Best Packing Cubes 2019

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Searching for a new set of packing cubes? Want to know what are the best packing cubes for travel on the market right now? Then you have found yourself in the right place.

I have been traveling extensively since 2013. And for quite a long time I didn’t really care about how my stuff is organized. I would just pack my bag, somehow. And then, when I needed to find something, I would just go through everything. Later, however, I started to organize my things a bit, by using plastic bags. Haha, I know…

Well, yeah, you can do also like I did before. You can use plastic bags or woven bags.

But you should also know, that there is a much better solution called packing cubes. For about 20 – 40 bucks now you can get a set of 3, 4 or sometimes also 5 packing cubes. And that will be enough to organize all of your clothes. In particular if you are traveling with a carry on luggage (be it a carry on suitcase or a carry on backpack). If you, just like me, are used to travel with even less, then one set might be enough also for 2 people.

To give you an idea what are the options, here in this article I have gathered information about the best packing cubes available. At the end of this article you will also find two top rated packing cubes made exclusively for ladies.

Now let’s look at the list of the best packing cubes for travel!

To read more about every one of them scroll down to – Packing Cube Reviews! Most of the packing cubes are available in different colors. For more photos, latest price and user reviews you can check more here.

To learn more about packing cubes, why to use them and how to choose the right ones for yourself, scroll down a bit!

NAME	PIECES		PRICE
PRO*** 5% discount on ALL Pro packing cube sets with a code PROPACK7	4	$	Check the price!
eBags	3	$	Check the price!
Bagail	4 + laundry / shoe bag	$$	Check the price!
Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter	3	$	Check the price!
Eagle Creek Pack-It Starter	3	$$	Check the price!
Dot&Dot***	4	$$	Check the price!
Bago	4 + 6 plastic zip bags	$$	Check the price!
*** – our favorites

What Is a Packing Cube and How to Use It?

Packing cubes are lightweight zippered bags of different sizes for keeping your clothes and other things contained in an organized manner during traveling. Packing cubes are usually made of lightweight and thin yet very durable nylon material. Some of the packing cubes are made of mesh fabric. Most of the nylon packing cubes have a lid partly made of mesh fabric. Thanks to this fact contents of these packing cubes are visible, even when the packing cube is closed.

Packing cubes are available in different sizes. The largest ones usually are around 45 cm / 18” wide, medium-sized ones are usually 11” / 28 cm wide, and smallest ones are 7-9” / 18 – 23 cm wide. There are both slim and rather deep packing cubes, as well as tube-packing cubes, which are both slim and narrow.

Most packing cubes come in sets, and some of the top-rated packing cube sets comes with a laundry bag.

Using packing cubes is very easy – just roll your clothes, put them tightly together in a packing cube, zip it up and place them into your luggage! When unpacking – just take all of your packing cubes and place them in a hotel wardrobe or drawer! No need even to unpack your clothing.

Why One Should Use Packing Cubes?

Not only packing cubes keep everything together neatly in your luggage but they also maximize packing space. Even though mostly packing cubes do not compress, clothes still stay tightly contained in packing cubes. And you are able to pack more into the same backpack or suitcase than before.
Packing cubes help you to organize your things. Even if you have a lot of them. Useful packing tip: separate your things. For example, keep your jeans and sweaters in one packing cube, t-shirts – in another, and underwear – in yet another. You will see what’s inside every packing cube, as the most best packing cubes have a see-through mesh screen. And even if your packing cubes don’t have a mesh lid, keeping things separate will help you to quickly understand, if the thing you are looking for is in this cube or not.
Packing cubes can be used as organizers for your drawers. Unpacking is very easy and fast – just take out all your packing cubes and place them in a hotel drawer.
They protect your clothing. Thanks to packing cubes you can keep dirty laundry separated from the fresh clothing.
Packing cubes are way more durable than cheap plastic bags that don’t last even one trip.

My Zero Grid packing cubes — A couple of my packing cubes

How To Choose the Best Packing Cubes for Yourself?

It’s not a hard task – to choose packing cubes! Because, frankly, they aren’t that different one from another. Follow my guide and you will find the best packing cubes for yourself and your family!

1. What Size Packing Cubes Should I Buy?

Depends on your trip! Is it a backpacking trip to a tropical destination? Business trip? Hiking trip? What clothes will you pack? Only T-shirts, shorts and underwear? Jackets and suit pants? Jeans and sweaters?

The largest packing cubes (about 45 cm / 18” wide) could be used for storing jeans, sweaters and shorts. Medium ones – for T-shirts and light dresses. Smallest ones – for underwear and socks. Tube cubes are especially good for keeping your socks (and ladies underwear!) organized.

Remember, larger the person, larger the clothes! I am 1.57 m / 5’2”, and, of course, my clothes are way smaller than, for example, Kaspars’s (6’1”). So I was able to pack most of my clothes for a 4 month backpacking trip to Southeast Asia in 2 of the smallest Zero Grid (10” x 7” x 3”) packing cubes!

Get yourself a garment folders for your upcoming business trip! These organizers will keep your suit pants and shirts neat and wrinkle-free.

2. How Many Packing Cubes Will I Need?

Mostly packing cubes come in sets. The number of packing cubes in a set and size of the packing cubes in the set vary. Each manufacturer has different sets. Mostly these sets include packing cubes of different sizes, but that’s not the same all the time. For example, Dot&Dot 4 piece slim packing cube set we have reviewed (see it on Amazon!) has 4 packing cubes all of whom are the same size. Similar like the set from eBags that we have reviewed as well.

If you don’t like packing cube sets of one manufacturer, look at packing cube sets of another manufacturer. As easy as that!

Since most travelers need more than one packing cube it’s worth buying packing cubes in sets. And it saves your money, as the set of cubes usually costs less than buying them by the piece.

How many do you need? Again – it depends on the trip and the size of your luggage. Take a set with 4 pieces, if you think that 3 might be enough but you aren’t sure. Choose the biggest set, if you have a lot of stuff. Pay attention to the dimensions (they differ significantly), if you have a small bag or if you just want to use the space you have the best way possible.

3. Top Loading or Zip-Around?

Most of the best packing cubes are zip-around with a mesh flap. But still some of the top rated packing cubes are top-loading, like Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter (check it out on Amazon!).

Some people may find the latter inconvenient to use. I personally don’t really like these, too. One will have to roll all the clothes and put them into the packing cube just like into a backpack. And in order to get some of the clothes, which are at the bottom of the cube, a person will need to take out all of the stuff.

4. Design and Color

Most of the best packing cubes are made of durable water resistant nylon, and feature a mesh screen and a two way head-to-head zipper. Basically, structure of most of the packing cubes is very similar. Only designs and colors are different. Most of manufacturers offer packing cubes in at least several colors, some – in 10+ different colors.

So, all customers will be satisfied – both men, who would maybe prefer dark colors, and women. Some ladies will definitely love to have pink and violet packing cubes, just like me, haha!

5. Regular Packing Cubes or Some of the Special Packing Cubes or Organizers?

There are not only, what we could call, regular packing cubes, but also other special packing cubes and organizers. For example, special packing solutions for ladies: bra cases, packing cubes for underwear and bras, packing cubes only for panties.

Looking for a new set of packing cubes on Amazon (or any other online store) you might notice also hanging packing cubes and organizers which look like drawers.

There are also some pretty cool packing solutions for business travelers – garment folders, which will keep suit pants and shirts neat and wrinkle-free.

As well as you’ll most probably see different shoe bags. And best of them will be made of durable dirt proof and water resistant material! Which is much better option than packing your shoes in a plastic bag and / or in a regular packing cube!

Your choice of packing cubes and travel organizers will depend on your needs, your upcoming trip, destination and the length of the trip.

Best Travel Packing Cubes – Reviews

1. Shacke Pak 4 Cube Set Review

This particular packing cube set is one of the most popular sets available on Amazon, and one of our personal favorites as well. The Shacke Pak packing cubes are among the best packing cubes available. They are made of quality durable and water resistant nylon material.

This set consists of 4 packing cubes: extra large, large, medium and small. 1 laundry / shoe bag is included, too.

The Shacke Pak packing cubes have distinctive lid design – an “X” with double stitching for extra durability. The strong reinforced lid holds clothes in place. There still are mesh sections on the lid, so you can see what’s in the packing cube without a need to open it.

The packing cubes are available in several colors, and feature a two way zipper and a side handle.

Dimensions of the Shacke Pak cubes:

Extra large – 17.5″ x 12.75″ x 4″ (44.45 x 32.39 x 10.16 cm)
Large – 13.75″ x 12.75″ x 4″ (34.93 x 32.39 x 10.6 cm)
Medium – 13.75” x 9.75” x 4” (34.93 x 24.77 x 10.16 cm)
Small – 11″ x 6.75″ x 4″ (27.94 x 17.15 x 10.16 cm)

There are also different Shacke Pak sets available. For instance, set 5 of medium / small cubes.

2. PRO 4 Piece Packing Cube Set Review

The PRO packing cubes are made of ultra lightweight rip-stop nylon. The cubes have high-quality zippers and reinforced seams, as well as breathable see-through mesh. The Pro packing cubes are built to last, that’s for sure!

There are 4 packing cubes in this set. The large packing cube is perfect for jackets, sweaters and pants. The medium-sized packing cube one will be good for storing sundresses, long sleeves, t-shirts and blouses. Small one – for underwear and socks. The extra small packing cube can be used to store cables, adapters and other accessories (or ladies panties…).

I really love the fact that this set has 2 small sized packing cubes. As I am a petite woman, my clothes are small. Mostly I use medium and small sized packing cubes. I use the extra small Pro packing cube for storing some of my underwear, and the small one – for storing T-shirts and bras!

The Pro packing cubes are lighter than the Zero Grid packing cubes – the other packing cubes we use for travel. The fabric of the Pro packing cubes is thinner, but still it seems very durable.

Manufacturer provides a lifetime warranty. Just register your product on the website of Pro Packing Cubes to be eligible for it!

PRO packing cubes are available in several colors. I have chosen the set of mixed colors – teal, black, red and orange. As I will be sharing the cubes with my partner, it’s nice to have them in different colors.

The dimensions of the PRO packing cubes are:

Large: 17.5″ x 12.75″ x 3.25″ (44.45 x 32.39 x 8.26 cm)
Medium: 13.75″ x 9.75″ x 3″ (34.93 x 24.77 x 7.62 cm)
Small: 11″ x 6.75″ x 3″ (27.94 x 17.15 x 7.62 cm)
Smallest: 9″ x 3.75″ x 3″ (22.86 x 9.53 x 7.62 cm)

3. TravelWise 5 Piece Packing Cube Set Review

The TravelWise packing cube set consists of 5 packing cubes: 1 small, 2 medium and 2 large-sized. They are made of high-quality durable and lightweight nylon fabric. Just like the ones reviewed above, also the TravelWise cubes has a lid partly made of mesh fabric, a side handle and two way zipper.

Open mesh design makes it easy to locate items you have packed inside.

As there are 5 packing cubes in this set, and two of them large-sized, all of them won’t fit in one carry on bag (if fully packed). But if you are 2 people traveling together, and you both have carry on luggage only, then this set might be a enough for both of you.

At the same time it’s a great choice if you are traveling with more than just a carry on.

Dimensions of the packing cubes are:

Small: 11.5″ x 6.75″ x 3.75″ (29.21 x 17.15 x 9.53 cm)
Medium (2 pcs): 13.75″ x 9.75″ x 3.75″ (34.93 x 24.77 x 9.53 cm)
Large (2 pcs): 17.5″ x 12.75″ x 4″ (44.45 x 32.39 x 10.16 cm)

The packing cubes are available in several different colors. The three piece set is available, too.

4. eBags 3 Piece Packing Cube Set Review

This eBags packing cube set consists of 3 medium-sized packing cubes – 13.75” x 9.75” x 3” (34.9 x 24.7 x 7.6 cm).

The packing cubes are made of Techlite Diamond nylon fabric, which is breathable, extremely strong and very lightweight. The packing cubes feature high quality two way zipper, mesh lid and a side handle. The fabric bound interior seams ensure a snag-free inside that doesn’t fray.

The three-piece packing cube set will fit easily into most carry on suitcases and backpacks.

eBags packing cubes set comes in several bright colors.

There are other really good sets available from eBags, that you can find also on Amazon. For instance – a set of three large packing cubes, a set of six different-sized packing cubes, etc.

5. Bagail 4 Piece Packing Cube Set Review

These packing cubes are made of high-quality nylon, and feature a quality two way zipper and a side handle.

The nylon material is extremely lightweight and also water resistant. Thanks to mesh sections of the lid, the contents of the packing cube are visible even when the packing cube is closed.

This Bagail packing cube set consists of 4 packing cubes and a laundry / shoe bag.

The four-piece packing cube set will fit into 21” x 14” (or larger) carry on suitcase or backpack. If your bag is smaller, then it’s possible that not all of the cubes will fit in it. In this case – use only 3 of them – large, medium and small-sized, and you’ll have no problems.

The largest packing cube I would use to store pants, second largest – for sweaters and T-shirts, medium and smallest one – for underwear, pajamas, toiletries, etc.

The Bagail packing cubes are available in several colors. If it’s not enough with four cubes, six packing cube set is available, too.

Dimensions of the packing cubes:

Extra large – 17.5” x 12.75” x 4” (44.45 x 32.39 x 10.16 cm)
Large – 13.75” x 12.75” x 4” (34.93 x 32.39 x 10.16 cm)
Medium – 13.75” x 9.75” x 4” (34.93 x 24.77 x 10.16 cm)
Small – 11” x 6.75” x 4” (27.94 x 17.15 x 10.16 cm)

The size of the laundry bag is 20.5″ x 14.5″ (52.07 x 36.83 cm).

6. Eagle Creek 3 Piece Pack-It Specter Packing Cube Set Review

The Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter packing cubes are made of ultra lightweight 30D Silnylon ripstop fabric. The same material is used for lightweight tents and backpacks, and it is translucent and weather resistant, with anti-staining properties.

The packing cubes have a top handle and a durable zipper. They don’t zip all the way round, though. And that’s why for some people it may be inconvenient to use them. As you will have to roll your clothes and put them into the packing cube just like into a backpack. And in order to take out something, that you have put at the bottom of the cube, you will need to take out all of your stuff.

These packing cubes are very slim. While for some it might be an advantage, others might be disappointed. Depends on the size of your travel bag – whether it is a large suitcase or just a small backpack – and how much stuff you are bringing with you.

The packing cubes are covered by Eagle Creek’s Lifetime Warranty. Available in several bright colors.

Dimensions of the packing cubes:

Large: 14” x 10” x 3” (35.56 x 25.4 x 7.62 cm),
Medium: 10” x 7” x 3” (25.4 x 17.78 x 7.62 cm),
Small: 7.5” x 4.5” x 2.5” (19.05 x 11.43 x 6.35 cm).

7. Eagle Creek 3 Piece Pack-It Starter Set Review

The Starter Set includes 3 pieces: a garment folder, for keeping your shirts and pants wrinkle free, and 2 sizes of Pack-It Cubes, to keep your other clothing organized.

The Pack-It garment folder is rather roomy and flexible – it can hold about 8 shirts and pants. The garment folder features a folding board. Follow instructions on the board to fold your shirts neatly!

The garment folder can fit in most carry on bags. However, the height of the suitcase should be at least 46 cm / 18 ” (better a little bit more).

Apart from the garment bag there are 2 packing cubes – medium and small-sized. To fit garments in the packing cube, you should roll them. Whereas to put the garments into a garment folder, you should fold them, as mentioned above.

The set is available in several colors.

Dimensions of the items are:

Small – 10” x 7” x 3” (24.5 x 18 x 8 cm)
Medium – 14” x 10” x 3” (36 x 25.4 x 8 cm)
Garment folder – 18” x 12” (46 x 31 cm)

8. Dot&Dot 4 Piece Slim Packing Cube Set Review

These bright colored packing cubes are made of durable Honeycomb nylon fabric.

Dot&Dot packing cubes are flimsy and extremely lightweight, so they don’t occupy so much space in the luggage. They can be squeezed and pushed around easily, too. Perfect for those who tend to over-pack.

These slim packing cubes are available in several different colors.

All of them are the same size: 14″ x 5″ x 2.75″ (35.56 x 12.7 x 7 cm).

There are other sets available, for instance, four large cube set.

9. Bago 4 Piece Packing Cube Set Review

Bago packing cubes, one of the best packing cubes you can get, are made of durable Honeycomb rip-stop nylon fabric, which is tear and water resistant. The packing cubes have mesh sections on the lid. Thanks to those sections, the contents of the packing cube are visible even when it is closed.

The Bago set includes not only 4 packing cubes (large and medium) but also 6 plastic zip bags of various sizes for toiletries and dirty clothing.

As all of the cubes of this set are rather large, they all won’t fit in one carry on bag. This Bago cube set will be perfect for a couple who travel with carry on luggage only, or for individuals who travel with check in luggage.

The Bago packing cubes are available in several colors. Customers are backed by Bago Satisfaction Guarantee.

Dimensions of the packing cubes:

Large cubes – 15.8” x 11.8” x 4” (40.13 x 30 x 10.16 cm)
Medium cubes – 13.4” x 8.7” x 4” (34 x 22.1 x 10.16 cm)

Dimensions of the plastic zip bags:

5.9” x 9.8” (15 x 25 cm)
7.1” x 13” (18 x 33 cm)
9.5” x 15.8” (24 x 40 cm)

If you have any more questions about travel gear, check out our other gear guides! Or contact us!

People also want to know

Shacke pak vs ebags

Shacke Pak 4 Cube Set is one of the most popular sets available on Amazon, and one of our personal favorites as well. The Shacke Pak packing cubes are among the best packing cubes available. They are made of quality durable and water resistant nylon material.

This set consists of 4 packing cubes: extra large, large, medium and small. 1 laundry / shoe bag is included, too.

While for the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter packing cubes, it is made of ultra lightweight 30D Silnylon ripstop fabric. The same material is used for lightweight tents and backpacks, and it is translucent and weather-resistant, with anti-staining properties.

The packing cubes have a top handle and a durable zipper. They don’t zip all the way around, though. And that’s why for some people it may be inconvenient to use them. As you will have to roll your clothes and put them into the packing cube just like into a backpack. And in order to take out something, that you have put at the bottom of the cube, you will need to take out all of your stuff.

Are packing cubes worth the hype?

Absolutely! Packing cubes are a great help in multiple ways during the packing and traveling process. Firstly, they help contain your clothes into a more compact space. Since all your clothes are zipped up into the cube, you can easily move them around while packing and have them fit neatly into your suitcase.

Is it better to pack with cubes?

First and foremost, packing cubes are used to organize the contents of your bag. But they can also help save space, as a cube will compress your clothes together. There are even specific “compression cubes” that take this a step further, which we’ll get into a bit later.

Do packing cubes actually save space?

Based on my own research, regular packing cubes save a tiny amount of space, no more than 5-10% while compression cubes save around 15-20% of the total space, compared to not using any packing organizers at all.

Which packing cubes should I buy?

While compression cubes save more space, packing cubes result in fewer wrinkles and they’re easier to use. For anyone traveling for leisure, I’d just recommend going with regular packing cubes, but if you’d rather get compression cubes, go with the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter compression cubes.

How much should you pack for 2 weeks?

It is best to have two pairs of bottoms (pants, shorts, or skirts) for each week that you’ll be staying. Plan on bringing four shirts per week, and two jackets to layer for warmth (if you’re traveling to a cool or cold destination). For a two-week trip, you need four bottoms and eight tops.

Details about tactical packing tube

Are packing cubes actually helpful?

Cubes help keep your clothing wrinkle-free, regardless of whether you’re a roller or a folder. If any liquids spill elsewhere in your bag, your items have extra protection. Separating items makes it easy to pack, unpack and repack quickly and efficiently.

Does TSA allow packing cubes?

TSA doesn’t prohibit travelers from using packing cubes. In fact, they encourage using packing organizers because they make it easier to find something within the suitcase. These neat and cute bag organizers offer a huge help in organizing and packing your luggage neatly.

Are packing cubes worth it for backpacking?

Aside from the facts that they can help you save space and keep your backpack organised, packing cubes can also keep your things clean and wrinkle-free. While many people use plastic bags for this purpose, packing cubes are a lot more durable and certainly less wasteful.

Do packing cubes work better than rolling?

In general, rolling your clothing saves more space than using packing cubes. Packing cubes take up the most space, compared to rolling or even folding. Rolled items take up less room and can be configured to fit into otherwise wasted space (like putting rolled up socks inside your shoes)

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