As someone who’s been traveling for a while now, you could say I fairly experience when it comes to packing my bag, in fact, I’ve been living out of my backpack since 2016.
Initially, when I was new to the whole traveling on the go lifestyle I had a lot of trouble packing light efficiently. In fact, I hated it! It was super difficult to keep things organized and tidy because I kept messing things up when I had to get something out of it.
I soon realized I was doing it all wrong when I discovered packing cubes or a life-enriching travel accessory I should say because once you start using packing cubes there is no going back. In fact, after using packing cubes I knew exactly where I was when I opened my backpack and this was the best feeling ever!
I’m always astonished when I find travelers who do not even know what packing cubes are let alone use them which is why I thought I’d write about the best packing cubes to buy in 2024 and how exactly they helped me so that they can help you pack efficiently whilst traveling.
Best Packing Cubes 2024
I’ve used a bunch of packing cubes and know friends who’ve used certain other so based on my and their experiences I decided to make a list of all the packing cubes that actually work.
1. Nomatic Compression Packing Cubes
Get The Nomatic Compression Cubes
I personally use the Nomatic Packing Cubes as I travel with the Nomatic 40l travel bag.
Even for those that don’t have the travel bag and still want the Nomatic Compression packing cube you still can purchase it separately and honestly it is simply great to use independently as well!
Reason #1: Extremely functional design:
Nomatic and functional are one and the same in fact this is their biggest selling point and the same can be seen in their compression packing cubes.
The packing cubes have 2 compartments aside for clean clothes and aside for dirty clothes to help you travel clean and organized. Also, the packing system is designed specially to help you pack more as the central perimeter zipper allows you to compress down by up to 50%
Get The Nomatic Compression Cubes
Reason #2: Lifetime guarantee and a good return policy:
Another thing Nomatic is known for is its high quality, in fact, they are so confident in the quality that if you are not 100% satisfied with their product you can simply just send it back and get your money refunded no questions asked!
Pack More Effectively! Get the Right Backpack
Having the right packing cubes isn’t enough, the reason I can pack super effectively is the combination of my packing cubes and my backpack!
Ever since I set out to travel way back in 2016, I’ve visited more than 50 countries. Having traveled so much, I’ve gone through my fair share of backpacks. Amidst all of these countless backpacks, the Nomatic 40L Travel Bag has impressed me quite a lot.
The Nomatic 40L Travel Bag is so versatile that it enables you to use it as a carry-on as well as a backpack. Not to forget the countless attachments available for it too! You can organize this backpack any way you find comfortable. There’s a flap or a pocket for every minute object you want to tuck in. It has lasted me through heavy rainfall and there’s no other backpack I stand by so much. You can check out my full review of the Nomatic 40L Travel bag here and decide for yourself if you want to get one or not.
2. Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube Set
Eagle Creek is one of the most reputed names when it comes to packing cubes. They are reliable and pretty much at the forefront when it comes to travel products and this is definitely seen in their packing cubes.
Reason #1: Lifetime guarantee:
Eagle Creek is best known for its extremely high quality and they swear by it by offering a lifetime guarantee. You won’t actually need to use it as their products are incredibly strong and compact but it’s definitely good to have.
Reason #2: Extremely durable and High quality:
Packing cubes are as good as the quality of their make and Eagle Creek is made of the highest quality nylon that’s also extremely lightweight. So it’s a bit like best of both worlds as you’re getting something that’s extremely durable and compact to fit in the stuff of odd shapes and sizes.
3. PRO Packing Cubes – Compact 5 Piece Packing Cube Set
Another big player in the travel gear industry has got to be Pro Packing and mainly because of its high-quality products travelers trust and use. They also have a great compact design that can be used in both carry one and suitcases.
Why it is worth getting Pro Packing packing cubes
Reason #1: Several Color combinations to choose from:
I mentioned earlier how it was pretty important to have different color packing cubes and you will find many color and size options from PRO packing. The packing cubes have some of the strongest nylon so you can rest assured they will last a long time.
Reason #2: Versatile 5 Piece Set:
The problem with most packing cube companies is that they don’t sell them in complete sets so if you pack heavy you will eventually run out of them.
Fortunately, with PRO packing, you get a complete 5 piece set of different sizes (four medium and one extra small cube) which is pretty much more than enough so you don’t have to spend extra on another cube and have issues fitting it all together due to incompatibility issues.
Reason #3: Good compact design:
Apart from being made extremely high-quality durable nylon these packing cubes offer better compression in comparison to other conventional packing cubes. Although they are not compression cubes this is an added bonus and you’ll save a whole bunch of space.
They are also designed to be versatile for instance due to the added compression these cubes can be used for both carry-on and suitcases.
4. TravelWise – Budget Packing Cube System
This is another decent brand popular among backpackers due to its color combinations and versatile sizing.
Why it is worth getting TravelWise Packing cubes?
Reason #1: Good pricing for a 5 packing cube set:
As compared to most competitors TravelWise has kept its pricing quite low especially for a 5 packing cube set. This makes it a popular choice among backpacker that pack heavy and need the use of 5 packing cubes.
Reason #2: Good quality with a visible mesh screen
Apart from having multiple color combinations TravelWise also has a great design with good visible mesh screens that help you easily identify between multiple packing cubes.
5. eBags Packing Cubes – 3pc Set Packing Cubes With Lifetime Guarantee
eBags is quite popular as well due to reliable quality and unique design. Moreover, they offer a lifetime guarantee which makes it a perfect long-term solution for most travelers.
Why is it worth getting eBags Packing cubes?
Reason #1: High quality and functional design
The eBags packing cubes come in a set of 3 different sizes: small to large with each bag made of strong nylon and also machine washable. The nylon fabric is very strong and durable fit with strong zips that makes it possible to squeeze and fit in more without thinking twice as there is no risk of breakage and catching the zip on the clothing.
6. Shake Pak – Travel Packing Cubes with Laundry Bag
A unique packing cube with one of the best design of the bunch it is also of great quality and quite popular among many travelers.
Reason #1: Water resistant durable nylon:
Many travelers buy this packing cube due to its highly durable nature even in water which is a big concern of many backpackers and traveler in general.
Reason #2: Well thought out packing cube set:
The packing cubes come in a set of 4 with one more additional laundry bag so it’s the perfect solution for anyone looking for the entire package.
Moreover, the design is quite well thought out with mesh screens making it easy to see what’s on the inside and differentiate between the packing cubes especially the extra laundry bag.
Best Packing Cubes Buyer’s Guide
Packing cubes simply zippered bags that organize your belongings whilst traveling. At first, they may look like ordinary bags but they’re pretty strong and durable (the good ones at least)
Most of the best packing cubes are lightweight made of special nylon and have mesh screens so you can see the contents on the inside.
Pro Tip: It’s best practice to get different colored packing cubes to easily differentiate them.
To summarize packing cubes are important because:
- They allow you to organize efficiently
- They ensure the best use of space
- They make it possible to share your suitcase with someone else
- They can be used as a pillow! (I personally love this one)
How I use Packing cubes while traveling?
It’s super easy to pack with packing cubes, in fact, that’s the sole purpose of getting one!
All you have to do is clearly define what each packing cube is for and make sure you use it for the same for instance you can use one specifically for dirty clothes and the other for clean clothes, the possibilities are endless! You also want to roll clothes before fitting them in the packing cube as that ensures the best use of space.
This may all sound a little “extra” but don’t worry once you start using packing cubes you will get the hang of it and soon realize you can’t pack without them!
What size packing cubes should I get?
Packing cubes come in mainly small, medium or large sizes. It is possible to find single and double packing cubes too but the size will depend mainly on how you want to use the packing cube.
You want to use smaller packing cubes for suitcases and bigger ones for backpacking.
Most packing cubes are sold in sets so you don’t need to think too much about them. It’s best to stay away from the cheapest ones as they all come in the same size and isn’t very useful in my opinion.
Note: Pay attention to the sizing details as each brand has its own definition for “large” and “medium”.
You usually do not need more than three packing cubes but this entirely depends on the kind of backpacker/ traveler you are.
So bottom line packing cubes are efficient and can save a lot of time having to pack and repack.
Which packing cube should I get?
To be honest the packing cubes I mentioned above are all good in their own way and are all of the extremely high quality so you really can’t go wrong with either, but I personal prefer the Nomatic packing cubes.
Let’s weigh the pros and cons of the NOMATIC Packing Cubes. On the positive side, the mesh design acts as a breath of fresh air, ensuring your clothes stay odor-free. The different cube sizes cater to various gear, offering versatility for different travel styles. The durable ripstop nylon exterior ensures these cubes are ready for the road.
However, there’s a shadow over the unbranded zippers, especially the compression zipper. While they’ve held up well so far, concerns linger about their long-term durability. The absence of internal organization might be a drawback for meticulous packers who prefer designated spaces for each item. Identical zippers can lead to occasional confusion when accessing the cubes.
Get The Nomatic Compression Cubes
The NOMATIC Packing Cubes prove to be reliable travel companions. With a durable build, mesh breathability, and versatile sizes, they align with diverse packing needs. Despite concerns about unbranded zippers and the absence of internal dividers, these cubes shine in practicality.
For a hassle-free journey, they’re a solid choice. If you value flexibility and simplicity, these cubes deliver. So, make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, the NOMATIC Packing Cubes bring order to your adventures. Happy travels!
If the high price of the Nomatic packing cubes pushes you away from buying it and you want a pretty decent alternative, the eBags packing cubes are pretty affordable at around $20. If you can afford it, the Nomatic packing cubes are still better.
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Last update on 2025-03-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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