Are Packing Cubes Really Worth It?
Think you're a packing pro? Let’s talk baggage — and see if packing cubes are worth the hype.
So: you’ve started the vacay countdown, bought a few new outfits and stocked up on last-minute toiletries. Now comes the fun (or not so fun) part: packing. Let’s face it — at some point or another, we’ve all had excess baggage. The question is, how can you organize it? We have just the thing: packing cubes. These organizational phenoms are packing luggage and packing a punch in the travel industry — but are they really worth it? It’s time to make your baggage something you’ll be proud to claim... Next stop: Vacay bliss.
What Are Packing Cubes?
A packing cube is a flexible fabric container, usually closed with a zipper, to compartmentalize your things in a suitcase, carryall or backpack. They’re the luggage accessory you wouldn’t catch us on vacay without. Cubes make sure to use every inch of your baggage and help keep clothes neat and wrinkle free. Want to go from the one who throws every piece of summer clothing they own in a suitcase (and sits on it to shut it) to the one who sections their carefully-curated vacay edit in an organized manner? Packing cubes are your new best friend.
What Are Compression Packing Cubes?
Tight on space? compression packing cubes could be for you. With the same benefits as a regular packing cube, this type helps compress out the air to minimize the size and optimize your luggage space. Compression packing cubes are perfect for long trips, so you can squeeze in everything you’ll need.
Packing Cubes: Pros
No one likes getting delayed. So without further ado... let’s unpack the benefits of packing cubes.
Cubes Keep Your Luggage Organized
Getting organized for a getaway has never been easier (or more satisfying) than when using packing cubes. Check everything off your travel list: compartmentalize your luggage into categories like swimwear, evening dresses and shoes.
Cubes Save Space In Your Luggage
Use every inch of suitcase space: separate and organize items into different sized packing cubes.
Cubes Reduce Wrinkles
Did you know? Rolling your clothes and neatly packing them in cubes isn't just a space saver, it helps minimize wrinkles. Try it next time you travel.
Cubes Speed Up Packing And Unpacking
You can load your case in record time and with military precision using packing cubes. Plus, you'll love getting home to find dirty laundry already separated from clean clothes. That dreaded post-holiday wash load will actually be off your mind once you pack all the dirties into a dedicated packing cube before returning home. Now that’s what we call a pack mentality...
Its Easier To Find Items In Your Luggage
Looking for your fave vacay shorts to change into when you get there? No problem! They’re rolled up in your "daytime looks" cube. You’re welcome...
It's Easier To Find Smaller Stuff
Pack small items together to easily grab them in a hurry: no more digging through your outfits to find buried headphones.
Cubes Help Keep Your Clothes Clean
With shoes and clothes in separate cubes, you won’t open your suitcase to find a dirty footprint on an evening look.
Cubes Make It Easier To Travel Carry-On Only
Accidentally pulling out undies with your passport at security is a thing of the past: they're safely stashed in a cube in your hand luggage.
Cubes Can Act As Extra Bags
Yep, your packing cube does more than just organize your luggage: take it to the beach to keep essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses and wireless headphones safe. Multi-use bags FTW...
Packing Cubes: Cons
Like someone kicking the back of your seat on a flight, everything can have its downsides. Luckily, packing cubes only have a few, but let’s check in with them anyway.
Using Packing Cubes Costs Money
It’s true: packing cubes can bump up the cost of your travels. But when with our great prices and the time saved on sorting through messy luggage, we think they’re totally worth it. Plus, you can reuse the cubes year after year. Unlike lots of big fads, these handy helpers won't go out of style anytime soon.
They Add Weight To Your Luggage
On a strict baggage weight limit? You might worry that packing cubes could add unwanted pounds to your luggage. Our solution? Go for lightweight options like our mesh picks for max organization and minimal weight — that's an idea to get on board with...
When Would I Use Packing Cubes?
There are no rules about when you can and can’t use them. Love an impromptu long weekend getaway? Heading on your big summer vacation? Packing cubes will be your new bestie to get organized for your trip.
Who Should Use Packing Cubes?
Whether traveling for business or pleasure, cubes are great for everyone who really wants to stay organized. While we usually suggest leaving packing to the adults, how about grabbing some kids' cubes and getting them involved, too? Organized fun is still fun... right?
What Do I Look For In A Cube?
To pick your packing cubes wisely, think durable and lightweight, and cover all bases with different sizes. Mesh packing cubes are a great choice: they check all the above boxes and give good visibility of your items. Plus, with zippers you can be sure everything will stay the way you packed it. Small packing cubes are perfect for underwear and toiletries. Large cubes come into their own for bulkier stuff like shoes, jeans and dresses.
How Do I Use Packing Cubes Effectively?
Pick the right size packing cubes for your most-used suitcase
Use them to organize what you're packing into easy-to-identify categories
Roll your clothes instead of folding them to reduce wrinkles and save space
Maximize space: fill empty spots with smaller things like chargers and socks
Zip it up! Zip-close packing cubes make it easy to secure and get to the goods inside
Are Packing Cubes Really Worth It?
So, do packing cubes really save space, time and hassle? It’s a big yes from us. You’ll set yourself up for packing success when you use zip-up cubes to prevent disorganized luggage. On your marks, get set, pack!
FAQs:
Should I Use A Packing Cube With Zippers Or Drawstrings?
Zipped packing cubes help keep everything just how you packed it. Using a drawstring pouch could risk your items being wrinkled on the way.
Are Packing Cubes Just For Traveling?
They’re the perfect travel companion, whether on your daily commute or headed for the other side of the world. But consider using your packing cubes closer to home, too: they're great for storing your everyday essentials.
Do Packing Cubes Actually Help?
If you ask us, packing cubes have definitely changed the way we pack for the better. They really help organize your suitcase for the best travel experience.
Do Packing Cubes Work Better Than Rolling?
While rolling your clothes reduces wrinkles and saves space, it doesn’t protect your clothes from potential spills or dirt from shoes. Using packing cubes to separate your stuff helps keep it all clean and fresh. Roll up your clothes, then organize inside the packing cubes for best results.
Are Packing Compression Cubes Worth It?
Packing cubes are enough for most trips, but if you’re tight on space for a long-stay getaway, compression cubes are a great pick.
Do I Need Different Sized Cubes?
It’s best to have different sized packing cubes so you can use your luggage space efficiently. Look for cube sets when shopping for these travel essentials.
Do Clothes Get More Wrinkled In Cubes?
The goal of packing cubes is to reduce the chance of wrinkles. If you roll and pack your clothes inside cubes, they’re less likely to unfold or bunch up on the way, resulting in less wrinkles (yay!).
What Can I Use Instead Of A Cube?
A set of multi-size packing cubes is best, but you could use mesh laundry bags or zip lock bags for smaller items to help organize your luggage.
Can I Get Packing Cubes For Kids?
Yes! Grab some kids' cubes in fun colors and designs to mark out their stuff from yours, whether they're sharing a suitcase or using their own.