Packing cubes keep you organized when you travel while also helping you fit more belongings into your suitcase. As a lifestyle editor preparing for several trips (including a two-week honeymoon in Italy), I sought out the best packing cubes to maximize my space. And after reviewing dozens of options and gathering insights from a travel content creator, I selected the Wandrd Packing Cubes (3-Piece) as the best packing cubes overall thanks to their compression zippers, durable material and see-through front panel. I also appreciated that this set comes with three sizes to accommodate different items.
The best packing cubes keep you organized and allow you to fit more clothing into your luggage.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS
To compile this list, I took various factors into account, including the number of cubes included in a set, the dimensions, materials, and other helpful features (like compression zippers). I also learned that you need to pay close attention to the different sizes included in each set, as smaller cubes may only fit t-shirts, socks and undergarments. (The Away Packing Cubes come with an especially nice assortment of sizes.) Read on to find the best packing cubes that’ll keep you organized no matter the length of your trip.
Wandrd Packing Cubes (3-Piece)
Pieces: 3 | Dimensions: Small: 6 x 6 x 2.5 inches; medium: 6 x 11 x 2 inches (4.5 inches expanded); large: 12 x 11 x 2 inches (4.5 inches expanded) | Material: Nylon
Best for:
Expandable laundry pocket and compression zippers
Lifetime guarantee
Skip if:
You’re looking for a low-cost option
The Wandrd Packing Cubes earned the top spot on our list thanks to their many helpful features, including the see-through front panel (which is helpful so you can easily identify what’s inside each cube), compression zippers and grab handles. The large cube also features an expandable laundry pocket so you can keep your dirty clothes separate. The three different sizes also make it easy to pack a variety of garments, from socks to bulky sweaters, and keep everything organized.
Thule Compression Packing Cubes (2-Piece)
Pieces: 2 | Dimensions: Small expanded: 10 x 7 x 4 inches, compressed: 10 x 7 x 1.2 inches; medium expanded: 14 x 10 x 4 inches, compressed: 14 x 10 x 1.2 inches | Material: Nylon
Best for:
Those who want to save several inches of space
Semitransparent covers
Easy carrying
Skip if:
You need larger cubes for bulky items
If you want to save a few extra inches of space, the Thule Compression Packing Cubes eliminate excess air between layers of clothing and compress everything so you can pack more. The ripstop nylon and durable YKK zippers withstand frequent use and repel water in the event of spills. Keep in mind that the fabric is semitransparent, and the darker colors (gray and green) might be more difficult to see through.
Pieces: 4 | Dimensions: Small wide: 10 x 4.1 x 8.2 inches; medium slim: 10 x 4.1 x 4.3 inches; medium wide: 13 x 4.1 x 10 inches; large slim: 13 x 4.1 x 6.9 inches | Material: Nylon
Best for:
Transparent mesh tops
Those who want a wide variety of sizes
Stylish color options
Skip if:
You need compression zippers
If you’re looking for a set with more variety in terms of sizes, this set comes with four options that fit perfectly into a carry-on suitcase. The mesh tops allow you to see what’s inside, and there’s a wide variety of colors to choose from. If you’re using a checked bag, you’ll need two of these sets to fill your suitcase.
Briggs & Riley Carry On Compression Packing Cube Set
Pieces: 3 | Dimensions: Medium: 8.5 x 13 x 3 inches; small: 6.5 x 8.5 x 3 inches | Material: Recycled polyester and mesh
Best for:
Those who prefer larger cubes
Transparent mesh panels
Easy maintenance
Skip if:
You’re looking for a budget-friendly option
Bulky items like sweaters, jeans and outerwear require larger cubes, like the ones in this set from Briggs & Riley. The set includes two medium cubes and one smaller cube, and the front panels are made from mesh, similar to the design of Away’s cubes. The compression feature also gives you an extra two inches of space, as needed. While the price is a bit higher, customers say it’s highly durable and helps them pack more efficiently.
Eagle Creek Reveal Packing Cubes (3-Piece)
Pieces: 3 | Dimensions: X-small: 4.5 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches; small: 7 x 10 x 3 inches; medium: 10 x 14 x 3 inches | Material: Poly ripstop
Best for:
An affordable, practical set for all types of trips
Unique color options
Extra-long rope cord zippers
Skip if:
You need something that is fully water-resistant
Although this pick is not the cheapest on our list, it provides the best value, as it’s the least expensive three-piece set. The poly ripstop material is incredibly lightweight, and the mesh tops allow you to view the contents inside. Additionally, the handles on each cube are easy to grab when you’re on the go, and the bright colors make them stand out in your bag.
Pieces: 1 | Dimensions: 6.9 x 10.3 x 3.2 inches | Material: Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)
Best for:
Fully waterproof and can be submerged
See-through panel offers visibility
Skip if:
You’re looking for a full set
Most cubes are water-resistant, but they cannot be fully submerged in water due to their zippers. However, this cube is fully waterproof, which offers added protection if something spills in your suitcase or you need to stash gear during a boating or surfing trip. Choose from three different sizes, all of which compress down to save space.
This article was edited by Forbes Vetted executive editor Dave Johnson. He has decades of travel experience as an avid scuba diver and dive instructor, frequently traveling across the Caribbean and Pacific with too much luggage.
For this story, Louie gathered key insights and guidance from Ally Gibson, a travel content creator who has visited over 30 countries.
How We Chose The Best Packing Cubes
To find the best packing cubes, we researched dozens of best-selling options, compared features, read numerous independent reviews, and consulted an expert for insight and guidance.
Our editorial team focused on packing cubes from trusted brands and retailers, including Wandrd, Away and more.
We analyzed several key features, including how many pieces are included in each set, dimensions, material, durability and more, to help readers identify the best option for their needs.
Gibson also provided her insights on what to look for when selecting packing cubes and offered recommendations based on her experiences.
The final products on this list reflect in-depth research conducted by our writer and meticulous vetting by the editorial team.
What To Consider In The Best Packing Cubes
Packing cubes should hold up to frequent wear and be able to withstand dust and small spills. “Customers should look for packing cubes that are lightweight yet durable, with very sturdy zippers that can handle repeated use,” says Ally Gibson, a travel content creator who has visited over 30 countries. Here’s what else to consider before making a purchase.
Size
The first thing to consider is how long you’ll be traveling and what you plan to pack, as longer journeys might require more packing cubes to accommodate all of your garments. When in doubt, opt for a set like Away’s Packing Cubes, which has several sizes. “It’s important to have a variety of sizes to separate small items from bulkier clothing, and compression cubes are especially useful for maximizing space in a carry‑on,” says Gibson.
Material
Look for durable, lightweight fabrics like nylon or polyester. “Breathable fabrics are also helpful for keeping clothes fresh and organized throughout a trip,” says Gibson. Most fabrics used for packing cubes are water-resistant, rather than fully waterproof, so if this is a concern, opt for the Nite Ize RunOff Packing Cube.
Compression
Some packing cubes have a compression feature, which eliminates the air in between garments and enables them to pack down more efficiently. This can be especially useful if you’re traveling with a carry-on only and want to maximize every inch of space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, packing cubes streamline your luggage and keep your garments organized while you’re traveling. Compression cubes can also maximize the space you do have and allow you to pack more.
Soft clothing can be rolled to avoid wrinkles and fit more garments into a designated cube. Bukky items, like sweaters or jeans, may need to be folded or layered on top of each other. Depending on the garments you’re bringing, you may need to use a combination of rolling and folding.
