Traveling is an art, and like any artist, your tools matter. One tool that has revolutionized the way we pack is the humble packing cube. Whether you’re a meticulous planner or someone who throws everything in at the last minute, packing cubes can save your travel day. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the best packing cubes of 2024, compare different types, and help you decide which packing cubes are the perfect match for your travel needs.
Introduction to Packing Cubes – Why They Are Essential for Travelers
If you’ve ever opened your suitcase after a long flight and found a jumbled mess of clothes, you’re not alone. Enter packing cubes—compact, lightweight organizers designed to keep your suitcase neat and make your packing experience smoother. They’re ideal for maximizing space, keeping clothes wrinkle-free, and making unpacking at your destination a breeze.
What Are Packing Cubes and How Do They Work?
Packing cubes are small, zippered fabric bags that compartmentalize your belongings inside your luggage. They’re typically made of lightweight nylon or polyester and come in various sizes. You can think of them as drawers inside your suitcase. Instead of one massive compartment, packing cubes give you smaller sections where you can store specific items—shirts in one cube, socks and underwear in another, and toiletries in a third.
Benefits of Using Packing Cubes for Travel
Improved Organization
One of the biggest headaches of packing for a trip is finding a place for everything. Packing cubes offer a simple solution: you get to separate your belongings into different categories. No more rummaging through your suitcase looking for your favorite shirt—it’s right there in your “tops” packing cube.
Maximizing Luggage Space
Packing cubes don’t just organize; they also help you save space. By compressing clothes and reducing air pockets between items, cubes create more room for souvenirs or other travel essentials.
Keeping Items Wrinkle-Free
Nothing is worse than arriving at your destination only to find your clothes wrinkled beyond recognition. Packing cubes keep your items neatly folded and stacked, reducing wrinkles and keeping clothes fresh.
Types of Packing Cubes Explained
Packing cubes come in different varieties to suit the needs of every traveler. Below, we break down the most common types and what makes them unique.
Ultralight Packing Cubes
Ultralight packing cubes are made from super-lightweight materials like ripstop nylon or polyester. These are ideal for minimalist travelers or backpackers looking to cut down on every extra ounce.
Pros and Cons of Ultralight Packing Cubes
Pros
Cons
Recommended Ultralight Packing Cubes
- Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cube Set: Known for its durability and featherlight construction, it’s perfect for adventure travelers.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight, durable, ideal for carry-on luggage.
Cons
- Might not offer as much compression as other types, slightly less structured.
Compression Packing Cubes
Key Features: Compression Technology, Materials, Durability
Compression packing cubes take organization a step further by actively reducing the volume of your clothes. These cubes feature a secondary zipper that compresses the cube, squeezing out excess air and compacting your belongings.
Pros and Cons of Compression Packing Cubes
Pros
Cons
Recommended Compression Packing Cubes
- Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes: These cubes offer great compression without compromising on material quality or durability.
Budget Packing Cubes
Key Features: Affordable Materials, Durability, Packability
Budget packing cubes might not have the fancy features of higher-end cubes, but they do the job without burning a hole in your wallet. Made from cheaper materials, they may not last as long but offer great value for casual travelers.
Pros and Cons of Budget Packing Cubes
Pros
Cons
Recommended Budget Packing Cubes
- Amazon Basics Packing Cubes: These are affordable, come in multiple sizes, and offer a solid solution for travelers who don’t want to overspend.
Specialist Packing Cubes
Shoe Pouch, Padded, and Weather-Resistant Packing Cubes
Specialist packing cubes are designed for specific purposes—whether it’s packing your shoes, protecting your gadgets, or keeping your items dry in unpredictable weather. These cubes often have added padding or weather-resistant materials.
Pros and Cons of Specialist Packing Cubes
Pros
Cons
Recommended Specialist Packing Cubes
- Peak Design Packing Cube: Their weather-resistant materials and sleek design make them a great choice for outdoor travelers or anyone carrying sensitive items like electronics.
Best Packing Cubes by Category
We’ve reviewed a variety of packing cubes and compared them across categories to give you the best recommendations for 2024.
Best Overall Packing Cubes for Travel
Veken Packing Cubes With Laundry and Shoe Bag
These cubes strike a perfect balance between price, quality, and durability. Plus, they come with a laundry bag and shoe bag, making them a comprehensive travel kit.
Pros
Cons
Best Value Packing Cubes
Shacke Pak 5 Set Packing Cubes
Shacke Pak offers durable cubes with a high-quality mesh design for a fraction of the price of other brands. The set also includes a laundry bag.
Pros
Cons
Best Compression Packing Cubes
Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes
This set is perfect for travelers who need to maximize space. The compression feature squeezes every last inch out of your luggage.
Pros
Cons
Best Ultralight Packing Cubes
Peak Design Ultralight Packing Cubes
For the weight-conscious traveler, Peak Design offers an ultralight option that doesn’t skimp on quality. These cubes are durable, lightweight, and perfect for carry-on bags.
Pros
Cons
Best for Style
Calpak Packing Cubes 5-Piece Set
If aesthetics matter to you, Calpak’s packing cubes offer a chic and stylish option without compromising on functionality.
Pros
Cons
Best Sustainable Packing Cubes
Peak Design Sustainable Packing Cubes
For eco-conscious travelers, Peak Design offers cubes made from recycled materials. These cubes are durable, lightweight, and environmentally friendly.
Pros
Cons
Comparison Table – Top Packing Cubes at a Glance
| Packing Cubes | Price Range | Weight | Compression Ability | Material Type | No. of Pieces |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Veken Packing Cubes | $ | Medium | No | Nylon | 6 |
| Shacke Pak 5 Set Packing Cubes | $ | Heavy | No | Polyester | 5 |
| Bagsmart Compression Cubes | $$ | Medium | Yes | Nylon | 4 |
| Peak Design Ultralight Cubes | $$ | Light | No | Nylon | 3 |
| Calpak Packing Cubes 5-Piece Set | $$$ | Medium | No | Polyester | 5 |
| Peak Design Sustainable Cubes | $$$ | Light | No | Recycled Nylon | 3 |
Key Features to Consider Before Buying Packing Cubes
Size Options and Dimensions
Make sure to consider the dimensions of each cube and how it fits into your luggage. Some sets come with a variety of sizes, which can be handy depending on how you organize your packing.
Materials and Durability
Lightweight materials like nylon are great for durability and water resistance. However, some ultralight options may not be as durable, so choose based on your needs.
Compression vs Regular Packing Cubes
Compression cubes are perfect if you need to save space, but they can wrinkle clothes more easily. Regular cubes are easier to use and provide a basic level of organization.
Multiple Compartments and Pockets
Some packing cubes come with additional compartments for better organization. Look for cubes that have mesh sections or pockets for added convenience.
Zippers, Handles, and Other Design Add-ons
Quality zippers and handles can make a big difference when it comes to usability. Look for packing cubes with reinforced zippers and sturdy handles for easy transport.
Budget and Price Considerations
While budget cubes offer value, higher-end options often include features like compression, durability, and better materials. Weigh the cost against how often you travel and the features that matter most to you.