8 Best Packing Cubes for Travel: Top Picks in 2023

Traveling can be an enjoyable and enriching experience, but organizing and packing your belongings often becomes a daunting task. To make this process easier and more efficient, using packing cubes has become increasingly popular among travelers.

Packing cubes are lightweight organizational tools for luggage. They come in various sizes and can be made from different materials, such as nylon, mesh, and other durable fabrics. These cubes help keep your clothing and other essentials organized, saving you time when finding a specific item and ultimately maximizing luggage space. With the right set of packing cubes, you can eliminate the stress of packing and maintain an orderly suitcase throughout your trip.

When looking to purchase the best packing cubes for your travel needs, it is important to consider factors such as size, material, and overall design. The size of the cubes should correspond with your luggage and the types of items you plan to pack. Additionally, the material should be durable, lightweight, and easy to clean, as you will be using them frequently while traveling. Design aspects such as zippers, handles, and mesh compartments play a role in the ease of use and accessibility of the cubes.

After extensive research and testing, we have established a list of the best packing cubes for travel to help you stay organized and stress-free on your upcoming adventures.

Top 3 Best Packing Cubes for Travel

1. Gorilla Grip 6 Piece Packing Cubes Set

2. Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes

3. BAGSMART Compression Packing Cubes

We’ve carefully compiled a list of the top packing cubes that will revolutionize the way you travel. Browse our selection below to discover the best options for organizing and maximizing your luggage space.

Gorilla Grip 6 Piece Packing Cubes Set

These Gorilla Grip Packing Cubes are a great investment for those looking to maximize space and organization during their travels.

After using the Gorilla Grip 6 Piece Packing Cubes Set on our latest trip, we can say that it undoubtedly helped us organize and save space in our luggage. The variety of cube sizes catered well to different types of clothing, making packing a breeze. It even comes with a laundry bag and shoe bag for further organization, keeping dirty items separated from clean ones.

The construction of these packing cubes is impressive, with tear-resistant 210T polyester material. Additionally, the slip-resistant, easy pull zippers provide a smooth and seamless zipping experience. The breathable mesh window also allows for easy visibility of the contents and helps reduce odors by providing ventilation.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. The laundry bag is quite small, which may be inconvenient for extended trips or larger families. Furthermore, the shoe bag can only fit about 2-3 pairs of shoes, depending on the size. Some users have reported that the fabric of the cubes may be flimsy, so you may want to be extra careful when stuffing your cubes full.

In conclusion, the Gorilla Grip 6 Piece Packing Cubes Set is an excellent addition to any traveler’s arsenal, thanks to its space-saving capabilities and durable construction. With a few minor flaws, it remains a worthwhile investment for those who value organization and efficiency during their travels.

Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes

These packing cubes are ideal for the organized traveler seeking durability and convenience.

We recently used the Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes on a trip and found them to be an excellent addition to our travel gear. The thicker 290D polyester material could withstand the rigors of travel and more flexible material allowed us to pack various shaped items easily.

The metal two-way zippers were robust and made packing and unpacking a smooth process. We didn’t experience any snags or jams, even when the cubes were filled to capacity. The combination of four different sizes of cubes, along with additional bags for shoes, accessories, toiletries, and laundry, provided ample storage options to suit our needs during our journey.

While the see-through mesh panels allowed us to easily identify the contents of each cube, we noticed that the larger cubes might not fit well in some carry-on luggage. However, we used a backpack and managed to make it work. Some users may also find the more flexible material less protective for delicate items compared to sturdier materials, but we appreciated the adaptability it offered.

In conclusion, the Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes are a reliable and functional choice for organizing travel items. Their durable material and efficient design make them a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers, so long as the variety of cube sizes and flexible material suit their preferences.

BAGSMART Compression Packing Cubes

Packing like a pro just got easier with the BAGSMART Compression Packing Cubes – a perfect companion for any traveler seeking organized luggage.

We recently used the BAGSMART Compression Packing Cubes on a long-haul trip, and they made our packing experience a breeze. The durable materials of the cubes mean we didn’t have to worry about wear and tear, while the lightweight design prevented them from adding any significant bulk to our luggage.

The compression system is a game-changer, allowing us to maximize space inside our suitcases. With multiple options for sets (2, 4, or 6 cubes), we found the perfect combination to suit our travel needs. The included labels also made it easy to keep our belongings organized, reducing stress while packing and unpacking during our trip.

However, we noticed that bulkier clothing items, like sweaters, did not compress as efficiently as thinner materials. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker but is worth considering when deciding how much to pack. Additionally, the shoe pouches provided may be too small for larger shoes or bulky footwear, such as hiking boots.

Lastly, while the cubes’ quality is impressive, we would have appreciated a greater variety of color options to allow for more personalization or to easily differentiate between family members’ luggage.

In summary, the BAGSMART Compression Packing Cubes are a reliable and efficient solution for any traveler seeking to keep their luggage organized and maximize packing space. Although these cubes may have a few minor limitations, their overall performance greatly outweighs any drawbacks.

Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes

These Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes transform packing chaos into a stress-free experience with their durability and versatility.

When we first tried the Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes, we were pleasantly surprised with their exceptional quality. Made from 290D Polyester, these packing cubes are 26% thicker than competing brands, resulting in long-lasting resilience and durability for frequent travel.

The two-way zippers on these cubes glide smoothly and seamlessly, minimizing any chance of jamming or snags. This ensures frustration-free packing and unpacking every time, providing a significant advantage over other luggage organizers on the market.

One feature we found particularly helpful was the breathable and transparent mesh panels on the cubes. This made it incredibly easy to see and locate our items, speeding up the packing and unpacking process. Additionally, these mesh panels help keep our belongings fresh during long trips.

These packing cubes are also highly versatile, fitting compactly into an airline carry-on suitcase, duffle bag, backpack, or tote without occupying too much space. We recommend them for business trips, camping adventures, vacations, or even as storage organizers at home to keep your closet neat and tidy.

The only drawbacks we found were the limited number of pieces included in the set and the potential need for multiple sets when traveling with larger families or groups. However, these minor issues can be easily resolved by purchasing additional sets as needed.

Overall, the Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes are a fantastic solution for anyone looking to improve their packing experience and make travel organization efficient and easy.

Amazon Basics 4 Piece Packing Travel Organizer Cubes Set, Medium, Gray

These Amazon Basics packing cubes are a must-have for any traveler looking for organization and convenience.

We recently got our hands on the Amazon Basics 4 Piece Packing Travel Organizer Cubes Set in Medium Gray, and we must say, our packing experience has never been better. These medium-sized packing cubes are perfect for organizing clothes, accessories, and other travel essentials. The durable construction and double zipper pulls ensure longevity, making them a great investment for frequent travelers like us.

What we particularly enjoy about these travel cubes is the mesh top panel. Not only does it allow us to quickly identify the contents, but it also prevents our fragile fabrics from being damaged. We’ve found that these cubes strike a great balance between convenience and functionality.

However, these medium size cubes might not be ideal for storing bulkier items, such as heavy jackets or large shoes. If you have larger travel items, you might want to consider purchasing additional larger cubes. Additionally, the color options are limited, so if you’re someone who loves personalizing your luggage, these cubes might not be the most aesthetically appealing choice. Lastly, these cubes don’t come with compression functionality, so while they help with organization, they won’t save space in your luggage.

Overall, we believe the Amazon Basics 4 Piece Packing Travel Organizer Cubes Set is a valuable investment for frequently organizing your travel items. Despite a few minor drawbacks, their durability, functionality, and convenience heavily outweigh the cons. If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable way to keep your luggage organized, these cubes are an excellent choice.

OlarHike 10 Set Durable Packing Cubes

Get the most out of your luggage space with the OlarHike 10 Set Durable Packing Cubes for convenient and organized travels.

We recently tried the OlarHike 10 Set Durable Packing Cubes during a two-week travel and found them to be an excellent addition to our packing routine. The variety of sizes accommodated all of our essentials, from jackets and shirts to underwear and toiletries. The additional bags for shoes, laundry, and accessories were an excellent touch, ensuring that everything had its designated space.

The construction quality of these packing cubes is impressive. The anti-tear materials and high-density stitching held up well against the demands of frequent travel. We also appreciated the lightweight design, as it didn’t add unnecessary bulk to our luggage.

What we loved most was the functionality of the OlarHike packing cubes. It was surprisingly easy to keep our belongings organized and accessible. The laundry bag proved especially helpful in separating soiled clothes during our trip. And even though we did notice the zippers snagging a few times, it didn’t impact the overall performance of the cubes.

In conclusion, the OlarHike 10 Set Durable Packing Cubes are a fantastic option for any traveler looking to maximize their luggage organization. These packing cubes effortlessly transform chaotic suitcases into a neat and tidy luggage system. Just be ready for a bit of a learning curve if you’re new to packing cubes, and don’t expect an extensive range of color options. Overall, we believe it’s a great investment to simplify and elevate your travel packing experience.

OlarHike 6 Set Packing Cubes

You should consider purchasing these OlarHike packing cubes for efficient, organized, and hassle-free travel.

We recently used the OlarHike 6 Set Packing Cubes for a week-long trip, and were impressed with how convenient and easy they made our packing experience. These cubes come in four different sizes (large, medium, small, and slim), allowing us to sort and fit all of our belongings efficiently.

The construction of the OlarHike packing cubes is top-notch. The tear-resistant and water-resistant materials have held up well throughout our trip, and even the mesh netting is strong enough to handle substantial tension. We really appreciated the convenient side handles on each cube, which made them easy to lift and load into our luggage.

One potential downside to these packing cubes is the limited color choices. However, the grey option we selected still looked professional and clean. If you’re taking an extended vacation or have many items to pack, you may need to purchase additional sets to accommodate all your belongings. While these cubes aren’t specifically designed for compression, we found that they still helped us save some space in our luggage.

Overall, the OlarHike 6 Set Packing Cubes are a great investment for making your travels more organized and stress-free. Their durable construction, various sizes, and space-saving capabilities far outweigh any minor drawbacks.

BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes

These BAGAIL packing cubes are perfect for staying organized and making the most of your luggage space during your travels.

We recently tried out the BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes on a weekend getaway and were pleased with how it helped us stay organized and efficiently pack our luggage. The set comes with eight different cubes, making it versatile enough to accommodate various clothing items, toiletries, and even smaller electronics. The cream color is classic and visually appealing, making it easy to spot your items in a crowded suitcase.

The material seems durable, and the zippers held up well even when the cubes were packed full. However, we did notice a few loose threads on some of the cubes. This didn’t impact their functionality during our trip, but it’s worth keeping an eye on over time.

Although the cream color is attractive, it would be nice to see more color options to suit different personal styles. Additionally, the mesh front is a helpful feature for identifying items at a glance. Some travelers may prefer a more solid front for increased privacy, but we found the mesh to be a great balance between visibility and discretion.

Overall, the BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes helped us keep our luggage organized and made packing and unpacking a breeze. If you’re looking for a versatile and reasonably priced packing solution, don’t hesitate to give these a try. Just be aware of potential loose threads and limited color options.

Buying Guide

We’ve created this buying guide to help you understand the essential features to consider when choosing the best packing cubes for your travel needs. A well-chosen set of packing cubes can significantly enhance your travel organization and packing efficiency.

Materials and Durability

One primary consideration when selecting packing cubes is the materials used to construct them. Look for lightweight yet durable materials like nylon and polyester. These materials provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. It’s also important to pay attention to the quality of zippers as they tend to be a weak point in any product. Consider reinforced zippers with double stitching for extra durability.

Size and Versatility

It’s crucial to choose packing cubes that come in different sizes to accommodate various clothing items and travel gear. Look for sets that offer small, medium, and large cubes, as this can provide the best flexibility in organizing your luggage. Some cubes even have adjustable compartments, allowing for additional versatility when packing.

Compression

Packing cubes with compression capabilities are an excellent choice for those looking to maximize space in their luggage. These cubes work by squeezing out unnecessary air from your clothes, hence reducing the overall volume of the packed items. Compression packing cubes not only save space but can also help prevent wrinkles in your clothes.

Ease of Use

You’ll want to choose packing cubes that are user-friendly in design. Opt for ones with easy pull tabs and smooth zippers to facilitate easy packing and unpacking. Some cubes even feature transparent mesh panels, allowing you to quickly identify the contents of each packing cube without having to open them all.

Please keep these considerations in mind as you dive into the world of packing cubes. With the right selection, you’re sure to find the perfect set to make your travel experience organized and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top packing cube brands for travel?

Some of the most well-regarded packing cube brands for travel include Eagle Creek, eBags, PRO Packing Cubes, and Gonex. Each of these brands is known for their high-quality materials, range of sizes, and stylish designs. We recommend looking for products that feature durable fabrics, strong zippers, and mesh panels for effective organization and visibility.

How do compression packing cubes help with international travel?

Compression packing cubes are designed to compress your clothing and belongings, thereby maximizing the amount of items you can fit in your luggage. These cubes can help reduce the need for excess bags and may prevent additional fees for checked luggage at the airport. Additionally, they assist in organization and ease of access to your items, making your international travel experience more enjoyable and manageable.

Are packing cubes suitable for carry-on luggage?

Yes, packing cubes are ideal for carry-on luggage. They are designed to work with various luggage sizes and can be easily arranged in a way that maximizes the space inside your luggage. In addition, many packing cube sets include varying sizes and shapes, allowing you to accommodate different types of items within your carry-on.

What makes Eagle Creek packing cubes stand out?

Eagle Creek is one of the pioneers in the travel gear industry, and their packing cubes have become popular due to their superior materials and rigorous design standards. Eagle Creek packing cubes feature their patented Specter fabric, which offers lightweight durability, as well as strong YKK zippers. The brand also produces water-resistant and compression packing cubes to better suit a variety of travel needs.

How many packing cubes should I use for backpacking?

The number of packing cubes you should use for backpacking depends primarily on the size of your backpack and the number of items you plan to bring with you. Generally, 3-6 packing cubes are a suitable start for backpackers, with a mix of small, medium, and large sizes. We recommend packing similar items together and utilizing cubes to separate clean and dirty clothes, toiletries, and essential gear.

Are packing cubes TSA-approved?

Packing cubes themselves do not require TSA approval, as they are simply organizational tools for your luggage. However, when using packing cubes for your carry-on items, it is important to be mindful of the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule and ensure any liquids, gels, or aerosols are packed in accordance with guidelines. Packing cubes can easily accommodate compliant containers and make it easier to access them during security screenings.