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How to Use Packing Cubes Efficiently: Step-by-Step Guide

Why use packing cubes.

Have you ever missed a flight or skipped an important part of your itinerary? All because you were spending so much time packing your luggage! Or you were probably too busy scrambling to find items that you need in your suitcase or backpack 🤦‍♀️ 

Wouldn’t you rather spend your precious time traveling and exploring places instead? 

If these scenarios seem all too familiar, it might be a good time to rethink your packing strategy. Packing cubes will change the way you pack and help you organize so you can finally focus on your trip. Yup, these awesome pouches are the secret to a super organized suitcase and we’ll tell you why:

✓ Stay Organized - Let’s be honest: folding or rolling are great ways to organize your clothes when traveling. But whether these strategies can actually keep your travel items organized is a whole other story. Packing cubes allow you to stay organized for the entire duration of your trip (not just before the trip!) because they act like traveling drawers for your suitcase. Curious? More on that later 😉

✓ No Mess - Makes it easier for you to find the things you need without having to go through the entire suitcase… Like your favorite pair of socks or pants! Just grab the cube that you need without messing up the entire bag.

✓ Privacy - Keep private things private (like underwear)! Packing cubes give you some privacy during airport security because your items are secured and not easily visible during inspection.

✓ Unpacking Made Easy - There’s no need to unpack once you reach your destination. Remove the cubes from your suitcase, then place into your hotel’s drawers (or any flat surface) and voila, no unpacking required! Bonus: they’re also more hygienic.

These are just a few reasons why packing cubes rock! Hopefully we’ve convinced you to be a cube convert. Now that you know the why , let’s go ahead and move to the how.

How to Pack Efficiently With Travel Cubes

Want to know a secret? There are some tips and tricks that will help you pack more efficiently using packing cubes. Follow the steps below and you’re on your way to a fun trip (and a more organized suitcase!):

1. Cut it down to the basics

The first (and super important) step is to figure out which items are essential for your trip. Leave behind the extras and pare down your items to the basics. Once you do this, packing is less daunting and you’re sure to maximize the space in your suitcase (without the extras weighing you down).

2. Lay ‘em flat and categorize

Gather all your travel items and lay them in a flat, empty area (like your bed or the floor). Then it’s time to categorize! Place similar items together like your tops, bottoms, toiletries, shoes, etc. 

This is a great way to find out if you’re packing duplicates or excesses of certain items. If you’re traveling with your family, you can avoid packing doubles (or triples) of toiletries or other items that can actually be shared during the trip.

3. Choose your packing strategy

Not sure how to pack your travel items into cubes? We’ve got some good news for you! There are actually different strategies for packing your clothes (or other travel items) into cubes. Choose one according to your #travelstyle and start packing like a pro:

✔️  Packing by Category - Probably the most popular because it’s just so simple and easy! Similar items are packed together in one packing cube. Undies and socks can go in a Small Cube . Tops (like shirts & tank tops) go in a Medium Cube and bottoms (like pants & shorts) go in another Medium Cube. It’s the best packing strategy for a long trip! 

✔️  Packing by Outfit - This strategy is less popular but very convenient in some situations. For example, if you’re going on a short trip (like a weekend getaway) and you already have all your cute outfits planned. Or for families traveling with small kids (who can’t pick their own outfits yet). You can use a few Small Cubes or Medium Cubes to organize your (or the kid’s) planned outfits which makes it easier to get ready during mornings.

✔️  Packing by Individual - If you’re checking a large suitcase for the whole family, you can allot each member a Large Cube to organize their essentials. Want to make it less stressful (and more fun)? Let them pick the cube in their favorite color so they can easily find their ‘own’ cube in the suitcase. #packinghack

✔️  Packing by City - Going on a multi-city trip? Organize your essentials for each city in a Medium Cube. Don’t forget the accessories!

4. Grab a set or add on cubes as needed

Now that you have chosen the ‘perfect’ packing strategy, it’s time to get your cube on. But first, you have to decide which set or cubes to add to your collection:

✔️   Starter Set - This set includes 1 each of our 4 packing cubes sizes (from Extra Small to Large). Perfect for organizing your carry-on luggage! Recommended for solo travelers, couples or families with older kids. 

✔️   Complete Bundle - This set includes 8 cubes! 2 each of our 4 packing cubes sizes (from Extra Small to Large). It also includes other travel accessories like a shoe bag, laundry bag and folding board set. Perfect for organizing your checked suitcase! Recommended for couples or families sharing a suitcase.

✔️   Individual Cubes -  Got your eyes on our fun solo cubes? Maybe you want to build your own cube stash? You can also buy our cubes individually or add on as needed.

5. Fold or roll (it’s up to you!)

For the folding camp, we like to alternate the necklines (for shirts) and seams (for pants) when packing them into cubes. This helps balance the weight so every inch is maximized and you don’t end up with a lumpy cube. 

If you’re in the other camp, make sure to roll each garment tightly to avoid wrinkles and creases. We like rolling our smaller items like underwear, shirts, dresses and shorts. 

6. Don’t waste the space

Packing strategy? Check! Packing cube set? Check!

Next, let’s get those cubes ready and pack our essentials inside. Go ahead and fold (or roll) your clothing items. Pack them inside your cube, making sure to utilize every available space. 

However, if you do end up with a cube that has a bit of space left, don’t fret! All you need to do is zip it up then push the cube down. This will remove the excess air and help compress the cube so you don’t end up with any wasted space.

On a similar note, if at the end of your trip you have empty packing cubes, you can compress them so they won’t utilize as much luggage space.

7. Stack the cubes like Tetris

Now it’s time to actually pack the cubes into your suitcase. This is super easy but requires some of your Tetris skills. Depending on your suitcase, you can stack our cubes either horizontally or vertically.

If it’s a suitcase with one deep compartment, you can stack the cubes vertically. Our cubes are super structured (and not flimsy at all) which is why they’re perfect for this.

If you have a suitcase with two shallow compartments, you can then stack our cubes horizontally instead.

8. Don’t forget your Quart Size Bag

Both our Starter Set and Complete Bundle include a TSA Approved Toiletry Bag (AKA the cutie Extra Small Cube). This is a super handy (and a customer favorite) addition to our cube sets. 

It’s perfect for packing your 3 oz liquids for travel. It’s under quart size, has a clear design and makes getting through airport security a breeze. Just make sure you pack it in an easy access place like on top of your carry-on bag.

9. Unpack if you have space

Once you reach your hotel (or Airbnb), the unpacking process begins. But don’t worry, unpacking is super easy with packing cubes. Remove the cubes from your suitcase, zip them open and then place on any flat surface for easy access to your travel items.

Place your TSA Approved Toiletry Bag in the bathroom. With our cube’s zip-top opening, you don’t need to dump the items out just to find what you need.

You can then place the other remaining cubes into your hotel’s drawers (if there’s space).

10. Use like ‘traveling drawers’

Staying somewhere with very limited space (like a hostel or cruise stateroom)? You can use our cubes like drawers instead. No need to unpack them from your suitcase! 

Pro Tip: Cramped space? Place your suitcase (with the cubes inside) under your hotel bed to maximize space.

Other Ways to Use Packing Cubes

Now that you know the basics on how to pack with travel cubes, let’s have some fun! There are LOTS more ways to use packing cubes and we’ll give you some ideas below:

1. Organize your backpack 

Love traveling with a backpack? Great news! You can also use our packing cubes to keep it organized. Check this blog post to learn how.

2. Organize your baby’s diaper bag

Our packing cubes are also perfect for organizing your baby bag. You’ll need a few Extra Small Cubes and Small Cubes for this. Want to learn more? Check out this blog post.

3. Pack a Hair Travel Kit

Can’t leave without your favorite hair tools and products? Pack your own Hair Travel Kit using our Medium Cube. Want to learn more? Click here for the tidbits!

4. Keep your house organized

Yup, packing cubes are not just for travel organization. You can also use them to keep your home neat and tidy. Here are some ideas to get you started:

✔️  Craft Room Organizer - Keep your art supplies like your yarn, knitting needles, etc. organized with a Medium Cube.

✔️  Toy Room Organizer - Use a few Large Cubes to sort and separate your kid’s toys. Read our post on toy room organization here.

✔️  Linen & Closet Organizer - Keep your off-season clothes organized (and protected) with our Large Cube. You can use our Storage Cube for your larger items like bed sheets and duvets.

Ready to level up your packing game with travel cubes? We hope this guide helped you pack more efficiently with cubes. If you have any more questions, leave them in the comments section below or send us an email.

Happy Packing! 

P.S. Want to learn more about packing cubes? Check out our post on Packing Cubes Review 101: All You Need to Know and More!

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OW-Travel Easy to Organise Packing Cubes for Suitcases. Clothes Storage with Travel Cubes a Travel Organiser for Travel Bag Backpack Luggage. Accessories Holiday Essentials.

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• 【A Packing Cube For Packing Bags】 Pack like a Pro with wrinkle free clothes storage. No more messy travel kit in your clothes bags with this travel organiser. The travel packing cubes mesh top panel allows easy identification of travel clothes. Double zipper. Webbing handle allows the luggage cubes to be carried. Packing cubes for carry on luggage: check in baggage over the airplane weight allowance, the clothes organiser can become cabin hand luggage reducing excess flight baggage charges.
• 【Easy to Organise】 Travel set of 4 travel cubes for packing in Blue, Yellow, Orange and Pink. Luggage cubes for packing make packing bags for travel easier. Use a colour for each family member? Suitcase packing cubes save time and space. No repacking clothing luggage bags on each leg of the holiday. Keep your hotel room tidy. Holiday bags full of dirty laundry. These luggage organiser bags can be used as travel laundry bags at the end of the holiday. A dual use clothes storage bag.
• 【Lightweight and Durable】 The luggage organiser set is made from nylon like polyester fabric with finished interior seams. Travelling accessories to survive the rigours of travel. These simple high-quality ultra light packing cubes for travel offer lots of organised clothing storage without adding weight at only 70g each bag organizer. Dimensions of suitcase organiser bags: 27.5cm x 10cm x 20cm. Slim, compact and foldable the travel organiser packing bags packs away small when not in use
• 【Clothes Organisers At Home and Travel Storage On Holiday】 As well as being holiday essentials these travel essentials are home storage solutions and can be used as drawer organisers, wardrobe organisers and underwear drawer organiser. Can also be used as a baby bag organiser, keeping gadgets for men tidy, hospital stays. These travel pouches have 101 uses. As well as being used in suitcases they can be used with a backpack when rucksack hiking, toiletry organizer for toiletries, camping.
• 【Confidence in Every Purchase】 Holiday accessories like travel packing organizer are ideal gifts for women and presents for men. Essentials for house and home storage to organise drawers, bedroom wardrobes or closet and storing old clothes. This 4 pcs travel accessory for suitcase bags can be yours. Click on the "Add to Cart" button and order Now!

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Product Description

Ow-travel accessories packing cubes designed for travel and convenience.

Packing Cubes for Travel and More

Organising suitcases

Organising backpacks

Organising wardrobes

Organising changing bags

Ow-travel packing organisers, luggage straps, silicone containers, rfid sleeves, ow-travel tsa locks, ow-travel accessories making life simpler.

OW-Travel accessories has a range of thoughtfully designed products at affordable prices which includes: TSA luggage locks, Luggage straps, Packing organisers, RFID sleeves, Silicone toiletry bottles, Luggage tags and PeeBuddy female urination devices.

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Product details.

• Is discontinued by manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 27.5 x 10 x 20 cm; 250 g
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ 1 Nov. 2016
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ OW-Travel
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07T8ZGC5N
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ Organisateur de Voyage
• Country of origin ‏ : ‎ China
• 26 in Packing Organisers

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Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings, help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyses reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the value, versatility, color, organisation and size of the storage bags. For example, they mention that it's very good value for money, useful for compact packing and that the different coloured bags are really helpful for identifying whose is whose. They appreciate the size, saying that it fits everything in and is perfect for long trips. Customers are also satisfied with the quality.

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Customers are satisfied with the quality of the storage bag. They mention that it's well-made, sturdy, and durable. Some say that the colors could be better. Overall, most are happy with their purchase and recommend it to others.

"Great colours, they fit perfectly in my bag, seem sturdy and very roomy." Read more

"...The zips are sturdy and they will last multiple trips on heavy use " Read more

"These travel organisers seem fairly robust, with good zips ...." Read more

"...They arrived on time and I was pleasantly surprised to find them of good quality , with good strong zips...." Read more

Customers find the storage bags practical for packing in carry-on and checked baggage. They also say the lightweight bags are great for maximising the packing of clothes for a trip away. Customers also mention that the bags fit in the box nicely and are ideal for travelers on the go.

"Great colours, they fit perfectly in my bag , seem sturdy and very roomy." Read more

"These are small cubes but great for seeing items and colours are bright and fun...." Read more

"...Crucially, they are a practical size for packing in carry-on and checked baggage and have more capacity than you might expect...." Read more

"...product to pack for my holiday plenty space in the bags and makes packing much easier would definitely recommend" Read more

Customers like the size of the storage bag. For example, they mention it's a great size to fit everything in, relatively large, and roomier than they appear. Some appreciate that you get four equal sized pouches in this pack, which provides more capacity than you might expect.

"Great colours, they fit perfectly in my bag, seem sturdy and very roomy ." Read more

"...for packing in carry-on and checked baggage and have more capacity than you might expect ...." Read more

"...These are all the same size, relatively large (1 pack held 6 t-shirts rolled up, plus a couple of pairs of socks and some underwear with no issue)...." Read more

"...They are good quality with sturdy zips and a good size . The four in this particular pack are the same size, a bit bigger than a shoe box" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the organization of the storage bag. They mention that it's great for keeping clothes organised when travelling, helps to organize cupboards, and maximizes use of space. Some say that the pouches are useful for organising packing in a back pack for travelling. They also say that they are perfect for keeping all their clothes neat and tidy while away. Overall, most are happy with the quality and functionality of the product.

"...They are also ideal for keeping clothes organised for stays at hotels where drawer space is often limited or these have been replaced by open..." Read more

"... Keeps everything nice and neat ." Read more

"A very convenient way of organizing your clothes in your suitcase when travelling or just in your drawers at home...." Read more

"...But they are fantastic for shelf organisation which is what I wanted." Read more

Customers like the color of the storage bag. They say the different colors are helpful for identifying items. Some say the bags look great and last many holidays.

" Great colours , they fit perfectly in my bag, seem sturdy and very roomy." Read more

"These are small cubes but great for seeing items and colours are bright and fun ...." Read more

"...They come in different colours so you can co-ordinate them to specific items .... I use them for storing underwear pants socks etc and I also use..." Read more

"... Great to have 5=4 different colours . She is very pleased" Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the storage bag. They mention it's a great purchase and good value for money.

"...have (no longer available on Amazon), but are still fine and great value for money ." Read more

"Ease of packing, lightweight, good value for money . I wouldn’t be without them." Read more

"Great quality, and good price . Like the different colours which makes it even easier to find things quickly when travelling." Read more

"...Perfect size for efficient packing. Good quality and at a reasonable price . I did my research before buying these and am really pleased with these." Read more

Customers find the storage bag easy to use. They say the colors make it easy to find things quickly when travelling, and the mesh top makes it easy for them to see in each compartment.

"Love these packing cubes. Makes it so easy to find things in my case. A must have in my view." Read more

"...The packing cubes are perfect to get our clothes sorted for easy access without rummaging !" Read more

"...Like the different colours which makes it even easier to find things quickly when travelling." Read more

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The Best Packing Cubes to Keep Your Suitcase Organized

By Kristi Kellogg and Meaghan Kenny

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

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

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

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

Shop our top picks:

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

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

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

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

Why we chose it: Customizable, made of recycled materials

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

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

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

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

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

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

More packing cubes we recommend:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why we chose it: Easy to share among travel buddies

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

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

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

Why we chose it: Affordable price point

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4 Colour packing cubes for suitcases. Travel storage organiser bags

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✅ EASY to ORGANISE: The set of 4 packing cubes come with large see through mesh panels making it easier to organise clothes in a case. They open wide for ease of use. Why not use a a cube for each family member? Ready to save time and space with this companion when packing and repacking clothing on each leg of the holiday trip, keep your hotel room tidy. Organisers can be used to store all types of gear dirty laundry washing, a shoe or a pair of shoes. Essential for all holidays. ✅ EASY to USE: Never have disorganised suitcases or backpacks again when travelling. Wrinkle free clothes storage. Mesh top panel of the organizer allows for easy identification of contents and ventilation. Double zips make opening/closing fast and easy and the webbing handle conveniently allows the cube to be carried. Luggage over the airline weight limit, the organizers can become airplane carry on cabin hand luggage reducing airport excess baggage charges unlike transparent ziplock bags. ✅ LIGHTWEIGHT and DURABLE: Made of nylon like polyester fabric with finished interior seams makes them durable, able to survive the rigours of travel. The simple high-quality ultra light packing cubes offer lots of organised garment storage without adding weight to your bag at only 60g and 80g each. Dimensions: 2 Medium sized cubes 35cm x 25cm x 8cm and 2 Large sized cubes 44cm x 32cm x 8cm and a clear mesh zip pouch 16cm x 22cm. Slim, compact and foldable, packs away small they when not in use ✅ TRAVEL ACCESSORY for trolley cases on cruise ship, plane or camping and backpacking travels. Works with a holdall, weekender, duffel bags, travelbags to organize travel kit. Can store all types of garments: tshirt, sweater, shirt, dress, sock, socks underwear, pantyhose, bra lingerie. Use the MULTI-PURPOSE ZIPPER POUCH for sorting little things: electronic necessities or as handy toilet toiletry washbag for toiletries shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush or as a ladies cosmetic wash bag for makeup ✅ TOTAL SATISFACTION GUARANTEED OR YOUR MONEY BACK, that's our promise to you. This perfect travel system is available as 4 Medium, 4 Large or 2 of each organiser. Best value travelling accessory making ideal gifts for men and women or the him or her in your life. Essentials for house and home storage to organise drawers, bedroom wardrobes or closet and storing old clothes. Click on the "Add to Cart" button and order NOW! If you have any problems or questions with these multi-colour packing cubes please do not hesitate to contact us .

✅  Orders being sent to the European Union (EU) must be over £130 to comply with the new EU tax rules.

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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.

How to Use Packing Cubes to Save Space

This page contains affiliate links. Please read our disclosure for more info.

The difference between people who travel carry-on only and those who don’t is not necessarily what they pack but how they pack.

Below I share my tips on how to use packing cubes to fit more in your luggage and the best packing cubes and compression bags for travel.

During our 13 years of travelling with just carry-on luggage, we’ve learnt that how you pack is hugely important.

Most travellers agree that the best way to stay organised and save space is to use packing organisers.

They could be simple zip-lock bags or more durable (and environmentally-friendly) travel packing cubes or compression bags.

By using organisers, you can compartmentalise your travel gear with each bag or cube containing a different category of item.

Why Use Packing Cubes and Organisers?

Compression bags for travel, how do packing cubes work, the best packing cubes, packing cubes vs compression bags, more packing posts.

Using travel packing organisers has many advantages:

• Pack more efficiently – It’s easy to pack when you know what goes in each cube and how each cube fits in your luggage. It’s like a game of Tetris—rearrange the cubes and other items until they fit perfectly into your bag, and then stick with your system. You’ll feel less stressed when packing, as you know everything will fit.
• Find things easily – Your cubes work like drawers at home. You know what’s in them, so you can take out the relevant cube rather than rummaging around at the bottom of your suitcase.
• Save space – You can squeeze a surprising amount of clothes into a cube, so you can pack more. Compression bags are even better as they remove excess air.
• Keep clothes clean and dry – Some organisers are water resistant and all offer protection from dirt. They can also be used to protect clothes in dusty hotel drawers.
• Prevent overpacking – Limit what you pack by choosing an organiser for each category.

Creating your own packing system will make travel much easier whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase—I highly recommend trying it.

There are a number of options:

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If you are struggling to fit everything into your luggage, consider travel compression bags for packing clothes.

These are sealable plastic bags with one-way pressure valves that let air out but not in. By removing excess air, your clothes are compressed, and you save space.

Compression packing bags work particularly well for bulkier items like fleeces and sweaters, so they are useful when packing for cold weather .

As the bags are airtight, they keep your clothes clean and dry—good to know if you get caught in a heavy rain shower or on a small boat with sea spray.

How to Use Travel Compression Bags

Compression bags are simple to use. You fold your clothes and lay them flat inside the bag, seal the zip-lock top, then roll the bag, squeezing out all the air.

It helps to do this on the floor and perhaps kneel on it to use your body weight to squeeze out as much air as possible.

When choosing a compression bag, make sure it is suitable for travel—you should be able to remove the air by rolling it rather than with a vacuum cleaner.

Some luggage compression bags are flimsy and tear easily; it’s worth investing in a durable bag, as it’s difficult to find replacements abroad.

Compression packing bags come in a range of sizes. You can choose a large bag for all your clothes or smaller bags to separate items.

The downsides of compression bags are that your clothes get a little creased; you have to uncompress the bag to access items—not very convenient if you need something on a travel day—and they can tear, which is why it’s worth paying more for a sturdy bag.

It can take effort to roll the bag, especially if it’s full. I admit I got Simon to roll mine whenever possible, as he was better at removing the air than I was.

It’s also annoying if the seal isn’t very good and the air leaks out, expanding the bag and making it a struggle to fit in your luggage. We haven’t had this issue with good quality bags, though.

The Best Compression Bags for Travel

I’ve tried a range of clothes compression bags. My favourite are the robust Packmate travel roll storage bags , which come with a lifetime guarantee and free replacements of the slider that seals the bag. Unfortunately, they are only available in the UK. 

The Eagle Creek Pack-it compression sac is also excellent—the plastic is nylon reinforced, and it is covered by Eagle Creek’s lifetime warranty.

It can be hard to find, though. The Cozy Essentials travel roll up bags are an alternative, although we haven’t tried them yet.

Don’t confuse plastic rollable compression bags with nylon compression sacks , like those used to store a sleeping bag. Some travellers use these, but you are better off with compression bags, which remove more air, or packing cubes, which keep your clothes more organised and accessible.

For five years we both travelled with a large compression bag for our clothes. They worked well, but we eventually tired of rolling the bags and switched to a new type of compression packing cube . I explain how do compression packing cubes work below.

We do still occasionally use roll up compression bags, especially if we are travelling to a cold destination with bulky clothes.

What are Packing Cubes?

Packing cubes are zippered fabric containers, usually in a rectangular shape, for organising your items and making them easier to find in your luggage. They come in a range of sizes and are often sold as sets.

Unlike compression bags, you can use them to organise all kinds of gear, not just clothes.

For example, you could have one large cube for your clothes, a small cube for underwear, and another for your electronic accessories—chargers, cables, etc.

You know exactly where each item is kept, and when you need it, you just take out the appropriate cube.

Using packing cubes has some advantages over compression bags:

• It’s easier to access your clothes, as you don’t need to release the air
• They are more durable
• They stack neatly in your luggage
• Your clothes will be less creased

The downside is that, although they take up less room compared to packing your clothes loose, they don’t compress as much as a bag designed for that purpose.

Are packing cubes worth it? While they can seem pricey at first, we’ve found that good quality cubes last years and are worth it to save space and keep your luggage organised. 

How to Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are easy to use—just roll or fold your clothes and place them inside the cube then zip it up.

I prefer to roll my clothes as it maximises space and makes it easier to access each item when they are in neat rows.

For bulkier items like jeans, I’ll fold them and place them in the bottom of the cube.

You can organise your cubes however you prefer such as by type of clothes or activity—use different colours to make them easy to identify.

I currently have a small cube for underwear and socks, another small one for workout gear, and two medium cubes for other clothes. As I’m travelling between variable climates, I use a different cube for summer clothes and winter clothes.

Some people choose to have a cube for tops and another for bottoms.

If you are travelling as a family, use a different colour for each person.

How to Use Compression Packing Cubes

Compression packing cubes work is much the same way as regular packing cubes.

The difference is that compression cubes have an additional zipper around the side of the cube. This allows you to squeeze the cube down even further.

Start with the side compression zips unzipped, pack your cube as above, and zip up the main section.

Then once your cube is full, zip up the side zip, and it will become even more compact.

If your cube is quite full (as mine usually are!), you might need to push down your clothes and do the zip up slowly to get it to close all the way around.

Yes, it’s a bit more work than a regular packing cube, but it does make the cube smaller and easier to pack.

How to Choose Packing Cubes

Popular packing cube brands include Eagle Creek , Peak Design , and REI .

When choosing packing cubes, durability is the most important attribute—you want a strong material with quality zips so that you can stuff as much in as possible without them breaking.

The size and other features come down to personal preference and how you want to organise your things.

Many cubes have a mesh top for breathability and so you can see inside—I don’t find this necessary as I know what’s in my cubes.

If you buy cubes in different sizes and colours, identification is easy. This is useful for families sharing a suitcase—each family member could have a different coloured cube.

I’m a big fan of Eagle Creek packing cubes. The build quality is excellent, and they come with a lifetime warranty.

I have used one of the older style Eagle Creek Pack It cube with a mesh top for 13 years of constant travel, and it’s still going strong.

When we decided to switch from compression bags to packing cubes, we tried Eagle Creek compression cubes, which are like ordinary cubes but with a compression zipper around the side that squeezes them into a smaller size.

They turned out to be the perfect compromise. We could fit everything we needed into the cube, but it’s easier to use than a compression bag, with quick access and no need for rolling the bag.

There’s a whole Eagle Creek Pack It system including cubes, travel bags (for small items), and packing folders (to minimise wrinkles in shirts and trousers).

We travel with the cubes for our clothes and the Etools Organizer Pro (no longer available but this Bagsmart electronics organizer is similar) for our electronics cables and accessories. 

Although I’ve been an Eagle Creek loyalist for years, Simon now travels with Peak Design packing cubes —see the full review below. 

Eagle Creek Reveal Classic Packing Cubes

For years Simon travelled with the Eagle Creek Pack-It compression cube with a mesh top, and we still think it’s an excellent packing cube.

A newer version is the similar Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal cubes , although this no longer has a compression zip.

The advantages of this classic Eagle Creek cube design is that it has more structure, it unzips on three sides for easy access, and the mesh top allows you to see inside. It’s also cheaper.

It’s heavier than the Specter or Isolate cubes (see below), but the fabric is more robust and long-lasting.

Eagle Creek Lightweight Compression Cubes

I use the Eagle Creek compression cubes—a mix of the older Spectre cubes and the newer Pack It Isolate cubes .

I have two medium cubes for my main clothes and a small cube for my workout clothes.

These ultralight packing cubes are the lightest on the market, made from translucent silnylon ripstop.

Specter and Isolate cubes are more expensive than the mesh cubes, but they are water and stain resistant and are amazingly light.

Eagle Creek Specter Cubes

A medium Specter compression cube weighs 57 g/2 oz, which is much lighter than the mesh compression cube (134 g/4.7 oz).

The biggest downside of the Specter cubes is that they only unzip part the way around, not on three sides like most cubes.

This makes clothes slightly less accessible, but as I roll my clothes, I can easily reach in and grab what I need.

As the fabric is so much lighter, they are not as robust as the mesh cubes. After about four years of constant use, one of my Specter cubes tore along the seam. I do really pack it full and squeeze the zippers tight though.  

The new Isolate cubes are more robust—see below.

You can sometimes get better deals on the Specter cubes, so I still think they are worth considering.

Click here for current prices and reviews of the ultralight Eagle Creek Specter compression cubes .

Eagle Creek Isolate Cubes

The newer Eagle Creek Isolate compression cubes are slightly heavier than the Specter cubes (a medium is 2.6 oz/ 73 g), but they have solved a couple of the issues.

The fabric and zips are more robust, and I haven’t had an issue after 18 months of travel with them.

They also open fully on three sides so it’s easier to access your clothes.

Overall I think Eagle Creek Isolate cubes are the best compression packing cubes. They are light, robust, and squeeze a surprising amount in.

Buy the Eagle Creek Isolate cubes here .

Peak Design Packing Cubes

In recent years we’ve also been impressed by Peak Design Packing Cubes .

Simon has now switched to using these with a medium for his clothes and a small for underwear and socks.

They are the most stylish looking cubes we’ve tried and are made from a lightweight 70D nylon/poly blend in an attractive grey colour.

They are similar to the Eagle Creek Specter and Isolate cubes in that they have a floppier rather than structured form, but it’s easier to access your clothes as they open fully on three sides.

They even have a unique tear-away zipper that allows you to quickly access the contents. 

They also have a compression zipper around the side, but I find it doesn’t compress quite as much as the Eagle Creek compression cubes.  

The medium Peak Design cube has a capacity of up to 18L, while a medium Eagle Creek Isolate cube is 14L, so the Peak Design medium does fit more in (a pro or con depending on how you like to arrange your stuff).

The Peak Design cubes are heavier than the Isolate at 144g (5.1oz) for the medium vs the Isolate’s 73g, but the extra features and space may be worth it. 

You can certainly pack a lot in: 

A really useful feature of the Peak Design cubes is the two separate compartments.

The top of the cube opens fully for you to store your clean clothes, and when they are dirty you can shove them in the bottom compartment (which opens along one side) to keep them separate. 

Simon has been using his Peak Design cubes for four years and they look as good as new. They are well made with an abrasion and rip-resistant coating and are covered by the Peak Design lifetime warranty. 

The Peak Design cubes are definitely a contender for the best packing cubes, especially if you want a more stylish design or a way to store dirty laundry.

Click here to buy the Peak Design packing cubes on the Peak Design website .

Or find Peak Design cubes on REI .

Should you use packing cubes or compression bags on your next trip?

Packing cubes are easier to use than compression bags, so I recommend starting with them.

If you are struggling to fit everything in or are travelling in cold weather  or on a ski trip , try a compression bag instead.

A compression bag could also be used to bring home clothes purchased on your trip. Even if you use a compression bag for your clothes, packing cubes are useful for organising other items.

Compression packing cubes are the best compromise for us. I’ve been using my Eagle Creek compression cubes for full-time travel for eight years and they are perfect for me—even when I pick up extra clothes or travel in the winter , I can still fit everything in.

The Peak Design compression packing cubes are also well worth considering. Simon loves the stylish design, separate laundry compartment, and durable fabric.  

Whichever luggage organiser you decide on, you won’t regret it. They create more space in your bag and make packing and finding items so much easier. They really are the secret to carry-on only travel.

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33 Comments

Thanks for the informative post, I’ll check out other aspects of your site :_

Reply ↓

The title is ‘how to use packing cubes’. You don’t address the question posed.

What else would you like to know?

For the best compression bags, get the pac n stack bags. The set comes with a very small vacuum to remove air. Easy to put in your bag to use when you repack. Removes LOTS of air. I remove one of the 3 AAA batteries when traveling so the vacuum doesn’t turn on by accident. Can get on Amazon or through the pac n stack website.

Thanks for the tip!

Where did my comment go? I spent ten minutes writing one; what happened? It is NOT spam, malicious, or any other detrimental comment to your site, so what happened?

Sometimes genuine comments get caught up in the automatic spam filter but I have approved it now.

Nice article, but three things that I think are important were NOT mentioned:

1- SIZE of clothing should be taken into consideration; my husband is 6′ and I am 5’7″. he also has some weight added onto his frame. NO WAY are these going to fit his clothes–even if he doesn’t have weight. These are for the small-average sized people. His shoes are a size 12; again, no way will these all fit, which is why we’re stuck with paying for luggage on planes.

2- The tighter you roll, squeeze, compress, etc. the more weight it becomes in your luggage\carry on\backpack. That is a law of physics. If you vacuum out air, it will cause the bag to weigh more. Do it this “new” (but not really new) way, then take that packing apparatus and weigh IT, using a luggage scale (Samsonite has a great one at $10) and you’ll be surprised at how much weight these are AFTER you’ve packed them.

and lastly,

3- It is EXTREMELY important that you weigh your luggage\carry on\backpack, since all of them also weigh something over 3 lbs. Even if you were to use a backpack or carry on to avoid checking luggage, some airlines REQUIRE you to weigh them. The secret is to buy lightweight carrying equipment BEFORE you pack anything.

Nice article, except, there is no way you’re saving space with packing cubes. Unless they are negative space sci-fi cubes, you are filling more space with the cubes than without them. It’s the organizing that may make you feel like you’re saving space.

Love these tips! I’m a huge fan of carry-on only travel as well, and have only recently stumbled across the packing cube phenomenon. They really are a game changer. I have a pair of the Eagle Creek Spector, but I thing I’m going to add the compression versions to my arsenal. Thanks for the direction. Very helpful post.

I’m glad you found the post useful. Packing cubes really are amazing!

Hi…my name is Yustika i am really interested in buying any packing cubes, as mentioned the packing cube is to help to compress , organize your item when travelling and also to keep more space in luggage. may i know how much space we can keep if using packing cube inside the luggage?

It really depends on what you are packing. I recommend buying some and doing a test pack. It will definitely save you space and keep your luggage more organised!

I’ve been using one of those mesh top Eagle Creek cubes since 1997! Seriously! It has been to 51 countries with me.

But, I love the look of those compression cubes. I’ve never heard of those before and would love to try them out!

Wow! And I thought mine were doing well! I love how well made the Eagle Creek cubes are. The compression cubes are great as you can squeeze even more in. I keep buying more clothes but somehow they still fit!

Just came across this, excellent advice…thanks! I have a question though, what’s the best way to deal with dirty clothes and keeping the system working throughout the trip? That’s where I struggle, especially if we are moving around every few days to a new hotel…pack/unpack, pack/unpack ?

We keep stuff that isn’t that dirty (like trousers and t-shirts that don’t smell) in our main cube and pack our used underwear/smelly tops separately – I use a zip lock bag and Simon uses one of the spare compartments of his bag. You could also buy a separate packing cube for dirty laundry (the Eagle Creek Specter cubes would be good as they are so light) or Eagle Creek makes a cube especially for this purpose – you use one side for clean and one for dirty: http://amzn.to/2tAE0CD

What kind of backpack is that? (The gray one. )

Osprey Farpoint 40. Our review is here: http://www.neverendingvoyage.com/best-carry-on-backpack-digital-nomads/

I don’t have a Kindle and would like to purchase a hard copy of your book. When will a hard copy/paperback be available?

We have actually just released it so it should be showing up as a paperback in the Amazon store:

you know it is not good idea, don’t need to carty all the staff, just Take necessary clothes and in your bag will be enough room, it is very simple

The clue is the compression bags but I don’t know I am not that type of girl I always want to pack alot of things

Be careful with compression bags/cubes, because you can pack more in the allowed space it is easy to go over weight!

We do often go overweight (mostly because we have a lot of electronics to work on the road), but we never have our bags weighed. We find that compressions bags help make your bag look smaller, so the airline doesn’t notice it.

If you have a backpack, most airlines won’t even bother to weigh it in my experience. If you have a regular carry on it can cause trouble, though.

I love the Eagle Creek compression cubes! On our last trip to the US, we bought two sets of them with our R.E.I. dividend – best idea ever :) Makes organizing clothes so much easier, and saves space to boot!

That are fantastic, aren’t they? Glad you found them useful!

I use compression bags and didn’t know that compression cubes existed. I will give the cubes a try for easier access to my things. Thanks! I always learn something new/interesting from your posts.

I think they are pretty new. I hope they work out for you!

What a great post. Loved the idea. This reminds me of our last trip to Singapore with our Daughter. At that she was 1.5 years old and she was hooked on a particular brand of milk (that we were sure that it won’t be available in Singapore). We ended up packing 27 quarter litter bottles for her. Customs officer at Changi was bit nervous and curious why so much milk.

Any way will definitely give compression bags a chance during my next trip

Wow, that’s a lot of milk :) I hope the compression bags work out for you!

Packing has always been a torture for me. This post gave really great advice to soother my burden, I’ll definitely check out your book as well! Thanks a lot!

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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 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

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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How to Use Packing Cubes To Get Organized

Travelpro Travel Expert Editor

Travel Planning

If you've ever torn apart your luggage in search of that t-shirt or phone charger you thought you packed, you know how important it is to stay organized while traveling.

Using a luggage organizer like packing cubes can help minimize time spent rummaging through your bags while also maximizing the space inside your suitcase. Here’s how to use packing cubes to set yourself up for success - from packing to unpacking and at your destination. 

What are Packing Cubes?

Packing cubes are standalone compartments that can be used inside your carry-on or checked bags, as needed. You can purchase them individually or in  sets of various sizes . There are also different shapes and functions to accommodate different needs, including compression cubes for travel  to help you make the most out of your packing spaces

Are Packing Cubes Worth It?

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or a once-a-year vacationer, packing cubes make the most efficient space of the inside of your suitcase. They keep you organized, protect your possessions, and can even save you money.

You’ll know where all of your belongings are stowed at all times, taking the hassle out of getting ready for a bright-and-early business meeting or a leisurely afternoon spent lounging by the pool. (There are also cubes specially designed to keep damp items from soiling the rest of your clothes, just in case you can’t resist one last dip in the ocean just before heading to the airport.)

Packing cubes also help keep you organized at your destination by serving as containers. Many modern hotel rooms have done away with dresser drawers. When you travel with packing cubes, you can still stay organized and avoid the jumbled mess that often comes from living out of a suitcase.

Save on baggage fees by assigning separate cubes to family members traveling together and then combining them into one suitcase to limit the number of bags you check in or carry.

How to Use Packing Cubes:

Packing cubes are incredibly flexible and different sizes, shapes and styles can be combined to suit your own personal packing needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Assign a packing cube to each type of item – Give bottoms, tops, pajamas, socks, and intimates their own individual cubes. Then, bring an empty cube for accumulating dirty clothes during the trip.
• Designate a cube per day or activity – Pack each cube with a top-and-bottom combination for each day and night of your vacation, taking the decision-making out of getting ready by picking out your outfits in advance.
• Choose luggage with coordinating cubes and organizers – The Roadtrip 30” Drop-Bottom Duffel comes with three sizable packing cubes, while the Crew™ VersaPack™ collection lets you personalize the way you pack with a variety of optional Zip-In Organizers designed for specific tasks.
• Guard against wrinkles with a garment folder– If you’re traveling for a wedding or formal event, use a garment folder to keep pressed shirts crisp during transit. 
• Use a toiletry bag or packing cube designed for wet items –  If you’re bringing liquids, use the proper luggage organizer to protect the rest of your packed items from accidental spills.

Find more tips on how to make the most of your luggage space in our  carry-on packing guide.

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How To Use Packing Cubes For Travel

Posted on Published: 08/31/2023

Using packing cubes is one of the most popular travel tips that you’ll hear from travel experts – travel agents, travel writers, etc. Lightweight, reasonably priced, and easy to pack, packing cubes are a good idea for any traveler and are one of the best ways to keep things organized in both large suitcases and your carry-on bag.

I resisted purchasing them for a long time but now can’t go on a vacation without them. Once you use your first packing cube, you’ll realize they really can help you stay organized and pack more items in your bag.

Whether you already own a packing cube system or are considering making a purchase, here’s everything you need to know, including how to use packing cubes. If you are already a convert, let us know in the comments!

Once you try them, you’ll definitely consider them an essential travel product and they will be one of your favorite travel accessories and travel organizational tools.

Disclosure: This packing tips post contains affiliate links, including Amazon affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a small commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.  All opinions are our own.

Why and How To Use Packing Cubes For Travel

What are packing cubes.

Packing cubes are fabric bags that can be packed up with your clothes and tossed into your suitcase or carry-on bag . They typically have a mesh top or mesh panel so that you can easily see through them, and are available in a variety of sizes and colors.

Packing cubes are typically made of thin fabrics, are reusable, and can be washed between trips. They are also usually fairly inexpensive and can be purchased in a variety of places.

Once you pack them up, they can be easily added to your suitcase. In addition, you can usually take them right from your suitcase to the dresser drawers in your hotel room. That way, your clothing will never directly touch the hotel drawers and it’s a big time saver.

Why Should You Use Packing Cubes?

This incredibly popular piece of travel gear is essential for a variety of reasons – whether you are checking a bag or just carrying on your luggage . They can also be used for road trips – for all of the same reasons listed below.

• Packing cubes can operate like a compression bag – everything, including bulky items, gets pushed together more compactly, so you’ll have more room for your belongings. Not all packing cubes are compression bags, however. You’ll need to look specifically for compression packing cubes if that’s the functionality you are looking for.
• Cubes can be purchased in multiple colors. That makes it easier to easily separate clothing for different family members. Get a different color for each person in your family, and designate that their color.
• Cubes can also be used to separate out outfits for different portions of your vacation on long trips. For instance, when we traveled on our Adventures by Disney trip to England and France, we stayed in three different hotels. I only pulled out the packing cubes I needed for each stay, making it much easier to pack and unpack.
• If they are packed correctly, packing cubes can keep your clothes looking wrinkle-free so you won’t have to worry about ironing on your vacation.
• Packing cubes can be taken right from your suitcase and put directly in the dresser drawers in your hotel room. That not only makes it quicker to unpack, it also makes it more sanitary since the clothes you are wearing aren’t touching the drawers directly.
• A packing cube can also be used for dirty clothes so that you can separate clean from dirty laundry in your suitcase.
• Small items, like power cords, can be held in the small cube.
• The cubes themselves don’t take up much space or add extra weight.
• Once you are home, you can wash them and store them until your next family vacation.

How to Use Packing Cubes

Before purchasing, decide how you want to use your packing cubes. If you want to create outfits, you’ll probably want to purchase several in the same size.

Some of the best packing cubes come in sets of different sizes, however. In addition, you may want to get different colors for each member of your family so that everything will stay organized.

Once you are ready to pack, get your packing list ready and start pulling out the clothes you need. If you have several different sizes of bags, you’ll want to put larger items like pants, dresses, and skirts in the largest size. Socks and underwear usually fit perfectly in the small packing cube.

For multi-hotel trips, put together outfits of tops, bottoms, and underwear and put those in each of the travel cubes. For our Paris trip, I was able to get two to three full outfits in each of the largest packing bags.

It’s best to roll your clothing tightly before placing it in the bag. That way, the cubes will act as compression cubes and you’ll be able to get more into your suitcase and you’ll save luggage space.

If you are checking bags, you may want to place one large cube with several outfits in your carry-on luggage in case your luggage is lost . Choose the packing cube that contains the outfits you need for the beginning part of your trip.

For bigger trips, I find that I need about 4-5 packing cubes of different sizes. If we have more than one checked bag, I evenly distribute the cubes from each family member among the bags.

That way, if one bag is lost, everyone will at least have some clothing for more than one day. That has worked to our benefit on the few occasions that our luggage was lost over the past few years.

Once I’m at my destination, I’ll typically unpack and hang my dresses and pants. Shorts, shirts, bathing suits, and underwear stay in the cube and are placed in one or two drawers.

If your packing cube set comes with a shoe bag, be sure to pack more than just a pair of shoes in the bag, otherwise, you’ll have wasted space.

As items get dirty, I’ll place them in a laundry bag. If there are laundry facilities at my destination, I always try to make sure I’m going home with clean clothes.

Otherwise, I’ll put the dirty items back in packing cubes for the trip home – keep anything clean in a separate cube. If I’m on a multi-hotel trip, I try to put all the dirty clothes in one suitcase so we know that we won’t need to open that one again until we get home.

Where to Buy Packing Cubes?

You can find a set of packing cubes at any store that sells travel gear. Look for companies that have several sizes in one package, with the option to purchase more.

You’ll also want to find some that have different colors – at least enough colors for every family member to have their own. Most starter sets will come with at least a small cube, a medium cube, and a large cube.

After using packing cubes for many different vacations, I’ve found that I prefer bags in one size. It’s just easier for me to use a consistent size.

Read reviews before purchasing to ensure that the bags are durable and will hold up for multiple trips. In general, you want something that is lightweight but will last a while.

One of the most reasonably priced sets that I’ve seen is from Amazon. This Amazon Basics set includes four bags (in different sizes) and comes in six different colors.

There’s also another set that is similar but with additional color options. Neither of these two sets are marketed as compression packing cubes.

Some sets will include a laundry bag and others include shoe bags. These are nice extras but are definitely not essential. You can always purchase these items separately if you need them.

If you are looking specifically for something that has extra compression, I really love the set from Calpak. It comes in a variety of colors, including limited edition colors and patterns. You can also get them in different sizes. You can get $25 off a purchase of $150 or more at this link .

Frequently Asked Questions

You can either fold or roll. I find that rolling my clothes helps eliminate wrinkles and makes more clothes fit in the cube.

Keep in mind that even if you can fit more in your bag, you’ll still need to fit within the airlines’ weight limits if you are flying. If you are already filling your bag, you may not need the extra compression space. Compression bags are great, however, if you are taking a road trip.

They can be. It really depends on how much you use them. I have an expensive set and a cheaper set and both have held up well.

Mesh packing cubes have great ventilation and you are able to see what’s inside. However, the mesh doesn’t do a great job of compression. So it really depends on what you are looking for.

Absolutely. Even if I am checking a bag, I’ll put at least one packing cube in my carry-on bag so that I have some clothes in case my luggage gets lost.

More  Packing Tips  Resources : Looking for more packing tips and recommendations? Here are all of our posts including packing lists, product recommendations, and ideas for specific trips.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Best packing cubes | how to travel and pack like a pro.

Our picks for the best packing cubes and tips for successfully packing all your stuff.

We’ve traveled thousands of miles and tested dozens of travel products but there is one thing that finds its way into our backpacks/suitcases every trip — packing cubes.

Seriously, packing cubes have changed the way we pack and travel. They’re the experienced traveler’s secret weapon. These handy travel accessories help us keep all our clothing organized and they’re great when you’re packing light. And trust us, being able to unpack all your stuff in seconds is almost therapeutic —  especially during the chaos of travel.

In this article, we’ll cover the best packing cubes on the market and then we’ll give you some tips and tricks for using these super helpful travel accessories.

The Best Packing Cubes

There are dozens of different companies that make packing cubes — Eagle Creek , eBags , Shacke Pak , TravelWise , Osprey , and about a million more . The problem is that there are a lot of low-quality options so we wanted to test the most popular cubes to find the best packing cubes on the market.

We’ve narrowed it down to our favorite four brands/styles:

• Eagle Creek Pack-It Cubes (best overall)
• eBags Packing Cubes (close second place)
• Eagle Creek Spectre Tech Packing Cubes (ultra lightweight favorite)
• AmazonBasics Packing Cubes (best budget option)

Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube Set

It’s pretty hard to beat the Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube set — which is why they’re our overall top pick. After all, Eagle Creek essentially started the packing cubes craze and they continue to be the leader. The Pack-It Cubes come in multiple sizes but we think the Pack-It 3-Piece Set ( Pack-It Cube,  Pack-It Half Cube, &  Pack-It Quarter Cube)  is probably the best value. Each size cube in this set is perfect for travel backpacks and carry-on suitcases.

There is also a Pack-It Double Cube  which is probably too large for most backpacks so it’s more suited for a suitcase.

The Details

• Construction: Nice overall construction and stitching — much better than some cheaper bags we’ve tested. We feel confident that we can overpack these and the fabric/stitching won’t tear.
• Fabric: Sturdy 300D Poly Micro-Weave fabric that provides a bit of structure. This extra structure also helps make zipping the cube a bit easier. Of the cubes we tested, these seem like the most sturdy.
• Mesh Panel:  The packs have a mesh top for visibility and breathability. The mesh is also high quality and fine enough that it will hold up to a bit of abuse.
• Zippers: Zippers are smooth and are sewn well to the fabric. That said, they no longer use YKK zippers but they seem high-quality. We didn’t notice any catching when zipping/unzipping.
• Handle: Each cube has a nice little handle.
• Colors:  The bags come in a few basic colors but they randomly also come in brighter colors as well.
• Sizes: Available as individual sizes or multi-piece sets. We think the  Pack-It 3-Piece Set  is the best value.
• Warranty: Lifetime Warranty

Price: Eagle Creek Packing Cubes cost around $30 for the three-piece set. There are a few other sizes/sets available at various price points.

Check Amazon for the latest prices . 

eBags Packing Cubes

We’re also big fans of eBags Packing Cubes — they’re honestly not that much different than the Eagle Creek packing cubes other than a few small design differences. The fabric and mesh both feel durable so it shouldn’t have any trouble holding up during your travels. We also like that the bags use YKK zippers. These also come in a three-piece set and each cube is a bit larger than the Eagle Creek three-pack.

• Construction: No complaints about the overall construction. My bags were sewn well so the seams should hold up to a bit of overpacking. We did read some reviews from people mentioning that their seams ripped — but we didn’t experience any issues.
• Fabric: These bags are made from durable TechLite Diamond Nylon. The material is slick but a bit crinkly. The fabric offers a bit of structure so packing it is still simple.
• Mesh Panel:  These cubes have a mesh top for visibility and breathability.
• Zippers:  The zippers are made by YKK so that’s great. We didn’t have any issues zipping/unzipping the bag and everything was smooth.
• The large cube is pretty large so we kind of wish it came with two medium cubes instead. This cube can be good for bulkier items like sweaters, jeans, etc. but we can see how some people might have trouble filling the large cube.
• Colors: These packing cubes come in multiple colors. Some people prefer brighter colors so they stand out inside your bag.
• Warranty:  Limited-Lifetime Warranty

Price: The three-piece eBag Packing Cubes set costs around $30. There is also a four-piece for $40 and a six-piece set for $50.

Visit Amazon to see the current prices/selection .  

Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Tech Packing Cube Set

Back to Eagle Creek for their Pack-It Specter Tech Packing Cube Set . These are different than the previous two sets because they’re made of crazy-lightweight ripstop Nylon — which means they’re half the weight as the Original Eagle Creek Cubes and the eBags cubes. These bags don’t have any structure but they’re still fairly easy to pack. The fabric is actually surprisingly durable and it has the benefit of being water resistant. The main downside is the price as they’re more expensive than the other packing cubes on this list. That said, we really do like these bags but we’re not sure if it’s worth the extra cost.

• Construction: The construction is nice and lives up to what you’d expect from Eagle Creek. The stitching on the seams looks to be high-quality.
• Fabric: A first look the ripstop Nylon does seem like it would be fragile but it’s actually very sturdy — we were able to cram a lot of stuff inside without fearing it would rip. The material is also slightly translucent so you can see what’s inside the cubes.
• Zippers:  The zippers are smooth and feel like they’re high-quality.
• Handle: There is a pull handle at the top of the bag.
• They also have a dirty/clean version that has two sides so you transfer clothes from the clean side to the dirty side. It’s a nice, but not necessary, feature

Price: The three-piece set usually costs around $40 for the XS/S/M version. The S/M/L version is around $55. There are a few other variations and single sizes as well.

Check out Amazon for prices and selections .

Note: There is an older version called the P ack-It Specter Compression Packing Cubes — these are essentially the same packing cubes but they have an extra zipper that offers slight compression abilities.

AmazonBasics Packing Cubes

On a budget? Check out AmazonBasics Packing Cubes . The material and construction aren’t as good as the other packing cubes on this list but they’re only around $20 for a set of four packing cubes.

Note: Some people said that the colored cubes bleed color when wet so we’d stick with black or grey.

• Construction:  The overall construction isn’t terrible but you can tell that they’re not super well-made. The mesh is decent but we can see how the loose weave it might rip after a few trips.
• Fabric:  The fabric is nylon. It’s a bit crinkly but feels decent.
• Zippers:  The zippers are a little rough and they sometimes get stuck when the cube is full.
• Handle: There is a pull handle on the side of the bag.
• Sizes:  The main set comes with four sizes — slim, small, medium, and large. The large is actually very large and probably wouldn’t fit in a backpack… so it’s kind of useless for a lot of people.

Price: The AmazonBasics Four-Piece Packing Cube set costs around $20-$24. Check Amazon for the latest prices and color options.

Packing Cubes: The Basics

A packing cube is a thin, soft-sided bag that helps you organize and compartmentalize your clothes and other accessories. Ideally, you fill each bag will the same types of clothing for maximum organization. For example, all t-shirts go in one, underwear and socks go in another, etc. You can even pack gadgets like cords and small electronics in them.

Other people pack their cubes by outfit but that requires a little too much planning for us.

Then you pack the packing cubes inside your backpack or suitcase. This way you can easily get to what you need without having to unpack and riffle through all your stuff. If packed correctly, packing cubes can also help reduce the amount of space your stuff takes up and can help reduce wrinkles.

The Benefits Of Packing Cubes

Alright, let’s talk about why we’re big fans of these handy travel accessories.

Organization

The best thing about packing cubes is the organization — especially when you’re traveling out of a backpack. We like to pack each type of clothing in its own cube. For example, we’ll put all t-shirts in a cube and then we’ll put all socks and underwear in another. This way, you can quickly pull out that cube when you need something.

Without packing cubes, you have to rummage through all your stuff to find what you’re looking for. It may not seem like a big deal now but we can’t travel without them now.

Space Savings

Packing Cubes help keep clothing “bundled” and compressed – which reduces how much space your clothing takes up. This is very helpful if you’re traveling with a single backpack because it allows you to fit more in a smaller space.

Wrinkle Reduction

Packing cubes can also help reduce wrinkles in your clothing. That’s because one major cause of wrinkles is from your clothing shifting around in your bag as you move. However, packing cubes keep things compresses — which prevents movement. There are also other packing techniques that help with wrinkles and we’ll cover that later.

Fast Unpacking

One of the best things about packing cubes is that you can take all the cubes out of your bag when you arrive at your destination. You’re essentially unpacked in 30 seconds. Some people will place the cubes directly in the drawers and then stow their bag out of the way (super handy in small spaces like hostels/hotels or apartments).

Repacking is also easy because you already know where everything goes so you can get repacked very quickly.

How To Use Packing Cubes

Using packing cubes is pretty easy but there are few techniques you can use to make your packing even easier and help reduce wrinkles.

Divide Clothing

First, divide your clothing into like items.

We usually do something like this:

• Socks and Underwear
• Button-Up Shirts
• Pants/Skirts
• Jackets, Outerwear, etc.

Fold, Bundle, & Roll

Next, we’ll prepare clothes to be packed into the packing cubes. There are a few different techniques and we’ll cover a few of our favorites.

1. Fold Technique

The Fold Method is the most simple method and it works well for things like t-shirts, button-ups, and pants. The idea is simple — just fold your stuff like normal and put them in the packing cubes. You can actually fit a good amount of stuff with this method.

We find that medium-sized packing cubes work best for this method.

2. Bundle Technique

The Bundle Method is similar to the Fold Method but instead of folding each item individually, you stack multiple items together and then fold them all at once. It works well with shirts and pants.

There are two main benefits to this method: First, you only have to fold things once instead of multiple individual items. Second, having multiple layers stacked together helps reduce wrinkles because the bulk of the extra layers creates softer creases.

3. Roll Technique

The Roll Method is very popular and it’s a great way to vastly reduce the amount of space your clothes take up. Basically, you tightly roll each item. We find this works best for things like t-shirts, socks, and underwear but some people roll all their clothes.

That said, we’re usually too lazy to use this technique on shirts and pants but it’s probably the most efficient packing method if you have the time/ patience.

Other Packing Aids

Packing cubes aren’t the only things that help keep you organized — here are a few more things…

Packing Folders

Packing folders are like packing cubes but they’re so they’re better suited for pants, sweaters, and button-up shirts. We really like the Eagle Creek Garment Folders  — they come in multiple sizes and colors.

Toiletries Bags & Containers

Find yourself toiletry bag that can be hung up. Most European bathrooms are small and may not have much (if any) no shelf space. A hanging toiletry bag will save you a lot of hassle.

Here are a few of our toiletry favorite bags:

• The Ogio Doppler Kit (via  Amazon ).
• The Lewis N Clark Hanging Toiletry Case (via  Amazon ).
• The Davidsbeenhere Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag (via  Amazon ).

Another way to travel light is by transferring your shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc. into travel-sized bottles.  We love the  Humangear GoToob Travel Bottles  since they’re probably the best travel bottles for shampoo and other liquids/gels. They get a ton of great reviews for being the one travel tube brand that doesn’t leak — but they are a bit pricey. Be sure to check out their website for a list of liquids that they’re not compatible with. A three-pack cost about $17-$25 depending on the size of the bottles (via  Amazon ).

PLASTIC BAGS

Ziploc bags  are great for storing multiple things and keeping liquids from spilling over all your stuff (we like to keep my passport in a plastic bag for safekeeping). They’re great for dirty or damp clothes. If you bring two pairs of shoes we suggest putting the other pair in a plastic bag so your clothes won’t get dirty.

Ziploc makes multiple sizes of bags, so I like to pack multiple bags just in case I ever need one. There is even a  three-gallon bag  that works well for storing an extra pair of shoes so you don’t get your clothes dirty.

COMPRESSION BAGS

A  compression stuff sack  is nice for keeping dirty clothes away from your clean clothes, and it serves as a good bag for doing laundry. Multiple companies make them and they run about $10-$40 depending on the size (via  Amazon ).

More Packing & Gear Guides

We’re always on the hunt for the best travel gear. Here are a few guides to help you pack lighter and travel smarter.

• Europe Packing List For Men
• Europe Packing List for Women
• Best Travel Backpacks For Europe
• Our Favorite Travel Shoes, Sandals, and Boots
• Best Travel Underwear For Men and Women
• Best Hiking Socks For Travel
• Fashionable Travel Clothes and Performance Techwear
• Best Travel Daypacks
• Recent Posts
• Paris Pass Review — A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 13, 2024
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024
• Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024

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How to Use Packing Cubes: 8 Step Strategy to Travel Carry-on Only

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It’s no secret that I love using this 4-piece packing cube set . They’ve helped me travel carry-on only even though I’m a full time traveler. From the US to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe – packing cubes have allowed me to maximize my minimal luggage space.

Follow my 8 step strategy to learn how to use packing cubes and travel carry-on only!

How to Use Packing Cubes

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

As you can see, how to use packing cubes to maximize space is to roll clothing and then use any additional gaps. By using my packing cubes for compression, this helps me make the most of less space – I never need full size luggage and neither will you!

The secret to traveling light is to create a functional but minimalist capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

Why do I love this particular set of cubes?

As you can see in the above tutorial, you can organize your belongings while making more use of limited space. Now, I’m sure you know this doesn’t mean you should pack a bunch of stuff you don’t need and weigh down your luggage. There are weight restrictions for carry-on baggage you have to consider.

However, using this technique will help you downsize your belongings with ease. You’ll be surprised to know how much you can actually fit into these products. You won’t need to check that bag after all.

Find out in my video tutorial and review !

Are they really worth the money?

With a price tag of roughly $35 for a set of four, I’d say  packing cubes  are definitely worth a try. I can’t travel without mine and many travelers feel the same way.

While it’s possible to use Ziploc bags to store your clothing, actual packing organizers have several more benefits and don’t cost that much more money.

Find out my top 12 reasons why they are !

So how do I avoid wrinkles?

For the most part I try to stick to fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily plus they tend to weigh less too. I hate wrinkles but hate ironing more so if fabric wrinkles easily, it’s usually a no-go in my wardrobe.

Read these tips on how to pack clothes without wrinkles !

Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes

What packing cubes do I use?

Throughout the past nine years of full time traveling, I’ve used various other brands including AmazonBasics, eBags, Pro Packing Cubes, Travel Wise, and Dot & Dot, too.

While these packing cubes all have their benefits, I’ve now created my own version that will take your organization to the next level: the  Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes shown above!

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube !

In 2017, I launched Compass Rose Travel Accessories and my very first product was a  4-Piece Set of Carryon Packing Cubes . These are the only packing cubes sized to fit the exact width of a carryon suitcase and they also have a unique color-coded and numbered organization system – the only kind currently available anywhere on the market.

I put together a five-part YouTube series showing you the different methods to use packing cubes. If you use  this specific packing strategy, they can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carryon only!

Buy Compass Rose Packing Cubes here !

Hope this helped you figure out how to use packing cubes to help you save space. How do you use them?

For more travel accessories, please read these posts:

• Which Packing Organizers Should I Choose?
• The Best Travel Backpack
• Top 20 Suitcase Recommendations
• Travel Experts Reveal the best Carry-on Bags
• Money-belts and Anti-theft Travel Accessories
• Top 5 Travel Bags for Women

Thanks for reading this post on how to use packing cubes! Don’t forget to please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks!

18 comments.

The bra security pouch is unavailable. Do you know when they will be available? Gracias

Hi Maggie, sadly due to COVID our compass rose line was massively impacted. We’re currently working on bring back our bra wallet but we’re having to start the whole process from the beginning and it’s not going very smoothly 😢

We do have some alternative options, recommended by our readers, here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-money-belts-and-anti-theft-travel-accessories/

Hi! The cubes are currently unavailable on Amazon. Do you know when they will be available? Or is there another place to purchase them? Thank you!

Hi Amy, they should hopefully be back in stock in around 4 weeks. Unfortunately our products tend to sell out quite quickly, it’s hard to keep up. We’ll let you know as soon as they’re available. Thank you for your support ?

I bought the Compass Rose packing cubes to go on my trip to Europe. I love them – they are worth every cent I paid for them. My sister was with me when I packed and we were both amazed at how much could be fitted into them. I actually found that I didn’t have any real trouble with wrinkling. I carefully folded everything first then rolled them up. Considering how much they were compressed I expected them to be really wrinkly and in need of ironing, but I was wrong. I gave them a little shake and hung them up and smoothed the odd wrinkle out with my fingers. Really happy!

Yay, that is amazing Valerie, so happy that you love your compass rose packing cubes and that they helped you with your packing!!!! Thank you so much for all your support and I hope you had an awesome trip! Happy travels!

I’m 62 now and still traveling, mostly for work. I am using the Flight 001 packing cubes from Spacepack. The best thing for me, for a week long trip in one region, is that I can pack the first night and next morning into the first cube, and then I can leave the heavier checked luggage in the car or in the lobby. We typically don’t have time or availability of laundry so I have to pack some fresh things for each day. We work outdoors during the day and then like to change and go out for casual dinner. Spacepack collapses nicely once it’s full. The opposite zippered side is for laundry, this helps me keep it straight what I’ve already worn. They have several cute prints and I have one of each so I can keep track of what’s up next. On my last trip I used a label maker to keep the cubes straight.

Great suggestions Lily! Thanks!

Great advice. I have never used packing cubes before but after reading this i have bought some. I am currently packing to go to Thailand next week and i have been amazed at just how much i can pack in these cubes and my case is so much more organised. I only wish i had come across them years ago!

That’s awesome! Have fun Lynne 🙂

THESE THINGS CHANGED MY LIFE!! I didn’t know about them before your video, Alex, and now I wouldn’t even think of traveling without them. I can fit my entire packing into about 40% less space now, which is a total game-changer as someone who is a touring musician and over half my suitcase has to be devoted to technical gear and concert equipment. Thank you!! 🙂

Yay!!!! Happy to know they helped you as much as they helped me 🙂

I totally helped my friend pack the other night. She has the Eagle Creek Cubes above and said there was no way that was all fitting in her luggage and carry on! Welp, we now have a believer on us! Everything fit perfectly for an 8 day trip in a large one, and all her workout gear into a small one. Love packing cubes! So thankful for your site!

That’s great to hear! Hope your friend has an amazing trip 🙂

I didn’t know about these cubes, Alex, what a great idea! Trying to travel carry on only is always a plus for me so I can go home to Spain often saving on the luggage fees. Then I can use what I save on makeup or shoes! ;D Epic win!

haha that’s how I packed all my gear at Blog Stock 😉

What do you use to tie the clothing? I’m worried that the tie will make a mark/crease on the clothes that will be difficult to get out

I don’t always use them but in this case I used hair ties. It’s better if you choose fabrics that don’t crease easily 🙂

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

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

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

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

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

Best Overall

Gonex compression packing cubes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes

 Amazon

• Design 4 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

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

The bags aren’t water resistant.

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

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

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

Best for Group Travel

Leantravel compression packing cubes for travel, set of 3.

• Quality 4 /5

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Backpacking

Suited nomad compression packing cubes.

The ripstop material is durable for even longer backpacking adventures.

Your items may wrinkle if you pack these too full.

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

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

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

Best Lightweight Cubes

Eagle creek specter compression cube set.

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

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

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

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

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

Other Compression Packing Cubes We Liked

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying Compression Packing Cubes

Consider how many you want.

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

Look for high-quality materials

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

Check the dimensions

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

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The Best Packing Cubes of 2024

Packing cubes help organize your gear and can help keep everything accessible. Here are our favorites from Thule, Peak Design, and more.

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.

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

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• Smart Living

These Packing Cubes Helped Me Stay Organized on a Trip Abroad

Whenever I pack for a trip, I go into it with the best intentions. I'll start by carefully folding my coat into one corner of the luggage, then tightly stack my jeans into another. I like to reserve one side of my suitcase for bulkier items like shoes and toiletries, while I use the other primarily for clothing. I'm always hopelessly optimistic (read: semi-delusional) that my strict packing process will somehow ensure that everything stays organized throughout the duration of my trip, and am left woefully disappointed when that doesn't pan out — aka every single time I travel.

Before I departed on my most recent trip abroad, I knew I'd need a little extra help keeping all of my essentials organized. My itinerary involved traveling between Manchester and London, which meant I'd only have a couple days in each city — and even less time to unpack, repack, and repeat. As someone who frequently browses Amazon's site, I'd seen these Amazon Basics Packing Cubes ($17, originally $22) pop up on more than one occasion. With more than 28,000 five-star reviews, they're hailed as being some of the best packing cubes on Amazon thanks to their durable build, variety in sizes, and space-saving capabilities. They are designed to help even the most dysfunctional packers (it's me, hi!) stay organized.

Ahead, I break down what exactly makes these travel packing cubes so great — and why they're ideal for all types of travelers.

What I Like About These Amazon Basics Packing Cubes

First and foremost, I appreciate the variety of available sizes, which ensures I can shop out the packing cubes best-suited to my luggage. Travel cubes I've previously tried have either been too small to fit any practical amount of clothes or too large to really make much of a difference within my suitcase. Fortunately, the medium size works great for a standard suitcase, with some extra room to spare for items I might not want packed away in the cubes — like toiletries or hair styling tools.

I also like that these Amazon packing cubes are made from a durable polyester material, which feels thick enough to handle packing bulkier items like shoes or chunky sweaters. The mesh top panel is another practical bonus and makes the cubes somewhat see-through. This has proven to be especially helpful whenever I'm unpacking my suitcase, as it allows me to easily see into the cubes and keep track of which items I have packed away in each.

What's Worth Noting

While these travel cubes are functional and definitely helpful for packing a larger suitcase, they aren't as compressive as other options I've tried. Each cube is made from a polyester material that boasts plenty of stretch — ensuring I can squeeze in as much as possible — but doesn't necessarily shrink down when positioned in my suitcase. Some reviewers on Amazon's site also noted that the mesh top panel shows wear quickly, with several users even noticing rips in the material after only a couple uses.

I'd argue that these medium-size packing cubes are best used in larger suitcases as opposed to carry-on luggage, simply because they aren't particularly compressive. For something more compact, consider shopping out one of the smaller sizes. Additionally, it's worth noting that these travel cubes cost much less than other variations on the market. While their affordability is a plus, if you're looking for a travel set that's more durable, I'd recommend purchasing another option.

Who Are These These Amazon Basics Packing Cubes Best For?

If you (like me) are hopelessly disorganized whenever you travel and need a little extra help keeping everything sorted, I can't recommend these packing cubes enough. They help me carefully separate each product accordingly, whether I want to pack items by style or outfit. And their durable design ensures that all of my clothes are well-protected, regardless of where my travels take me.

Where Are These Amazon Basics Packing Cubes Available to Shop?

These packing cubes are available to shop at Amazon.

Additional Details

• These Amazon packing cubes are available to shop in six different sizes, including: small, medium (my size of choice), large, and slim, among others.
• The medium-size travel cubes have a capacity size of 16 ounces.
• Unlike other styles, this set features a mesh top panel that makes it easier for users to identify the contents of each cube.
• This set is available in several unique colorways, including gray, blue, black, and red.

Kyley Warren is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on POPSUGAR Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.

• Product Reviews

6 tips on packing light, according to travel experts

There's nothing worse than putting your suitcase on the scale at the airport and seeing that number tip over the dreaded weight limit. The only solution is to fling open your bag, take a quick inventory of what you can take out, and stuff those items in your carry-on while customers harrumph in that very long line behind you.

Not only is this particular situation embarrassing, but having to schlep around a heavy bag wherever you're going doesn't exactly make for idyllic travel. Plus, with major airlines raising baggage fees by nearly 30% this year, and long waits at baggage claim, checking a large bag certainly isn't ideal.

If these struggles are far too real, and you've dreamed about being the kind of traveler who can breeze through the airport with a lighter-than-air carry-on — without a single worry about weight (or sweat dripping down your back) — then maybe it's time to learn how to pack a lighter bag for your next jet-setting journey.

The truth is, we're packing far more than we actually need. Bringing the extra stuff for the rare occasion you might need it is only weighing you down in the long run. To fix your packing woes, Stacker spoke with travel agents and seasoned travel experts on how to pack light, focus on the necessities, and make smarter choices on what to pack. Here are their tips and tricks on how to pack the lightest bag possible next time you travel.

Pack interchangeable pieces that go with everything

While it may seem efficient to plan out a single outfit for each day that you'll be traveling, in reality, you're likely packing more tops and bottoms than you need. Instead, Echo Wang, CEO, cofounder, and seasoned traveler behind Cool Travel Vibes , says to choose items that can mix and match, making it easier to pull together an outfit with fewer items.

"Pack neutral tones and basic styles that you can layer for different temperatures," she told Stacker. "Think interchangeable tops and bottoms you can wear with multiple outfits. Remember, you can always hand wash clothes in a pinch, so pack light on the quantity and focus on quality, multifunctional pieces."

An easy way to do this is to follow the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method , invented by blogger Jen Bosen and referenced by numerous travel experts across the internet. The method goes as follows: pack five shirts, four bottoms, three pairs of shoes, two layers, and one dress (or formal wear). With this method, you can create 120 different outfit combinations, and your suitcase is still exponentially lighter.

Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics

When it comes to actually choosing the items to pack, Wang recommends picking clothes that won't take up too much space and create too many wrinkles. "Opt for quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant fabrics. They'll bounce back from tight packing and save you precious luggage space."

Typically, fabrics made from a synthetic material, like nylon, spandex, or polyester, resist wrinkles more than pure blends like 100% cotton or linen. Wool also doesn't need ironing. Packing these fabrics also lightens your load for any items you would need to help eliminate wrinkles in the first place, like wrinkle sprays or travel-size steamers.

Use packing cubes

Mercedes Zach, a travel agent at ASAP Tickets, always recommends investing in packing cubes to organize your items.

"Packing and unpacking can be a bit of a hustle, especially if you're traveling with more than one suitcase," Zach told Stacker. "However, organizing your belongings becomes a lot easier if you use packing cubes that are made to make the packing process more efficient and help with navigating through your travel items. They come in different shapes, sizes, and materials and have quickly replaced the good old packing method of rolling the clothes."

To save even more space in your bag—especially if you plan on shopping or accumulating more items on your trip—Zach says to specifically buy packing cubes that can compress with double zippers. "This type of packing cube is very lightweight, and you will be surprised by how much stuff you can carry with you using these. Besides, packing cubes are relatively inexpensive, and they are well worth every penny."

Pack a lightweight carry-on bag

The weight of your clothes, accessories, and recreational items aren't the only weighty items to worry about; your luggage can get just as heavy, depending on the material it is made of. Giacomo Piva, a travel industry analyst and co-founder of Radical Storage, says it's worth investing in a high-quality, lightweight rolling carry-on to keep the overall weight of your bag at even more of a minimum.

Specifically, Piva says to buy a soft-shell suitcase instead given how much lighter they can be compared to the popular hard-shell bags on the market these days. "Better to choose a soft-shell suitcase because it offers more flexibility and capacity, especially for items of different shapes, such as shoes or toiletries. Although hard-shell bags can compress and hold clothing better, they are also more at risk of cracking and are heavier in weight," Piva told Stacker.

Opt for solid toiletries

While packing smaller versions of all your necessary toiletries certainly saves space (and passes TSA regulations if you're flying), switching to solid toiletries is an even easier way to keep things light. After traveling to 48 states and 49 countries, Peggy Carlaw, CEO and chief blogger at The Smart Travel Guide, says packing solid options means you can easily shave off what you need instead of taking the whole bar with you. "You can find everything from solid shampoo to deodorant and toothpaste to lotion. Lush and Ethique are two good brands," Carlaw told Stacker.

If you prefer liquid toiletries, Carlaw says purchasing travel-sized, leakproof reusable bottles allows you to also only decant the shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, face wash, or whatever else you'll need. It may seem like a small amount of weight, but if you're not filling the bottles up to the top, it can make a significant difference in the long run.

Forget packing anything 'just in case'

Although it may seem wise to plan for those unexpected moments, in reality, there are many items that you likely don't need to bring "just in case."

"Remember, the rest of the world has stores," Carlaw added. "You can almost always purchase what you need when you arrive. It's a great way to interact with the locals."

Another situation of "just in case" packing is choosing to bring something because "maybe" you'll want it—maybe another book or extra snacks in case you get hungry. Both of these things can be purchased if you need them (how fun is it to buy a new book in a foreign country!).

Even so, remember to be honest with yourself. If the trip you're going on is all about touring and seeing the sights, will you have time to read? If you're looking to explore a town or a city, why not hit a café for that snack and turn it into an experience? Take only what you truly need, and handle those rare "just in case" moments as they come.

Story editing by Carren Jao. Copy editing by Paris Close.

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17 Travel Packing Tips From Frequent Travelers

Posted: February 29, 2024 | Last updated: February 29, 2024

Packing cubes help you stay organized.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

At AFAR, it’s a given that our staff members are all deeply passionate about travel. Whether we’re on a reporting trip or exploring the world on our own PTO, we’ve all packed and unpacked our bags hundreds, if not thousands, of times. So it goes without saying that many of us have become packing experts over the years. We’ve also learned a lot from interviewing professional organizers, flight attendants, and other frequent travelers along the way. Here are our best travel packing tips to make bringing your life on the road as efficient and stress-free as possible.

1. Build a travel capsule wardrobe

The essential idea of a capsule wardrobe is you can whittle your closet down to just 30 items of clothing to mix and match 1,000 outfits. You can also translate this decluttering technique to your suitcase in order to pack less. Wendy Mak, the Australia-based professional stylist who wrote the book about the minimalist style concept , recommends using this formula: “Multiply the number of tops with the number of bottoms you plan to bring and that’s the number of outfits you’ll be able to create, as long as every top coordinates with every bottom. That’s the key.

“You could literally travel with nothing more than six tops and four bottoms and that will give you 24 great outfits, as long as all 10 pieces work together,” Mak told AFAR in 2017 . “If you add two or three jackets that you can layer on top, you’ll be able to create even more options.”

2. Folding vs. rolling your clothes

It’s an age-old debate: Does rolling or folding your clothes save more space in your suitcase? Aislyn Greene, AFAR’s associate director of podcasts, asked her flight attendant mother for her opinion: “If you pack folded clothes flat in your suitcase, you may be wasting some valuable space. Rolled clothes can fit right down into the crevices of your luggage. Plus, rolling—as opposed to folding—is even better for wrinkle-prone items.”

However, the Japanese organizing expert Marie Kondo uses her own KonMari Method to file-fold her clothes in neat vertical stacks at home that transfer easily into her suitcase. “Not only does this folding technique keep clothing neat and wrinkle-free, it also maximizes the space of the suitcase,” Kondo told AFAR in 2019 .

When we put both methods to the test ourselves, we found that a combination of rolling and folding works best. So do whatever feels right to you.

3. Use packing cubes

Whether you fold or roll your clothes, using packing cubes (like the ones from Cotopaxi shown above) makes it easier to keep the contents of your luggage neat and well organized.

In fact, both Joanna Teplin and Clea Shearer, the cofounders of The Home Edit organizational empire, are packing cube devotees. But they use them in two very different ways: Shearer’s system involves sorting her belongings into cubes divided by categories, like daytime clothes, pajamas, and underwear and socks. Teplin, on the other hand, gives each outfit its own packing cubes—sometimes using three or more cubes per day—and sorts types of outfits into different colors of packing cubes, such as marble-patterned ones for pajamas and black ones for workout clothes.

“Joanna and I do it differently, but if it works for her she should do it that way, what works for me, I should do it that way,” Shearer told AFAR in 2021 . “Whatever system works for you is the system that is the correct one.”

>> Read more: The 9 Best Packing Cubes for Travel

4. Never use one big bag for toiletries

Instead of packing one large dopp kit , Shearer and Teplin also recommend separating your hair products, skincare products, and cosmetics into different toiletry bags so you don’t have to dig through your makeup just to find your floss at night. Don’t want to bring multiple bags? Use a kit that comes with separate compartments, like Calpak’s Clear Cosmetics Cases , so you can use one side for hair products and the other side for skin and dental items.

5. Decant all of your toiletries into travel-size containers

Leaving the full-size shampoo bottle at home isn’t just about complying with TSA’s liquid limits for carry-on bags; it also means that you’re not wasting space bringing more product than you need. “When you really pay attention, you may be surprised by how little shampoo or face wash you actually use in a week,” says Jessie Beck, AFAR’s associate director of SEO and video. “Rather than maxing out the 3.4 ounce rule, I try to pack only as much as product as I’ll need, plus a little extra. For a week-long trip, that generally means decanting shampoo and conditioner into 1.7 ounce bottles by HumanGear , face wash and cream into 0.56 ounce containers by Cadence , and makeup into these tiny sample bottles I’ve repurposed. It adds up and has allowed me to halve the size of my toiletry bag.”

6. Compartmentalize the rest of your belongings, too

Kondo says she never travels without a bento box–like case full of jewelry. “Once I arrive at my hotel, I use the case as the designated spot for my jewelry,” says the connoisseur of compartmentalizing. Both the Cuyana Travel Jewelry Case and the Away Jewelry Box have interior bands and elastic pouches to keep rings, earrings, and necklaces organized and untangled.

For wrangling other small items like chargers, cords, et cetera, we like Baggu’s 3D Zip Set , which includes three all-purpose pouches of varying sizes.

7. Prevent wrinkles with dry cleaning bags (and socks!)

“For blazers, slacks, and dress shirts that you want protected from wrinkles, keep them in the plastic bags you get from your dry cleaner when you pack them,” says Joe Diaz, AFAR’s cofounder. And to protect his ties from wrinkles, he offers this clever hack: “Roll them up and stash them in your socks.”

Alternatively: If you travel for business often, consider investing in a blazer or work clothes that don’t even wrinkle in the first place. Bluffworks is one of our favorite brands for technical work wear designed to handle the rigor of travel.

8. Plan to do laundry on the road

It’s possible to travel carry-on only—even on longer trips—according to former AFAR editors Bailey Berg and Mae Hamilton’s guide to one-bag travel . Instead of packing one pair of underwear and socks for each day, they recommend packing fewer pairs than you need and washing dirty unmentionables in the hotel bathtub or in a wash bag . These biodegradable, pocket-sized detergent sheets make the task easier, but you can also accomplish the job with a plain old bar of soap.

9. Invest in merino wool

Packing a few pairs of merino wool socks or T-shirts is also a great idea; thanks to wool fiber’s hydrophobic properties , B.O. particles have a hard time absorbing into wool clothing, so you can wear them multiple times before you need to wash them.

10. Bring a carabiner

Even the most dedicated one-bag travelers run out of room sometimes. A carabiner clipped to the outside of your bag can be useful; it can hold an extra pair of shoes, a water bottle, a hat, or a jacket.

11. Use multi-purpose travel accessories

Consolidate your belongings by packing multi-purpose accessories. For example, a multi-port charger—like the Anker 3-in-1 737 Charger —has two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. That means you can charge your computer, iPhone, and one more device from a single charging brick. It not only saves space in your tech pouch but also uses a single plug in your hotel room.

Similarly, a quick-drying Turkish cotton towel will dry your entire body at the pool and can also be used as a beach blanket , worn as a sarong, or mop up any spills along the way.

>> Read more: The Travel Accessories AFAR Editors Never Leave Home Without

12. BYOBlanket

It’s unlikely airplane blankets would be reused without being cleaned in between flights—especially if it’s wrapped in plastic. But if the thin, sandpapery texture of the constantly rewashed fleece rubs you the wrong way, we get it.

“I always bring a Lingua Franca travel set . It’s cashmere, comes with socks, a blanket, and an eye mask. Because plane blankets are gross. This blanket, well, it’s mine,” Katie Sturino, founder of the bodycare brand Megababe , told AFAR in 2018 .

We’re also fans of the sleeping bag-inspired travel blanket by Rumpl for those who want extra warmth on frigid planes.

13. Wear your bulkiest items while in transit

Alternatively, you can skip packing a travel blanket and just wear your bulky winter coat on the plane to keep you warm in that chilly cabin air—and save space in your suitcase. (We also recommend wearing your largest shoes or boots on the plane to save valuable packing space.)

14. To pack lighter, get a smaller bag

“We’ve all been guilty of packing an extra T-shirt or book just because we have the space in our bag,” says Beck. “One of the best ways to keep from overpacking with unnecessary items? Get a smaller bag. If you don’t have the space, you’re less likely to throw things in just because you can. I personally use the Charlie 25 by Remote Equipment , which is technically a commuter backpack but works well for travel as well.”

15. Shower caps are your best friend

Stepped in mud (or worse!) on a trip? If you haven’t invested in reusable travel shoe bags to keep your suitcase organized and hygienic, the solution to your problem can be found in your hotel bathroom. Greene uses hotel shower caps as shoe wraps. “They’re especially good for running shoes that get a little muddy. Plus, they’re ubiquitous so you’re never in danger of being without,” she says.

16. Plan to shop? Pack some extra baggage

Even if you’ve dialed in your packing system perfectly, you may come across souvenirs you can’t leave behind. Traveling with a suitcase that comes with expandable zippers is one solution, but sometimes the smartest thing you bring on vacation is an empty suitcase or collapsible duffle bag.

“I’m a big fan of foldable bags to bring along in case, um, I do too much shopping,” says Breanna Rhoades, AFAR’s human resources director.

If you really are committed to not checking a bag, another packing secret Kondo swears by is to keep 10 percent of your luggage empty. That way you have room to pack new treasures and souvenirs to take home.

17. Keep your bag packed

The easiest way to pack a suitcase is to, well, always keep it packed. “I tend to have a suitcase of clothes so I’m not constantly unpacking and packing,” Kat Woodruffe, a British Airways pilot, told AFAR in 2018 . If your travel uniforms aren’t as consistent as a pilot’s, at least consider keeping your toiletry bag always packed in your suitcase. Simply decant your favorite toothpaste, makeup, and other skincare items into reusable containers and keep them in your toiletry case so it’s always ready to go.

Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Mike Arnot, Aislyn Greene, Danielle Walsh, Mae Hamilton, and Bailey Berg.

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