10 Best Packing Cubes for Travel 2024, Tested & Reviewed
</p><p>Prepping to pack for a trip can leave you with many questions: How do I choose the <a href=” target=”_blank”>best luggage brand</a>? How will I fit everything in my <a href=” target=”_blank”>carry-on suitcase</a>? How will I keep my bag organized while traveling? Packing cubes help solve many of your packing woes by offering convenient organization during the trip <em>and</em> once you get to your destination. </p><p>How do they work? <a href=” target=”_blank”>Pack your clothes</a> into the cubes first, then fit the pieces into your bag like a puzzle. You can even get ones with built-in compression, so squeezing in that extra outfit (or two!) is no big deal. Whether you’re using a carry-on, <a href=” target=”_blank”>underseat suitcase</a> or <a href=” target=”_blank”>weekender bag</a>, we think packing cubes are the ultimate travel MVP to keep your luggage totally organized. <br></p><p>The <a href=” target=”_blank”>Good Housekeeping Institute</a> Textiles Lab is comprised of fiber scientists and travel product experts who test all types of luggage, <a href=” target=”_blank” data-vars-ga-outbound-link=”>travel accessories</a> and more. To find the <strong>best packing cubes</strong>, we put 13 different styles to the test in our Lab and had <a href=” target=”_blank”>consumer testers</a> use them on their vacations all over the world (local road trips, international getaways, camping excursions and more). <br></p>”/>
1
Best Overall Packing Cubes
Calpak Packing Cubes Set (5 Pieces)
Sold as a convenient set of five, these Calpak packing cubes are designed to hold everything you’ll need for a trip away. The set includes one large, one medium and two small cubes as well as a zippered pouch for toiletries. Multiple GH editors swear by these cubes, and one said, “They really hold everything I need, keeping my suitcase organized (for once).”
One GH analyst used these cubes on a two-week trip to Japan and said, “These packing cubes helped me keep all my clothes organized when overpacking my carry-on. I appreciated that the sturdy material maintained its shape when I placed the cubes in my hotel drawers.”
Each cube has a tab, so you can label it with what’s inside; plus, they’re mesh on top, so it’s easy to see their contents. Calpak is known for its stylish travel solutions, and these don’t disappoint. This set is currently available in 17 colors and patterns, including polka dots, cheetah print, florals and checkerboard. Complete your set with shoe packing cubes and compression cubes that make great companions for checked luggage.
| Pieces | Five (one Large, one Medium, two Smalls and an envelope pouch) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Envelope: 13” x 10” x 1.5”, Small: 12” x 8.8” x 3”, Medium: 15” x 11” x 3”, Large: 17” x 12” x 3” |
| Material | Polyester |
| Type | Non-compression |
2
Best Value Packing Cubes
Amazon Basics 4-Piece Packing Travel Organizer Cubes Set
This four-piece packing cube set from Amazon Basics gets you everything you’ll need for your trip at the great price of about $6 per cube. And you can choose the size of the pieces that come in your set: either four small, four medium, four large or four slim or one of each.
In our Lab testing, we appreciated that each cube has a mesh upper to easily see what’s inside and top handles for easy carrying. The polyester material is super lightweight and the zippers have longer tabs than some others we tested making them easy to open and close. The cubes held an impressive amount of clothing in our packing test and they stacked nicely into a carry-on suitcase.
We noticed some loose threads when evaluating these cubes, so they may not be as durable as some other options. Note that this set is spot-clean only and not machine-washable.
| Pieces | Four (Can choose which sizes are included) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Large: 17.5″ x 12.75″ x 3.25″, Medium: 13.75″ x 9.75″ x 3″, Small: 11″ x 6.75″ x 3″ and Slim: 14″ x 5″ x 2.8″ |
| Material | Polyester |
| Type | Non-compression |
3
Best Compression Packing Cubes
Eagle Creek Pack-It Set of Isolate Compression Packing Cubes
If you really want to maximize your packing space, compression packing cubes are the way to do it. In our Lab analysis, these cubes from Eagle Creek zipped down to compress about 1 inch to save more space in your suitcase. “I love their compression function,” said one of our testers. “They fit a decent amount of clothing and then compress to take up much less space. They’re also smaller than other cubes I’ve had, so they slot into a smaller carry-on suitcase with ease.”
We found the zippers easier to use than those on other compression packing cubes we tested. One tester agreed, saying, “The compression function is really easy to use — the zipper is pretty seamless and doesn’t snag or get caught on the cubes.” The top handle is convenient to pull them out of your luggage or backpack when needed. This set is one of the pricier styles we tested, but many GH analysts have owned Eagle Creek products for years and applaud the brand’s commitment to durable and long-lasting travel gear.
| Pieces | Two (one Small and one Medium) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Small: 7.25″ x 10″ x 1″,
Medium: 10″ x 14.5″ x 1″ |
| Material | Polyester ripstop |
| Type | Compression |
4
Best Value Compression Packing Cubes
Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
These Gonex packing cubes compress your clothes, so you can fit as much as possible in your suitcase, and they are a more affordable alternative to Eagle Creek at just $22 for a three-piece set. A set of six is also available if you plan on checking a bag. The larger set includes a laundry bag to keep your dirty clothes separate on long trips. The brand recommends rolling your clothes before placing them in the cube to maximize space.
We haven’t tested this set in our Lab yet, but we have received promising feedback from our at-home testers. One tester who has used these cubes on multiple vacations said: “I loved the compression aspect and how you can fit so much more because of it. They are also very large cubes. I am very happy with them and will continue to use [them].”
| Pieces | Six- or three-piece sets (Either one large, one medium and one small or those plus one smallest, one slim and a laundry bag) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Large: 15.4″ x 15″ x 3.54″, Medium:11.8″ x 9.1″ x 3.54″, Small: 9.8″ x 7.5″ x 3.54″, Smallest: 9″ x 5.9″ x 3.54″, Slim: 13″ x 3.9″ x 3.54″, and Laundry Bag: 18.1″ x 13″ |
| Material | Polyester |
| Type | Compression |
5
Best Packing Cubes for Families
Shacke Packing Cube Set
Now 12% Off
With over 21,000 reviews and an average 4.8-star rating on Amazon, these packing cubes are popular for their easy-to-use design that’s perfect when traveling with the whole family. These packing cubes are available in 10 colors, so each family member can have their own set. This set includes a laundry bag, which is a game-changer to keep dirty clothes separate.
Although we haven’t tested this set in our Lab yet, online reviewers are extremely impressed with the quality of this set for the price. One online reviewer said, “The material used for the packing cubes is durable and lightweight, ensuring that they do not add unnecessary weight to my luggage. They are also quite flexible, which allows me to squeeze them into tight spaces within my suitcase without worrying about them getting damaged.” Another shared, “They are worth every penny and have become an essential travel accessory for me.”
| Pieces | Five (one small, one medium, one large, one extra large and one laundry bag) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Extra Large:17.5″ x 12.75″ x 4″, Large: 13.75″ x 12.75″ x 4″, Medium: 13.75″ x 9.75″ x 4″, Small: 11″ x 6.75″ x 4″, Laundry Bag: 20.5’’ x15.75’’ |
| Material | Nylon and mesh |
| Type | Non-compression |
6
Best Mesh Packing Cubes
Away The Insider Packing Cubes
Mesh packing cubes allow you to easily see inside and have the added bonus of being lightweight and breathable to keep your clothes fresh. Designed specifically for the mega-popular Away Carry-On, these cubes are the perfect dimensions for most carry-on suitcases. In our Lab analysis, these cubes were a favorite for being simple and easy to use, and of course, fitting nicely into a carry-on.
One tester who used this set on a trip to the Hamptons said, “The mesh made it easy to compact clothes into the packing cubes as the mesh let out any trapped in air. I also liked the configuration of the packing cubes. They fit together really well inside my suitcase.” We love Away’s generous 100-day return policy, so there’s no harm in trying them out. Both the 4-piece and 6-piece sets include smaller cubes, but some testers wished they were larger.
RELATED: Away Luggage Review: Are the Popular Carry-Ons Worth the Hype?
| Pieces | Four (one Small wide, one Medium slim, one Medium wide and one Large slim) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Small Wide: 10″ x 4.1″ x 8.25″, Medium Slim: 10″ x 4.1″ x 4.3″, Medium Wide: 13″ x 4.1″ x 10″, Large Slim: 13″ x 4.1″ x 6.9″ |
| Material | Nylon and mesh |
| Type | Non-compression |
7
Best Packing Cubes for Carry-Ons
Monos Compressible Packing Cubes
Available in sets of four or six, these cubes from Monos fit very well into our carry-on suitcase during our Lab evaluations. These cubes offer compression capabilities as well, and they reduced in size the most out of all the compression packing cubes we tested. The zippers are quite stiff, so it’s challenging to compress them fully, which led some testers not to use the compression function at all. We also found the smooth material easy to clean, which is great if sand, dirt and salt water are a factor.
One tester shared, “I really liked the appearance of the packing cubes; they look simple and sleek. I enjoy the mesh top window because I can easily see my belongings and because it allows my clothes to breathe (especially useful for dirty clothes during travel).” He also said, “I appreciate the lightweight lining inside the packing cubes; it is a feature that elevates the appearance and quality of the packing cubes.” These cubes are more expensive than other featured styles, but we think they are worth the investment.
RELATED: Monos Luggage Review: We Tested These Popular Sleek Suitcases
| Pieces | Four or Six |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Set of Four includes: 13″ × 9.8″ × 4.5″,
13″ × 7.1″ × 4.5″, 10.2″ × 8.3″ × 4.5″ and 9.8″ × 4.3″ × 4.5″ Set of Six includes: 16.9″ × 12.2″ × 4.5″, 13″ × 9.8″ × 4.5″,13″ × 7.1″ × 4.5″, 10.2″ × 8.3″ × 4.5″, 9.8″ × 4.3″ × 4.5″ and 7.1″ × 4.3″ × 4.5″ |
| Material | Twill with polyester lining |
| Type | Compression, mesh |
8
Best Packing Cube Set with Shoe Bags
Beis The Packing Cubes in Black
Many testers preferred packing cube sets that included shoe bags or laundry bags, like this set from Beis. With three different-size cubes, a toiletry pouch and two shoe bags, this set is ready for any vacation. Uniquely, they come with pre-printed labels for common items like jeans, swimsuits and underwear as well as the days of the week to keep your cubes organized.
One tester said, “The larger zip bags really helped me separate nice clothes for going out from my beach clothes/comfy clothes, which made getting ready much easier since I could find everything without unpacking my entire suitcase.” While testers liked the shoe bags, some wished they were bigger to fit larger sizes and bulkier shoes like booties.
| Pieces | Six (one small, one medium, one large and two shoe bags) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Small Cube: 9″x 12″x 4″, Medium Cube: 11″x 15″x 4″, Large Cube: 17.5″x 12.5″x 4″ |
| Material | PVC, Polyester, Nylon Zipper, Mesh |
| Type | Non-compression |
9
Best Lightweight Packing Cubes
Baggu Packing Cube Set
Most packing cubes are only available in solid colors, but these trendy ones from Baggu come in fun patterns like stripes, florals and fruit prints. This set includes two packing cubes made from durable recycled nylon. We were impressed by just how lightweight these cubes are without sacrificing performance — every ounce counts! When evaluating these cubes in our Lab, we noticed they were a bit noisy (and a few testers noted the same thing).
Loving the stylish colors and patterns, one tester said, “Not only are they super cute but they are lightweight and durable. The amount you can fit in these packing cubes is amazing!” Another tester said, “I will definitely continue to use these cubes as I like them better than a set I bought off of Amazon years ago — Baggu strikes again!”
| Pieces | Two (one small and one large) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Large: 10″ × 13″ × 4″, Small: 6.5″ × 10″ × 4″ |
| Material | Recycled ripstop nylon |
| Type | Non-compression |
10
Best Water-Resistant Packing Cube
Sea to Summit Hydraulic Packing Cube
Keeping your belongings dry and clean is of the utmost importance when heading on an outdoor adventure. In our tests, these Sea to Summit cubes held up on hikes and beach vacations alike.
Sold individually, these packing cubes feature a water-resistant exterior and tight zippers to help prevent water from seeping in. Because the zippers are designed to prevent leaking, they were a bit difficult to open and close in our tests. Note that these cubes are water-resistant (not waterproof!), so they should not be fully submerged or soaked in water.
A big fan of its water-resistant capabilities, one tester said these cubes are “great for when I have to pack away wet or dirty clothes when I am leaving a vacation.” She also appreciated that she was able to easily see inside because of the translucent panel. Another tester said, “The textile is indeed water-resistant, which was a nice feature to have during my outdoor camping adventure,” and that the “shell is quite durable.” These don’t compress, so if you want both weatherproof materials and compression, we recommend Peak Design’s packing cubes.
| Pieces | One (Choose between X-Small, Small, Medium, Large and X-Large) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | X-Small: 5.7″ x 3.7″ x 2.4″, Small: 8.3″ x 4.3″ x 2.8″, Medium: 10.4″ x 5.5″ x 3.9″, Large: 10.4″ x 10.4″ x 3.9″, X-Large: 10.4″ x 13.8″ x 3.9″ |
| Material | TPU laminated 70D ripstop Nylon |
| Type | Non-compression, water-resistant |
How we test packing cubes
When evaluating packing cubes, Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab pros place a standard packing load in each cube to see how much they can hold. Then, we place them in a suitcase to see how easy they are to organize. We analyze each cube in our Lab to ensure all the zippers are easy to open and close. For compression-style cubes, we pack them with a standard load and measure how much they reduce in size when compressed.
To get real-use feedback, we have consumer testers use the packing cubes on real-life trips. We had testers bring these cubes all over the world on all types of vacations, including camping trips, international getaways and local excursions.
How to choose the best packing cubes:
✔️ Compression vs. regular packing cubes: Some packing cubes have compression capabilities and others don’t. Cubes that compress take up slightly less space in your suitcase and are great for overpackers. Generally, compression cubes are more expensive because they have two zippers instead of one and are usually sold individually or as a pair vs. in a larger set. Some compression cubes zip all the way around, which is great if you like to place your cubes directly in the drawer at your destination, while others only open at the top.
✔️ Materials: To avoid extra weight in your luggage, most packing cubes are made with lightweight materials like nylon and mesh. While waterproof capabilities may sound like a benefit, it’s probably not necessary unless you’re camping, and it comes at a cost — fully sealed packing cubes don’t allow for ventilation, which means your clothes may have an odor after travel.
✔️ Luggage compatibility: Depending on what type of suitcase you are using (weekender bag, carry-on or checked luggage), a different style of packing cubes might be better suited.
- For a weekender bag, opt for smaller cubes as only two to three will fit in most weekender bags.
- Carry-on suitcases can accommodate more cubes, including larger ones for sweaters and jeans.
- When checking a larger suitcase, you can fit multiple sets of packing cubes. We recommend using a different color set of cubes for each member of your family for easier unpacking.
✔️ Value: Consider the cost per cube when purchasing a set. Some brands offer excellent value for their larger sets.
FAQ
✔️ How do I use packing cubes?
Most sets come with different-sized cubes that are designed for certain items — small cubes for your underwear and larger cubes for shirts and pants, for example. Everyone has a preference for either rolling or folding clothes, but when packing in a cube, our pros say you should roll to avoid wrinkles. Rolling likely won’t save as much space in a traditional packing cube, but many brands recommend it for compression picks. Doing this, and storing like items together, will make it much easier to find exactly what you want without rummaging through your bag.
✔️ Do packing cubes really save space?
Yes! Packing cubes ensure that every item has a spot in your suitcase without it bursting at the seams. To further max out every inch, look for styles with compression. These work by having two zippers — one that closes the cube and a second that tightly compresses it to flatten your clothes and save space.
✔️ Do packing cubes wrinkle clothes?
One of the main reasons clothes come out of your suitcase looking wrinkly is because they’ve shifted around during the trip. Packing cubes keep all your clothes still, so items are actually less likely to wrinkle. Some fabrics will wrinkle no matter what (hello, linen!), so we recommend choosing travel dresses and pants in more forgiving fabrics like polyester and Tencel for your next trip.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. She tested all the packing cubes in the Lab and sent samples to testers to get real-use feedback. She’s been at GH for over five years, overseeing Lab and consumer tests for all types of travel product testing including carry-on suitcases, under-seat luggage, travel backpacks and weekender bags. With a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience and product quality expertise.
Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
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