Most packing cube gear are made of thin, lightweight fabrics. They have long zippers that go around 3 sides and flip open, kind of like a miniature suitcase.
They’re pricier than Ziploc bags, but they help to save space and keep your clothing densely packed, so they might be worth the investment for frequent travelers. They also come in a variety of sizes.
Packing cubes
Regardless of the type of luggage you pack, using packing cubes can make your life much easier. These small organizers fit inside of suitcases and backpacks to create a sectioned interior. They keep items organized, and they’re also great for minimizing the amount of wrinkles that occur during transit.
There are a ton of different kinds of packing cubes, each with their own unique features. Some are waterproof or water-resistant, which is great if you’re planning to pack liquids like shampoo and conditioner (or shove a wet swimsuit into your bag when coming home from a beach vacation). Some are made of antimicrobial materials that help keep germs at bay. And, for those who are cleanliness-conscious, there are packing cubes that allow you to divide up clothing types so you can separate clean and worn clothing.
Many travel packing cubes are made of durable, breathable fabric and feature mesh top panels so you can see what’s in each one at-a-glance. This is helpful if you’re a neatnik and prefer to organize by outfit, as well as if you’re going for an ultralight approach. Some packing cubes are even odor-resistant.
You’ll also find packs that include a set of packing cubes in different sizes, making it easy to build your own customized set. You’ll be able to choose the size and color of cubes that best suit your needs, as well as the specific features you’re looking for.
A good set of packing cubes will have a small cube for underwear, a medium for shorts and t-shirts, and a large for sweaters. You’ll also want a compression cube, which has an extra zipper on the side that lets you squeeze down the contents of your pack to reduce their size.
There are some travel cube sets that are more expensive than others, but the extra money typically buys you better quality or additional functionality. For example, some name brands offer warranties and other extras you won’t get with a generic brand.
If you’re going for an ultralight approach, look for a pack of packing cubes that’s made from a lightweight material like low denier nylon. This type of packing cube won’t add a lot to the weight of your bag, but it won’t be as abrasion resistant as other fabrics.
