I’ve learned that staying organized is the key to stress-free travel. Over the years, I’ve discovered a game-changer that I can’t imagine traveling without packing cubes. These little wonders have transformed the way I pack, making it easier to find what I need, keep my clothes wrinkle-free, and maximize every inch of my luggage. In this article, nationalparkshops.com and me share my top picks for the best packing cubes that have consistently helped me stay organized on my adventures – whether I’m jetting off for a weekend getaway or embarking on a month-long journey. Trust me, once you try them, you won’t look back!
Contents
Why is it necessary to use packing cubes?
Packing cube not only helps you maximize space by compressing your clothes but also keeps everything neatly separated. By using packing cubes, you can easily categorize your clothing and accessories, making it simpler to find what you need without rummaging through your entire suitcase.
Furthermore, packing cubes are great for reducing wrinkles in your clothes. When packed tightly in cubes, your clothes are less likely to shift around during travel, resulting in fewer creases and folds. This means you can arrive at your destination looking fresh and put together without having to worry about ironing or steaming your clothes.
One of the best things about packing cubes is how they simplify the packing and unpacking process. Instead of having to take out all your clothes and belongings from your suitcase, you can simply transfer the cubes directly into drawers or closets upon arrival. This not only saves time but also keeps your belongings organized throughout your trip.
Overall, investing in packing cubes is a small change that can make a big difference in how you pack and travel. They offer convenience, organization, and efficiency, allowing you to enjoy your journey without the stress of dealing with a disorganized suitcase.
How to test the best packing cubes?
When testing packing cubes, it’s important to consider a few key factors:
- Durability: Make sure to check the quality of materials and zippers. Look for strong fabrics and sturdy zippers that will last through many trips.
- Compression ability: The top packing cubes will be able to compress your clothes, allowing you to fit more into your luggage.
- Weight: Opt for lightweight cubes to avoid adding unnecessary weight to your bags.
- Versatility: Choose cubes that come in different sizes and shapes to accommodate various types of luggage and packing needs.
- Ease of use: Look for cubes with easy-to-open zippers, handles for carrying, and clear labeling options to make organizing your belongings a breeze.
9 Best packing cubes to fit more in Luggage
Here are the top picks for the best packing cubes that will help you fit more in your luggage and travel like a pro.
Antler Chelsea Packing Cubes
- Set of four includes one large, one medium, two small
- 24.5 x 33 x 10cm (large) 33 x 17.5 x 10cm (medium) 17.5 x 16.5 x 10 cm (small)
- Compression zip
- Polyester
- Price: From $50
Antler Chelsea Packing Cubes are recognized for their stylish design and strong construction. They provide great compression, allowing for more efficient packing. The mesh top enables visibility of contents without needing to open the cube.
During testing, it was observed that the zippers were durable. The compression zipper is handy but works best with a thin layer of clothes inside the cube. Otherwise, it may be difficult to close the compression zipper. Furthermore, Antler Chelsea Packing Cubes are designed to stand on their own while being filled with clothes.
Away The Insider
- Set of four includes one small, one medium slim, one medium wide, one large slim
- 33 cm x 10.5 cm x 17.5 cm (large slim) 33 cm x 10.5 cm x 25.5 cm (medium wide) 25.5 cm x 10.5 cm x 11 cm (medium slim) 25.5 cm x 10.5 cm x 21 cm (small wide)
- Nylon
- Price: From $35
What sets Away’s packing cubes apart is that they are made of nylon instead of polyester. This material gives them more flexibility and stretch. While they do not have a compressing feature, their lightweight and soft nature allows them to easily squash down to fit in a suitcase.
The downside to their softness and lack of structure is that they can be a bit tricky to pack since the sides don’t stay up on their own. On the other hand, this flexibility also means you can pack them fuller, and the nylon material can handle the extra items due to its stretchiness.
Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set
- Set of three includes one small, one medium, one large
- 17 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm (large) 12.5 cm x 22 cm x 15 cm (medium) 10 cm x 17 cm x 11 cm (small)
- Nylon
- Price: From $42
The Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set is very lightweight at only 100 grams and has a slim, flexible design. It is simple in appearance with no compression feature or separate compartments for dirty laundry. The zipper only goes around half of the cube, so it’s packed more like an upright bag with the top open.
If you’re looking for a basic and lightweight packing solution without extra features, the Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set is a great choice.
Patagonia Black Hole Cube
- Sold individually
- Sizes available include 3l (25 cm x 13 cm x 10 cm), 6l (31 cm x 17 cm x 11 cm) and 10l (34 cm x 20 cm x 14 cm)
- Dirty laundry pocket
- Recycled polyester
- Price: From $40
The most advanced packing cube mentioned here is the Patagonia Black Hole. Just like its name implies, it can hold more than you might expect. It’s similar to Doctor Who’s Tardis – unassuming from the outside but surprisingly spacious and well-equipped on the inside.
When you unzip this travel cube, you’ll find it divided into two sections, each enclosed in a mesh compartment – one for clean clothes and one for dirty laundry.
Rimowa Packing Cube
- Sold individually
- Sizes available include small (9 cm x 24 cm x 12 cm), medium (9 cm x 24 cm x 24 cm) and large (9 cm x 36 cm x 24 cm)
- Recycled nylon and polyester
- Price: From $90
Established in 1898, Rimowa is famous for its high-end aluminum suitcases. However, not as many people are aware that the company also offers travel accessories, such as packing cubes. The quality of these products is excellent, but they come with a high price tag.
The packing cubes are designed to resemble the iconic Rimowa suitcases – boxy, durable, and surprisingly light. Their rigid back walls allow them to stand upright while you pack, making organization easier. While the brand comes at a premium cost, these packing cubes are spacious and made of top-notch quality.
Samsonite
- Set of three includes one small, one medium and one large
- 23 cm x 14 cm x 8 cm (small) 23 cm x 22 cm x 8 cm (medium) 35 cm x 30 cm x 10 cm (large)
- Recycled polyester
- Price: From $55
It’s not surprising to find Samsonite, a popular luggage brand, featured in this collection. The largest packing cube is perfect for storing larger items like sweaters and jeans by rolling them up.
Samsonite is recommended for larger suitcases and travelers who frequently go on long trips. The medium and small cubes are great for smaller bags and suitcases. Although these Samsonite packing cubes do not offer compression, they are sturdy and made from recycled plastic bottles.
Peak Design
- Sold individually
- Sizes available include small (32 cm x 17 cm x 8 cm) and medium (32 cm x 32 cm x 8 cm)
- Dirty laundry pocket and expansion zip
- Recycled weather-proof nylon and polyester
- Price: From $29
The Peak Design Packing Cube stands out as the most adaptable option, with its ability to compress, expand, and feature multiple compartments. It includes a divider that adjusts automatically to accommodate different items, making it perfect for separating dirty laundry.
Peak Design has paid close attention to every aspect of their packing cubes, showcasing their meticulous design. The only drawback mentioned is that the zippers can sometimes be a bit tricky to use.
Eagle Creek Pack It Reveal Expansion Cube
- Sold individually
- Sizes available include small (18 cm x 25 cm x 8 cm) and medium (25 cm x 36 cm x 8 cm)
- Expansion zip
- Recycled polyester and recycled polyester mesh
- Price: From $18
Eagle Creek was established in California by travel lovers and experts with the goal of designing lightweight luggage and accessories to make traveling easier.
The Eagle Creek Pack It Reveal Expansion Cube comes with a transparent mesh top and a zip that allows it to expand. This expansion feature enables it to double in size, which is convenient for shoppers during the holiday season.
Nevertheless, packing clothes tightly into these packing cubes can be challenging due to the rounded corners and the lack of support on the sides.
Ordnance Survey Three Peaks
- Includes a 3-Pack of cubes with dimensions
- Small – Scafell Pike – 28x18x8cm | Medium – Snowdon – 35x26x8cm | Large – Ben Nevis – 44x33x8cm
- Polyester and Polyester Mesh
- Double zipper
- Price: From $27.95
This set of three packing cubes is designed to help you organize your belongings efficiently while traveling. These packing cubes are made from durable yet lightweight polyester material, making them easy to carry and perfect for travel. The two-way zips allow for easy access to your items, while the built-in grab handles make it convenient to transport the cubes.
With three different sizes included in the pack, you can easily separate your clothing, shoes, and accessories. These cubes are designed to fit neatly into your backpack or suitcase, helping you make the most of your packing space. The top grab handle on each cube allows for quick retrieval from your bag, and the cubes are designed for easy access to your belongings while on the go.
Investing in the best packing cubes to fit more in luggage can transform your travel experience. By following this guide, you’re well on your way to packing more efficiently and enjoying a stress-free travel experience. So, grab your packing cubes and start planning your next adventure.
