Best Packing Cubes

We compared packing cube sets using the manufacturers' specs, professional reviews, and owner reviews. Taro Schenker, who runs this site, uses Eagle Creek Pack-It cubes on his own trips and has used a Shacke Pak set for more than eight years. We looked at:

• • Durability: Zipper quality, fabric strength, and seams, as owners report them over time
• • Space efficiency: Compression design and packing capacity
• • Organization: Ease of access, visibility, and systematic packing
• • Value: Price per cube, longevity, and included accessories
• • Travel-specific features: TSA-friendly design, backpack compatibility, weight

Types of Packing Cubes

Understanding the different types helps you choose the right cubes for your travel style:

• • Standard packing cubes: Basic rectangular containers with mesh tops for visibility. Best for general organization and quick access. No compression means less wrinkles on delicate fabrics.
• • Compression packing cubes: Feature a second zipper that squeezes out air to reduce volume. Ideal for bulky items like sweaters, jeans, and jackets. Best for carry-on only travel.
• • Mesh packing cubes: Fully breathable design prevents odors and lets you see contents at a glance. Great for gym clothes, dirty laundry separation, and humid climates.
• • Double-sided packing cubes: Two compartments in one cube, perfect for separating clean and dirty clothes, or organizing outfits by day.
• • Expandable packing cubes: Start compact and expand for return trip when you have more items. Useful for shopping trips or bringing back souvenirs.

How Many Packing Cubes Do You Need?

The number depends on your trip length and luggage size:

• • Weekend trip (2-3 days): 2-3 cubes (1 small for underwear/socks, 1-2 medium for clothes)
• • Week-long trip: 4-5 cubes (1 small, 2 medium, 1-2 large for pants/jackets)
• • Two weeks or more: 6+ cubes, including compression options and a dedicated laundry cube
• • Flight crew and frequent travelers: Cabin crew who pack and unpack daily benefit most from a consistent cube system. See our gifts for flight attendants guide for more gear suited to crew schedules.
• • Family travel: Consider color-coded sets so each person has their own color

Size Guide

• • Small (5L or less): Underwear, socks, accessories, toiletries
• • Medium (5-10L): T-shirts, shorts, swimwear, light layers
• • Large (10-15L): Pants, dresses, sweaters, jackets
• • Extra-large (15L+): Bulky items, winter clothes, family packing

Packing Cube Techniques

Maximize your packing cubes with these methods:

• • Rolling vs. folding: Rolling saves more space and reduces wrinkles for casual clothes. Fold dress shirts and delicate items.
• • Color coding: Assign colors by clothing type (blue for shirts, green for pants) or by person for family travel.
• • One cube for dirty laundry: Keep a mesh cube empty initially for dirty clothes, or use double-sided cubes.
• • Pack in outfit bundles: Some travelers prefer packing complete outfits in each cube rather than by clothing type.
• • Compression strategy: Use compression cubes at the bottom of your bag for bulky items, regular cubes on top for easy access.

Material Considerations

• • Nylon ripstop: Most durable, tear-resistant, slightly heavier
• • Polyester: Good balance of durability and weight, most common
• • Recycled materials: Eco-friendly option, often from recycled plastic bottles. For travelers who want fully cruelty-free and sustainable gear, our sustainable and vegan travel gifts guide has more options.
• • Mesh panels: Improve visibility and breathability but slightly less durable