The 11 Best Packing Cubes for Traveling

Whether you're a minimalist traveler or someone who opts for a more luxurious approach, there are packing cubes tailored to your travel preferences.

Why Packing Cubes Matter

Despite being an avid traveler, I spent over four decades dismissing the need for packing cubes. My belief was rooted in the notion that I could effectively pack by simply rolling my clothes to optimize space in any carry-on suitcase or backpack. But upon purchasing a set, I quickly recognized their undeniable advantages.

Packing cubes may be criticized by minimalists and those skilled at fitting multiple outfits into a small backpack, and while it's true that traditional cubes add some weight (typically under a pound), the introduction of compressible styles has revolutionized packing for those prone to overpacking. Moreover, even non-compressible options often come equipped with labels, elevating your packing organization.

These cubes are especially beneficial for duffel bags and travel backpacks, as they maintain order where folded clothes can be challenging to manage. Additionally, they offer protection against dirt, damage, and sand, while also minimizing wrinkles during transit. They enhance privacy, too: if TSA agents need to inspect your luggage, they can examine just the cube in question, rather than rifling through your entire bag. Families can also use color-coded cubes to keep everyone’s clothing organized within a shared suitcase. If you inadvertently overpack, it's easier to identify and remove items to meet weight restrictions.

Unpacking becomes a breeze with packing cubes; you can often place the cubes directly into hotel drawers without having to remove the contents. If you're considering venturing into the world of packing cubes or looking to upgrade an existing set, this curated list highlights road-tested favorites suitable for various travel scenarios.

Best Compression Packing Cubes

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Carry-On Set ($104)

Eagle Creek offers an impressive range of travel accessories, and their packing cubes stand out for their robust design. Constructed from durable fabric, these cubes feature effective compression along with high-quality zipper pulls. While they include strategic mesh for breathability, they remain opaque at the base for added privacy. Distinct sets are available for longer trips, and individual cubes can be purchased. Notably, the large cube in this set has a partition for dirty or clean clothes. Additionally, they are water-resistant and equipped with a convenient carry handle.

Specs:

• Compression: Yes
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: Barely
• Material: 100% recycled fabric
• How many in set: 4
• Sizes: 2 small, 1 medium, 1 medium clean/dirty cube
• Total weight: 1 pound, 2.5 ounces
• Zippers: Small, with long corded pulls
• Warranty: Lifetime

Best Packing Cubes for Carry-On Luggage

Thule Compression Packing Cube Set ($54, currently $39)

Manufactured by the renowned Swedish brand Thule, these compression cubes closely follow Eagle Creek's offerings in quality. Their rigid design and compact sizes make them less suited for extended trips or large items like sweaters, yet they excel at compressing contents, making them perfect for carry-on luggage.

The medium-sized cube fits bulky sweatpants effortlessly while compressing them to a manageable form. With Bluesign-approved 100-denier ripstop nylon that is translucent enough to discern contents, this water-repellent fabric is both functional and efficient.

Specs:

• Compression: Yes
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: Yes (medium size), and compress them
• Material: 100D ripstop nylon
• How many in set: 2
• Sizes: Small, medium
• Total weight: 7.5 ounces
• Zippers: YKK
• Warranty: Limited lifetime

Sturdiest Packing Cubes

Nomatic Compression Packing Cubes ($30)

Featuring rubber-tipped zipper pulls, these minimalist cubes from Nomatic are almost indistinguishable from Eagle Creek's offerings, providing exceptional compression. However, Nomatic's ripstop nylon is notably thicker, offering resilience for travelers concerned about wear and tear.

The large cube has a square shape that may not accommodate rolled clothing as seamlessly as Eagle Creek's design, and it features a mesh front that encompasses about three-fourths of the cube for enhanced visibility and ventilation. Like their competitor, Nomatic provides a lifetime warranty, and the cubes can be purchased individually or as part of a three-pack.

Specs:

• Compression: Yes
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: Yes
• Material: Ripstop nylon
• How many in set: 3
• Sizes: Small, medium, large
• Total weight: Just under 1 pound
• Zippers: No-name small metal with tipped pulls
• Warranty: Lifetime

Best Packing Cubes on Amazon

Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes, Set of 6 ($25-$43)

For those seeking a quick solution from Amazon, Bagsmart's six-pack of packing cubes proves to be an excellent budget-friendly choice. Featuring compression capabilities, an appealing design, and a convenient label window, these cubes meet the essential requirements of any traveler. The fine mesh front ensures sufficient privacy while allowing for breathability. Customers can select from 25 color and pattern options for added personalization.

A minor drawback is that some sizes in larger sets can be quite similar and remain somewhat rectangular in shape, making side-by-side packing simpler but potentially limiting for varied items.

Specs:

• Compression: Yes
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: Yes, with room to spare
• Material: Polyester
• How many in set: 2, 4, or 6
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, shoe bag
• Total weight: 0.56 pounds (for set of 2)
• Zippers: O-shaped, with corded pulls
• Warranty: 30 days

Best Suitcase Packing Cubes

Monos Compressible Packing Cubes ($95-$115)

The packing cubes from Monos boast an elegant aesthetic and practical design. Crafted from durable nylon twill, they feature an antimicrobial interior, TPU-reinforced mesh windows, and sophisticated gold-toned hardware. Designed to maintain a low profile when flat, they expand to a generous 4.5 inches when packed, providing excellent compression. While specifically tailored for Monos luggage, they can fit seamlessly into a variety of suitcases. Their six-piece set is optimal for a week-long trip while offering an upscale look.

Specs:

• Compression: Yes
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: Yes, with room for another small outfit
• Material: Tear-resistant nylon twill with antimicrobial lining
• How many in set: 4 or 6
• Total weight: 2.24 pounds (for set of 6)
• Zippers: Anti-catch
• Warranty: 2-year limited

Best Packing Cubes for Backpacks

Peak Design Ultralight Mesh Packing Cube ($15-$60)

If weight is a concern during your travels, the ultralight packing cubes from Peak Design are an ideal selection. The smallest cube weighs merely 1 ounce, and its Powernet nylon mesh material can be easily stowed away in a pocket when not in use. You also have the option to attach a strap (not included) to carry the cubes like a crossbody bag. These cubes are Bluesign-approved, Fair Trade certified, fully breathable, and come with a lifetime warranty. Even the medium size accommodates bulky sweats along with additional items like socks.

Peak Design also offers an opaque variant made of recycled ripstop-like fabric, as well as dedicated shoe bag options.

Specs:

• Compression: Yes and no
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: Yes, with room to spare
• Material: 50D exterior fabric is weatherproof, 100% recycled, and Bluesign approved; the mesh is 180g Powernet nylon
• How many in set: 1, 3, 6, or 9
• Sizes: Extra-extra small, extra small, small, medium
• Total weight: Medium regular by itself: 9.8 ounces; smallest XXS from the ultralight mesh line: 1.1 ounces
• Zippers: Proprietary #5 Ultrazip with abrasion-resistant thread
• Warranty: Lifetime

Best Packing Cubes for Camping and Outdoors

Eagle Creek Pack-It VentureLite Gear Cubes ($40-$55)

Eagle Creek's VentureLite Gear Cubes take durability a step further with their ocean-recycled nylon construction. These cubes offer resistance against water, abrasion, and punctures, making them easy to clean after exposure to dirt or mud. Though they lack a compression feature, their robust design is more suited for outdoor and adventure travel than for business travel.

They're particularly valuable for camping, overlanding, and boating, where protection against dirt and damage is crucial. The Extra Small cube can also serve as a compact pouch for emergency items, such as a first aid kit.

Specs:

• Compression: No
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: Yes
• Material: Ocean-recycled 200D nylon ripstop with recycled TPU coating
• How many in set: 1
• Sizes: XS, S, M, L
• Total weight: Varies (L is 8 ounces)
• Zippers: Metal with corded pulls
• Warranty: Lifetime

Best Packing Cubes for Women

Béis the Packing Cubes ($68)

While labeling packing cubes is common, Béis enhances this concept by offering a collection of insert cards for their sturdy packing cubes. These include cards representing days of the week as well as annotation options for categories such as bras, pajamas, and playful labels like "proceed with caution." The cube sets are designed to complement Béis luggage but can easily fit into bags from other manufacturers. Buyers can select from colors like Black, Beige, Pink, Olive, and Maple.

Specs:

• Compression: Available (4-piece) or non-compression (6-piece)
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: Yes, with room to spare
• Material: Polyester
• How many in set: 4 or 6
• Sizes: 2 large, 2 medium, or small, medium, large plus extras
• Total weight: 0.8 pounds (4-piece)
• Zippers: Branded with 1.25-inch metal pulls
• Warranty: Limited lifetime

Best Packing Cube for Business Travel

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Garment Folder ($30-$35)

For business travelers dealing with wrinkle-prone garments, this innovative garment folder is essential. It features an envelope-style design that allows for precise folding using a built-in folding board, ensuring clothes are held in place by adjustable Velcro flaps. In our testing, two button-up shirts and cotton trousers remained impressively wrinkle-free for two weeks, outperforming standard packing methods. The medium size fits comfortably within a carry-on bag.

Specs:

• Compression: Yes
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: Yes
• Material: Recycled polyester
• How many in set: 1
• Sizes: Medium, large, extra-large
• Total weight: 10 ounces (medium)
• Zippers: None
• Warranty: Lifetime

Best Packing Cubes for Ski Trips

Kulkea Kaamos Boot Cube ($30)

Traveling with wet and muddy ski boots can be a challenge, but the Kulkea Boot Cube is designed to solve this issue. Constructed from durable tarp material and featuring corrosion-resistant ventilation grommets, these cubes keep your other luggage protected from dirt, snow, and damage associated with ski boots. The large size accommodates boots up to Mondopoint size 30.5, with medium and small options fitting different sizes.

Specs:

• Compression: No
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: Yes but N/A
• Material: Tarpaulin PVC
• How many in set: 1
• Sizes: Small, medium, large
• Total weight: 9 ounces for medium cube
• Zippers: YKK
• Warranty: 2 years

Best Colorful Packing Cubes

Cotopaxi Cubos del Dia ($25-$55)

Certified B Corporation Cotopaxi is celebrated for its vibrant and sustainable travel gear, especially within the Del Dia collection, which utilizes deadstock fabric. With each order of Del Dia items, customers receive unique color combinations. While these packing cubes do not feature compression, they are lightweight, fun, and easily adaptable to fit into any suitcase or backpack, featuring mesh panels for ventilation and contrasting zippers for style. However, note that the smaller 2L and 3L sizes are best suited for minor items, making them less ideal for extended trips.

Specs:

• Compression: No
• Can the largest cube fit a bulky sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants: No (sweatshirt only)
• Material: Recycled nylon
• How many in set: 3
• Sizes: 2L, 3L, 10L
• Total weight: 7 ounces
• Zippers: Metal with 2-inch corded pulls
• Warranty: Lifetime

How to Choose the Right Packing Cubes

Consider your travel style. Are you a light packer who prefers expediency, or do you meticulously organize each item? Understanding whether you check bags or travel solely with carry-ons is crucial. Compression cubes are ideal for heavy packers and checked baggage, while lightweight mesh cubes cater to backpackers.

Think about durability. If your travels are rugged—like camping or adventure sports—opt for water-resistant and puncture-proof materials. For frequent business trips, prioritize those that focus on wrinkle prevention.

Factor in organization needs. Families or those who prefer separation should select larger sets with varied sizing and color options, while solo travelers might benefit from compact, lightweight styles.

Remember breathability matters. Sufficient ventilation is essential, particularly for dirty laundry, while also ensuring enough opacity for privacy during security checks.

FAQs

Why not just use ziplock bags?

While ziplock bags are a cost-effective option, packing cubes present numerous advantages. They promote breathability to prevent odors from accumulating in dirty laundry. Their durability exceeds that of plastic alternatives, which are prone to rips and tears. Additionally, many compression packing cubes allow for significantly more contents than a typical plastic bag, easily accommodating five days' worth of clothing.

Are packing cubes worth the investment?

Absolutely. Packing cubes enhance organization, protect garments, and maximize space efficiency. They make unpacking more straightforward and rapid, assist in avoiding overpacking fees on flights, and maintain privacy during TSA inspections.

How many packing cubes do I need?

A range of three to four cubes suits a week-long journey, while six or more is advisable for longer trips or checked luggage. Your packing habits will influence the number required; heavier packers often need more compared to minimalists.