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Everyone loves traveling, but I think most of us can agree that packing can be a hassle. Figuring out what to pack is hard enough, but getting it all to fit in our luggage can be a whole other challenge. Thankfully, quality packing cubes are on the rise and they make packing easier and more efficient for all of us.
However, a Google or social media search will show plenty of questions swirling around like, “What makes a good travel organizer?” and “Why use packing cubes?” Our comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know about getting the best travel packing cubes for your travel style and we’ll even give you the best travel cubes reviews so you don’t have to do hours of research.
Our Top Pick: Overall, the best packing cubes currently available are the Shacke Pak Packing Cubes. They are durable, versatile, and best sellers on Amazon.
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Comparison Chart of the Best Packing Cubes
Below is a list of the best packing cubes for travel. Click on the product name to read reviews and check prices.
What Are Packing Cubes?
These genius creations are typically square or rectangular containers used to compartmentalize clothes while traveling. Pack your clothes then zip them closed and place them in your luggage or backpack. Not only do they reduce space, but most are designed so your clothes stay organized and unwrinkled while packed.
The best ones are made of lightweight material so they won’t add extra weight to your bags. Some companies even make a double-sided packing cube so you can access your clothes from two sides instead of having to reach under your clothes on the top. When looking for packing cubes, keep in mind that your travel style will determine the best cubes for you. For example, if you go backpacking or camping a lot then you’ll probably want to check out waterproof packing cubes.
Advantages of Packing Cubes
While you may have traveled up until now with no travel cubes, there are huge advantages to them that may get you on board 🙂
1. Organizing and Compartmentalizing Your Clothes
These are the ultimate travel organizers because they allow you to categorize your clothes, making them easier to find when you need them. Many packing cubes come in separate sizes and some in separate colors. They’re especially beneficial if you have different types of clothing, like business, casual, and workout attire. Packing cubes also great if you’re traveling as a family because everyone’s clothes can be in a different color cube and may all fit in one suitcase.
2. Suitcase Sharing is Made Simple
Whether you’re traveling with your family or friends, packing cubes are ideal for sharing a suitcase. Especially when many budget airlines are charging fees per bag, you can save money and space by sharing a suitcase. With many packing cubes coming in different colors, you won’t even have to worry about belongings getting mixed up in the suitcase.
3. Packing Cubes are Reusable
I don’t know about you, but I often bring Ziploc bags or trash bags when I travel to separate my clothes and toiletries. The good news is, some travel cubes even come with a laundry bag and/or toiletry bag. Also, plastic bags aren’t durable, they don’t look great, they don’t save space, and they’re not really made for repeated use. The same packing cubes should keep your clothes organized for many years to come.
4, Keep Clothes Neat and Unwrinkled
Not only do packing cubes allow you to maximize space, but many of them are designed so your clothes don’t shift around and get unorganized. There are even some great options that will keep your clothes wrinkle-free.
5, Easy to Clean
When it’s time to clean your packing cubes, just toss them in the washing machine. Many cubes are mesh packing organizers, meaning they’re machine washable and quick-drying.
6. Maximize Space
Filling your packing cubes to the max then putting them in your suitcase will allow you to pack more things than if you were to just pack your suitcase to the max. Even though many of the greatest travel organizers aren’t compression packing cubes, they still condense your clothes well and help to save space.
7. Use Them As a Pillow
If you accidentally leave your travel pillow at home, packing cubes can be a great alternative. Instead of trying to fold up your travel jacket and find a good angle where your neck won’t hurt, take out one of your well-packed cubes and get ready for a solid nap.
How to Use Packing Cubes
We recommend folding your clothes in half then rolling them and packing them. Rolling them gives you the best use of space and because of the mesh top, you’ll be able to see more of your clothes than if they only were folded. Instead of having to ruffle through a pile of shirts to find your favorite blue top, you’ll easily be able to identify it when everything’s rolled up side by side.
What Size Packing Cubes to Buy
The best size depends on things like how you’ll be using them and if you’ll be putting them in a suitcase or backpack.
Many packing cubes come in sets ranging from three to five. Sets of packing cubes may all have the same size cubes or they may have varying sizes. The most popular sizes are small, medium, and large, but some sets even include an extra large and/or a slim packing cube. Not all companies adhere to the same size measurements, so be sure to check before you buy them.
One thing I love about the Shacke Pak Packing Cubes is that all of the cubes have a depth of four inches. Many cubes are more shallow, and they become even more shallow as the sizes decrease.
Best Packing Cube Reviews
As soon as you try out packing cubes, you’ll be confident they’re well worth the money. Here are our reviews for the greatest packing cubes on the market:
Shacke Pak Packing Cubes
Shacke Pak Packing Cubes are the ultimate choice for any vacation. They’re perfect whether you’re going on a luxury vacation or going camping. Also, because they’re made with a high-quality durable water-resistant nylon material, they are the best packing cubes for backpacking as your clothes will stay protected even if it rains. Along with the four packing cubes, a convenient laundry bag is included so you can keep your dirty clothes separate. With all the cubes being four inches deep, you’ll have plenty of space to pack everything you need while comfortably fitting the cubes in your travel backpack or luggage. The netting on these mesh packing cubes means you can look for your items without having to unload the whole cube. Considering all they have to offer, there’s no wonder Shacke Pak Packing Cubes are the best packing cubes for travel.
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TravelWise Packing Cube System
These mesh packing organizers are perfect if you’re traveling with little ones or going on an extended trip. Five pieces in three different sizes are included in this set, and the price point makes these cheap packing cubes a steal for their quality. Not only are they made with quality materials, but they’re lightweight, durable, and will fit perfectly in your carry-on luggage. In addition to traveling well, they fit well in drawers when you fold the lid under the bottom. So whether you’re heading to a hotel in Salzburg or a hostel in Bangkok, you can keep your clothes organized throughout your trip within the TravelWise Packing Cube System.
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Bago Packing Cubes
Bago has done their best to eliminate all of your travel woes. Not only do you get four cubes, you also get six reusable plastic bags to keep your liquids and other products sealed. Another thing that makes Bago Packing Cubes some of the best travel organizers is that you can get your cubes in four different colors. If for example you’re spending a weekend in New York City, then each member of the family can put their clothes in a different cube. Bago Packing Cubes truly simplify packing and traveling.
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Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube Set
When talking about travel products, Eagle Creek’s name comes up more often than not, and for very good reason. They’ve continually made quality products and their packing cubes are no different. Very similar to compression packing cubes, they’re designed for clothing compression and accessory organization. The three different size cubes help you make the most of the space you have to work with. Because these cubes are a little smaller and less bulky than other products on the market, they’re some of the best packing cubes for backpacks. Eagle Creek is so confident they have the best travel packing cubes available, they even offer a lifetime warranty.
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AmazonBasics 4-Piece Packing Cube Set
Versatility is at its finest with these travel packing cells. Not only will you get a standard small, medium, and large cube, but AmazonBasics also includes a slim cube for convenience in packing things like your chargers and travel umbrella. They’ve even designed the material to be quick-drying and protect against wrinkles, so when you arrive at your destination ironing isn’t inevitable. The materials are high-quality and the cubes are flexible, so they’re an ideal option for organizing backpacks and also for business travelers because of the anti-wrinkle material. Packing is super simple with the AmazonBasics 4-Piece Packing Cube Set.
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Bagail Packing Cubes
You’ll never have to ask are packing cubes useful after using Bagail’s cubes. These packing cubes help you stay organized, find your things in a matter of seconds, and keep everything neat. In addition to the four cubes, you have a choice of a laundry bag or a toiletry bag. Depending on your travel style, laundry bags are great for keeping your clothes separate on a longer trip and a toiletry bag is perfect for keeping everything organized for a weekend trip. Whether you’re backpacking Belize or visiting the best European cities, Bagail Packing Cubes will soon be your favorite travel accessories.
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Pro Packing Cubes
When you look at best packing cube reviews, the ones for Pro Packing Cubes are overwhelmingly positive. Pro has a long history of making quality travel products, and these packing cubes are a perfect example. To make sure their packing cubes fit your travel personality, you have the option of a four-piece set or you can select medium or large pieces. With high quality zippers and nylon as well as reinforced seams, these should travel the world with you for many years. In case something does happen to them, they’re backed by a lifetime guarantee. These lightweight cubes are a no-brainer for your next adventure.
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eBags Packing Cubes
eBags makes packing, unpacking, and repacking simpler than you ever thought it could be. Three different size cubes have been constructed with breathable nylon, mesh tops, and premium zippers for total durability. Easily categorize your clothes when you pack, and then store them in your hotel drawers when you arrive so you don’t have to live out of your suitcase. You’ll be amazed by how much you can pack in these cubes and how easily they’ll fit in your luggage. The days of digging around in your luggage to find that top you know you packed are long gone thanks to eBags Packing Cubes.
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Mossio Packing Cubes
Mossio Packing Cubes are the perfect solution for packing smart, and the best part is they’re packing cubes for suitcase or backpack use. This set comes with three different size packing cubes, three different size laundry pouches, and even a shoe bag! They’re lightweight, portable, and easy to store, so no matter if you’re going on a beach vacation, camping, or a workout retreat, you can keep your things organized 100% of the time. These are ideal for stress-free packing and maximizing space in your luggage. If you’re constantly on the go, let Mossio Packing Cubes simplify your travels.
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Gonex Travel Packing Cubes
These are some of the best packing cubes money can buy. Gonex cubes come with five cubes and one laundry bag in a variety of fun colors. In case you’re an overpacker and your luggage is overweight, it’s super easy to take one of the bags out and carry it with you. Their mesh panels make them breathable while also letting you identify items without having to unpack the cube. The small details they’ve included like the double-way zippers and webbing handles are thoughtful additions that make traveling more convenient. After your first time trying them, we’re sure you’ll agree that Gonex Travel Packing Cubes are some of the best travel organizers on the market.
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Travel cubes are the ideal solution for simplified packing. You can be confident that the best travel packing cubes will be the perfect accessory to keep you and your clothes looking good for your weekend in San Francisco, your backpacking excursion through Honduras, and everything in between 🙂