travel packing cubes

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

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The Best Packing Cubes

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

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.

Protect Your Trip »

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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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 Best Packing Cubes of 2024

Nobody likes spending their trip fishing through a bag looking for a charging cord, which is why packing cubes are an extremely useful packing tool for travelers. The best packing cubes organize and separate clothes and gear within a bag, plus they can help compress said gear to help you fit more into your luggage. 

The staff at GearJunkie is constantly on the move, so most of us already have our favorite packing cube setup. But there are countless options out there, so to find the best ones, we loaded up our gear and tried out dozens of packing cubes. Over the course of a few months (and thousands of miles), we settled on our favorite options for organizing clothes, keeping our tech handy, and for separating our dirty laundry.  

You can head straight to our comprehensive buyer’s guide and FAQ at the bottom of the article. Our comparison chart can also help you make a decision. Otherwise, read our complete gear guide below.

• Best Overall Packing Cube: Thule Compression Cube Set  
• Best Budget Packing Cube: Orvis LT Small Packing Cube
• Best Packing Cube for Tech:   Thule Subterra Power Shuttle (Medium)
• Best Packing Cube for Toiletries: Peak Design Wash Pouch
• Best Shoe Pouch: Peak Design Shoe Pouch
• Best Field Wallet: Orvis Trekkage LT Field Notes Wallet

Thule Compression Cube Set

• Material 100D ripstop nylon
• Dimensions Small: 10.2” x 7.1” x 4.3” expanded, 10.0 x 7.0 x 1.25” compressed; Medium: 14.0 x 10.0 x 5.9” expanded, 13.4 x 9.1 x 1.25” compressed
• Sizes Available Medium, small

• Compresses clothes to save space
• Opaque nylon lets you see what’s inside
• Ripstop nylon is extremely durable
• Not waterproof
• Compression can leave clothes wrinkled

From luggage to rooftop cargo boxes, Thule makes some killer gear. So it makes sense that its Thule Compression Cube Set ($45) would make the top of this list. This two-pack includes a medium Compression Packing Cube and a small Compression Packing Cube, both made from durable and semi-transparent 100-denier ripstop nylon. 

We loved the little design details like handles that make it easy to pull the cubes out of a backpack and opaque material to see what’s inside each cube. But what really made these cubes stand out was how effective the compression was. We were able to fully load each cube with shirts, underwear, jeans, and socks, and the heavy-duty compression zippers were still able to close fully. 

The result? During testing on a flight to Dallas, we were able to cram 10 pairs of boxer briefs in the small cube. That’s 10 days of underwear compressed into the size of a hardback book. The packs slid easily and out of our backpacks, and despite overpacking and wrenching down on the zippers, we never busted a seam. 

We searched for a way to criticize the Thule Compression Cube Set , and the only thing we could come up with is that they’re not totally waterproof. But if your trip entails anything but total submersion, you’ll be good to go. 

Orvis LT Small Packing Cube

• Material 100% recycled polyester
• Dimensions 10" x 7" x 4"
• Sizes Available Large, small

• Mesh top for visibility
• Hande for easy access
• No compression
• Mesh top can snag easily

If you’re looking for a bargain and just need to add a bit of organization to your pack, the Orvis LT Small Packing Cube ($19) is an excellent choice. Made of recycled polyester, the base and sides of this cube are lightweight, yet tough. 

The open mesh top makes it easy to see what you’ve packed in each cube. Dual zippers allowed us to close the cube relatively easily, even when we overstuffed it. You may have some trouble overstuffing it, however. Even in this smaller size, the mesh top expanded a bit to allow for extra stuff. We were able to squeeze seven extra-large men’s t-shirts in it. We even had room for a few pairs of socks left over. 

That mesh top is a double-edged sword, however. It had a habit of snagging on any pokey items like pens and keys when we threw everything willy-nilly into a backpack. Plus, some compression would have been helpful for saving some space. 

Those nitpicks aside, the O rvis LT Small Packing Cube punches way above its $20 price tag. For the price of one of some other packing cubes, you could snag two of these and have enough room to organize a week’s worth of shirts and undies.

Thule Subterra Power Shuttle (Medium)

• Material 800D nylon
• Dimensions 8.3” x 2.8” x 5.7”
• Sizes Available Regular (large), medium, small

• Plenty of cord storage
• Passport pocket
• Elastic pockets for batteries
• Power bricks fit awkwardly

Wrangling a power cord out of your backpack is one of the main inconveniences of modern travel. Fortunately, the Thule Subterra Power Shuttle (Medium) ($30) offers an elegant solution. This packing cube has enough elastic bands to hold four different cables, so you can instantly find the one you need. 

In addition, it has four elastic pockets of varying sizes to hold portable batteries, memory cards, and more. There’s also a zippered pocket for documents like a passport with a key clip inside. Plus the whole pack is less than three inches thick; we were able to fit it in our backpack’s smaller external pockets with ease. 

While it does have a surprising amount of space for flatter items (we fit a Kindle Paperwhite in the larger pocket), thicker items like power bricks took up a lot of space. 

Overall, though, we were able to fit most of our tech into the svelte frame of the Thule Subterra Power Shuttle . More importantly, we were able to organize it and access it when needed.

Peak Design Wash Pouch

• Material 100% recycled Weatherproof 200D nylon canvas shell
• Dimensions 10.2" x 6” x 4.4"
• Sizes Available Regular, small

• Sits upright for easy access
• Stowable aluminum hook for hanging
• Water- and stain-resistant
• Tons of organization
• Takes up a lot of packing space

The Peak Design Wash Pouch ($60) is a must for any type A traveler. With two large open storage spaces and eight separate pockets, this packing cube is clutch for organizing your toiletries. There’s even a magnetically-sealed toothbrush pocket with a removable lining for easy cleaning. 

Plus, the cube has a stowable hook, so you can hang it from a towel ring to save space on a hotel bathroom counter. The fabric is water- and stain-resistant, and easily wipes clean if you tend to brush your teeth too zealously. 

Our lead tester is painfully organized when traveling, and its many compartments were perfect for keeping everything in its place. He was able to store everything from contact lens gear to beard oil (if you know, you know) without creating a mess. 

Made from a durable, 200-denier nylon shell, the Peak Design Wash Pouch should last a lifetime. But if it doesn’t, Peak Design offers a lifetime guarantee.

Peak Design Shoe Pouch

• Material Ultralight weatherproof ripstop 70D nylon/polyester
• Dimensions 12.6" x 6.7" x 6.7"
• Sizes Available One size

• Surprisingly roomy
• Loops for carrying on the outside of a pack
• Weatherproof ripstop shell
• Very tough zipper
• Packs into tiny integrated pocket
• May be too small for men’s size 12 and above

The Peak Design Shoe Pouch ($25) is an excellent solution to letting your shoes mess up the rest of your luggage’s contents. Made with a tough 70-denier nylon/poly shell, this pouch seals off your shoes from your clothes. The #5 UltraZip zipper is tough enough to wrangle around awkwardly-shaped boots, and when not in use, it packs down into an integrated pocket. 

Our tester knows the pain of scrounging around a hotel room for a plastic bag to stow muddy boots in after a trip. So he was very impressed when he was able to cram two men’s size 11 Salewa mid-height boots into the pouch. 

The zipper held up, even when he forced it over the boots’ tread, and with a little finagling, there was even enough room to cram in a pair of wet, muddy socks. The single-piece construction minimizes seams (aka weak points), which we appreciated when squeezing our shoes into the pouch. After the trip, the pouch turned inside out for easy cleaning.

And if you’re not going anywhere that you’ll need to separate your shoes, the Peak Design Shoe Pouch also works well as a plain old packing cube.

Orvis Trekkage LT Field Notes Wallet

• Material 600D Cordura
• Dimensions 6⅛" x 4" x 5"

• Tough 600D Cordura exterior
• Six card compartments
• Three larger compartments for documents
• Elastic pen holder loop
• Could easily get lost in a backpack
• Won’t fit both a passport and a journal

If you’re trying to keep your valuables safe on the road, you should definitely consider the Orvis Trekkage LT Field Notes Wallet ($59). This field wallet can hold up to six credit or ID cards and has three stash pockets for cash and documents like vaccine cards, a passport, or a pocket journal. Plus, it has just enough room for a regular-sized pen or pencil and a loop to hold it in place.

To keep all these valuables safe, it’s covered with a tough 600-denier Cordura exterior. It also zips completely shut to prevent anything from falling out. It can fit easily into a pocket, but we made it a habit of keeping it in our sling back for extra security when we traveled. 

We loved the ability to have all of our important documents in one place when we traveled. Keeping the passport, cards, and cash all in one spot. This not only kept everything readily available but also prevented our tester from performing his habitual pat-down to ensure he still had everything when he deplaned. 

While it won’t fit a passport and a pocket journal, we do like the extremely slim nature of the Orvis Trekkage LT Field Notes Wallet . When we traveled with it, the wallet fit perfectly in the smaller pockets of backpacks, sling bags, and even our hip pockets. Just don’t toss it in your backpack’s main compartment. We spent a few panicky minutes searching for it an SMF International Airport when we made that mistake. 

Packing Cubes Comparison Chart

How we tested packing cubes.

We evaluated over a dozen different packing cubes and sets over the course of six months. We tested the cubes at home, doing quality control and durability tests and we took them on the road with us to see how they performed in real-world situations. 

For the at-home tests, we stuffed the cubes to capacity and beyond. This showed us not only how much they could hold but also how well the seams and zippers held up to being overstuffed. We also did other durability tests, like pulling and twisting the zippers to test for fragility. Any cubes that did not survive the abuse did not make it onto this list. 

On the road, we tested how well the cubes fit into standard luggage, as well as the conditions of the clothes when we unpacked. When applicable, we tested a product to see how it performed its specific purpose. For instance, we checked to see how easy it was to access the Thule Subterra Power Shuttle’s inner pockets while in an airline seat and how well our toiletries stayed organized after being jostled and shaken in the Peak Design Wash Pouch .

This guide exclusively covers packing cubes. For more travel gear suggestions, check out our guides to the best travel backpacks and travel pants . 

Why You Should Trust Us

GearJunkie Affiliate Managing Editor Billy Brown has traveled to almost every corner of the world testing gear. Over the years, he has lost too many checked bags, so he’s obsessed with traveling only with carry-ons. This makes him a stickler for maximizing bag space, making packing cubes an essential item for him. 

Billy’s obsession with not checking bags made him an excellent candidate for testing a packing cube’s ability to fit more gear into a small space. His need for organization was also ideal for evaluating specialty items like tech cubes and toiletry bags. 

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Packing Cubes

There is no end to the variety of packing cubes out there, which can make picking the right ones a chore. But there is a method to finding the right ones for you. Here are a few things to consider. 

Sizes 

It’s always a good idea to find packing cubes that come in multiple sizes. That way, you can have a cube for different items, like a larger one for shirts and pants, and smaller ones for socks and underwear. Varying sizes also allows you to Tetris them into whatever bag you’re using. The Thule Subterra Power Shuttle and Orvis LT Small Packing Cube come in multiple sizes.  

If you want to cram as much into your packing cubes as possible, you’re going to need one with durable material. Subpar packing cube material can rip or burst at the seams when you try to overstuff them. Look for packing cubes with ripstop nylon or heavy-duty Cordura, like the Thule Compression Cube Set or the Orvis Trekkage LT Field Notes Wallet .

The zippers can be a weak point in a packing cube. Weaker ones can burst open when they’re put under the stress of an overpacked cube. Also, the pull tab can get jammed when you try to ratchet it closed. Every cube on this list had zippers that held up to extensive stress testing. 

Being able to see the interior of a packing cube isn’t a necessity, but it’s a nice perk. Mesh or clear material allows you to see the contents inside a cube for easy identification. This can prevent you from having to fish around in a bunch of cubes to find your lucky boxers. The Thule Compression Cube Set and Orvis LT Small Packing Cube both offer excellent interior visibility. 

Compression

If you want more space in your pack, compression cubes like the Thule Compression Cube Set are an excellent choice. These cubes have a zipper running the perimeter of the cube. You can pack the clothes when it’s unzipped, then crank the zipper down to compress the contents down to a smaller size. 

This is extremely useful for saving luggage space, but it will most likely result in wrinkling your clothes. If you have dress clothes that you’d like to keep wrinkle-free, compression cubes should be avoided. 

Types of Packing Cubes

Most compression cubes are similar in shape and utility. They’re cube-shaped (duh) compartments that separate your clothes and organize your luggage. But there are also more specialized options that are designed for specific needs. 

Toiletry Bags

Most often water- and stain-resistant, toiletry bags are designed for carrying your bathroom gear. The best ones, like the Peak Design Wash Pouch have compartments for things like your toothbrush, razor, toothpaste, shaving cream, deodorant, contact lens case. They’re extremely useful for keeping your toiletries in one place. 

If you travel with electronics, a tech pouch like the Thule Subterra Power Shuttle is a lifesaver. These pouches are usually on the smaller side, so you can stash them in an outer pocket for easy access. They often have elastic bands that will keep your charging cords separate and organized. There should also be compartments for power bricks, earbuds, and other electronic accoutrement. 

Many travelers have had that moment of panic when they can’t find their passport/wallet/keys/important documents during a trip. A travel wallet like the Orvis Trekkage LT Field Notes Wallet is a great way to avoid those mad scrambles through your luggage. Think of it as a tiny packing cube for paper and plastic.  

A shoe bag may be on the more peripheral side of things, but they’re a great way to keep your shoes and clothes separate. This can come in especially handy if you’ll be walking on sand or hiking off-trail. Shoe bags like the Peak Design Shoe Pouch can often fit one or two pairs of shoes. You should also be able to turn it inside out and give it a good washing once you get home.

Yes, packing cubes are definitely worth it. They can help organize your luggage and save space. Compression cubes, like the Thule Compression Cube Set , can even help creat more space in your luggage by squeezing their contents down. 

Packing cubes are useless if they can’t hold anything without tearing. If you’re going to be cramming as much as you can into them, they’ll need to be tough. A good packing cube will be made of durable material like Cordura or ripstop nylon. Both of these materials are tough, yet flexible. Plus, they tend to be water-resistant as well.

Absolutely. Packing cubes compress clothes into a smaller space so they take up less room in a bag. Plus, they help you compartmentalize your gear, so you can easily find what you’re looking for without unpacking everything.

The Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024

Carry-on luggage comes in a variety of styles, from the hardshell classics to soft-sided, duffel bags. Whether you value features like external pockets or 360-spinner wheels, internal compression, or TSA-approved locks, we’ve got you covered with our wide selection of the best carry-on luggage of 2023.

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

We found the best travel backpacks of 2024, including top picks from Peak Design, Osprey, Patagonia, and more.

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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.

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.

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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).