recommend skimming reviews on product pages to assess a brands warranty, as people who have had a really good or really bad warranty experience are likely to write a review about it.

Finally, be aware of where they will deliver your cube if you do have a successful claim. It’s no good getting a replacement delivered to your home address if your cube breaks halfway around the world.

If you’ve made it this far, congratulations! You’re likely into packing cubes as much as we are, and can see just how brilliant they are at organizing and compartmentalizing your pack.

At the end of the day, there is no “best packing cube,” but hopefully this guide will help steer you in the right direction to pick up the best packing cube for you. It all comes down to personal preference, travel style, and personal use-case. You may not get it right the first time, and that’s okay! Sometimes you need to iterate.

And as always, if you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to drop us a line . We’d love to hear from you.

Author: Tom Wahlin

Tom has lived out of a 40L backpack for 2 years of travel, helping him learn what to pack and what to leave behind. His top achievements include designing for Apple and eating large quantities of ramen (ongoing).

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The 5 Best Packing Cubes

Our Top Picks

After researching over 40 of the best packing cubes on the market, our reviewers purchased 9 of the top sets to test side-by-side to determine which ones could truly help make packing easier. During our extensive head-to-head evaluations, we zipped and unzipped, packed and repacked, to make sure we brought you the most comprehensive assessment of these helpful travel accessories. We assessed each set's design quality, durability, holding capacity, and compressibility by carefully packing and unpacking different types of clothing and travel items. No matter what your packing and organizing needs are, we can recommend the best packing cubes to help organize your travels.

Best Overall Packing Cubes Set

Eagle creek pack-it cube set.

This set is pricier than some options we reviewed, especially considering it only includes three cubes. That said, folks who appreciate good quality from a dependable travel accessory brand will find the higher price is worth the investment. Eagle Creek 's product lineup offers many other sizes, shapes, and styles of cubes, so those needing more than three can mix and match with other exceptional products.

Best Bang for Your Buck

Yamiu 7-piece travel organizer.

The Yamiu 7-Piece Travel Organizer is an incredible value that comes with seven total pieces for a complete, travel-ready set. With four packing cubes, two clear plastic toiletry bags, and a shoe bag, the Yamiu set can easily cover all your bases for over a week-long trip. During testing, this set accommodated a jacket, two sweaters, five pairs of pants, six shirts, and plenty of socks and underwear. The clear plastic toiletry bags were especially helpful while going through airport security.

Constructed from thin, shiny, nylon fabric, the Yamiu cubes may not be the most durable products we reviewed, and the zippers lack the robust quality of others we tested. They aren't compressible, either, but for seven pieces, this set is an excellent value.

A More Durable Value-Oriented Set

Amazon basics 4-piece organizer.

The Amazon Basics 4-Piece Organizer is one of our top choices for several reasons. These cubes come in four different shapes that fit perfectly into a standard carry-on suitcase, with a large, medium, small, and slim cube that fit snugly together. We think the biggest advantage of this low-cost option is the durable material, which features ripstop technology — a method of fabric weaving used in hot air balloons, yacht sails, and mountaineering tents.

Our testers were worried about the loose mesh weaving of these cubes. Although great for visibility and ventilation, it easily snags and tears. These cubes are an excellent option for someone who wants a simple, low-cost set for occasional travel. These were the highest quality of all the budget cubes we tested.

Best Ultralight Packing Cubes

Osprey ul packing set.

The Osprey UL Packing Set is made with weight savings in mind, making them a great choice for weight-conscious travelers and backpackers. Made of highly durable, 40D ripstop nylon, these were very light (2.1 ounces for three cubes) and very high quality. Their tight stitching and soft, silky feel convinced us that they are worth their higher price tag.

The set only includes three bags, but our testers could fit four pairs of pants, six shirts, five pairs of underwear, and two pairs of socks in them. For backpackers or travelers who don't require an abundance of wardrobe options, we found these cubes to be plenty spacious. The three-quarter zipper closure and lack of rigidity make these cubes best suited for rolling and stuffing clothing inside, rather than neatly folding. For those searching for a lightweight and straightforward set of packing cubes made by a company with an exceptional reputation, the Osprey cubes are top-notch.

Best Compression Cubes

Tripped compression cubes.

The Tripped Compression Cubes hit many top marks in our evaluation. Not only does this set come with six lightweight cubes that rival those of the better-known, more expensive cubes from Eagle Creek , but these cubes are also compressible — making this set a great value. This set comes with two medium-sized cubes, which we preferred to a large cube since we could easily pack them into different-sized suitcases, backpacks, and duffel bags. Our testers were able to fit more than a week's worth of clothes inside with ease, and there is also a small, slim, non-compressible bag that is great for a pair of shoes, underwear, or to use as an accessory bag. A bonus laundry bag really seals the deal for this complete set.

Like the ultralight sets we tested, the Tripped packing cubes lack mesh, so you can't readily see what's inside. Instead, they feature a slick and translucent polyurethane, which is stretchier than polyester but less durable than nylon. The material is not as high quality as other ultralight cube sets we reviewed, and the stitching was noticeably loose in places, which makes us concerned about the durability and longevity of the cubes. However, we love the excellent slimming action of the compression zippers, making this set an enticing deal.

Another Great Value Set

Shacke pak 5-set.

The Shacke Pak 5-Set packing cubes are a great value option for those on a budget. Made of nylon and mesh, their quality feels quite durable for their low price point. With large zippers that don't snag and a thoughtful "x" design on their front that keeps them from bulging upwards when overstuffed, the Shacke set felt like a great deal. The large cube could fit two bulky sweaters and a rain jacket, while we filled the two medium-sized cubes with plenty of shirts and pants for a week. The smallest cube is 11" x 6.75" x 4", which is much bigger than the smallest cubes that come in other sets. It can fit enough socks and underwear for a week or serve as a great toiletry or accessory bag. The set also comes with a laundry bag.

The mesh holes on the front of these cubes are less tightly woven than the mesh on other more expensive models and could be prone to snagging and ripping. However, this set is a great option for those who don't want to break the bank for simple luggage organizers.

Another Compression Cube Set

Gonex mesh compression organizers.

The Gonex Mesh Compression Organizers are a six-piece set of compression-style packing cubes. The set is both light and breathable, constructed of ripstop nylon fabric and mesh. With specialized compression zippers, each bag can reduce in height by nearly an inch, making it easy to fit a week's worth of clothes into one 19" suitcase. This set features a variety of shapes and sizes of cubes, with a large square cube, two medium-sized cubes, a small cube, and a slim size. Also included is a laundry bag that could double as a shoe bag.

As with most compression cubes, the shape bulges and rounds when compressed, making the cubes awkward to stack on top of each other. The expandable mesh front of the Gonex cubes also makes them more prone to bulging, potentially limiting their space-saving capabilities. The compression zipper can get caught easily on the cube's fabric, and we found we needed to take care and press down on the cube and help the zipper along so as not to cause a tear. While not a remarkable compression packing cube set, the Gonex is a great value. It will certainly do the job for anyone hoping to save a little space in their bag.

A Versatile Packing Set

Easyfun organizer.

The EasyFun Organizer comes in two sets of three cubes. Our favorite thing about these cubes is that each set of three is a different color, allowing you to organize your clothes in different color bags, sort your clean clothes from your dirty ones, or even share your packing cubes with your travel buddies without the worry of mixing them up. These cubes are also some of the largest we tested, with three of them easily packing enough clothes for two weeks. Used alone, the entire set of six cubes is a great option for long-term travel.

Clamshell-style cubes, ones that zip open all the way around, can be difficult to pack if they don't have enough structure to stand up on their own. These cubes are made of very thin nylon material. They lay completely flat while being packed, making it harder to pack them tightly and efficiently. The zipper is reinforced with only a single line of stitching, which, if compromised, could render the bag unusable. While not the highest-quality bags we tested, these cubes are a versatile, large-capacity option.

Another Large Capacity Set

Bagail 6-set.

The Bagail 6-Set is another large capacity, low-cost option. A step up in quality from the EasyFun Organizer set, these cubes are similarly sized and can easily fit a two-week trip's worth of clothes. Our reviewers tended to prefer the slim shape of the small cubes, which fit nicely into the empty spaces in our bags. One small cube could accommodate 14 pairs of underwear, and the other we used as an accessory bag, holding all our odds and ends for travel in a convenient place.

The zippers are reinforced with double stitching, which we appreciate. Unfortunately, the large mesh panels that cover the front bring the durability of these cubes into question. The large bags especially tend to lose their form when unzipped all the way, causing your neatly rolled items to loosen. This was less of an issue with the smaller bags. This is a decent and affordable set for those who don't travel very often, or anyone needing a set of large cubes for a long trip every now and then.

Why You Should Trust Us

We spent days testing each product, stuffing their compartments with bulky clothes, seeing how well they stacked on top of each other in a suitcase, assessing the quality of their stitching and zippers, and seeing how well they compressed. Our assessment comes from real-world use and many hours spent evaluating which models shined the most.

This review comes to you from an avid traveler, Miya Tsudome , who went years not knowing that packing cubes existed and is adamant about how much they have improved her life since. Miya values organization and products that help simplify her way of life. With frequent trips abroad in her past plus many miles backpacking in the outdoors, she brings years of experience packing and traveling with clothing to bring you an honest outlook on how packing cubes can really make a difference in your travel.

Analysis and Test Results

At their simplest, packing cubes serve as a way to compartmentalize and organize your clothing in a suitcase. This helps to avoid the mess that can quickly get out of hand if a suitcase as you dig through your neatly folded layers to find that one sweater you want to wear while waiting for your flight. Certain cubes can compress, allowing you to pack more for longer trips. In contrast, others have a sturdier, boxy shape that can easily be moved from a suitcase to a hotel's dresser drawer, allowing you to stay organized. Some are even constructed with ultralight, durable materials, a boon for the weight-conscious, or those aiming to use their cubes on backpacking trips.

Ease of Packing

Being able to pack your cubes efficiently and without hassle is a valuable metric we made sure to test thoroughly. Ease of packing was measured by the structure of each cube set, how many zippers each cube had, and whether or not they unzipped all the way around for easy access. Another consideration with this metric was the ease of unpacking . We tended to favor cubes with mesh for visibility or translucent materials to see what was inside.

Structure can be nice to have if you'd like to keep your clothes in your packing cubes and transport them from a suitcase to a hotel dresser drawer. This way, your clothes stay organized and can easily be packed up again. Having structure can also make a cube easier to pack in the first place, as these will stand up on their own. With stiff, high-quality nylon, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube Set had the best structure of all the cubes tested. With its double-zipper design and clamshell-style opening, you can open and close the cubes with ease, as well as access any specific item you want. The mesh front of the Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube set also makes it easy to identify what is inside. The cube set from Amazon Basics also provided decent structure, a clamshell zippered opening, and a mesh front, making it another easy-to-pack option. Our reviewers also liked the models from Gonex for all of these reasons and their ability to be packed with or without compression.

While ultralight cubes like the Osprey UL and the ones by Tripped lack structure, they are actually quite easy to pack with their zip design that only opens the cube halfway. Because of this feature, you can easily stuff each cube full, earning high points for packability. But these bags are not as easy to unpack with specific items and only have one zipper, limiting their versatility.

The budget cubes from Bagail , EasyFun , Yamiu , and Shacke are all clamshell-style with double zippers. But with their low cost comes lower-quality material, which typically lacks structure and can make packing and unpacking more difficult as a result.

Compressibility

Most packing cubes will compress your clothing items to an extent, but some models are designed to be compression-specific. These will have an extra zipper on their sides to cinch the cubes down and suck out extra air, effectively making the cubes smaller. Most compression-style cubes will compress down by more or less 1", providing undeniable space-saving benefits.

The products from Gonex and Tripped were the only compression-specific styles we tested. When shoved full of bulky clothing, the Tripped cubes outshone the Gonex by being able to compress down to a slimmer, more packable profile, compressing down by a whole inch. Because of their mesh front, the Gonex cubes will not compress down as much as the Tripped cubes, only compressing by a little more than half an inch. The point of a compression cube is to act as a vacuum seal, eliminating air from the bag. The mesh on the Gonex cubes will not provide this vacuum seal effect and bulge upward much more when the bag is filled than the tight but flexible polyurethane of the Tripped compression cubes.

While not entirely compression specific, the Shacke cubes were reinforced with a nylon "x" — a clever design intended to stop the cubes from bulging outward too much when stuffed, making them a good, affordable pick for those looking to save a little space. The rest of the cubes we tested were not compression-style, and the ones with the largest mesh panels were the worst at compressing, as the softer mesh will bulge outwards.

Each product we tested came in a wide variety of holding capacities. This was determined by how many pieces came in a set and how big the cubes themselves were.

The packing cubes from Bagail and EasyFun had the largest carrying capacity of all the sets we tested. Their large bags were extra-large compared to those of other brands, with those from Bagail measuring 17.5 x 13.7 x 4 inches and the EasyFun bags coming in at 17.5 x 12.5 x 4 inches. These large bags could easily fit three bulky sweaters, two jackets, and two pairs of jeans between them (and that's only two out of six bags). Each of these sets could fit enough warm-weather clothes for a two-week plus vacation or enough cold-weather clothes comfortably for a week-long adventure. The Yamiu cube set only had one extra-large bag per set, but with the addition of a shoe bag, two toiletry bags, and three more packing cubes, it also stands out as a complete set.

The more expensive sets like the Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube Set and the Osprey UL Packing Set only come with three packing cubes in medium, small, and extra small, making them the lowest capacity sets we tested.

If you are a frequent flyer and are looking to invest in a product that will last trip after trip, durability is definitely a feature you will want to consider. We assessed each model's durability by noting their material, knowing that nylon is more durable than polyester and polyurethane, assessing to see if they had ripstop technology, and examining the quality of their stitching.

The Osprey UL Packing Set is constructed from 40D ripstop nylon. The "D" stands for "denier", which is a measure of how thick the individual strands of nylon are. This set is made with the most durable and high-quality fabrics out of any of the other sets tested. It's also enforced with ripstop technology — a design that interweaves fabrics and makes them more resistant to ripping and tearing. The smooth, sleek nylon with no mesh on the front to snag or rip makes this cube set durable as well as lightweight. While the denier of the Tripped and Amazon Basics cubes are not mentioned, they also boast ripstop technology, making them good alternate choices for durability.

The EasyFun set is made of thin nylon with a single line of stitching and no zipper reinforcement. This set boasts a high capacity and is affordable, but is not a top choice for durability. The set from Bagail has the most exposed mesh out of any sets we tested, which is prone to snags and tears. While our testers love the compression aspect of the Gonex set, the zipper for the compression feature often got caught on the fabric.

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The Best Packing Cubes, Reviewed By Frequent Travelers

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Just the right size to hold clothes, toiletries, shoes and more, the best packing cubes make packing your suitcase a more organized and streamlined process. Some cubes are sold in sets, like our top overall pick from Wandrd , while others are sold individually, like our favorite single cube from Peak Design . While sets offer the best value, buying individual packing cubes allows you to customize your own system.

The best packing cubes help you strategically store your items, making it quicker and easier to ... [+] pack, organize and find everything.

From compression cubes to mesh organizers, we consulted with several frequent travelers, as well as Forbes Vetted senior travel editor Astrid Taran and gear editor Cam Vigliotta , to identify the best packing cubes from top luggage brands to help you stay organized in 2024. Ahead, you’ll find all the best packing cubes that meet the needs of your journey while protecting the contents you pack.

• Best Packing Cubes Overall: Wandrd Packing Cubes (3-Piece)
• Best Compression Packing Cubes: Thule Compression Packing Cubes (2-Piece)
• Best Variety Packing Cube Set: Away Packing Cubes (6-Piece)
• Best Large Packing Cubes: Briggs & Riley Large Packing Cubes (3-Piece)
• Best Mesh Packing Cubes: Eagle Creek Reveal Packing Cubes (3-Piece)
• Best Value Packing Cubes: Amazon Basics Packing Cubes (4-Piece)
• Best Single Packing Cube: Peak Design Packing Cube (Medium)
• Best Waterproof Packing Cube: Nite Ize RunOff Packing Cube
• Best Packing Cube For Shoes: Mossio Travel Shoe Bag

Best Packing Cubes Overall

Lightweight, compressible cubes with loads of features.

WANDRD Gear

Wandrd Packing Cubes (3-Piece)

Pieces: 3 | Dimensions: Small: 6 x 6 x 2.5 inches; medium: 6 x 11 x 2 inches (4.5 inches expanded); large: 12 x 11 x 2 inches (4.5 inches expanded) | Material: Nylon

Wandrd has somehow managed to work in nearly all of the most important qualities and features that a great packing cube should have. Not only do these attractive cubes have see-through front panels and handy grab handles, but the largest cube also has a separate expandable laundry pocket, so clean clothes don’t have to mingle with dirty ones. Best of all, the expansion and compression zippers let you squeeze out extra air to save space in your suitcase. Wandrd also offers 30-day returns and a lifetime guarantee.

What our travel expert says: “See-through packing cubes make a big difference,” says Forbes Vetted senior travel editor Astrid Taran . “Sometimes, in the midst of quick packing, I’ll forget which type of garment I assigned to each cube. These mesh front panels are stylish and make things easier to reach for.”

• Expandable laundry pocket
• Compression zippers
• Lifetime guarantee

The 2024 Forbes Vetted Best Product Awards are here: Explore our 150 top-recommended items across categories after extensive research and testing.

Best Compression Packing Cubes

Press out extra air to save more space, thule compression packing cubes (2-piece).

Pieces In Set: 2 | Dimensions: Small expanded: 10 x 7 x 4 inches, compressed: 10 x 7 x 1.25 inches; medium expanded: 14 x 10 x 4 inches, compressed: 14 x 10 x 1.25 inches | Material: Nylon

These Thule packing cubes do the dirty work of pushing out all of that unnecessary air and saving several inches of space per cube, allowing you to fit quite a bit more clothing (or souvenirs) into your luggage. The two cubes are made from eco-friendly ripstop nylon that is extremely durable and water-repellent. Semitransparent covers allow you to see what’s inside the cubes, while handles make it easy to grab, carry and pack them. They’re also compatible with all different types of luggage; most carry-on suitcases can fit two medium-sized Thule compression cubes or one medium and two small.

What our travel expert says: "Durable, easy to use, perfect for a weekend away or an international voyage—I wind up using these cubes whenever I leave town,” says frequent traveler Makenzi Malvey. “Normally, I designate one cube for socks and underwear and the other for shirts, but they could just as easily fit bottoms or thicker layers as well. I didn't think I'd use them as much as I do, but now I can't really see traveling without them."

• Semitransparent covers
• Sturdy handles for easy carrying
• Some customers say the cubes run small

Best Variety Packing Cube Set

Six different sizes for all your packing needs, away packing cubes (6-piece).

Pieces: 6 | Dimensions: Small slim: 6.9 x 4.1 x 4.3 inches; small wide: 10 x 4.1 x 8.25 inches; medium slim: 10 x 4.1 x 4.3 inches; medium wide: 13 x 4.1 x 10 inches; large slim: 13 x 4.1 x 6.9 inches; large wide: 17 x 4.1 x 12.8 inches | Material: Nylon

Buzzy luggage brand Away is known for its aesthetically pleasing travel essentials; this set of six packing cubes strikes the perfect balance between form and function. Made of water-resistant nylon with transparent mesh panels, the pared-down cubes keep your belongings organized and secure while en route. The variety of sizes allows you to mix and match your cubes depending on the length of your trip. And, if you already own an Away Checked suitcase, this set nestles perfectly inside (those with the brand’s Carry-On should opt for the four-piece set instead).

What our travel expert says: “I love the Away packing cubes and after trying many types, these are the only ones I'll ever use,” says Forbes Vetted beauty editor Neha Tandon . “The mesh is a nice touch for when I'm packing shoes or bringing back dirty laundry, and I like that they're really easy to clean. I've tried less expensive packing cubes before, and they wore out and got dirty pretty quickly. They’re also very light and easy to compress.”

• Transparent mesh windows
• Variety of sizes
• Designed to fit perfectly inside Away suitcases
• Entire set won’t fit inside a carry-on

Best Large Packing Cubes

Spacious cubes from a trusted travel brand.

Briggs and Riley

Briggs & Riley Large Packing Cubes (3-Piece)

Pieces: 3 | Dimensions: Medium: 8.5 x 13 x 3 inches; medium double-sided: 8.5 x 13 x 4 inches; large: 13 x 17 x 3 inches | Material: Polyester

If you prefer to pack belongings in a few larger cubes instead of many small cubes, then this set from Briggs & Riley is the perfect choice. While it’s specifically sized for the brand’s checked bags, it easily works with other suitcases and even backpacks. The set comes with three pieces, including one large cube and two medium cubes. One of the medium bags is a double-sided cube, which allows clean clothes to be separated from those that need laundering. The front panels on these cubes are made of breathable mesh, so you can quickly see what’s inside.

What our travel expert says: “Briggs & Riley has a reputation for quality, and their packing cubes are just as thoughtfully made as their luggage,” says Taran. “I appreciate the mesh panels on these cubes and love their style.”

• Large sizes
• Transparent mesh panels
• Machine washable
• Not ideal for those who prefer smaller cubes

Best Mesh Packing Cubes

Lightweight set with see-through windows.

Eagle Creek

Eagle Creek Reveal Packing Cubes (3-Piece)

Pieces: 3 | Dimensions: X-small: 4.5 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches; medium: 6 x 11 x 2 inches; large: 12 x 11 x 2 inches | Material: Poly ripstop

These packing cubes from Eagle Creek are made of fully washable polyester, with a large mesh window that allows you to easily view your clothes and other belongings. Other helpful features include reinforced handles and extra-long rope cord zippers for easy access. Because of their ultra-light nature, these packing cubes are great for use with a travel backpack , especially for outdoor excursions. The trio is available in a variety of shades, from green to yellow to black.

What our travel expert says: “I like that there are three different sizes and you can customize how you use them. I tend to pack differently depending on the trip, so I end up using the cubes for a wide range of items, from charging cords to undergarments to base layers,” says Forbes Vetted updates writer Francesca Sales . “They’re very sturdy and I like how you can see what’s inside them because of the mesh. The top handles are nice, too.”

• Available in unique colors
• Extra-long rope cord zippers
• Won’t protect clothes from moisture

Best Value Packing Cubes

Affordable pick with different color options, amazon basics packing cubes (4-piece).

Pieces: 4 | Dimensions: 3.8 x 9.8 x 3 inches | Material: Polyester

If you want to stock up on packing cubes, Amazon Basics offers a four-piece set for a very reasonable price. In addition to this pack of medium-sized cubes, you’ll find sets of large, small and slim cubes—there’s an option for every trip. The polyester bags feature large mesh windows and side handles for easy carrying. Besides black, there are high-visibility shades of red, blue and green.

What our travel expert says: “These packing cubes are a bang-for-your-buck kind of product,” says Forbes Vetted editorial assistant Whitney Bruno . “The material they're made of is a little flimsy, but I've been able to get great mileage out of them when packing a lot of thick clothes into my tiny carry-on. I would highly recommend these cubes, as they're great for their value.”

• Available in high visibility colors
• Some reviewers say the zippers feel a bit flimsy
• Not as durable as other options

Best Single Packing Cube

For those who pack lightly or customize their system.

Peak Design

Peak Design Packing Cube (Medium)

Pieces: 1 | Dimensions: 12.6 x 6.7 x 12.6 inches | Material: Nylon, polyester

In some cases, an individual packing cube is all you need. This one from Peak Design offers dual compartments to separate clean and dirty clothes, as well as a zippered panel that can compress the cube down to half its size. The shell is made of a weather-resistant blend of polyester and nylon with an abrasion-resistant coating, so it’ll hold up well to frequent use. In addition to this medium size, Peak Design also sells a small individual cube for shorter trips.

What our travel expert says: “I really love the solid construction of this cube—it has a lot of wear and tear resistance and I like that it can be washed without falling apart,” says Taran, who reaches for this packing cube frequently during her travels. “I also love that it's water-resistant, as I have been caught in many rainstorms where my luggage gets wet, but my clothes are safe and dry.”

• Water-resistant
• Durable construction
• May not have enough storage for longer trips

Best Waterproof Packing Cube

Sturdy to keep your belongings dry, nite ize runoff packing cube.

Pieces: 1 | Dimensions: 6.9 x 10.3 x 3.2 inches | Material: Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)

While many packing cubes are water-resistant, their zippers (where water is most likely to leak in) are not rated for actual submersion underwater. Nite Ize differs from the rest, as its RunOff line of packing cubes and pouches (each sold separately) is fully waterproof, even to the point of submersion. While you may not intend to fully submerse your items in water, if your backpack falls in a puddle or if you bring a cube of gear along on a boating, swimming or surfing day trip, your items could get wet. Not only can the waterproof and dust-proof RunOff series keep your electronics and clothing clean and dry, but the cubes can also compress bulky items to save space in your luggage.

What our travel experts say: "Most packing cubes are merely designed to organize your essentials, but the Nite Ize Runoff Cube has the added benefit of protecting them too,” says Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta . “Its construction features the same waterproof material you'd find on bike-packing bags or dry bags designed for river rafting, which means it's incredibly durable and ready to seal out all manner of moisture. Add in a waterproof zipper and anchor points to lash it down, and you've got yourself a packing cube that's truly built for those big adventures that go beyond the beaten path.”

• Fully waterproof and can be submerged
• See-through panel offers visibility
• Not sold in sets

Best Packing Cube For Shoes

Separate storage to keep clothes clean, mossio travel shoe bag.

Pieces: 1 | Dimensions: 11.8 x 8.7 x 5.5 inches | Material: Polyester

This packing cube from Mossio is cleverly designed to fit up to three pairs of shoes. You can place a pair of sneakers or heels in the middle compartment, slim slippers or sandals in the front mesh compartment and another slim pair in the interior mesh pocket. The shoe bag also has a handy trolly strap that slides right over the handle of a suitcase, which is convenient when you need to bring another pair of shoes but are maxed out on suitcase space. Plus, the trolly strap has a handy small zippered pocket on it that can stash keys, Band-Aids, blister pads or any other small item you want out of the way yet easy to find.

What our travel experts say: “A shoe cube has become essential for me,” says Taran. “There’s something unsettling about tossing my sneakers on top of my pajamas—I really prefer having shoes separated from the rest of my items. This cube’s trolley strap makes it a great option for those shoes that might not make the cut in your suitcase, like a hefty pair of hiking boots.”

• Fits up to three pairs of shoes
• Trolley strap
• Available in unique colors and patterns
• Only sold individually

The 10 Best Diaper Bags For Dads Who Want To Be Stylish And Organized

The 9 best stability running shoes that improve foot alignment, why trust forbes vetted.

• The Forbes Vetted team consists of avid travelers who are passionate about sharing their luggage shopping tips with readers, from finding the best carry-on backpack to the perfect hardside suitcase for any trip.
• This article was written by Cassandra Brooklyn , a regular Vetted contributor and founder of the travel company EscapingNY , where she leads tours in Cuba, Mexico and Jordan.
• The publishing of this story and its updates are overseen by senior travel editor and globetrotter Astrid Taran , who has used packing cubes on trips to more than 35 countries and heads up Forbes Vetted’s travel vertical.
• To ensure our selections continue to stay first-rate, we update this roundup regularly. In its most recent March 2024 update, lifestyle editor Katherine Louie reassessed the picks on the list, checked all prices to ensure accuracy and and sourced expert quotes from Forbes Vetted staffers.

How We Chose The Best Packing Cubes

• The Forbes Vetted travel writers read independent reviews and considered their own personal experience with having traveled extensively with packing cubes.
• We took into account a recommendation from Forbes Vetted senior travel editor Astrid Taran, who uses Peak Design ’s travel cubes during her own excursions, as well as Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta , who favors the Nite Ize Runoff cube on his many adventure trips.
• We only selected products with stellar customer ratings—each one of our picks has earned an average of at least 4 out of 5 stars. We also considered common variables such as size, materials and features to guarantee a wide variety of packing cubes and sets for every type of traveler, at every price.

What To Consider In A Set Of Packing Cubes

To choose the best packing cubes for your travel needs, keep the following factors in mind:

Consider what you typically pack, how much you usually pack and the sort of trips you tend to take. If you tend toward short trips with minimal luggage, you may be fine with a small set of cubes. Small packing cubes are ideal for toiletries, souvenirs or other small valuables, while medium-sized cubes can hold clothing, purses and shoes. However, if you tend to go on longer trips and lots of luggage, then you may want to go with a set that includes larger cubes.

You’ll want to look for packing cubes made of durable materials that won’t rip with continued use. Nylon and polyester are popular choices, and each has the added benefit of being water-resistant. If you’re looking for something that’s water proof , you should opt for a fabric designed for that purpose, like thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). (The Nite Ize Runoff , listed above, is made with this material.) Some pieces feature mesh windows so you can easily view your belongings inside—the mesh also maximizes airflow, which can help reduce odors and keep your clothes feeling fresh.

Compression

Some packing cubes are designed with extra zippers that remove all the excess air between your belongings, creating several inches of extra room. Compression cubes are ideal for those who tend to overpack, since you can fit more in each compartment without sacrificing space. However, those who tend to pack light may prefer the hassle-free convenience of a packing cube without this feature, as the compression process is an extra step that adds a bit more time to your packing routine.

Are Packing Cubes Really Worth It?

While packing cubes may not be necessary for a quick weekend trip, they’re definitely worth it for longer excursions. Not only do they keep your clothes, undergarments and accessories neatly organized, they also save you precious suitcase space. In particular, compression packing cubes remove all excess air from your garments, so you can fit more items in your luggage. Plus, a tightly packed cube can help prevent your clothes from wrinkling while in transit.

How Many Packing Cubes Should I Get?

The number of packing cubes you purchase depends on what you plan on packing and the length of your trip. Generally, it’s a good idea to have one small cube for toiletries or small accessories, a medium-sized cube for clothes and a larger cube for bulky items. However, if you’re packing for a family vacation, you may benefit from a few extra cubes; this set from Away includes six pieces of all different sizes at a reasonable price.

Which Brands Make The Best Packing Cubes?

High-quality packing cubes are made by a wide range of brands, from luxury luggage companies to rugged backpack brands. After careful consideration, we named Wndrd Gear Packing Cubes the best overall, but there are several other brands with excellent designs for a variety of travel styles. Thule makes excellent compression-style cubes, Briggs & Riley is known for durable, well-made packing cubes and Eagle Creek offers incredibly lightweight cubes that won’t weigh down your luggage.

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The 10 Best Packing Cubes for Travel [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

761 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3062 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Why You Should Use Packing Cubes

What to look for in packing cubes, how to use packing cubes, 1. the comprehensive packing cube set, 2. best for long weekends and short breaks, 3. durable and resistant packing cubes, 4. the ultralight packing cubes, 5. packing cubes with organization in mind, 6. affordable packing cubes, 7. packing cubes with a compression system, 8. beautiful basics from amazon, 9. high-end packing cubes that will stand the test of time, 10. best for heavy packers and families on vacation, final thoughts.

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Packing cubes are growing in popularity as more and more of us look for ways to stay organized when we travel. Packing cubes can help us better arrange the interior space of our suitcases and kit bags and will turn a packing novice into an expert in no time.

Trust us when we say that packing cubes will completely revolutionize the way you pack your backpack or suitcase forever. These little cubes of layered goodness will help you keep all of your belongings in neatly and ordered compartments, allowing you to find whatever you are looking for in record time.

More importantly, they give you the extra space you need to pack that little bit more! Other benefits include:

• Quicker to transfer your clothes to a drawer
• Easily separate your clean clothes from your dirty clothes
• Clothes don’t shift when in transit, reducing the number of creases
• They are incredibly affordable

Your packing cubes should be a useful addition to your luggage armory, and not just cute little packages that don’t make any difference to the way you travel. When purchasing, consider the following:

Weight — They will need to be light in order to help organize your belongings without making your luggage too heavy.

Material — They should be made of durable, washable (or wipeable) material as they will need to withstand long journeys and multiple uses; canvas or nylon packing cubes are good for this.

Visibility — Color-coded or numbering systems can make your life even easier when you need to find something super quickly.

Breathability — Mesh fabric is your friend. You need air to be able to circulate inside the cubes to prevent dampness from setting in thus causing mold on your precious belongings.

Surely you just put your clothes in and zip them up, right? While it might seem pretty simple how to use a packing cube, there are some tips that can make them even more useful.

Use Variety — Use a combination of different-sized packing cubes and colors that will allow for easier identification.

Theme Your Cubes — Take your organization to the next level and have each cube be a theme. Maybe you utilize your small cube for packing your socks and underwear, while you use your yellow cube for your evening outfits. The possibilities are endless.

Roll Your Clothes — Some people prefer folding but the common consensus is that rolling your clothes before putting them in a packing cube is best. The thinking behind this is that it saves space and reduces wrinkles.

Don’t Overstuff — Being organized means you can fit more in than you think, but however you organize your cubes, just remember to not overstuff them.

Once your cubes are packed, arrange them in your suitcase as you see fit. Most of these cubes will fit together like soft, overstuffed puzzle pieces, so you can have as much fun as you like arranging them to achieve maximum space in your suitcase.

The 10 Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Thinking of investing in some packing cubes for your next adventure? Here are some of the best packet cubes:

YAMIU Packing Cubes 7-Pcs Travel Organizer Set

This set offers a clever combination of excellent value and outstanding practicality. With a selection of 7 different cubes to choose from , your clothes and belongings will be kept neat and tidy while in transit. There is also a handy water-resistant shoe bag, as well as 2 different-sized waterproof bags perfect for keeping your makeup, sunscreen, and toiletries contained, should any leaks occur.

For your added convenience, one of the bags is a TSA-approved size, making it just right for airline-approved toiletries or other liquids. The cubes themselves are made of lightweight and high-quality nylon fabric with strong double zippers that make for fast and easy access to your belongings every time.

What We Like

• Includes 2 waterproof, TSA-approved clear bags

What We Don’t Like

• The shoe bag is a bit small

TravelWise 5-Piece Packing Cube System

Perfect for a long weekend away, this 5 piece travel organizer set comes with:

• 2 large packing cubes measuring 3.7 x 12.6 x 18.11 inches
• 2 medium packing cubes measuring 3.3 x 9.8 x 13.8 inches
• 1 small packing cube that measures up at 3.1 x 6.9 x 11.8 inches

The innovative lay-flat design allows you to compartmentalize your belongings in “drawers” while you travel, and the 2-way easy-to-pull zippers provide reliable and easy opening . Supplied as a matching set, you can tailor the way you pack your cubes to fit what you want to bring with you.

Made from durable nylon, this set of lightweight, breathable mesh packing cubes will ensure that your clothes remain wrinkle-free and organized while in transit, meaning you are ready to unpack and explore the minute you get to your destination.

What W Like

• Helps to reduce wrinkled clothing
• The mesh material is a bit fragile

Shacke Pak – 4 Set Packing Cubes Plus Laundry Bag

The Shacke Pak packing cube system is designed to help you neatly pack all of your clothes tightly away. This set of 4 different sizes of packing cubes and 1 laundry bag will leave your clothes fresh and wrinkle-free.

The cubes measure:

• Extra Large — 17.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches
• Large — 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches
• Medium — 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches
• Small — 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches

Made from high-quality, durable, water-resistant nylon , these Shacke Pak’s are designed to withstand the wear and tear of travel. At 4 inches deep, each cube gives you optimal packing space.

The X-design web stitching creates a strongly reinforced lid that will hold your clothes in place and prevents the bag from sagging in the middle. Finally, the YKK zippers are smooth and sturdy; guaranteed to stand the test of time.

• Comes in a range of bright colors
• Easy to overpack and stretch the seams

Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cube Set

The Pack-It Specter Cube system offers 2 different sized packing pouches that will help you to organize your luggage without adding extra weight to your suitcase . Made from water-resistant nylon, you can keep your belongings protected from leaks or spills along the way.

The innovative design also has a zipper that runs around at least half of the perimeter of the packing cube, meaning you can easily reach the contents. There is also a haul loop to make loading and unloading super easy.

Eagle Creek’s packing cubes work like building blocks, and you can simply choose the sizes you need to meet your needs. Choose from Tube Cubes, Half Cubes, and more to make the most of your luggage space next time you travel.

• Machine washable
• The half zipper opening makes it harder to access your clothes

5 Piece Set Packing Cubes for Suitcases

These packing cubes are color-coded, offering you awesome luggage organization options. Allocate the different colors among family members, or categorize your own packing with each colored cube. They won’t bulge or sag, meaning you can neatly stack them like shelves or lay them flat on top of one another inside your suitcase

Made from water-resistant fabric, with tough, long-lasting quality zippers, these cubes will keep your clothing dry and free from wrinkles. They adhere to international carry-on sizing so your packing cubes will fit perfectly in your carry-on luggage , allowing you to easily access your belongings during any part of your journey. Enjoy stress-free, efficient packaging with 5 identically sized packing cubes measuring 14 x 5 x 2.75 inches.

• Color coded for easy organization
• The material could be stronger

Travel Packing Cubes, Gonex Luggage Organizers

As one of the most popular brands of packing cubes available, Gonex is famous for its ability to offer exceptional quality at affordable prices . This standard set contains 4 packing cubes of varying sizes, all made from durable, rip-stop nylon, and they are available in a variety of color options. The packing cubes measure:

• 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches
• 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches
• 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches
• 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches

These lightweight cubes also include carry handles, sturdy double zippers, and can fit comfortably in a hotel drawer or in your carry-on. These will keep your suitcase organized and make items easier to find, which in turn makes for easier packing and happier, more relaxed traveling.

• They compress down small when not in use
• The zippers can sometimes catch on the inner fabric

LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes

These small, gray, and mesh cubes are stylish looking and effortlessly practical, making them perfect for travelers looking to reduce the size and bulk of their luggage.

Each of the 3 cubes features a mesh window for breathability and the cubes can compress from 4 inches to just 1 inch , which allows for flatter packing and more spare space in your suitcase. The 2 larger cubes measure 15.5 x 11.5 x 4 inches, while the medium cube measures 11 x 11 x 4 inches.

The LeanTravel system does not remove air from the packs but simply compresses the contents to make the cubes more compact. Worried about creasing? Don’t be; the premium quality polyester fabric and sturdy construction help to reduce the risk of wrinkles during transit.

• Has a mesh top to quickly identify clothes
• On the pricey side

Amazon Basics 4-Piece Packing Cube Set

The Amazon Basics line of products offers a great packing cube set that is not only durable but also affordable. The set contains 2 large and 2 medium cubes; this combination is ideal for heavy packers or those with young families.

The larger of the cubes measures an impressive 17.5 x 12.75 x 3.25 inches and can easily hold jeans and hoodies, while the medium measures in at 13.75 x 9.75 x 3 inches, making it perfect for pants, shirts, and dresses.

The mesh front means you can easily identify your belongings without having to take everything out of your suitcase just to know what you have. Given their value for the price, these Amazon Basics packing cubes are well worth the investment to ensure hassle-free packing.

• Lightweight and durable
• The large cubes are quite large for carry-on luggage

eBags Packing Cubes for Travel – 4pc Classic Plus Set

With a higher price tag than many of its competitors, eBags is a brand that is known for its superior luggage solutions and high-quality travel products . Its packing cubes are just as durable and are some of the best-selling packing cubes available today.

In this 4-piece combination, each cube is made of extremely strong Techlite diamond nylon and premium YKK zippers for fast and reliable access.

The set contains 4 different size cubes offering a variety of packing combinations that will ensure you can fit everything you need in your carry-on or checked bag . The cubes are also stackable, meaning that they can be used as impromptu drawers to save you the time and hassle of packing and unpacking at every location.

• Comes with a lifetime guarantee
• No choice on size combinations

PRO Packing Cubes for Travel

This 6-piece set has everything you need to keep your belongings safe and sound during transit. Available in a variety of colors, they are perfect for heavy packers, or families heading out on vacation . There are 3 different sizes of cubes in this pack, all of which are incredibly useful.

• The large cubes measure 17.5 x 12.75 x 3.25 inches and are perfect for jackets, towels, sweaters, and trousers.
• The medium cubes come measure 13.75 x 9.75 x 3 inches, just right for shirts, blouses, and shorts.
• The slim bags measure 14 x 5 x 3 inches, making them ideal for underwear, socks, and toiletries, we well as your adapters and cables.

Made from strong, durable nylon, and breathable mesh, you will be able to organize your luggage interiors perfectly and arrive at your destination with wrinkle-free clothing that is as neatly organized as when you packed.

• Double zippers for better compression
• The material is quite thin

Packing cubes are, without a doubt, a traveling necessity. It can be easy to get carried away and overfill them or stuff too many cubes into your suitcase at one time.

The key to successful “cubing” is to separate and organize your belongings well and to allow for easy access when you arrive at your destination. If you want to arrive organized, then packing cubes are definitely for you!

Looking for more organizational accessories and stellar travel tools to up your adventure lifestyle? Check out these additional product reviews:

• The Best Travel Toiletry Bags for Men and Women
• Carry-on Travel Essentials for Short and Long Flights (His & Hers)
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

How useful are packing cubes.

Packing cubes are extremely useful for keeping your backpack or suitcase organized. They make it much easier to unpack clothes into a drawer and by packing your different types of clothes together means that you can find items quicker. Packing cubes are also great for separating clean clothes from dirty ones.

Do packing cubes wrinkle clothes?

While packing clothes in any enclosed space will result in some wrinkles, packing cubes can help reduce the amount of wrinkles your clothes get during transit. As the clothes are in a cube, they are less likely to shift around as much compared to just being loose in your luggage. The excess shifting will cause more wrinkles.

Do packing cubes actually save space?

Packing cubes don’t save space as you still have the same number of items, they are just more organized and easier to find. Compression bags or vacuum bags on the other hand will suck out the air and save space. That said, packing cubes are still worthwhile for their organizational abilities.

Are packing cubes worth it?

How do i choose a packing cube.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The 12 Best Packing Cubes For Travel

By: Tim Huber Published: Jul 07, 2023

Anyone that’s spent their fair share of time on the road or internationally globetrotting is no doubt well aware of the advantages offered by packing cubes. While once a fairly niche product space, the packing cube segment has exploded in recent years as more and more companies and consumers have both discovered the myriad of benefits afforded by these items. And while its rise in popularity has given way to more options available than ever before, the sheer number of models on the market can also make it extremely difficult to hone in on the few standout offerings that this segment contains — the latest and greatest of which we’ll be counting down today in this guide to the best packing cubes for travel. 

The Best Packing Cubes

Best Minimalist/Streamlined Pick

DSPTCH Packing Cube

Best Sustainable Pick

Topo Designs Pack Bag 10L Cube

Best Lightweight Pick

Aer Packing Cube

Best Divided Compartment Pick

Peak Design Packing Cube

Best Ultra-Tough/Rugged Pick

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pod Packing Cube

Packing like a pro.

The Main Benefits & Advantages Of Packing Cubes

Packing cubes come with several key benefits and advantages over simply tossing your clothing or gear into a backpack, duffel, or piece of luggage . For starters, packing cubes keep clothing neatly folded, allowing them to look their best even after hours of being in transit. Additionally, packing cubes also not only make it easier to organize and pack a backpack or travel bag, but they also make it markedly more convenient to remove items from a carry solution, being able to locate and remove a single packing cube — and the clothing or items it contains — without making a mess out of the rest of the bag’s contents. Lastly, on top of keeping clothes looking crisp and wrinkle-free — whether they’re folded or rolled — packing cubes also allow one to ultimately make the most of a bag’s internal real estate, fitting in a larger number of items thanks to everything being neatly packed down and the packing cubes’ ability to “Tetris” into a piece of luggage. 

Packing Cube Qualities

The Most Important Factors To Look For When Buying

Unlike feature-laden everyday carry bags and travel backpacks, packing cubes tend to be a fairly straightforward affair where what you see is what you get. With that said, there’s nonetheless a trio of areas that one should be privy to when shopping for a new packing cube or cubes. Below, we’ll briefly touch on the three most pivotal factors to take into consideration before making your purchase. 

Video Guide: Best Packing Cubes For Travel

Size: Just like with the suitcases, pieces of luggage, duffels, and backpacks that they fit inside of, packing cubes can hugely vary in size. Because packing cubes are all about optimizing the efficiency of packing, it’s also important to review the size of a bag’s main compartment in order to determine how many packing cubes can fit. Alongside the outward dimensions of a packing cube (width, height, length), it’s also crucial to review a packing cube’s total storage volume — an area that’s typically measured in liters. Additionally, it’s also worth pointing out that, on top of sometimes being sold in sets, some packing cube models are sold in multiple size options. 

Shell Construction: The material used for a packing cube’s shell construction will determine both its overall durability and its ability to stand up to the elements. On top of the shell construction, it’s also worth exploring the type of material used for a packing cube’s liner. What’s more, some shell constructions have also been supplemented via expandable/compressible shell setups, breathable mesh panels, and transparent windows that make it markedly easier to identify the contents of a packed cube. 

Closure & Hardware: Ultimately, the overall quality and user experience one will have when using a packing cube boils down to a given model’s closure setup and hardware nearly as much as it does the type of materials used. When reviewing this area, you’ll want to check out the type of opening system a packing cube utilizes (such as a clamshell setup, which is the most common configuration) as well as how the closure is secured, which means looking into the type of zipper or hardware that’s being utilized. 

Optimizing Oversea Organization

How Do You Correctly Use A Packing Cube?

In the microcosm of travel organization, packing cubes leave traditional packing methods like folding clothes in the dust. If you haven’t used one before these compact units will certainly bring your suitcase infrastructure a heightened level of order and efficiency. Much like a Dopp Kit for grooming EDC, packing cubes provide a dedicated space for each item, eliminating the need to rummage through a messy pile. Not only do they keep your belongings neatly organized (there are dozens of ways to skin the cat here), but they also offer the added benefit of compression, saving precious space and preventing wrinkles. Plus, you’ll have quick and reliable access to all your essentials, knowing exactly where everything is at all times as items won’t shift if baggage claim’s having a bad day. While they may add a bit of weight to your pack, the overall advantages they bring make them an indispensable piece of kit for any traveler seeking a stress-free and well-organized trip.

But let’s take it a step further. What are some best practices for actually  packing  the packing cube? We have a few tips. First, when using a packing cube, it’s crucial that you roll — and don’t fold. While technically there is no hard and fast rule, rolling your clothes maximizes space within the cube itself. Rolling garments like t-shirts and button-ups tightly helps reduce wrinkles and creates a more compact and efficient packing infrastructure. However, as with most things, this ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific items you are packing. Some travelers may find that folding works better for bulkier items or garments that are prone to creasing. Testing out both methods and finding what works best for your individual gear is key. Regardless of the technique you choose, the use of packing cubes themselves will still provide the organizational benefits and accessibility that make them an essential tool for the modern traveler.

Selection & Testing Process

How & Why We Got Hands-On With These Particular Packing Cubes

Considering packing cubes are designed and intended almost exclusively for travel use, we largely viewed our testing process through this lens. We began this process by first looking to the most trusted brands in the carry solution space and reviewing the available packing cubes from these brands, before performing a wider search to ensure we didn’t have any crucial picks fall through the cracks. On top of the brand behind the product, we also made our initial selections based on the sizing, features, and hardware and materials used on each packing cube. These criteria ultimately allowed us to generate a shortlist that we then proceeded to get hands-on with, putting each packing cube through it paces in order to determine which models would make the final cut and which would be falling by the wayside. 

As expected, hands-on first testing would help us to glean a much better sense of each packing cube’s overall build quality, how useful their respective features are, and how they actually perform in practice. This latter area is also of extreme importance as it includes pivotal factors such as how easy it was to load into and remove from a larger backpack, duffel, or piece of rolling hard luggage , as well as the smoothness and consistency of their zipper tracks. More importantly, actually utilizing these packing cubes firsthand allowed us to discover just how well each packing cube was able to keep its contents in place while in transit, and how neatly each cube’s contents arrived in upon reaching our destination. 

The Latest & Greatest

The Best Packing Cubes Currently On The Market

• Minimalistic packing cube cut from ballistic nylon
• Backed by lifetime warranty
• Has breathable ventilated mesh top panel for dirty shoes & wet clothes
• Is equipped w/ single internal slip pocket
• Largely devoid of internal organizational elements

Best Minimalist/Streamlined Pick:   Backed by a lifetime warranty, the DSPTCH Packing Cube is a minimalistic yet immensely rugged travel packing solution that features an ultra-hardwearing ballistic nylon shell that’s been outfitted with a full-length, zipper-lined clamshell opening. Offering roughly 7.5 liters of storage space, this packing cube also comes loaded with a breathable ventilated mesh top panel for housing dirty shoes or wet clothes.

Inside, this spartan shell features a single compartment with a clamshell opening flap that sports a supplementary slip pocket. Completely devoid of any branding save for a small logo patch, this blacked-out item also comes outfitted with a nylon webbing grab handle. This packing cube was also designed to be used with DPSTCH’s other larger bags and carry solutions, though it can obviously be paired with just about any duffel or backpack on the market.

Volume: 7.5 Liters Shell Material: Ballistic Nylon Closure: Zipper

• Made from recycled materials using Fair Wear-certified manufacturing
• U-shaped opening provides unobstructed access to contents
• Equipped w/ nylon pull tabs & grab handle
• Sold in multiple color options

Best Sustainable Pick: Sold in black, olive, or navy color options, the Topo Designs Pack Bag 10L Cube is a sustainably-focused item that features a 400-denier nylon pack cloth shell that’s been derived entirely from recycled materials and manufactured using Fair Wear-certified production. Measuring 10″ W x 7″ H x 6″ D, this packing cube also features YKK zippers running on a full-length U-shaped track that comprises the cube’s main opening.

In typical Topo fashion, this carry solution’s zippers have been bestowed with accent paracord zipper pulls and the Colorado company’s classic logo patch. What’s more, Topo Designs has also outfitted this 10-liter packing cube with a constrasting webbing grab handle and small matching webbing pull tabs as the base of the zipper track, making it markedly easier to open.

Volume: 10 Liters Shell Material: Recycled 400D Nylon Pack Cloth Closure: Heavy-duty YKK Zippers

• Minimalistic expandable packing cube
• Sports sleek, blacked-out exterior appearance
• Shell is made from 100D CORDURA & fitted w/ hi-viz orange liner
• Has interior zippered pocket
• Fantastic zippers & hardware
• Would benefit from more rugged shell construction

Best Lightweight Pick: Tipping the scales at just 0.25lbs, the plainly-named Aer Packing Cube is a 12” L x 10” W x 4” D item that’s both water resistant and incredibly lightweight. Constructed around a 100-denier CORDURA nylon shell, this packing cube features a mesh panel that affords the vessel breathability, while also making it a breeze to identify the contents within the cube.

Decorated via an Aer logo tag, this packing cube also comes outfitted with two-way YKK Japanese zippers. Also offered in a smaller 5-liter size, this second-generation design benefits from numerous tweaks including a slightly more durable shell and ever-so-slightly revised dimensions. While it doesn’t boast the most rugged construction, the simple streamlined design and use of quality hardware make the Aer Packing Cube a stellar budget-friendly, minimalist pick.

Volume: 10 Liters Shell Material: 100D CORDURA Nylon Closure: 2-Way YKK Japanese Zippers

• Award-winning expandable packing cube w/ up to 18L of storage
• Shell cut from self-healing weatherproof ripstop nylon and poly shell with an abrasion-resistant coating
• Features clever auto-adjusting interior divider
• Medium size capable of housing 20 t-shirts
• Fitted w/ Ultra-Zips zippers w/ UHMPE threading
• Sold in 3 colors, 3 sizes, & in sets of 3, 6, or 8
• Interior divider takes up space and can make it difficult to house larger items

Best Divided Compartment Pick: While it is more costly, the medium-sized Peak Design Packing Cube offers a major step up in terms of features and amenities. Protected by a lifetime warranty, this cube features a shell composed of a self-healing weatherproof ripstop 70-denier nylon and poly shell with an abrasion-resistant coating. This model also sports top and bottom handles and Ultra-Zips zippers mated to the packing cube via proprietary  abrasion-resistant UHMPE thread .

Offering 8 liters of storage space when compressed or up to 18 liters of internal real estate when expanded, the medium-sized cube sets itself apart from other models on the market through its use of an easy-to-use and highly-useful movable and removable auto-adjusting divider. This entire setup is concealed beneath a tear-away main opening. Also of note is the fact that, not only is this model crafted around a shell made from recycled materials, but it’s also backed by 100% carbon neutral and Fair Trade-certified manufacturing. 

Volume: 8 Liters (Compressed, or 18L Expanded) Shell Material: Coated Recycled Ripstop 70D Nylon Poly Blend Closure: UltraZips Zippers

• Insanely rugged yet lightweight packing cubes crafted from Dyneema composite
• Made by hand using fully-taped seams & weatherproof zippers
• Weighs just 1.3oz & offers nearly 7L of storage
• Great for both travel & outdoor use
• Also doubles as a fantastic carry-all
• Expensive price
• More rugged than required for basic packing & travel duties

Best Ultra-Tough/Rugged Pick:  Equal parts lightweight and hardwearing, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pod Packing Cube is an adventure-grade take on the product space that boasts a shell that’s crafted by hand from one of the most rugged and lightweight constructions that money can buy; Dyneema Composite Fabric 11 .

Capitalizing on the proprietary composite’s stellar waterproofing, Hyperlite has also pieced these cubes together using fully-waterproof, fully-taped seams before bestowing the organization item with a weatherproof zipper. Equipped with almost 7 liters of storage space, this cube boasts a clamshell design that provides unobstructed access to the entirety of its contents. Tipping the scales at just 1.3oz, this packing cube is also highly packable and stackable, making them even more conducive to both outdoor and travel use. 

Volume: 6.9 Liters Shell Material: Dyneema Composite Fabric Closure: Water-Resistant Zipper

Worthwhile Runner-Ups

A Few More Stellar Packing Cube Options

MYSTERY RANCH ZOID CUBE

Available in five color choices and in 4, 8.3, or 14.5-liter sizes, the Mystery Ranch Zoid Cube is another rugged yet lightweight pick that sports a 210-denier Hitra Robic nylon shell with a Monomesh lid, #8 YKK zippers, and both, top and side carry handles. 

Volume: 4 Liters (or 8.3L or 14.5L) Shell Material: 210D Hitra Robic Nylon Closure: #8 YKK Zippers

GORUCK PACKING CUBE

Offered in 10-liter and 20-liter sizes, the GORUCK Packing Cube is another rugged model that features a zippered mesh interior, two-way zippers, and a hook and loop patch. Pieced together around a shell made from 200-denier nylon, this packing cube was designed to pack flat, minimizing its footprint when not in use.

Volume: 10 Liters Shell Material: 200D Nylon Closure: Two-Way Zippers

PATAGONIA BLACK HOLE CUBE MEDIUM

Constructed around an 8.7oz 300-denier recycled polyester ripstop shell that’s both TPU-film laminated and PU-coated, the Patagonia Black Hole Cube Medium is a feature-rich, weather-resistant 6-liter clamshell model that comes loaded with exterior daisy chain webbing, a large grab handle, plastic zipper sliders, and a divided main compartment with zippered mesh pockets. This model also boasts a PU-coated 3.3oz 200-denier recycled polyester liner that, like the exterior shell, has also been DWR-treated. 

Volume: 6 Liters Shell Material: DWR-Treated & TPU-Coated 300D Recycled Polyester Ripstop Closure: Zippers

BLACK EMBER PACKING CUBE LARGE

Made from a combination of 70-denier nylon, HYPALON, and expandable and breathable elastic mesh, the large-sized Black Ember Packing Cube is a flexible, 12-liter vessel that boasts a laser-cut construction, TPU edges, and ultra-smooth YKK racquet coil zippers. 

Volume: 12 Liters Shell Material: 70D Nyon Closure: YKK Racquet Coil Zippers

YETI CROSSROADS PACKING CUBE

Produced in a trio of sizes, the YETI Crossroads Packing Cube is a machine-washable, 9-liter item that boasts an expansion zipper system with YKK Zippers, a top grab handle, a three-year warranty , and a durable ripstop nylon shell.

Volume: 9 Liters Shell Material: Ripstop Nylon Closure: YKK Zippers

HEIMPLANET CARRY ESSENTIALS PACKING CUBES SET

Designed to fit next to each other in a larger bag, the HEIMPLANET Carry Essentials Packing Cubes Set is a three-item bundle that consists of a 4-liter cube and two 2-liter cubes — all of which feature shells made from 300D x 150D polyester Dyecoshell fabric. Color-coded using dope-dyed fabric, this packing cube set also sports YKK zippers.

Volume: 4 Liters 2 Liters,& 2 Liters Shell Material: 300D x 150D Polyester Dyecoshell Fabric Closure: YKK Zippers

TRIPLE AUGHT DESIGN TRANSPORT CUBE VIEWPORT LARGE

Another insanely rugged choice, the large-sized version of the Triple Aught Design Transport Cube Viewport Large is a 9.2-liter bag that features a shell composed of ultra-hardwearing X-Pac VX21 fabric. Also sold in a smaller 4.3-liter medium size, this packing cube is built to Mil-Spec construction standards, can be secured to Helix, MOLLE, and PALS webbing , and sports a PM02 window and a YKK-zippered clamshell opening that together make it easy to identify and remove the packing cube’s contents. 

Volume: 9.2L (or 4.3L) Shell Material: VX21 Closure: YKK Zippers

Honorable Mention:

One Final Runner-Up

TOM BIHN PACKING CUBE SHOULDER BAG

Offering 4.5 liters of storage space, the Tom Bihn Packing Cube Shoulder Bag puts a versatile spin on the segment with a packing cube that can also double as a daily-carry bag when on the go. Equipped with #8 YKK water-repellent racquet coil zippers with rubber-coated pulls, Duraflex, Nexus, and Woojin buckles, a removable shoulder strap, and a triple O-ring design, this item also sports a 210-denier high tenacity 2×2 ballistic nylon shell. 

Volume: 4.5 Liters Shell Material: 210D HT 2×2 Ballistic Nylon Closure: #8 YKK Water Repellent Racquet Coil Zippers

The Best Travel Backpacks

Now that you’ve got your packing cube situation all squared away, you’ll likely want to get your hands on a quality bag to house your new cubes, and our guide to the best travel backpacks contains a handpicked selection of carry solutions that have been designed from the ground up for the modern globetrotter.

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Home » Gear » best packing cubes

Ultimate List of the Best Packing Cubes of 2024

Packing your backpack for travel is an art form and one which can take years to refine and perfect. For the longest time, I used to simply (strategically) chuck all my stuff into the main compartment. But then I discovered a way to keep things tidier and better organised…

Packing cubes are small packs that help both organize and compress your baggage into handy divisions. Whether you use a backpack, wheeled suitcase, or duffel bag, there’s no need to haul out ALL your holiday luggage to find that small item you’re looking for.

Although packing cubes are a relatively new idea there are already a huge number on the market.

How do you know which packing cubes are right for you? You could spend hours online and in-store doing your research, or you could keep reading to discover our ultimate list of the best packing cubes!

Quick Answer: Ultimate List of Best Packing Cubes

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• Overall best packing cubes for backpacking – Nomatic Packing Cube
• Best compression packing cubes – LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes
• Best packing cubes for carry on luggage – eBags medium packing cubes set
• Best packing cubes for international travel – M-jump Six Piece Packing Cubes
• Best packing cube set for a long trip – G4Free Packing Cubes
• Best of The Rest – TropicFeel Packing Cubes

Nomatic Packing Cubes

• > Ideal for international travel
• > Weight very little

LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes

• > Compresses luggage
• > Mesh window enhances breathability
• > Helps minimize wrinkles

eBags Medium Packing Cubes Set

• > Three bags of the same dimensions
• > Lightweight nylon construction
• > Premium YKK zip closures

M-jump Six Piece Packing Cubes

• > Graduated packing cube set
• > Laundry pouches for each size of packing cube
• > Mesh upper panel for breathability and visualization

G4Free Packing Cubes

• > Six piece set
• > Made up of 4 different sized packing cubes
• > Carry handle

Using packing cubes is not exactly rocket science and you will be able to figure it out for yourself pretty easily. However, if you are looking for some tips on how to get the best use from packing cubes then skip to the latter section of this post.

Alternatively, if you are still unsure as to whether packing cubes are for you, then we have added some useful info at the back end of this post to help make your mind up.

Before then, let’s crack on with the best packing cubes for backpacks.

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Nomatic Packing Cube

The Nomatic packing cubes not only have a second zipper for extra compression they are designed to fit perfectly inside their accompanying backpacks, which are number one on the market for digital nomads.

Another amazing feature about the Nomatic packing cube is the divider to keep clean and dirty clothes separated while still organized. There is a reason why these cubes are the best…

• Compression
• Lifetime warranty
• Clean/Dirty clothing divider
• Weight and size
• Individually sold

Are the Nomatic packing cubes for me?

If you are a traveling nomad and looking to have a full set of products that will make your life streamlined then yeah you should grab some Nomatic packing cubes, and gear. Every product has a lifetime warranty and it’s nice to stick with one brand throughout your backpacking setup.

Our team rated this as one of their best packing cubes for backpacking for two main reasons. Firstly they felt the compression feature on these packing cubes was awesome, it really meant they saved so much space inside their bags, but importantly when it comes to features like this, the sewing and zipper felt strong enough to deal with the pressure from compressing their gear. They also felt the divider was a godsend when it came to backpacking, carrying around your dirty clothing is when things can get a bit disorganised so this was a welcome feature.

Zero Grid Packing Cubes

Why are the insider packing cubes by Zero Grid the best overall packing cubes for backpacking? Let us list the ways! To begin with, the Zero Grid packing cubes are very lightweight, with weight an even more important consideration when carrying all you need on your back than any other form of baggage.

On top of that, the Zero Grid packing cubes are also very durable and are more than strong enough to survive the chaffing, rubbing, dust, and dirt that tends to come with backpacking for any length of time. Not only are the zip closures deliberately tough, but they also have grippy ties that make them easy to open and close however sweaty you might find yourself!

• Ideal for backpacking
• Weight very little
• Three packing cubes in the set
• Only available in the UK
• All cubes in pack are the same color
• Zip ties might catch in the backpack
• Too small for some backpackers

Are the Zero Grid packing cubes for me?

When backpacking, weight is almost always the first consideration – no one wants to have to carry more than they have to. Being lightweight, the Zero Grid packing cubes will only add a few hundred grams to your overall backpack weight, while keeping your kit organized throughout your travels.

Our team loved how durable and high-quality these packing cubes felt. After some hardcore use on the road, they really stood up to everyday abuse where other cheaper versions started falling apart. They also felt they offered great value too coming in a set rather than being sold individually.

Not only do the packing cubes from LeanTravel keep all your kit organized while you’re on the road, but they are also designed to go further than that, compressing your kit so it takes up as little space as possible. After all, we’ve all had to close a suitcase by sitting on it and praying! They manage this by an additional external zipper that, when closed, reduces the depth of the cubes from their standard four inches down to an amazing one inch! As packing cube sets come, the LeanTravel compression cubes are also very helpful in that they come in three different sizes – small cube, medium cube, and large cube.

• Compresses luggage
• Helps minimize wrinkles
• Mesh window enhances breathability
• Anti-catch zips
• Cubes all the same color
• Boxed weight 600 g
• Polyester material
• Small cube less useful to many

Are the LeanTravel Compression packing cubes for me?

If you thought the idea of an internal packing system that helps keep your kit organized was a great idea, then you’ll be smitten by the idea of packing cubes that help organize and compress at the same time! No longer will you have to sit on a suitcase (or even leave things behind) to get your baggage closed!

Our team loved the high quality and durable feel of these cubes and felt the variation of sizes that the set came in were pretty useful in practice and fit in their bags well. They felt a lot more sturdy than many other packing cubes and they liked that they had more rigid edges which made packing them out a lot easier.

eBags medium packing cubes set

The eBags medium cubes set gives those traveling using just carry on luggage three identically-sized packing cubes of roughly 14 x 10 x 3 inches in which to fold or roll clothing (and store other important travel essentials). They comprise premium YKK zips that wrap right around the edge of the cubes to form a wide opening and internal seams that are fully finished to ensure durability. The soft mesh material used on the upper panel not only protects more delicate fabrics you might be traveling with but also aids breathability to prevent the build-up of odors.

• Three bags of the same dimensions
• Lightweight nylon construction
• Premium YKK zip closures
• Mesh upper to help breathability
• All cubes the same color
• No compression zip
• Not waterproof
• Volume of 10 liters

Are the eBags medium packing cubes set for me?

These medium-sized packing cubes will undoubtedly aid the organization of any traveler with carry on luggage, saving you the embarrassment of having all your clothes and travel essentials tip out when you’re searching for a pen or your passport. If you’d rather all your packing cubes were the same size, these are the packing cubes for you!

Our team felt these were great packing cubes for those just looking to get into using them without committing too much money to the more expensive options. This three-pack is a great budget, no-frills option that still offers great quality when it comes to materials and construction. You can’t go wrong here if you’re still not convinced but want to give packing cubes a go.

Are you setting off for a long trip? Not only are you going to need a good number of packing cubes, but a variety of different sizes would make recognizing what you have all the easier. That’s why we’re recommending the packing cubes by G4Free as our best option for a long trip! This pack contains six individual packing cubes of 4 different sizes from very large (to fit jackets and cold-weather items ) down to small. Each has a carry handle for easy picking up, and are made from high-quality durable nylon together with a mesh material upper panel and strong zips.

• Six piece set
• Made up of 4 different sized packing cubes
• Carry handle
• Durable nylon construction
• Zip tags may catch

Are the G4Free packing cubes for me?

The G4Free packing cubes offer a great blend of quantity and quality. With six cubes in this set of various sizes you’re sure to have enough space for all your essentials, while the durable nylon construction, strong zips, and mesh upper will ensure they last however long your trip!

Our team loved the value offered by this selection of packing cubes. For those needing super organisation of their gear, this 6-pack gave them great options for different configurations for both their main pack and their day pack too. For members of the team travelling with their partner, this pack also offered unbeatable value if they divvied up the cubes between them.

If you’re heading out on international travel or even just a few days you’re going to need more clothing and therefore luggage than a weekend away closer to home. You’re probably going to want additional packing cubes, which makes this six-piece set of packing cubes from M-jump all the more useful. In addition to their three graduated cubes, the set includes laundry pouches that fit each size, meaning you can always keep dirty, used items away from your clean clothes! What an excellent idea!

• Graduated packing cube set
• Laundry pouches for each size of packing cube
• Mesh upper panel for breathability and visualization
• Double zip closure
• Laundry pouches have no carry handles
• Less stylish than other packing cube sets

Is the M-jump Six Piece Packing Cube set for me?

We really like the fact this M-jump Six Piece Packing Cube set includes not just three packing cubes, but also laundry pouches so that travelers can easily keep their clean and dirty clothing items separate. Together with the decent build quality means we think they’re a great option for international travel .

Our team loved how light these packing cubes were compared to some of the more over-engineered items on this list. The team felt they were a great option for shorter-term use, occasional trips and weekends away without needing to commit to more expensive options. The addition of the laundry bag was also something they really appreciated.

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Tropicfeel Packing Cubes

TropicFeel offers 2 different packing cube options – the 12L Smart Packing Cube and the 10L Small Packing Cube. While they don’t offer smaller cubes like some competitors, this is not an issue for me personally.

So what makes the TropicFeel Packing Cubes special? Well unlike other cubes they are designed to be used as hanging closets – once you reach your destination you simply open the cube up, hang it and boom, you’re right at home. The only criticism I have is that 10 and 12L are both pretty big and they may not fit so nicely into many classic backpacks – for example I can’t use these with my Osprey Aether as they eat up too much space,

While TropicFeels Packing Cubes are designed for best use with their Hive Backpack, they will fit nicely inside most backpacks, duffels or suitcases.

• Unique wardrobe design
• Lightweight
• Fits with Hive Backpack
• No small cubes
• Design not for everybody

Amazon Basics Packing Cubes

Budget is not the only reason you might want to consider the AmazonBasics packing cubes as your packing cubes of choice. This set contains four packing cubes of the same small size of 11 x 7 x 3 inches which makes them much more adaptable to the odd shapes of specific bags and suitcases than larger packing cubes. Like many of the other packing cubes we’ve already reviewed, the upper panel is made up of a mesh material that helps with spotting the item you might need without having to unzip a cube, as well as helping breathability to prevent the build-up of unattractive odors.

• Attractive price
• Four-piece set
• See-through top panel
• All small cubes (in this set)
• Cubes can deform if over packed
• Only machine washable on cool cycle

Are the AmazonBasics Packing Cubes for me?

The idea of having four small packing cubes may not meet every traveler’s needs (other sets are also available), but we like the versatility this gives the AmazonBasics packing cubes when it comes to the actual packing of them, in addition to the fact they are lightweight and a great price!

Our team are big fans of Amazon basics and feel they offer great value for money as well as good quality products. The packing cubes are perfect for those wanting to organise their gear with no bells or whistles on a budget. They loved the massive mesh panel for keeping things fresh but also for making it easy to quickly grab the right packing cube.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube

The Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube is so well designed and constructed you could easily use it as a carry on rather than an item of internal luggage packing! There’s a grab handle for easy carrying, and an upper panel which is half solid material and half mesh. The full-length double zip opening makes packing and unpacking superbly easy, and allows the Pack-It Cube to be padlocked should you have the need. Washable too, the Eagle Pack-It Cube is a very practical option when it comes to packing cubes, with a volume of 10.5 litres.

• Very well constructed
• Mesh window on upper panel
• Full-length double zipper
• Volume of 10.5 liters
• Single packing cube
• Depth of 3 inches
• 300 g weight
• Polyester construction

Is the Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube for me?

When you want a packing cube that you know is going to last we think you can’t do better than the Eagle Creek Pack-it Cube. In fact, this cube is so well made you could even use it as a carry-on! But whether you use it inside or outside of another bag, it will definitely surpass your expectations when it came to packing cubes for our backpack.

Our team loved this simple but effective packing cube that really just hits the mark when it comes to offering good value, great durability and effective features to make packing and unpacking easy. They loved the two-way zipper that makes it easier to open and close when fully packed out.

Dot&Dot Medium Packing Cubes Set

The phrase ‘simple but effective’ best describes this packing cube set from Dot&Dot. What you get is a set of four medium-sized and very cool-looking packing cubes, but what makes them stand out from the crowd is that each of the cubes is a different color, making it even easier to find the cube you’re after. Made from lightweight yet durable nylon material, these packing cubes include a mesh window on the upper panel, further aiding the visibility of contents – and allowing your clothes to breath while they’re packed up tight together in the cubes.

• Four piece set
• Differentiated by color
• Mesh window
• Imported from the US for UK customers
• Each cube is the same dimensions
• Not water proof

Is the Dot&Dot Medium Packing Cubes set for me?

If being able to differentiate a packing cube by sight at a distance is more important to you than having a range of different or graduated packing cubes, then we think these Dot&Dot packing cubes are the ones for you! And with the look of the Dot&Dot packing cubes, you won’t fear having to pull out any of these colorful backpacking cubes in public either!

Our team loved this set of backpack packing cubes and one of the things they really felt stood out was the fact that the set includes cubes that are all the same size. Most multipacks offer different sizes but they felt it was a good option when you just need a few in the same size.

Gonex Compression Packing Cubes

This packing cube set from Gonex includes six packing cubes of various different sizes and shapes. The largest measures 15.4 x 15.4 x 3.5 inches, while the smallest comes in at 8 x 6 x 3.5 inches, giving you a great range of packing options. In between, you’ll find another two packing cube sizes, while a slimmer packing cube and laundry/shoe bag complete the six-piece ensemble. Stylish enough to take out and about on their own, each (except the laundry bag) has a handy grab handle, semi-transparent mesh front, and zip. These Gonex packing cubes are also compressible, with a second zip to decrease the size of the packing cubes further, while the set comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee too!

• Compression zip
• Grab handles
• Nylon fabric
• All packing cubes the same depth
• Bulge if overpacked
• White mesh may dirty quickly

Are the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes for me?

This six-piece set by Gonex offers all the usual advantages of packing cubes – organisation, accessibility, and so on – with the added and rarer feature of compression thanks to the extra external zip, further reducing the volume of space your things take up. We’re certainly not going to complain about that! If you’re asking “what size packing cubes for my backpack?”, well you can’t go wrong here with this selection of different sizes.

Our team felt these were a close second when it comes to the best compression packing cubes for 2022 and beyond. They were blown away by just how useful such a small set of items could be for their trip. They felt for the money the 6-pack offered great value for compression cubes which are usually much more expensive.

PRO Packing Cubes

Another six-piece set of packing cubes are these by PRO. Very light when it comes to the weigh-in, they are also made from durable nylon material and come in a range of bright colors – although not quite as vivid or fashionable as those by Dot&Dot. A specialist packing cube company, PRO knows exactly what it’s doing, and offer three different sizes in this set: one large, three medium, and two slim packing cubes. The PRO brand also offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee on manufacturing faults that lasts for the lifetime of the product, making this packing cube set risk free!

• Six-piece packing cube set
• Nice color range
• Various sizes included in pack
• Soft fabric cubes so can bulge if over packed
• Zip tags can catch inside luggage or backpack

Are the PRO packing cubes for me?

PRO packing cubes by name, pro packing cubes by nature? Absolutely! Offering a great range of sizes within this six-piece set, as well as some interesting color combinations for those who want to make organisation of their kit even easier, these packing cubes really do live up to their name. And with a lifetime guarantee thrown in, you really can’t go wrong!

Our team felt this pack was great for a travelling couple or family wanting a multipack of useful sizes for different needs. The packing cubes felt super high quality and hard-wearing and they loved the addition of the external handles making them useful both inside your bag and outside of it too.

Shacke Packing Cubes

The five pieces in this Shacke Pak packing cube set are breathable thanks to the four mesh windows on the upper panel, and durable, since they are constructed from heavy-duty nylon material with reinforced stitching. The zips are also reinforced, which mean together these features result in a very tough wearing packing cube. In addition to the packing cubes that range from an extra large size (of 17.5 x 13 x 4 inches) through to the smallest cube of roughly 11 x 7 x 4 inches, this Shacke Pak set is completed by a large laundry bag. With its similar proportions to the extra large cube, it provides plenty of space to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones.

• Made from heavy-duty nylon
• Reinforced zips
• Large laundry bag included
• Larger sized cubes may be too big for some
• No differentiation in color in a set

Are the Shacke Pak Packing Cubes for me?

Really the question is why would you choose these Shacke Pak packing cubes over any of the other packing cubes we’ve already reviewed? For one thing, these Shacke Pak packing cubes are heavy duty nylon with reinforced stitching and zips, meaning they will last for trip after trip. But on top of that, these are some of the largest packing cubes around, so if you need plenty of space in your packing cubes, these could be the ones for you!

Our testers loved the wide range of sizes available in this pack compared to some of the other smaller packing cube configurations. For those on the team needing more space in bigger bags, this was the perfect solution. They also felt the bags were some of the strongest on the market and loved the cross-section of solid material that helped them keep their shape.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

You’ve seen the products, but maybe you are still wondering if you even really need Packing Cubes. After all, they don’t exactly come cheap. Check out some of the top reasons why Packing Cubes should be on every travel packing list ;

• Pack more efficiently  –Packing becomes a lot easier if you know what goes into each cube, and how each cube fits in your luggage. You’ll feel less stressed when packing, as you know everything will fit. If you are struggling to fit the cubes in snugly, then look at it like playing Tetris!
• Find things easier  – When everything has its own special place, everything is easier to find. No more rummaging around your case like a dog frantically digging for a bone!
• Save some space  – You can squeeze rather a lot of clothes into a single cube. Compression bags are even better still as they remove excess any air.
• Keep clothes clean and dry  – Some cubes are water resistant. All offer protection from dirt or from exploding bottles of suncream. You can also use them to keep your stuff clean once you arrive at your destination.
• Prevent overpacking  – You can use your Packing cubes to limit what you pack by choosing one for each category – once the cube is full, it’s full.
• Chicks Dig Packing Cubes – The ladies love a well-organised man. Simply drop into conversation that you’re a man who owns multiple packing cubes, and its’ bombs away…

Now for the how! Using packing cubes is even easier than Lionel Ritchie on a Sunday Morning. If you’re packing clothes, fold them over as tight as you can or roll them up and pop them firmly into the pack. Then squeeze out all the air. There is a bit of a knack to this and you will get better with practice. It helps if you do it on the floor. Either way, travel cubes for backpacks are the perfect way to keep organised.

If for example you are putting electronics items or books into a cube, then you can’t really roll or fold them but you can practice a bit of pre-tetris.

Need help knowing how to pack a backpack for your trip, check out our guide for some advice.

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out travel gear, but at the same time, when you’ve got as much experience as The Broke Backpacker team, you get pretty good at it!

Whenever we test a piece of gear, one of our team takes it out for a spin and puts it through its paces. Yes, even when it came to finding the best backpacking packing cubes!

When it comes to packing cubes, well, one of the primary things we tested was just how well they packed in our gear! Ok, so there’s a bit more to it than that! We paid attention to the build quality of each pack, like how well the zips and stitching held up. We also noted whether the packing cubes included extra features like compression, internal organisation, pockets and handles too.

Finally, we also take into account how an item is priced. With packing cubes we usually expect them to not break the bank and still function. However, there are some more expensive offerings out there and we judged these harder and gave the cheap options a little more leeway.

Still have some questions about the best packing cubes for backpacking? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Why do I need packing cubes?

Simple: to stay organized! Packing cubes keep your backpack clean and easy to access, while also keeping the content of the cubes protected.

Do packing cubes really save space?

If you use compression packing cubes, you can definitely save some space in your backpack. However, it’ll never turn into Mary Poppin’s bag, so don’t expect too much.

What are the best compression packing cubes?

The LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes are some of the best and most durable packing cubes on the market. Thanks to their sturdy design and an extra external zipper, it’s the perfect compression option.

What are the best packing cubes for carry-on?

The eBags medium packing cubes set are ideal for carry on as all of them are the same size and are therefore incredibly easy to store.

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Packing cubes are a great way of keeping your things neat – and wrinkle-free – while travelling. And at only a few pounds per cube, they really are worth their weight in gold!

So, we hope you’ve found this post about the best packing cubes for backpacking and you’ve been able to find the right set-up for your next trip.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Home » Travel » Packing Cubes

The 9 Best Packing Cubes for Travel

October 27, 2022

A s avid travelers taking 34+ flights over the last two years, we know how much work packing takes. Packing cubes can keep your clothes from getting wrinkled during transportation, make unpacking in your hotel room easier, and allow you to bring more options with compression bag features. We tested over half a dozen packing cube sets for several months on various kinds of trips to find the best options.

The Eagle Creek – Pack-It Starter Set stood out as our winner with its high-quality build and ease of use, and it kept our clothes wrinkle-free. If you’re on a budget, we recommend Shacke Pak – 5 Set Packing Cubes because you get multiple sizes and a no-fuss design for an affordable price. And if you tend to overpack, we liked the REI Co-Op – Compression Bag because of its durable zippers and structured shape even after condensing clothes.

Our Top Choices

Best overall

Eagle Creek

3 Piece Pack-It Starter Set

Best budget

5 Set Packing Cubes

Best compression

1 Piece Compression Bag

The 9 packing cube sets we tested

Important features to consider, type (mesh, box, compression).

Various packing cubes are fit for different types of trips and travel needs. Mesh paneling helps organize and identify what’s in your luggage. Compression packing cubes help fit more clothes into your luggage. Ultra-lightweight packing cubes are for those mindful of weight when using checked-in luggage or on a backpacking trip. Packing cube sets come in different price ranges and there are many affordable options under $50. In addition, many packing cubes differ in materials, type, and brand name. They are also available in individual cubes or sets with different sizes.

Build quality/durability

Durability is a priority when finding packing cubes because you want to keep your clothes organized but safe. Some packing cubes are differentiated by labels like water resistant or water repellant. This label describes how much moisture can get through the materials of the packing cube.

Some brands also have rip-stop fabric that prevents the cubes from tearing or ripping during travel or packing. Having durable and smooth gliding zippers with pulls for a better ergonomic feel is another feature we look for when purchasing packing cubes. This is especially important when using compression bags that need durable zippers when condensing the cube. Finally, we’ve found that durability and quality range in price, so you can get well-made packing cubes no matter your price.

Other features

Keep in mind other features you may want to keep track of, like washability, the number of zippers, handles, or how wide the lid opens up. Being able to wash packing cubes in between trips is very helpful. While some brands can be machine washed, others need more care and are hand washed and line dried. Some people prefer multiple zippers for easier control (in case of one breaks). Handles help stabilize the cube for compression or moving the packs around your luggage. And lastly, we prefer lids that open fully for easier packing.

How we selected & tested

Over three months and dozens of trips, we tested nine packing cubes of different brands, materials, and made all under $50 (check out our post on the best travel gear too!). These trips included international, domestic, weekend, and long-term trips, and we used these cubes in carry-ons, check-in luggage, weekenders, and backpacks. In addition, the packing cubes organized an array of clothing from fine dining and cocktail attire to extreme cold weather snowboarding gear.

Best Overall: Eagle Creek - 3 Pc. Starter Set

See Price at Amazon

The Eagle Creek – Pack-It Starter Set stood out with its fabric. It’s made out of nylon compared to some brands’ polyester, but it felt higher in quality. Even though the mesh functionality was on par with everything else, it looked better. Additionally, Eagle Creek stood out of the pack with its piping on two faces of the cubes. This gave it structure and a polished look compared to even more expensive brands.

The only time the piping was an issue for us was when packing our luggage to the brim and having to fill gaps in the suitcase (we almost never pack to the brim). We had to compress packing cubes in ways that flexed the piping. It didn’t damage the piping in the end but was a tiny bit less efficient in filling in odd spaces. Overall the slight disadvantages of the Eagle Creek cubes were far outweighed by the impressive feel and quality of the cubes, making it one of our favorites. Read more…

This packing cube set from Eagle Creek also comes with a special wrap/cube that has a folding guide for dress shirts and dress pants. It’s a rectangular storage case with four flaps for the flexibility of holding up to eight to twelve shirts. It has a flexible mat to fold your shirts, so they’re all uniform. In the end, we still had to iron out all the creases before wearing them at our destination, but it reduced the amount of ironing work needed later and kept our suitcase tidier.

Best Budget: Shacke Pak - 5 Set Packing Cubes

The Shacke Pak – 5 Set Packing Cubes is a no-fuss starter set for any traveler. With four different-sized cubes, Shacke Pak states that this set is suitable for up to 14 days of travel. Additionally, this set comes with a card indicating which packing cubes are best depending on how many days you travel and what clothes will fit in each size.

Each cube comes with zipper pulls that glide quickly as you pull and a mesh front with an X design that gives the lid structure instead of falling flat like the Away packing cubes. We liked that we could easily pick through our cubes to know which clothes were inside because of the see-through mesh. This set also includes a laundry bag. Read more…

Unfortunately, these cubes need to be hand-washed, but we find this a minor detail because we won’t be using the cubes themselves for dirty clothes since this set comes with a laundry bag. At a little over $20, the Shacke Pak – 5 Set Packing Cubes are our budget pick for their durability and versatility without breaking the bank.

Best Compression: REI Co-Op - 1 Pc. Compression Bag

See Price at REI Co-Op

If you’re an over-packer, the REI Co-Op – Compression Bag is the best packing cube for condensing clothes. We’ve tested the REI Co-Op bag for several years on international and domestic flights, and it’s our favorite compression bag because it’s durable, is water repellant, comes in various sizes, and compresses double its original size easily.

We try to choose products that benefit the environment, and the REI Co-Cop – Compression Bag is an example of that through its bluesign® approved status. Like the Thule Clean/Dirty cube, a product that meets bluesign® criteria means its design and production meet high environmental and social responsibility standards. Read more…

What we love most about this compression bag is that it keeps its shape after compressing clothes. Compared to the Gonex – Compression cubes that created lumpy centers and flat sides no matter how we folded or rolled in the clothes, the REI Co-Op cubes kept their shape. Lumpier packing cubes make it harder to use up space efficiently. Over time, we reached for the REI Co-Op cubes more often than any other compression bag for our trips because it helped fit more items into our luggage and was very easy to use.

Osprey - 3 Piece Ultra Light

The Osprey – Ultra Light packing cubes are a great choice for anyone needing the most lightweight and durable organization. This set of three packing cubes weighs about 2.5 ounces, making them less than half the weight of all the other packing cubes we tested that are similar in size and shape.

The Osprey – Ultra Light cubes are made from a moisture-resistant, ripstop polyester that creates a long-lasting product that doesn’t tear. While some people didn’t like the slippery material or single zipper (possibly done to reduce the weight), we didn’t have an issue with either of these features. We tested the fabric and zippers by trying to overstuff the largest bag with clothing and were content to find they zipped easily without fear of breaking. Read more…

The three sizes are relatively small compared to the other sets we tested, so this is made for people who pack light. Due to the lightweight feature, we think these packing cubes are ideal for ultra-lightweight backpackers or travelers who prioritize keeping luggage or bags lightweight.

Thule - 1 Piece Clean/Dirty

The Thule – Clean/Dirty packing cube is our upgrade pick because of its durable design and dual compartments. This bag comes in one size, 14.61 x 10.87 x 1.54 inches, and is excellent for larger-sized clothes like jeans and blouses. Using one packing cube to pack your clean and dirty clothes changed the game when we were repacking on the way home. Using this bag reduced the number of bags and cubes we packed because it fits a lot of clothes and doubled as its laundry bag.

We also appreciate that this packing cube is also bluesign® approved, which means this product meets specific environmental sustainability and social responsibility criteria. Thule (pronounced “too-lee”) also offers a lifetime product warranty, so we don’t have to worry about future issues. Read more…

Even though it’s pricier than our other packing cubes, we think it’s worth the price for a durable bag that helped reduce the number of cubes we used. We recommend this Thule bag for any traveler who prefers a simple and well-made organizer that offers different packing options with its built-in divider.

HiBag - 12 Pack Compression Roll

HiBag – Compression Roll bags help reduce the space your clothes take up by manually pushing out excess air in the bag. Each bag is made up of thick, durable plastic and seals with a double zipper, similar to a big Ziploc bag. Each bag is labeled with instructions and a max fill line, so you know how to compress the bag properly. They come in two sets, one for carry-on bags and another for checked-in luggage.

We initially thought the HiBag – Compression Roll bags would be super helpful for colder or longer trips, but after using them a few times, we didn’t like that they made all of our clothes wrinkled. While this self-vacuuming bag allowed us to bring more clothes into our luggage, we noticed that we tended to overpack and made our luggage overweight–something you need to be mindful of while packing. Read more…

This is a better option for those who need to compress many bulky clothes for a winter trip, like snowboarding or skiing. However, we recommend immediately removing the clothes from the bags once you land, or you may have to iron everything in the bag.

Gonex - 4 Piece Compression Cubes

The Gonex – Compression Cubes were the first packing cubes we tested two years ago, and they have held up reasonably well for an affordable price. These cubes are waterproof, machine washable, and compressed to a smaller size. While these are durable packing cubes, we still had some issues using them.

One critique we had with the Gonex cubes was that the lid only opens halfway, which can be a little annoying putting clothes in and out. When you’re also compressing the cube, the zipper would sometimes get stuck. We also didn’t like how the shape of the cubes caused lumpy packing cubes once we compressed the bags. This made efficiently packing the cubes in the luggage trickier. While these bags have some issues, this is a decent compression cube set because it’s durable, comes in four sizes, and is under $30.

Away - 4 Piece Packing Cubes (not recommended)

See Price at Away

We were excited to try out the Away – Packing Cubes because we liked their other products, like luggage and travel jewelry cases . The simplistic design features a mesh front and zippers that open completely. However, we quickly found this $45 set of four packing cubes to be lackluster in the material.

The nylon material of this packing cube is water-resistant, but the front mesh makes this status useless. Also, the structure of the cubes is quite flimsy, and you need to almost over-stuff the cube to keep the shape. Away also does not give any instruction on washing the cubes either, so we assume these are handwash only. Read more…

While aesthetically pleasing, especially if you have to match Away luggage or an Away travel jewelry case, we wouldn’t recommend this set because it’s more expensive and less durable feeling than other sets we’ve tested at more affordable prices.

Lean Travel - 6 Piece Compression Packing Cubes (not recommended)

The Lean Travel – Compression Packing Cubes provided the most structure; however, they were also the heaviest and most cumbersome to pack. This set comes with three pairs of six packing cubes in varying sizes. Unfortunately, we found all the sizes bulky inside our checked luggage.

Within the first moments of using the Lean Travel cubes, we noticed that the zippers weren’t as smooth and would get stuck on the rigid piping, whether full or empty. We did like that it compressed our clothing and kept the shape of the cube reasonably well, but we didn’t appreciate how much room it took up our luggage or the added weight. Read more…

This set was on the more expensive end at $45 for a set of six. However, we wouldn’t recommend them because you can find better compression packing cubes that keep their structure at the same price point.

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Bryan Vu , Editor

Bryan is our cooking and kitchen expert, with more than 15 years of experience of cooking and testing kitchen products. When outside of the kitchen, he enjoys woodworking, photography, videography and figuring out how to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. He thoroughly enjoys discovering the best, whether it’s ingredients or equipment, and finding products that can stand the rigors of daily use.

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The 6 Best Packing Cubes for Organized Travel

These compressible organizers will save you space (and headaches).

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

They keep their structure and compress smaller to help save a ton of space in your luggage—and they also save you from rummaging through a large duffel bag when looking for that specific rain jacket or pair of pants. Smaller packing cubes also double as a good toiletry bag , or a place to keep your dirty socks separate from tomorrow’s outfit.

Packing cubes are generally inexpensive, practical, and take next to no space to store—just leave them in your empty suitcase between trips. There’s not much risk in buying a set, but the reward is a heck of a lot less stress when you’re on the road. Below are six of the best packing cubes we’ve found—both through hands-on experience and researching the market—plus some advice on what to look for when shopping for one.

Best Packing Cubes

• Best Overall: Away Insider Packing Cubes
• Best Budget: Amazon Basics Travel Packing Cubes Set
• Best Roll-Top: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Cube
• Best Expandable: Yeti Crossroads Packing Cube
• Most Durable: Topo Designs Pack Bag 10L

What to Consider

Compression.

There are two types of packing cubes: those that act as small organizers for your packed items, and cubes that compress, squeezing your clothing to create more space in your bag. All packing cubes have some degree of compression, but some have features like secondary zippers to shrink your packed gear as much as possible.

Consider the size of your suitcase in relation to which cubes you buy. A cube nearly as large as your suitcase likely won’t do much to organize your gear, but you don’t want only tiny cubes if you’re packing something like bulky winter jackets or multiple pairs of jeans. Packing cube sets generally come with small, medium, and large cubes, and you can always buy a single of whichever size you need most.

If you’re keen on cubes that create as much extra space in your bag as possible, you’ll likely want a very thin compression sack. However, thinner bags may be more prone to tearing, and the zippers may not be as durable as those on a thicker bag.

If you’re going for durability, look for a cube made with ripstop materials, or consider an option like the Topo Designs Pack Bag , which uses 400-denier ripstop nylon—great for travelers who are tough on their gear. The materials are a little too thick for significant compression, but with a handle and large zippers, it'a likely to last a long time even when regularly overstuffed.

How We Selected

We’ve used probably a dozen different packing cubes, both compression and not, and have narrowed down what features we believe travelers benefit from most. These includes cubes that open almost all the way to make packing easier, secondary zippers to add another layer of compression, and mesh panels so you can see what’s inside without having to unpack.

Suzie Dundas, the original author of this guide, used her extensive experience with travel (and overpacking) to find the best packing cubes. We also got our hands on several options to try out, looking for important factors like weatherproofing and abrasion-resistance. We recommend packing cubes that come in useful sizes, rather than only extra-large or extra-small, and highlight both sets and individual cubes. We noted special features and made sure to include different price-points so you can find the best packing cubes for your next trip.

Away The Insider Packing Cubes

These cubes will keep you organized on trips, and the set covers multiple sizes. The nylon fabric is water resistant and the mesh panel lets you see what you neatly packed without having to pull everything out.

The double zippers give you convenient access to your gear and compress the cubes for portability and easy storage. You may not need all six of these packing cubes for every destination, but you can throw the empties in for bringing back dirty clothes or souvenirs picked up on the way.

The water-resistant nylon is helpful, but the mesh panel won’t protect from any big spills that happen in your bag, so get a separate dopp kit or dry bag for spillable items. Still, the sturdy construction, large double zippers, and varying sizes included in this set make Away’s packing cubes ideal for travel.

Topo Designs Pack Bag 10L Packing Cube

This mid-size packing cube has a durable, ripstop nylon construction with a U-shaped opening for easy packing and unpacking. Topo Designs uses its signature paracord pull tabs on the double zippers, plus a nylon handle for toting it alone and making it easier to grab and go. It’s water resistant and there are no mesh panels, so it’ll handle any toiletry spills while in transit.

The generous capacity makes this great for button-ups and light outerwear. I didn’t realize how much the U-shaped opening would make a difference versus the C-shaped packing cubes I’ve tried before—it’s easier to take full advantage of the spaces in this cube.

I’ve had Topo Designs bags for years and they’ve held up great. The ripstop nylon is abrasion-resistant and the hefty zippers don’t snag, plus the paracord pull-tabs are a convenient touch.

Amazon Basics Travel Packing Cubes Set

This set of packing cubes has four different sizes, including a slim cube thats perfect for underwear, socks, and tees. The mesh tops let you see the contents, and the nylon web handles make them easy to pull out of your bags.

The double zippers with large pull tabs allow for convenient access even when your bag is stuffed, and customers are impressed by the durability of these cubes. Reviews say the zippers don’t snag and aren’t finicky—surprising given the price point.

These aren’t compressible but you can still fold them to save some space in your suitcase.

Yeti Crossroads Packing Cube

These packing cubes have a wrap-around expansion zipper like you’d see on a suitcase, so you can jam them full of stuff and then compress them down to better fit in your bag. An interior mesh pocket keeps things further organized and a top handle makes them easy to grab and go.

The small mesh panel at the bottom lets you see what’s inside. These are available in three sizes, but they’re sold separately. The smallest size I use for electronics. and the compression aspect keeps it tidy when trying to pack oddly-shaped chargers and wires.

The ripstop fabric is durable but has no water-resistant coating, so these are machine-washable. The expansion zipper and interior mesh pockets are the standout features of the Crossroads packing cubes. I like the added organization of the interior pocket and the expansion zipper really compresses contents down with ease.

Patagonia Black Hole Packing Cube 6L

These packing cubes from Patagonia have a clamshell opening so you can see everything at a glance. The interior has a mesh zipper on each half that secures your contents, which is especially helpful if you like to roll your clothes and pack them as tight as possible. A top handle makes it easy to grab out of a duffel. An external daisy chain and side loop gives you the option of attaching it to a backpack or any other gear.

The divided main compartment is helpful in keeping your belongings organized instead of just one big bag. Like the roll-top pick above, this is from the Black Hole series, which uses recycled nylon ripstop that’s water-resistant and durable. I packed over a week’s worth of socks and underwear in the six-liter size and will sometimes use this as a toiletry bag.

Patagonia Black Hole MLC Packing Cube

Patagonia’s Black Hole series uses recycled materials to make bags and packs that are highly durable and weather-resistant. Couple that with the unique roll-top closure and you have the MLC packing cube. The roll-top closure compresses down to whatever it’s holding and the buckle closure serves as a handle for easy carrying.

The zip compartment at the bottom lets you stay organized on an even smaller scale and gives you easy access to necessities. It’s composed of 300-denier nylon polyester and therefore one of the most durable packing cubes on our list. There’s no mesh panel to see what you’ve packed, but it also means this cube is more water-resistant.

The roll stop buckle lets you pack this as full—or as empty—as you want. I rolled up three pairs of Baggies and two pairs of casual shorts on a trip and liked how the volume adjusted to what I packed, so I could roll it down as I used more of my clothing.

The fabric feels incredibly sturdy, bordering on stiff, but it easily rolls down. The separate zipper compartment is spacious enough to stash socks, underwear, or rolled up dirty clothes. The absence of a mesh panel may bother some since you have to completely open the bag to see what’s inside but this wasn’t a dealbreaker for me.

Danny Perez is a Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics with a focus on men's style, gear, and home goods. Recently, he was coordinator of partnership content at another product journalism outlet. Prior to that, he was a buyer for an independent men's shop in Houston, Texas, where he learned all about what makes great products great. He enjoys thrifting for 90s Broadway tees and vintage pajama sets. His spare time is occupied by watching movies and running to impress strangers on Strava.

Originally from the East Coast, Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and editor who now splits her time between enjoying the outdoors and writing about them—she's the senior outdoor editor at Matador Network and a regular adventure and travel contributor at TripSavvy.com . She has written feature stories for publications like Outside Magazine , SkyLife Magazine , Playboy , Frommers, INSIDER, and more, and contributes couples travel and honeymoon content for TheKnot.com . Suzie co-authored Lonely Planet Sustainable Travel Guide and is the author of 2021's "Hiking Lake Tahoe." She has undergraduate degrees from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in media and political communication from George Washington University. Follow her on Instagram at @HikeUpYourSkirt or find more of her work at suziedundas.com . 

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The 12 Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Streamline your pre-trip preparations with these time-saving packing accessories.

By Sean Tirman and Hayley Helms

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

The many minimalists among us will assert that there is really only one right way to pack luggage : efficiently. Thus, one travel accessory most Gear Patrol staffers won’t hit the road without is packing cubes. These mini organizational tools are a low-lift way to keep your bag tidy; they offer some modularity (so you can customize them to the suitcase you’re packing ), and you can even use them to compartmentalize your travel gear (keeping your travel pants separate from your dress shirts and other travel gear , for instance). Whether you’re packing a hard-sided roller , a duffel or a carry-on backpack , packing cubes streamline the process, so you never have to worry if you packed your extra pair of socks, undies or favorite jacket.

Products in the Guide

Best Overall Packing Cubes

Best Upgrade Packing Cubes

Most Versatile Packing Cubes

Best Expandable Set of Packing Cubes

Best Budget Packing Cubes

Best Packing Cubes on Amazon

Most Rugged Packing Cubes

Best Packing Cubes for Organization

Best Ultralight Packing Cubes

Best Luxury Packing Cubes

Most Colorful Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes With the Most Color Options

How to Use Packing Cubes (the Right Way)

The truth of the matter is that packing cubes are really not that complicated, and if you just want to stuff and/or shove all your clothes into one, you can do just that. But if you want to maximize their effectiveness, there are a few tips and tricks you might want to follow — and we’ve outlined them below.

Compartmentalize

There are two schools of thought regarding how to pack in a packing cube. The first is that each cube hosts one type of item — pants in one, shirts in another, socks and underwear in yet another, etc. This can help keep you organized when you travel and will also ensure you’re not rooting around in desperate search for a specific garment when the time comes. The other is that you can pack a full day’s worth of supplies into a single cube — meaning you’d just have your full outfit in a single bag rather than multiples.

We’ve found that the latter method works best for shorter trips and the former works best for longer ones, generally speaking. But you can and should figure out what works best for you through trial and error.

Roll, Don’t Fold

While folding (or hanging) your clothing might work at home in your dresser or closet, you can actually maximize your packing space by rolling your clothes into tight burrito-like rolls. Not only will this allow you to fit more into the same space, but it can help guard against wrinkles just as well, so long as you’re cautious and conscientious with your rolling.

Be Strategic About Sizes

While there are no standardized sizes for packing cubes, you should be careful when choosing which ones to use for which bags. A huge packing cube isn’t going to do you much good if it’s the same size as your carry-on and your checked luggage will be a pain to manage if you have to stuff 50 different tiny cubes into it. Think of packing your cubes into your suitcase like Tetris — there are lots of possible winning combinations, but you still want to be clever and careful with how you pack them, which sizes you choose and where you put them.

If your bag has compression straps, we highly recommend using them. They’ll help compress your cubes (and clothes) into a smaller area than you might be able to manage yourself, giving you more packing space than you might otherwise expect.

Don’t Assume They’re Good for Everything

Packing cubes aren’t the end-all-be-all of packing. In fact, it can be risky to use them for all your travel gear. For instance, toiletries probably belong in a waterproof dopp kit instead of a packing cube, as they were designed for things like haircare and skincare products, whereas a packing cube might have a mesh exterior — meaning if you stuff some toothpaste into a packing cube and it bursts, you could end up with toothpaste all over everything in your bag. Use your noggin and you should be fine.

How We Tested

As you might have expected, the best way to test packing cubes is by, well, packing them — and that’s exactly what our testers did. We packed for big international trips, shorter weekend getaways and everything in between. We tested them, in some cases, over the course of months and even years — and all the ones we tested came along on at least one trip. Furthermore, throughout the process, we tested the cubes’ capacity, ease of use, durability and even how well they Tetris -ed into place inside our suitcases.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here .

Peak Design Packing Cube

• $30.00 at peakdesign.com
• Versatile and comprehensive
• Surprisingly good-looking
• Can't see what's inside
• Material: 100% recycled 70D nylon/polyester
• Number of bags: 1-8
• Size Range: S-M

Peak Design has won over crowds of photographers with its innovative camera accessories and bags. It’s no surprise that when it launched a travel collection that also turned out to be incredible. The Travel Backpack anchors the line, but the under-the-radar winner might be the Packing Cubes . They’re available in two sizes, small and medium; they also expand and contract with clever zippers to accommodate more or less stuff and include a second compartment for dirties that gets bigger as the ratio of clean-to-dirty changes. There’s also a shoe pouch that’s perfect for bringing along footwear.

One other feature our tester loved is the opening mechanism: it uses two zippers on separate tracks divided by a tab you simply pull up for fast access. If our tester could change one thing, however, it would be adding a see-through panel so they could see what’s inside each cube without opening them.

Away The Insider Packing Cubes

• $3,237.00 at Away
• Designed for use with popular Away luggage
• Water resistant
• Seven available colorways
• Somewhat expensive
• Material: Nylon
• Number of bags: 6
• Size Range: XS-XL

These strategically structured cubes from one of our favorite wheeled carry-on luggage brands fit perfectly in Away’s luggage — and presumably fit pretty well into any standard-size rolling carry-on. The waterproof nylon exterior keeps clothes free from dust and the mesh top allows you to see everything you packed, so you’re not scrambling to find that one button-up you need for the rehearsal dinner. The cubes come in nine colors, and while this is the priciest option here, you’re getting a total of six cubes, the most of any package deal on this list.

OEE Packing Cubes

• $12.00 at Amazon $13.00 (8% off)
• As versatile as they come
• A whopping 13 size/color options
• Size range: S-L

With a whopping six size options to choose from, OEE takes the cake for most versatile packing cube option. The nylon cubes are washable and water-resistant thanks to YKK zippers and have interior buckles to keep everything in its place. Use these to pack items from toiletries to clothing and everything in between.

REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cubes

• $45.00 at REI
• Four unique colorways
• Made from recycled materials
• Only three size options
• Number of bags: 3

Made of ripstop nylon with a DWR (durable water repellent) coating, REI’s three-cube set is as sturdy and reliable as they come. If you’re the fastidious type, the mesh windows are for placing cards listing each cube’s contents. These cubes also feature a compression system similar to that of Peak Design and Eagle Creek, plus user-friendly top and side handles.

eBags Classic Packing Cubes

• $17.00 at Amazon $20.00 (15% off)
• Super inexpensive
• Versatile (many size options)
• Not the most durable
• Kind of ugly
• Material: TechLite Diamond nylon

These packing cubes come in three sizes and are made from TechLite Diamond nylon. Each has a self-healing zipper, so the bag is guaranteed for its lifetime, which is pretty hard to beat. Mesh top panels remind you what’s in each cube, and multiple color options allow you to coordinate with your carry-on — if that’s how you roll.

Our tester actually used these cubes over the course of years, to the point that a couple of them are getting worn out. That is to say: they really love these bags, especially for anyone looking for a reliable, long-lasting budget option.

Shacke Pak Packing Cubes

• $22.00 at Amazon $25.00 (12% off)
• Exceptional value proposition
• Sturdy zippers
• Not great looking
• Somewhat bulky
• Chemical smell
• Number of bags: 5
• Size range: S-XL

You don’t garner more than 13,000 five-star ratings on Amazon without making something people can count on. And that’s what you get with the Shacke Pak, four durable, differently sized nylon cubes with mesh windows for visibility and x-shaped reinforcements to keep them from squishing or folding during travel — plus a laundry sack for stashing dirty clothes. In short, quite a lot of value for the price.

Mystery Ranch Zoid Packing Cubes

• $24.00 at mysteryranch.com
• Can be purchased individually
• Super durable
• Seven colorways
• Expensive for single bags
• Material: 210d Hitra Robic nylon
• Number of bags: 1
• Size range : S-L

Mystery Ranch is known for its bomb-proof outdoor items, and its Zoid Packing Cubes continue that trend. Three different sizes (245 cu-in, 505 cu-in and 885 cu-in) mean you don’t have to compromise your wardrobe on the go, and lightweight yet durable 210d Hitra Robic nylon and YKK zippers up the hard-working aspects of the packs. The mesh lid provides visibility into the cube, making it simple to grab and go.

Our tester loves the durability of these cubes, as well as the semi-transparent top panels — which make it easier to discern what’s inside of them at-a-glance. However, the fact that each must be bought individually is a big drawback, as it can get pricey fast.

Tumi Double-Sided Packing Cubes

• Double-sided for better organization
• Only two sizes available
• Size range: M-L

This nylon packing cube does double duty with dual compartments — and it has a larger brother to expand on its versatility and organizational options. At under half a pound each, Tumi’s packing cubes fit everything you need and nothing you don’t. The dual compartments make it easy to organize by clothing type or for the cleanliness-conscious, to divide worn and unworn items.

Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set

• $12.00 at osprey.com $42.00 (71% off)
• Incredibly lightweight
• Can't see what's inside when closed
• Somewhat small
• Material: 40D ripstop nylon

Anybody that travels a lot can tell you that every ounce makes a difference when it comes to packing. Unfortunately, that means your packing cubes are eating up some of your bag’s weight. You can limit that as much as possible, however, with these incredibly lightweight cubes from lauded pack brand Osprey. This three-pack will have you organized and ready to go without costing you too much on weight.

If only these packing cubes had a transparent window, they might be perfect, according to our tester. Still, even without that, these are tough contenders for their combination of durability, ultralight weight, and super thin material (which saves on space).

Leatherology Nested Travel Organizer Trio

• $275.00 at Leatherology
• Beautifully made
• Five colors available
• Not vegan / vegetarian friendly
• Extremely expensive
• Material: Leather
• Number of bags: 1 or 3

As rugged as it can be, nylon isn’t for everyone. If you’re a fan of the finer things, however, you’re not out of luck when it comes to packing cubes. That’s because the folks at Leatherology have made this set out of top-grain leather (in your choice of five different handsome colorways). And while they work great in use, they also nest inside one another to make storing them easier when you’re not using them.

Cotopaxi Cubos Del Dia Travel Cubes

• Good quality to price ratio
• Only three sizes
• Can't pick your own colorways
• Material: Repurposed nylon and mesh

Cotopaxi has done wonders in using recycled materials that would otherwise be discarded in landfills. And these packing cubes are prime examples of just that. Made from nylon and mesh, albeit recycled, they’re just as tough and capable as any of the others on our list. Plus, they come in vibrant, unique colorways — no two are exactly the same. The only downside: you can’t pick your colors. You get what you get.

Calpak Packing Cubes

• $34.00 at Calpak
• Available in single, duo, trio, and quintet sets
• 14 colorways to choose from
• A little expensive compared to others
• Polyester isn't the best material
• Material: Polyester
• Number of bags: 1-5
• Size range: XS-L

With a whopping 14 different colorways (including some sold-out special editions), Calpak’s packing cubes come in more available styles than just about any others on our list. And while we don’t love polyester (especially when nylon is an option elsewhere for comparable prices), these cubes are so versatile and stylish its hard not to love them, especially for anyone who puts style at the top of their list of gear wants.

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15 Best Packing Cubes for Travel in 2024

Want to tame the chaos of packing for travel? This list will help you find the best packing cubes to level up your organization game on the go.

Packing for a trip can be a nightmare, whether you’re road-tripping across the country, flying around the world, or hitting the trail. Packing cubes are a great way to simplify your packing, but with all the options out there, it isn’t easy to find which packing cubes are the best.

Packing cubes are essentially just smaller zippered compartments that fit inside your main luggage or bag. They help you keep everything neat and organized and save space in your bag. Good packing cubes don’t have to be complicated. In fact, simplicity and ease of use are better than fancy features.

I’ve reviewed and researched dozens of the most popular packing cubes—from brands like Eagle Creek, Monos, and Peak Design—to find the best of the best.

• Best Packing Cubes Overall: Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal Cube Set
• Best Budget Packing Cubes: AmazonBasics 4-Piece Packing Cube Set
• Best Compression Packing Cubes: Monos Compressible Packing Cubes
• Best Packing Cubes on Amazon: GONEX Compression Packing Cubes
• Best Packing Cube for Carry-On: EVERGOODS Transit Packing Cube
• Best Packing Cubes for Backpacking: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pods
• Best Packing Cube Set: HERO Packing Cube 5-Set
• Best Large Packing Cube: Away F.A.R Organizational Cube XL
• Best Lightweight Packing Cubes: Eagle Creek PACK-IT Isolate Cube Set
• Best Packing Cubes for Families: REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set
• Best Packing Cubes for Duffel Bags: Osprey Ultralight Packing Cubes
• Best Packing Cubes for Backpacks: Peak Design Packing Cube
• Best Sustainable Packing Cubes: Monarc Travel Set
• Best Waterproof Packing Cubes: Sea to Summit Hydraulic Packing Cubes
• Most Durable Packing Cubes: Patagonia Black Hole Packing Cube

Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal Cube Set : Best Packing Cubes Overall

For over 40 years, Eagle Creek has been building durable, functional gear for adventurous travelers. Rather than sleek, urban style, they focus on bags and luggage that will take a beating and last a lifetime.

Eagle Creek also has one of the best warranties in the business. If a piece of gear tears or breaks, they will repair or replace it, no questions asked. I love brands that stand behind what they make!

The Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal packing cubes are pretty straightforward. Essentially, they are just fabric rectangles with wide-opening zippers and a mesh face. While that may sound underwhelming, you really don’t need much more than that. When it comes to real-world travel, these little cubes perform.

The first thing that stands out with these Eagle Creeek cubes is the fully mesh top panel. This makes it easy to see what’s inside each cube without having to open them.

These cubes unzip around three sides and then hinge wide open. The way they’ve designed the zipper line makes these super easy to open and pack. Plus, zipping it closed naturally compresses everything inside (though not as much as a full compression cube).

These mesh packing cubes are also just really well-made. They use recycled 300D polyester fabric and high-quality YKK zippers.

The Eagle Creek packing cubes can be bought individually or in a set of three cubes. The packing cube set comes with three different sizes: medium, small, and extra small. I love having the different sizes, but honestly, the extra small is just too tiny to be very useful.

Of course, they are very simple, with no extra pockets or compartments. If you want a bit more organization inside, these Eagle Creek packing cubes won’t be the best choice. Because they are mesh, they also aren’t dirt or water-resistant, so they aren’t the best if you want to keep shoes or dirty clothes separate.

AmazonBasics 4-Piece Packing Cube Set : Best Budget Packing Cubes

You can find anything on Amazon, especially if you’re looking for cheaper items. Amazon Basics is Amazon’s in-house brand that specializes in budget-friendly products from affordable luggage to garbage bags to workout equipment.

The Amazon Basics Packing Cube Set is a fantastic option for anyone looking to get organized and save space on a budget. These cubes feature similar design and construction to name-brand packing cubes but hit a low price point.

The standard packing cube set includes four cubes in different sizes: small, medium, large, and slim (which is long and skinny). You can also choose to have four of any one type. Honestly, I’ve found the medium cube to be the most useful, so I might choose the set of four mediums.

I like the simple, no-frills design of these packing cubes. They have a simple boxy shape, a single wrap-around zipper, a mesh panel that lets you see inside, and a small webbing handle that makes them easy to grab out of your suitcase.

While these aren’t compression cubes, I honestly think that’s better for budget cubes. Compression cubes can put a lot of stress on zippers, and that can lead to tears in the cheaper materials.

And no, you shouldn’t expect super high-end materials or quality construction. These things are meant to be cheap. I’ve found that they are good enough and hold up pretty well over time.

Monos Compressible Packing Cubes : Best Compression Packing Cubes

Monos is one of my favorite luggage brands . They build some of the best hardside luggage out there, but they also offer a great range of travel accessories, including packing cubes.

If you’re looking to make the most of every cubic inch in your suitcase or backpack, compression packing cubes are the way to go. The Monos Compressible Packing Cubes are some of the best out there. Once you pack everything inside, they have a second compression zipper that lets you squeeze everything down by up to 60%.

You can buy these compression cubes in either a set of four or a set of six. In either set, every single cube is a different size. While that’s great for having options, I honestly wish you could get a set that didn’t have so many different sizes.

The build quality of these packing cubes is top-notch. They have a sturdy, water-resistant outer fabric and a silky inner lining with an antimicrobial treatment to keep everything fresh. They also have mesh panels on top to let you see inside.

Due to the materials and design, the Monos Packing cubes have great structure that enables them to stand up open even when empty. That makes them way easier to pack than most other packing cubes, which can be a bit floppy.

Finally, the compression works really well. The amount of space you can save by compressing all your clothes in these cubes is pretty mind-blowing.

GONEX Compression Packing Cubes : Best Packing Cubes on Amazon

If you’re looking for another budget option available on Amazon, check out the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes . This set of packing cubes is affordable but surprisingly well-built.

The GONEX compression packing cubes don’t have much to set them apart from the others on this list. They are simple, mildly water-resistant, and have a pretty standard design with compression zippers that let you shrink down the size.

One thing to note is that the compression doesn’t work quite as well as some higher-end products like the cubes from Monos.

The biggest advantage of the GONEX compression packing cubes is that, for the price, the quality and durability are pretty impressive. Sure, the design isn’t quite as refined as more expensive products, but you can count on getting several years of travel out of these.

Unlike many packing cube sets, the GONEX compression packing cubes come with an extra large cube, which can be a useful size for packing blazers, dresses, jackets, or other bulky items that you don’t want to roll up.

EVERGOODS Transit Packing Cube : Best Packing Cube for Carry-On

EVERGOODS is an up-and-coming travel brand that builds backpacks, travel bags, and accessories with incredible attention to detail in the design.

I typically travel with just a carry-on suitcase or backpack, and I love using packing cubes to keep everything organized. Packing cubes for carry-on travel should prioritize organization and easy access to everything, and the EVERGOODS Transit Packing Cube is perfect for that.

Unlike most packing cubes, which are essentially just fabric boxes with zippers, the Transit Packing Cube does a bit more to keep you organized.

There is a zipper that wraps around the middle of the packing cube, and when it’s unzipped, you can open it up into two halves, kind of like a suitcase. Each half has its own zippered mesh lid. I like that this double-sided cube design lets you compartmentalize things a bit more, but it also means you can’t fit big, bulky items.

Besides that, there is one zippered stash pocket on the outside of the cube. This is perfect for small items you want to grab quickly.

In terms of features and design, this may be the best single packing cube on this list, but it is more expensive than most. You’d be able to buy a full packing cube set from cheaper brands for less than this single packing cube.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pods : Best Packing Cubes for Backpacking

Hyperlite Mountain Gear builds high-performance ultralight gear for backpacking, hiking, mountaineering, and more, and they make it all in Maine. Their stuff is expensive, but that’s because it is hand-made in the USA with the best materials available.

I recently finished a thru-hike of the 486-mile Colorado Trail. One of my biggest complaints on this trip was keeping my gear organized in my hiking backpack . It always seemed to turn into a jumbled mess.

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pods are designed to solve that problem by compartmentalizing gear inside a backpack. They are the only cubes on this list that I would take on a long backpacking trip.

These packing cubes work perfectly with most backpacking packs, though you’ll want to check the dimensions to be sure they will fit.

The Pods are made with high-tech Dyneema composite fabric, which is one of the most advanced materials for outdoor gear. It is lightweight, incredibly waterproof, and tough as nails. These are some of the lightest cubes on this list.

Hyperlite uses waterproof zippers and fully taped seams to make the Pods virtually waterproof. That makes them great for items you don’t want to get wet, like your sleeping bag or extra clothes.

The downsides? Well, since they are shaped to save space in backpacking packs, they won’t work great for general travel. Also, these things are pricey.

HERO Packing Cube 5-Set : Best Packing Cube Set

HERO Travel Supply is a family-owned company that was founded in 2016 to build travel gear that balances durability and style with affordability.

Using multiple packing cubes is the best way to organize and compartmentalize your suitcase, and buying a set of packing cubes is perfect for getting several matching cubes that work together perfectly. The HERO Packing Cube Set is one of the best-value sets on the market. It comes with five cubes (2 large, 2 medium, 1 small) and a bonus of a travel laundry bag.

I love that the set includes 2 larges and 2 mediums because I’ve generally found small packing cubes aren’t quite as useful. Honestly, I just use the small cube as a toiletry kit.

The overall design is pretty comparable to most other cubes—these are just rectangles with zippers and mesh side panels—but there are a few features that stand out, especially at this price point.

First is the build quality. No, these aren’t as high-quality as some more expensive options, but they do use tear-resistant ripstop nylon and (more importantly) sturdy YKK zippers. YKK is generally accepted as the best in the business when it comes to zippers, so it’s awesome to see these zippers on a less expensive product.

Another neat feature is the see-through index card holder that makes it easy to label each cube so you can easily see what’s inside.

You don’t get compression zippers, additional pockets, or other fancy features, but overall, these are very versatile cubes at a great price.

Away F.A.R Organizational Cube XL : Best Large Packing Cube

I personally don’t love small cubes. I would rather have a few larger cubes that are easier to pack and arrange in my suitcase especially if I’m packing a big checked bag. The Away F.A.R Organizational Cube XL is a massive 25L packing cube that’s bigger than many full daypacks.

The design of the Away F.A.R Organizational Cube isn’t that unique, it’s mainly the size that sets it apart. This thing is big! If you are loading up your checked luggage with clothes, jackets, and gear for a long-haul trip, this will be a great option for organization.

Of course, because it’s so big, it wouldn’t make sense to use it in a backpack or carry-on suitcase. That would be like putting a bag inside a barely-bigger bag and expecting something magical to happen. You’ll just end up with wasted space.

For big loads, though, this massive packing cube is hard to beat.

Eagle Creek PACK-IT Isolate Cube Set : Best Lightweight Packing Cubes

If you’re looking to save weight in your suitcase or bag, the Eagle Creek PACK-IT Isolate Cubes are a perfect choice. I’ve got to hand it to Eagle Creek, they just make great all-around packing cubes.

The overall design of these packing cubes is identical to the Eagle Creek PACK-IT Reveal cubes that earned our top pick. They have the same structure, same zippers, same features. The only difference is the materials.

While the Eagle Creek Reveal Cubes use 300D polyester and a mesh front panel, the Isolate Cubes are made of a single material: a much lighter-weight recycled ripstop polyester. That does two things:

First, while no mesh means you can’t see inside, it also means these cubes are somewhat water-resistant and are much better at keeping dirty clothes or shoes separate from everything else. In fact, the medium size is perfect to use as a shoe bag.

Second, the Eagle Creek PACK-IT Isolate cubes are less than half the weight. The medium size weighs a scanty 1.3oz.

Of course, the ultralight nylon material does also mean these won’t be quite as durable, but they still should hold up well as long as you aren’t stuffing them with sharp pokey objects.

REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set : Best Packing Cubes for Families

REI is one of the most well-known retail stores for outdoor gear for hiking, camping, travel, and more. With their own brand, REI Co-op, they offer a wide range of outdoor and travel gear that uses high-quality materials at relatively affordable prices.

In my experience, packing cubes come into their own when you’re packing for a family. If you’re traveling with kids, you may be packing their clothes and items along with your own in your suitcase. Keeping things organized and separated becomes even more important, and something like the Expandable Packing Cube Set from REI Co-op is a great way to keep everything arranged.

The REI Co-op expandable packing cube set includes three pretty standard cubes. Each cube has a wraparound top zipper that makes it easy to fully open for packing. Plus, there is a second zipper similar to what you’d find in a compression packing cube. Instead of compression, REI says the purpose is to expand the cube to double the height when you need extra space.

That makes these more versatile than other packing cubes, which is great when you need to keep everyone’s stuff organized on a family trip. These expandable packing cubes make it easy to adapt.

Osprey Ultralight Packing Cubes : Best Packing Cubes for Duffel Bags

Osprey is the industry leader in the outdoor backpack business. They build high-quality hiking, backpacking, climbing, and travel packs, and they have an incredible lifetime warranty. Plus, they make some pretty sweet packing cubes.

Duffel bags are great for their ability to swallow anything you throw in them, but just stuffing all your clothes and gear randomly inside makes it hard to find what you need later. Using something like the Osprey Ultralight Packing Cubes inside your duffel bag will save space and keep you organized so you can find stuff without dumping your whole bag out on the ground.

This packing cube bundle from Osprey comes with three different-sized cubes.

They are made with 100% recycled nylon fabric, which is coated for decent water resistance. I try to buy products with recycled fabric whenever I can, so that’s a big win in my book.

My biggest complaint is that, unlike the Eagle Creek packing cubes, the zipper doesn’t wrap the entire way around the cube. That means these don’t hinge fully open and aren’t as easy to pack and unpack.

Peak Design Packing Cube : Best Packing Cubes for Backpacks

Peak Design is one of my favorite brands for cameras, every day, and carry-on backpacks . Their products are well-designed with impressive attention to detail. The Peak Design Travel Backpack is a great example of their detail-oriented, user-friendly design, and their packing cubes are no different.

The Peak Design Packing Cubes are designed to work specifically with their travel backpacks, but they will also work well with whatever travel backpack you have.

The Peak Design Packing Cubes are available in three different sizes: small, medium, and a specific shoe bag size. You can buy a single packing cube or get a set of three cubes, six cubes, or eight cubes. I’ve found that using one small and one medium cube is just about perfect for most travel backpacks, giving you as much space for storage as possible.

The Peak Design Packing Cubes also feature one of the best compression packing cube designs I’ve seen. You can shrink each packing cube to nearly half the size using the compression zipper. Impressively, the small compression cube fits 10 t-shirts and the medium fits 20 t-shirts.

So are there any downsides? Well, the Peak Design Packing Cubes don’t have as much built-in organization as something like the EVERGOODS Transit Packing Cube. They also are more expensive than many other options.

Monarc Travel Set : Best Sustainable Packing Cubes

Monarc is a new brand on the block that’s built their marketing entirely around using recycled ocean-bound plastic in all their products. For each piece of gear, including their packing cubes, they advertise specifically how many plastic bottles were used to make it. They are certified plastic-negative, which means they collect more plastic from the environment than they use in their products.

I think that’s pretty cool.

Beyond just being environmentally friendly, Monarc also makes very functional travel gear. The Monarc Travel Set includes two compression packing cube sizes (medium and large) plus a travel laundry bag. The packing cube set uses a total of 29 recycled bottles.

These cubes use high-quality materials, and the overall design is pretty standard for compression bags. The biggest difference is that they are a bit wider and flatter than most packing cubes, which makes them great if you prefer to fold your clothes rather than roll them.

I also really like the easy-grab handle at the top of each packing cube. Sure, it’s a small detail, but it helps when pulling the cubes out of your bag.

The included laundry bag is also a nice bonus. I like it when small things like that come included so I don’t have to go buy one on its own.

One thing to note is that the large cube is pretty big at 13 x 19 inches. If you’re using a smaller backpack or suitcase, it’s worth checking the internal dimensions to make sure it will fit.

The eco-friendly aspect makes these some of my favorite packing cubes, and they’re a great choice for anyone looking to reduce their impact.

Sea to Summit Hydraulic Packing Cubes : Best Waterproof Packing Cubes

Whether you’re packing for a river rafting trip or just want the best protection for a trip to a rainy destination, waterproof packing cubes are a great way to keep your gear dry. Sea to Summit is one of the best companies for dry bags, so it’s no surprise that they make great water-resistant packing cubes.

While many brands use water-resistant materials, the Sea to Summit Hydraulic Packing Cubes incorporate technologies from their professional-level drybags making them a cut above the rest.

Sea to Summit uses TPU-laminated 70D ripstop nylon with fully RF-welded seams and polyurethane-coated zippers to keep dust and water out. These thin fabrics are lightweight, but still strong and abrasion-resistant.

There also is a see-through window on one side that lets you easily see what is inside each of the cubes. It’s not mesh though, so it’s still fully waterproof.

For rafting trips, I wouldn’t rely on these alone to keep my gear dry. Rather, I recommend putting these waterproof packing cubes inside a larger main drybag or waterproof backpack for two-layer protection.

As you’d expect, these are more expensive than standard fabric cubes. You’ll spend more on one cube than most other packing cube sets. Still, it’s worth it if you need the best waterproof protection and durability.

Patagonia Black Hole Packing Cube : Most Durable Packing Cubes

Patagonia is one of the most respected brands in the outdoor industry. While they are best known for their apparel, their Black Hole series of travel bags is known for extreme durability and functionality.

The Patagonia Black Hole Packing Cube comes in three different sizes. The largest 10L size is ideal for packing shirts, pants, and gear. The 6L size is great as a shoe bag or for smaller clothes items. The smallest 3L size works well for socks and underwear, or even as a toiletries bag.

This packing cube has a two-sided clamshell design that is great for keeping things organized and easy to find. The downside is that it is just a bit more complicated to open and get at your stuff.

The Black Hole packing Cube stands out for durability. It uses thick materials, burly zippers, and high-quality construction. Add Patagonia’s Ironclad Guarantee, and you can be sure that this packing cube will last you a lifetime of travel.

Of course, you do pay for that, and these are the most expensive on this list besides the Hyperlite Pods.

How to Choose the Best Packing Cubes

There you have it, a full list of 15 awesome packing cubes to choose from. So how do you get the right ones for you?

There’s a lot of variety here, and there’s no one right answer. Everyone has different needs and will be satisfied with different products. You should have some idea of your use case and what you need. Will you be packing just a T-shirt and a few socks, or a full wardrobe? Do you like to be uber-organized? Do you want a packing cube that works as a laundry bag for dirty clothes? a shoe bag? a secret compartment for smuggling snacks?

Here are some of the most important considerations to keep in mind as you shop.

Of course, size is going to be one of the most important factors when choosing packing cubes. You want ones that are big enough to carry what you need, but small enough to fit into your suitcase or backpack.

Most brands sell their products in a range of sizes, and I’ve found that medium packing cubes are ideal for most clothing items like shirts, pants, and jackets. They also can often double as shoe bags.

Small packing cubes are great for socks and underwear, or you could use one as a toiletry bag.

Large packing cubes are generally best for full outfits like dresses or button-ups with slacks. The best large packing cubes are wide and flat to keep things from getting wrinkled.

Materials and Durability

At TravelFreak, we always recommend investing in high-quality gear that won’t break after a few trips. Fortunately, packing cubes are so simple that you can usually get durable materials and construction without emptying out your wallet.

Some brands have well-earned reputations for durability, like Eagle Creek, Osprey, and Patagonia. Buying brand-name products gives you confidence that the company will stand behind their gear. Of course, brand-name stuff does typically cost a bit more.

You can also find high-quality cubes from less well-known brands, you just have to look harder and pay attention to the details.

Look for things like high-quality ripstop nylon or polyester, water-resistant fabrics, and YKK zippers for the best durability.

Design and Features

While it’s easy to assume that all packing cubes will be pretty much the same, there are a few key features that you may or may not want. Depending on your preferences, here are a few features you may want to watch for:

• Mesh panel so you can see inside
• Multiple pockets for more organization
• Compression zippers to squeeze your stuff smaller and maximize space
• Grab handles for easily grabbing the packing cube out of your bag
• Label holders so you can easily identify what’s inside
• Separator panels to keep clean and dirty clothes separate

Of course, more features don’t always make something better. Maybe you want something that’s simple, lightweight, and minimal. You won’t need fancy label holders or separating pockets. Packing cubes are made to make your life easier, so don’t make it more complicated than it needs to be. It’s all about finding what works for you!

Sustainability

If you’re anything like me, you like to consider the impact your purchases have on the world around you. I always recommend doing your research and trying to buy from companies that use sustainable and responsible business practices.

In our list, many of the cubes are made with recycled materials and are made by companies dedicated to fair working conditions and reducing their carbon footprint.

How Many Packing Cubes Do You Need?

The number of packing cubes you use will mainly depend on the size of your suitcase or backpack. Packing in a massive piece of checked luggage? You’ll probably want more packing cubes. Using a small backpack? Just a few will do.

For example:

When I’m packing in a smaller travel backpack (under 30L), I like to use one medium packing cube for shirts, pants, etc. and one smaller cube for socks and underwear.

If I’m packing in a larger suitcase, I want multiple larger packing cubes to keep clothes, jackets, and more organized.

As a starting point, I recommend getting a set of three packing cubes in different sizes.

Why Trust TravelFreak?

Here at TravelFreak, we take our responsibility to give you quality recommendations and detailed information seriously. We’ve traveled a ton, we’re gear junkies at heart and we believe in investing in quality gear that will last a lifetime. We only recommend products that we actually like.

For this article, I researched dozens of packing cubes from the most popular brands to find the absolute best. I’ve tested products, packing them to the max to see what they’ll fit and to test whether I could bust the seams.

The products that made this list are the best in their specific niche. I’ve dug deep into what each one excels at to help you find the best for you.

Best Packing Cube FAQs

Are packing cubes really worth it.

Absolutely. Packing cubes simplify your travel setup, save space, and keep you organized.

Which are the best compression packing cubes?

The best compression packing cubes are the Monos Compressible Packing Cubes .

Do packing cubes really help with space?

Yes, packing cubes help you maximize the space in your suitcase, plus they help you stay organized.

What is the difference between a packing cube and a compression cube?

The main difference is that compression cubes have a second zipper to shrink the contents down.

Is it better to roll clothes or use packing cubes?

You can do both! I prefer to roll clothes and then put them in packing cubes for organization.

Jakob Thygerson

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Reviewers Say These Packing Cubes Have ‘Taken *All* the Anxiety Out of Packing, and Keep Travel Bags Organized’

Even when you’re excited about an upcoming vacation, packing can be a stressful part of travel , especially if you’re not exactly the most organized person (hey, no judgment here!). Fortunately, packing cubes make things a lot easier, and once you try them, they’ll easily become one of your traveling essentials .

When your clothes and other packed items are neatly contained in packing cubes, it’s much easier to rearrange them for the perfect fit—like suitcase Tetris. If you check your bag and TSA inspects it, they probably won’t make a mess of your belongings, and when you arrive at your destination, you’ll be able to quickly find whatever you need.

Packing cubes come in various sizes and are typically sold in color-coordinated sets of three or more. Consider buying at least two colors, because if you’re sharing a suitcase with a traveling companion, you’ll be able to instantly identify whose stuff is whose, and when it’s time to pack to go home, you can place unworn clothes in certain colors of cubes and dirty laundry in others. (By the way, machine washing packing cubes isn’t typically recommended, but when they need freshening up, you can try hand washing them or using your washing machine’s hand-wash cycle.)

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Here are the best packing cubes that are sure to up your packing game.

The best packing cubes on the market

Originally $50, now $38

The cubes, which have a limited lifetime warranty, are made from a Techlite poly fabric and each have a partial mesh top and a handle. The largest cube measures 17.5″ x 12.75″ x 3.25″. With a pack of six, you can easily store big-ticket items like tops and bottoms as well as undergarments.

One happy customer writes, “I was so impressed with how much the cubes simplified packing, unpacking, and living out of a suitcase, whether staying in a given place for only one night or a more extended period, that I got online in the middle of my trip and ordered more in different colors: ‘his,’ ‘hers,’ and ‘dirty’.”

• Made of nylon
• Offers different cube sizes
• Has handles
• Cube size may be too small for some

Eagle Creek has been making travel products forever, and these packing cubes have earned more than 1,000 5-star ratings at Amazon. They’re available in the pictured bright blue as well as red and black, and the mesh top shows you what’s inside each one. The three sizes are a nice assortment for underwear, socks, and clothes, with the largest measuring 14” x 10” x 3”. Bonus: The company’s products have a lifetime warranty.

One traveler writes, “We’re buying more before our next trip and probably giving them as stocking stuffers this holiday season. These are awesome.”

• Comes with a lifetime warranty
• Easy to open
• Only comes with three cubes

This is the rare packing cubes set that has an assortment of colors in a single set—perfect for color-coding (for two people’s clothing, for example), and a little more fun, too. They are all the same size (17.5” x 12.75” x 3.25”), are water-resistant, and have mesh tops. Sets in other sizes are also available at slightly different price points.

One of the 1,800 5-star reviews—from a packing-cubes convert—reads, “The zippers and handles are strong, and the mesh is a great detail. The material is durable and easy to maintain. This was a new way for me to pack, and I will continue to do it this way. It was easy, and so practical!”

• Colorful cubes
• Lightweight
• See-through mesh
• Some reviewers say the corners rip

Besides standard packing cubes, this set includes a water-resistant shoe bag and two clear waterproof bags, one of which is a TSA-approved size for carry-on toiletries/liquids. (The larger of the two could work well for a bathing suit that hasn’t had time to dry before your trip home.) The largest of the six cubes is 17.5” x 12.5” x 4”. The six color options include black, pink, and red, and the set comes with a lifetime warranty and “100% satisfaction guarantee.”

One happy customer writes a review to say, “Sometimes my husband and I end up packing in the same bag if we’re only going away for a short time. Our clothes get tossed about trying to find what we’re looking for and half the time I think I forgot something because I can’t find it in the mess. I used these packing bags for the first time last week on a camping trip and I LOVED how neat and organized I was able to keep my clothes.”

• Comes with seven pieces
• Comes with waterproof bags
• May be difficult to see contents

Originally $26, now $7

Amazon Basics’ packing cubes come in several colors, from black to sky blue, which gives you the option of color-coding by combining two sets (for pajamas vs. daytime clothes, for example). A few nice features are the double zipper pulls, mesh tops to reveal what’s inside, and little handles on top. The largest size is 17.5” x 12.75” x 3.25”.

One review shared this praise: “Packing is so easy now; pants and sweaters go into the large cube, shirts go in the medium cube, and everything else goes in the small cube. My clothes never wrinkle in these.”

• Features a double zipper
• May not be sturdy for some

Marketed as a product to organize a diaper bag, this set of packing cubes would work just as well in a suitcase, especially if you want smaller bags (for underwear, socks, and so on). Plus, they’re cute! They’re available in black, a floral print, and two herringbone options, and the gold-tone and rose gold-tone zippers are a nice detail. Note that the cubes are machine washable, which is a rare and welcome feature.

One reviewer notes, “These packing cubes are great for organizing any bag! The materials all feel super luxurious, and the zippers are high quality and slide super smoothly! Love the grab handles.”

• Fits easily into a backpack or luggage
• Includes 30-day manufacturing warranty
• May be too small for some

Originally $48, now $40

Samsonite not only makes suitcases, but all kinds of handy travel accessories, too. This set of packing cubes has mesh tops and handles for convenience, and the largest cube measures 18” x 13” x 3”. The material is durable nylon, and the color choices are turquoise and a dark gray.

One of the many positive reviews reads, “These cubes … have taken ALL the anxiety of packing & keeping my travel bag organized! I’ve tried all kinds of packing suggestions & still seemed to spend so much time looking for looking for items/clothing, but no more! Highly recommended!”

• Three sizes available

This set of packing cubes is available in blue and an orange-y red—standard colors for these—but also a subtle geometric print in green, orange, and yellow. The ripstop nylon is water-repellant, each packing cube is expandable to 6” deep, and the tops are made from mesh. The largest cube measures 14.5” x 10.5” x 3”. Bonus: The packing cubes meet bluesign® criteria, which denotes a high safety level for consumers and more sustainable manufacturing.

Reviewers recommend them not only for suitcases to bring on the plane or in the car, but also for backpacks for hiking and camping (thanks to their sturdy material).

• Water-repellent finish

These packing cubes, which come in black and a pretty shade of blue, are from one of Target’s home brands, Made By Design. They have mesh tops so that you can easily identify the contents, and the largest bag is 18” x 2.62” x 12”. Bonus: They come with a 1-year limited warranty and are “100 percent satisfaction guaranteed.”

One customer shares, “I LOVE these packing cubes. I have several different brands and sizes already and these are some of the best. They are very well-made. The stitching is tight. The zipper slides easily. I will never travel again without packing cubes.”

• Comes with five pieces

Most packing cubes are designed to hold clothing, but this set is perfect for toiletries or small items such as charging cables, a glasses case, a hairbrush, and so on. You can instantly see everything that’s inside. The set has earned a 4.9 rating out of 5 at Amazon, and the choices for the bags’ trim are black and a gray camo.

Note that the smallest bag meets TSA guidelines for a carry-on toiletry/liquids bag.

• Easy to see content
• Water-resistant
• TSA-friendly
• One zipper only

This set of packing cubes has a nice variety of sizes, and is meant to hold more than just clothing; it includes five clothing bags, two waterproof drawstring bags, and one bag for small items such as charging cables and earbuds. They have mesh tops, and the larger ones have handy straps inside to secure your clothes.

One of the 2,800+ reviewers who gave the set five stars raves, “These packing cubes have changed how I will travel from now on! I began using the larger cubes for my clothes etc. and it was awesome how much less space everything took up. On top of that, it’s all organized! When I arrived to my destination, I just took each cube and placed it into the drawer.”

• Comes with eight pieces
• Some experienced ripping

Originally $29, now $22

Several sizes and types of packing cubes are included in this set: extra large, large, medium, and small, along with a shoe bag and laundry bag. The largest measures 17.5” x 12.15” x 4”. The bags are water-resistant, and the ones for clothing have transparent tops and little labels with pictures of what’s packed inside (which may or may not be a welcome feature, depending on how you choose to sort things). The set even comes with a printed guide on how to fold clothes for packing!

One of the 2,300 (!) 5-star reviews reads, “Everything now has its own place and doesn’t get all jumbled up with everything else. These cubes make it easy and fast to find things also. They are lightweight and the little window helps you quickly remember what’s inside.”

• Some find the product smaller than anticipated

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Packing Cubes

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Stay Organized and Keep Your Items Safe with Packing Cubes

Whether you’re travelling or just organizing your closet, keeping your items in order is more manageable with packing cubes. Packing cubes are zippered storage boxes made from a variety of materials to keep your clothes and accessories safe and tidy. They can be used to store clothes and other goods in your home, or used during travel to keep all your stuff in organized compartments. Best Buy has a great selection of different styles and sizes of packing cubes available to keep your coveted items in pristine condition.

Packing smarter doesn’t necessarily mean packing lighter

When travelling, things can get hectic within your suitcase. Any journey will cause some ruffling within your luggage, but packing cubes combat any messes from occurring. Most suitcases don’t come with designated compartments, so having a few packing cubes in different sizes will allow you to keep your items separated and well ordered. Because your clothes will be neatly stored away, they’ll also be less creased and are sure to remain clean. Plus, they can be used to separate your laundry or shoes from your other items to further keep your travel items in good shape during your adventures.

Packing cubes for all your organizational needs

Packing cubes serve many purposes outside of travel. They’re excellent for putting away seasonal clothing, linens, electronic items and more. They’re sleek, designed to save space, and are even stackable, making them great for storage of any kind. Plus, they’re made from durable materials that can sustain basements and attics during all seasons. And the good news for those with less storage space, they’re even short enough to slide under a bed or a couch.

Keeping all your things in order makes life easier

With so many different sizes and materials available, choosing packing cubes that will meet your needs is easy to do. You can find small cubes for accessories, medium cubes for light clothing, and even large cubes for items like jackets or blankets that can be compressed and tightened to save even more space. No matter what you’re looking to keep organised, having packing cubes handy will ensure you all your items are safely packed and in order.

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PACKING CUBES

Check out our Luggage Guide: How to Stay Organized on Vacation

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Keep your items organized and accessible while maximizing your luggage space with Travelpro® Packing Cubes. Our travel packing cubes are made from durable, tear-resistant polyester and include zippers for easy access to your items. We offer large, medium and small sizes, or you can purchase a packing cube set to meet all of your organization needs. Plus, they pair perfectly with Travelpro® Essentials™ including toiletry bags and other travel accessories .

• Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry
• Luggage & Travel Gear
• Travel Accessories
• Packing Organizers

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This item has been tested to certify it can ship safely in its original box or bag to avoid unnecessary packaging. Since 2015, we have reduced the weight of outbound packaging per shipment by 41% on average, that’s over 2 million tons of packaging material.

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Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes for Suitcases, Travel Essentials for Carry on, Black Luggage Organizer Bags Set for Travel Accessories in 4 Sizes (Extra Large, Large, Medium, Small)

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About this item.

• Stress Free Traveling: Enthralled by travel, yet frazzled by packing chaos? Introduce packing cubes to your travel gear. They help sort, organize, and locate items quickly. Say goodbye to misplaced valuables and the frustration of unpacking for one item. It's time to enhance your journey with effortless organization!
• The Right Materials: Our packing cubes boast a 26% superior thickness. After comprehensive analysis of other luggage organizers, we found their 230D Polyester or various polyester fabrics lacking. In contrast, we've chosen to create our travel bags with 290D Polyester - a fabric significantly more robust and resilient, promising the longevity and durability you need for everyday use.
• Seamless and Reliable Zippers: Our packing cubes feature sturdy metal, two-way zippers that effortlessly glide, minimizing jamming and snags. Designed for long-lasting performance, even with frequent use, ensuring hassle-free packing and unpacking every time.
• Discover the Open Eva Advantage: With breathable and see-through mesh panels, your items stay fresh and easily visible. With Eva, you are able to clearly see your items and know which cube has the contents you are looking for. Enjoy hassle-free access and keep everything organized effortlessly.
• Versatile Travel Organizer Bag: Whether you are carrying an airline carry-on suitcase, duffle bag, backpack, or tote, these packing bags are sure to fit compactly without taking up a lot of space. You can take these travel cubes for packing on business trips, camping adventures, cruise ship, and vacations, to keep your clothes, toiletries, and other accessories separated, or also use them at home as storage organizers for your cabinets to keep your closet spick-and-span.
• Care Instructions: To maintain the quality of your packing cubes, we recommend hand washing them with mild detergent and letting them air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. This will keep your cubes looking great and ready for your next adventure!

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OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 requires textiles-based products to be tested against a list of 1,000+ chemicals, to limit those which may be harmful to human health. Certification focus: #ProductSafety and #ChemicalsUsed.

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Veken is dedicated to bringing our customers premium, high-quality, and functional household products at reasonable prices.

Our vision is to continuously innovate and improve our products based on customer needs as well as current industry trends. Our customer centric approach means customers always come first.

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Size Matters!

Veken packing cubes are store up to 3 times more laundry than competitors

How to care for your packing cubes:

• Wash only with cold water.
• Do not apply fabric softener of any kind.
• Do not put the cubes in the washing machine, even if it is on gentle or delicate cycle.

Product Includes:

• Extra Large Cube ( 17.5" x 12.15" x 4")
• Large Cube (13.75" x 12.75" x 4")
• Medium Cube (13.75" x 9.75" x 4")
• Small Cube (11" x 6.75" x 4")
• Shoe Bag (16.96" x 9.06" x 4.72")
• Laundry Bag (20" x 14")
• Toiletry Bag (9” x 7” x 3.5”)
• Accessories Bag (9.8” x 6.3”)

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the portability, fit, value, quality and appearance of the storage bag. They mention that it makes packing your suitcase easy, it fits all your clothes and that the price for the amount of bags was great. They appreciate the side pleats and the sleek design.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the storage bag. For example, they mention it's well made, holds up well, and has decent fabric. Some say that the cubes are fantastic and very useful.

"...The zippers and handles have proven to withstand rigorous use , adding to the overall longevity.Versatility in Traveling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐..." Read more

"...Great for organization and categorizing. Bags are pretty durable and simple to use." Read more

"They’re actually very durable and strong and holds a lot of outfits making it easier for me to pack. I’m in love!" Read more

"You get what you pay for. Good product just on the cheaper side. Definitely fits all my clothes and my brain is now organized while traveling!" Read more

Customers find the storage bag easy to pack and use. They say it stores back together in one small bag and makes traveling a lot easier.

"...very durable and strong and holds a lot of outfits making it easier for me to pack . I’m in love!" Read more

"...They are easy to pack , I got a few for my husband and my friends. Highly recommend them. You can also use them for ur shoes." Read more

"...Overall these bags are nice travel bags . You surely will love these.************..." Read more

"...They store back together in one small bag . They held enough for a 4-day trip. I'd like to maybe have one more shoe bag (there's only one)...." Read more

Customers appreciate the structure of the storage bag. They say it keeps everything organized, neat, and easy to organize their suitcase. They also say it helps with category organization, and that it holds a lot of clothing. Customers also say that it makes packing and managing your items so much easier.

"... Effortless Organization : ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Travelers who seek order amidst the chaos of packing have found their ally in the Veken Packing Cubes...." Read more

"... Great for organization and categorizing . Bags are pretty durable and simple to use." Read more

"...Definitely fits all my clothes and my brain is now organized while traveling !" Read more

"...I do like them for my suitcase. I like that they help me organize my stuff and find it faster. I think they are good quality and are holding up well...." Read more

Customers like the fit of the storage bag. They mention that it's roomy, fits many items of clothing, and has plenty of space to organize clothes and personal items. The bags offer a variety of sizes, making it easy to pack everything from dress slacks to larger suitcases. The different sizes even have a printed symbol on them that fools you into thinking the bags hold a lot. They also say the bags fit seamlessly into various types of luggage, from carry-ons to large suitcases, and are good for a short trip.

"...The cubes fit seamlessly into various types of luggage , from carry-ons to larger suitcases.Premium Material and Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐..." Read more

"...Good product just on the cheaper side. Definitely fits all my clothes and my brain is now organized while traveling!" Read more

"... Fit perfectly in my hard shell suitcase . Cubes are labeled with clothing packing suggestions based on their sizes. No issues at all. Worth it" Read more

Customers like the appearance of the storage bag. They say it's neat looking, has side pleats, and looks great when organized into luggage. They also say the color is cute, and the sewing looks professional. Customers also appreciate the illustrations on folding methods and the picture on each one to indicate what is suggested to do.

"...Beyond their functional attributes, the packing cubes boast a stylish design . You don't usually see people nowadays organizing their suitcases...." Read more

"Took on a Disney trip. Good material and looks nice . Fits a good amount of clothes and accessories in each item...." Read more

"...I think they are good quality and are holding up well. And, I mean, they're pink ! Everything is better pink." Read more

"...This is a beautiful set if you want to keep yourself organized and tidy on your travels. Wonderful!" Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the storage bag. They say it's a great product for the price, with nice quality. Customers also say it is a good investment for organized and stress-free travel.

"These are a great invention and investment . Easy to load up for any age traveler. We took them in our suitcases and on a cruise...." Read more

"...You get a good number of cubes for the price , and it really helped me keep things organized while traveling...." Read more

"These arrived quickly and the set was a great value for the price ...." Read more

" Great value for this set of packing cubes...." Read more

Customers find the storage bag easy to use. They mention the labels make it easy to identify the contents of each cube at a glance. They say the bag makes packing for travel quick and easy, and the morning routine quick and simple. Customers also say unpacking and setting up became a breeze, as they simply placed the cubes directly into drawers.

"...Upon reaching my destinations, I had a significant reduction in unpacking time and hassle ...." Read more

"...Bags are pretty durable and simple to use ." Read more

"...Fit perfectly in my hard shell suitcase. Cubes are labeled with clothing packing suggestions based on their sizes. No issues at all. Worth it" Read more

"...I like that they help me organize my stuff and find it faster . I think they are good quality and are holding up well. And, I mean, they're pink!..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the zipper. Some mention they have no issues with zippers or anything ripping, the zippers are good quality, smooth, and work perfectly. However, others say that the zipper feels cheap and ends up breaking.

"...I think they would work fine for my travel/suitcase. The zipper pulls are nice and easy to handle...." Read more

"...sets on amazon but the material just feels cheap and the zipper ends up breaking . These bags are strong! and the color is exactly like the picture." Read more

"...Highly recommend. Super roomy and expands due to type of fabric. Very easy to zipper !" Read more

"...The zippers were strong and handles were a bonus...." Read more

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Men's Health

These Editor-Approved Packing Cubes Can Keep Your Luggage Organized

Posted: May 19, 2023 | Last updated: July 18, 2023

THERE'S NO doubt packing cubes can take the messiest traveler and make them look like a certified packing guru. If you've tried packing cubes in the past, then you know the potential these simple organizational tools can bring. If you haven't tried packing cubes, get ready, because your travel routine is about to start running much smoother.

The Men's Health team is constantly traveling for assignments, which allows us to test the very best travel products in real life. We put to the test 10 different sets of packing cubes and determined 7 of them are absolutely worth highlighting. The one set of packing cubes we recommend every traveler try? That would be the TravelWise Luggage Packing Organization Cubes , as we found it offers multiple sizes, a clean design, a quality construction, and, best of all, a phenomenal price point.

Read more: How Men's Health Tests Products

Our editors and writers evaluated packing cubes based on their design, material, durability, and price point. We also considered unique features on each packing cube—what each bag does exceptionally well that other packing cubes do not. From neatly organizing your luggage for a week-long vacation to keeping your travel backpack lean on a weekend getaway, there's bound to be a packing cube below for every type of traveler. Let's get to the list.

Best Luggage Brands | Best Luggage on Amazon | Best Travel Backpacks | Best Travel Gadgets

Luggage Packing Organization Cubes 5 Pack

This TravelWise set is the Goldilocks of packing cubes. You get 5 total cubes of different sizes (1 small, 2 medium, and 2 large), allowing you to fit all your clothes inside each bag and get them configured nicely in your suitcase. When testing, we loved how you could fit thick garments like jeans and oxford shirts in the large compartments and small garments like underwear in the small compartment. The mesh opening at the top was helpful when spotting the clothes inside the cube, thus eliminating the chances of opening one cube only to discover your favorite shirt is in another.

Some of the other packing cubes on this list will have better fabric and zipper construction, and so the opportunity to choose a bag that's stronger and more suitable for adventure travel can be found elsewhere. However the nylon material and zippers on the TravelWise are up to par on what you want on a packing cube. We had zero problems yanking and tugging on the cubes when shoving our clothes in each one.

One last note: it's true you can find sets like this on Amazon with either the same price point or even cheaper. What makes the TravelWise set better than all the rest is they come in a ton of colors and there's zero branding on the cubes. If you don't care about having a brand badge on your packing cubes then you can turn to other products at an even lower price (like the highly popular Amazon Basics set ), but we like to curate our travel gear with consideration of style; and the TravelWise set has a much better style over the cheaper sets while still coming in at an awesome price just under $40.

Read more: Best Travel Wallets

Medium Packing Cube

Peak Design's packing cubes would compete for the top spot on our list if they had more offerings on buying in sets (you unfortunately can't buy the small and medium cube together in a 2-pack). Alas, these packing cubes are definitely worth buying in singles, especially if you tend to overpack.

The cubes are made with 100% recycled 70D nylon and poly shell that's water-resistant, so you won't have to worry if your have these in a backpack and your water bottle leaks onto them. The material is also a bit stretchy, which provides a small level of give that's super helpful when packing these bad boys full. What makes the packing cubes stand out even more is the zipper construction: they have an added compression zipper that helps squeeze the cube down to save space, plus a tear-away opening zipper to grab an item without having to open the entire compartment. Lastly, we found the Peak Design packing cubes are great at storing tech, like chargers and external memory.

Read more: Best Travel Gadgets

Hydraulic Packing Cube Set

For those looking for packing cubes made to handle off-road adventures, like camping, the Hydraulic Packing Cubes from Sea to Summit are the toughest bags you can buy. In terms of strength, each packing cube covers all the bases: a water-resistant and dust-resistant TPU laminated 70D ripstop material, a water-resistant RF welded seam, and a streamlined Hypalon grab handle for handling outside of your preferred luggage of choice. The cubes also have a translucent window that makes it visible to see the contents inside.

The price point is a little bit higher on these bags due to all their added features, but we're still happy to see you can get a set (XS, S, M) for under $100. One last favorite note we had was how easy the cubes are to clean; all you have to do is wipe each one down with a wet rag or cleaning wipe if they get mud or dust on them.

Read more: Best Camping Essentials

Cubos Del Dia Travel Cubes, Set of 3

Cotopaxi's Cubos Del Dia packing cubes are made with fully upcycled nylon and mesh, making them the best eco-friendly pick on this list. This set comes in three different sizes (10 L, 3 L and 2 L gear capacity) and has valuable features like mesh side panels for ventalation and visability, as well as top grab handles for getting them out of packs with ease. What's awesome is each bag is sewn to the discretion of how the worker wants to use Cotopaxi's upcycled materials, so no two bags will ever look alike.

Read more: Best Travel Bags

UL Packing Cube Set

Weighing just 2.2-ounces all together, the Osprey Ultralight set is made for those who are trying to travel as lean and minimal as possible. The cubes are made from tear-resistant ripstop nylon and outfitted with durable YKK zippers, so you don't have to worry about the lofty build not being strong enough. The material is also translucent—they're much more see-through than the product image leads you to believe.

The only qualm we have about this set is the sizes of the cubes are a little tight. You shouldn't buy these if you tend to overpack. They're best suited for minimalist travelers.

Read more: Best Travel Pants

Black Hole Cube, Medium 6L

Patagonia's Black Hole bags match up great with travel backpacks and duffel bags , and they match perfectly with our favorite travel backpack: the Patagonia Black Hole Pack . Each bag is made from weather-resistant recycled polyester ripstop and outfitted with corrosion resistant plastic zipper sliders. The bags are available in 3-liter, 6-liter, and 10-liter sizes and are designed in a book-opening with two zippered mesh compartments on each side.

What makes the Black Hole Cube unique is it has an exterior daisy chain, so you can attach one externally to a backpack or duffel bag if space starts getting crammed inside. The downside about Patagonia's packing cubes is they are a little expensive and don't come in sets, but if you want an eco-friendly packing cube that's stylish and will last a long time, then this is a solid buy to make.

Read more: Best Patagonia Jackets

Expandable Packing Cube Set, Small/Large

Crafted from DWR-coated ripstop nylon, these water-resistant packing cubes from REI Co-op work exceptionally well in outdoor settings. We liked packing these in a duffel bag: the first reason being their elongated shape, and the second being they expand vertically to store more gear. When expanding the cube, all you have to do open the expansion zipper and the cube will double in size. It's smart, it's durable, and it's shaped just how one would like it when taking their duffel bag camping or to a vacation resort.

Read more: Best Luggage Trackers

What to Look for When Buying Packing Cubes

Packing cubes come in all sizes and designs. Here's what you need to know before buying.

• Material : Tear-resistant and water-resistant materials like nylon and polyester are your best options for your packing cubes. These materials are easy to clean and will help protect your clothes while also keeping your cargo lightweight and easy to take in and out of your bag.
• Different Sizes and Sets: The sizes and sets you need ultimately depends on how much you're packing and what types of clothes you're bringing. A set of three packing cubes in different sizes is a good starting set, as you should have enough to get a few days worth of clothes in the cubes and learn how to configure them in a suitcase, duffel bag, or travel backpack. For longer trips that require carry-ons and checked luggage, a packing cube set of five or more is going to be needed so you can get all of your clothes in the bags without feeling like you're shoving each to maximum capacity.
• Type of Luggage : Like mentioned above, the different sizes and amount of packing cubes you need can depend a lot on the type of luggage you plan on using. If you're taking a travel backpack, you can get away with using as low as one or two packing cubes. For duffel bags and carry-ons, you can fit up to four or more. For checked luggage, you can go as high as eight packing cubes.
• Your Own Packing Habits : Some packing cubes are more forgiving than others and will expand and give you extra space; and other packing cubes are less forgiving and will resist. If you tend to overpack, consider buying a higher numbered set (like the TravelWise one) or buying cubes that expand easier (like the Peak Design bag). If you're a minimalist traveler, you can opt for the tighter feature-loaded cubes like the Osprey Ultralight and the Sea to Summit Hydraulic Set.

Best Way to Pack Clothes into a Packing Cube

There are two options you can go with when packing your clothes in a packing cube. The first is by rolling up your clothes, and the second by folding. While you can't go wrong with either, we are fans of rolling when you can—especially when you're bringing casual outfits and athleisure clothes—and then folding for some exceptions.

Rolling your clothes might feel weird if you've never done it, but it saves a ton of space and will fit in a packing cube nice and neat. Rolling your clothes also prevents wrinkles on your garments in most cases. The only time you want to consider folding your clothes is on garments with collars, like button-down shirts and polos. For that, we say fold the few pieces of those you're bringing and then stack them on top of the rolled up wardrobe you've packed into the base of your packing cube.

Why Trust Us

In order to keep up with new new innovations and product releases, the MH tech and gear team is continually testing all of the latest packing tools and accessories to make sure our recommendations reflect the top products within the travel space.

When it comes to packing cubes, we called in 10 different sets for testing and took them out assignments and vacations. We also inspected the packing cubes in office, taking an in-depth look the overall build quality and design of the packing cubes. Lastly, we considered what each packing cube does best by applying them to all the different types of luggage we test: travel backpacks, duffel bags, carry-ons, checked luggage, and more.

How We Selected

Our MH commerce team thoroughly researched and tested dozens of the best packing cubes, from basic sets to sets made for adventure and outdoors. We evaluated packing cubes based on their design, durability, special features, and price point. The list above represents our honest picks for the best packing cubes of 2023.

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