One of the annoying things you’ve probably dealt with when traveling is trying to cram everything you need into your luggage.
You packed everything so perfectly at home, but all of a sudden when you’re repacking and getting ready to move to your next destination, things all of a sudden just don’t want to fit in your luggage!
I’ve been there… and have suffered the struggle of not packing efficiently for YEARS before I finally figured it out.
I like to travel with only a carry-on, especially given the high cost of excess baggage charges these days. But you’ll never catch me traveling without my secret weapon — compression packing cubes!
Now, I’m not referring to just “packing cubes”, I mean compression packing cubes. I found that compression packing cubes have helped me save so much more space compared to regular packing cubes. IMMENSELY SO!
Compression packing cubes compress and organize clothes for travel. The best sets are lightweight and come in different size options so you can choose the perfect ones you need for your trip.
But which are the best cubes, and who are they good for?
Carrying everything I need in one suitcase is almost always a must, so I’m always testing new compression bags and cubes to see if they can make my travels even more efficient than they already are these days.
Here’s a sneak peek of some of the best options out there on the market:
- Monos Travel Compressible Packing Cubes – sturdier, best for business and frequent travelers
- Peak Design Packing Cube – top-notch quality cubes, great for minimalists
- Eagle Creek Isolate Compression Cubes – water-resistant, odor-controlling features make it great for hikers / backpackers
- REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set – great for people who pack a lot of stuff
- TRIPPED Travel Compression Packing Cubes – the best budget option
This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!
Are you in the market for a new carry-on travel bag too? Here are 10 of my favorite carry-on travel bags perfect for all types of travelers!
Are Compression Packing Cubes Better Than The Regular Ones?
Compression packing cubes are amped-up versions of regular packing cubes that offer an additional superpower: awesome compressing abilities!
While regular packing cubes keep your clothes neat, compression cubes take it up a notch with an extra zipper or straps that squeeze out all the air, turning your fluffy sweaters into compact little bricks.
Why does this matter? More luggage space for souvenirs, duh! Whether you’re a chronic overpacker or just hate wrestling with an overstuffed suitcase, these cubes are a game-changer.
If you’re someone who is all about packing efficiently, hates struggling with your luggage being too full to close, and enjoys having more room for other essentials — you gotta get yourself a set of these packing cubes!
After lots of research, testing, and trial-and-error on trips over the years, here are some of our favorite compression packing cubes:
1. Monos Travel Compressible Packing Cubes
Monos Travel has successfully created a monochrome and stylishly understated compressible packing cube set that can compress your clothes by up to 60%. These cubes are sturdily built and can be stored flat when not used.
They have a sleek modern design, and their structure means clothes won’t be rolled or wrinkled. If you regularly travel for business, this deluxe set will be perfect for packing in suitcases.
These are the ones I personally use for 100% of my non-camping / non-hiking trips! Love these babies so much — they’re thick and durable, and I don’t forsee needing to replace them for years to come!
Material
- Premium 450 D tear-resistant, water-resistant nylon twill exterior
- TPU reinforced mesh
- 350D Anti-microbial interior lining
Features
- It comes in three main shades – gray, tan, and black. There are seasonal colors too.
- Built-in compression zippers
- Mesh window panel on top for visibility and breathability
- Holds shape
Set Options
- Available in a set of four or six (I have the 6-pack)
2. Peak Design Packing Cube
Peak Design is one of those IYKYK kind of brands. They’re a leading name for people who obsess over functional products in the photography, travel, and outdoor adventure space.
Their products range from camera accessories to bags, all designed to enhance the user experience and streamline adventures.
One of their exceptional offerings is the Peak Design Packing Cube, which comes in Small and Medium sizes.
The Peak Design Packing Cube is made of durable and weather-resistant materials, has dual zippers that allow for easy access and efficient packing, and compression straps that let you compress everything down.
The internal dividers further enhance organization, allowing you to separate clean and dirty clothes or arrange items according to your preference.
Material
- Ultralight, durable, and weatherproof 70D nylon and poly shell material
Features
- Durable compression zip
- Tear-away zipper lets you access the contents of the main compartment quickly and easily
- Internal divider lets you separate clean and dirty clothes instantly
- A silicone-coated mesh interior keeps items clean and dry
Set Options
- Small: 11 x 5.5 x 6.1 inches | Capacity: 4.5–9L, or 10 T-shirts when expanded
- Medium: 12.6 x 12.6 x 6.7 inches | Capacity: 8–18L, or 20 T-shirts when expanded
3. Eagle Creek Pack-It™ Isolate Compression Cube Set
Eagle Creek’s two-piece set of Pack-It Isolate Compression Cubes combines on-the-go organization with space-saving compression without adding too much weight to our carry-ons, backpacks, or storage.
This is an ultra-light compression cube set (one XS, one small, and one medium-sized cube), treated with an anti-microbial to help prevent odors. They compress clothes well, making organization and finding your items simple and easy. They are designed to be durable and are covered by Eagle Creek’s lifetime warranty.
This set is perfect for backpackers and those heading to remote places. Hikers/backpackers will love the extra anti-odor treatment that traps foul smells inside, so the cubes can also serve as a perfect laundry bag on long adventures away from home!
Material
- Translucent, durable, washable water-resistant ripstop polyester
Features
- Angled zipper design to suit different packing styles
- Treated with Protx2®, an anti-microbial agent designed to stop the bacteria that cause bad smells
- Rugged outdoor aesthetic
- Self-repairing zippers
- Lifetime Warranty
- 22-liter capacity
Set Options
- Three-piece set – XS, S, M
- XS – 4.5 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches
- S – 7.25 x 10 x 3.25 inches
- M – 10 x 14.25 x 3.25 inches
4. Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Compression Packing Cubes S/M
Eagle Creek is synonymous with quality. The Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Compression Packing Cubes S/M are definitely another one of their quality items!
Made from ultra-light Silnylon Ripstop material (that are fully machine-washable by the way), these packing cubes are water-resistant and easy to clean, because you never know what’s going to happen on the road!
Like many of the other products mentioned here, what sets the Pack-It Specter Compression Packing Cubes apart from the rest is their compression feature. With double zippers and compression wings, these cubes allow you to compress the contents, reducing volume and saving valuable luggage space.
While you can use it for organizing virtually anything you want, these packing cubes are great for t-shirts, pants, gym clothes, undergarments, and socks. The medium cube holds 14 liters, compressing to 9.5 liters, and the small cube holds 8 liters, compressing to 5.5 liters.
I’ve found that these fit great in duffel bags and travel backpacks, so if you’re more of a rugged type of traveler, these are a great option for you!
Looking for a set of 3 instead? This 3-piece Eagle Creek set has XS/S/M packing cubes. The XS is great for socks, undies, or toiletries!
Material
- Translucent, durable, washable water-resistant ripstop polyester
Features
- Double zipper and compression wings to compress contents and save space
- Ultra-light and durable Silnylon Ripstop
- Convenient carry handles for easy transport and removal from luggage
- Lifetime Warranty
- Available in two color options
Set Options
- S – 7.25 x 10 x 3.25 inches
- M – 10 x 14.25 x 3.25 inches
5. Thule Compression Packing Cube Set
Thule is an iconic brand in the outdoor world due to its commitment to innovation, quality, and functionality. With a strong focus on outdoor enthusiasts, Thule has earned a reputation for designing and manufacturing premium outdoor gear and accessories.
The Thule 2-piece Compression Packing Cube Set is an example of this craftsmanship! Made of semi-transparent fabric, these cubes let you see what is inside while still keeping your belongings discreet.
These cubes are designed to fit into most carry-on luggage while leaving some room, making them ideal for short trips. While the design may appear simple, they are easy to use, compress well, and are durable and light.
It also doesn’t hurt that they’re made with premium YKK zippers for added durability and 100-denier ripstop nylon material. That means that the zippers can withstand years of use, and they’re water-repellent too!
Material
- Semi-transparent ripstop 100D nylon
- Webbing handle
Features
- Durable compression zip
- Translucent material for easy viewing
- Premium YKK zips
Set Options
- Two-piece set
- S – 10 x 7 x 4 inches
- M – 14 x 10 x 4 inches
- When compressed, the small is 1.25 inches thick, and the medium is 3 inches thick
6. REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set
The REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set is a versatile and practical solution for travelers who need extra space for their belongings. Unlike traditional compression packing cubes that compress the contents to save space, these packing cubes have an expansion feature.
The expandable feature allows you to adjust the packing cubes according to your needs, providing flexibility and convenience when organizing your belongings. Whether you’re packing for a longer trip or carrying specialized equipment that just takes up more room, the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set offers the versatility to adapt to varying packing requirements.
This three-piece compression cube set has a total of 40 liters of packing space, making it the top option for those of you who tend to pack lots of stuff when you travel.
The expansion zipper lets you adjust the size from 3.5 liters up to 6 liters (small); 8.5 liters up to 13 liters (medium); and from 14 liters up to 21 liters (large).
Once expanded, they have plenty of space to fit everything you might need for your travels while still being extremely lightweight.
All in all, this set fits easily into backpacks and is very durable, even with high use!
Material
- Ripstop nylon, durable water-repellent finish (DWR), polyester mesh
Features
- Three color options
- 1,778 cubic inches (40 liters) of capacity
- Expandable zippers (expansion zipper increases the depth of all pieces to 6 inches)
- Mesh on top for breathability and easy viewing
- Top and side handles
Set Options
- Three piece set
- Small – 8 x 6 x 3 inches
- Medium – 12 x 8 x 3 inches
- Large – 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches
7. Nomatic Compression Packing Cubes
Nomatic offers its best-selling durable packing cube product that comes in three different sizes — all sold separately. The cubes have a handle at the top, a mesh window, and a compression zipper to help you pack your clothes as densely as possible.
These sturdy, plain compression cubes do their job efficiently and can compress clothes by up to 50%. The modern grey design is minimalist and unobtrusive. They come with a lifetime warranty, which makes them worth the money.
Material
- Lightweight, durable nylon
Features
- Mesh window for airflow and visibility
- Compression zip (all cubes compress from a five-inch depth to 2.5 inches)
Set Options
- Available in three different sizes, sold separately
- S – 7.75 x 7.75 x 5 inches
- M – 11.5 x 7.5 x 5 inches
- L 11.5 x 11.5 x 5 inches
8. TRIPPED Travel Compression Packing Cubes
TRIPPED sells a few different sets to suit different types of travelers, but today we’ll be looking at their six-piece compression cube set for carry-on luggage here. It’s a versatile set that comes in a bunch of colors — you can either go with monochrome shades or fun and funky options!
If you’re a nature lover, check out their national parks design — it’s got bright colors and animal motifs!
This set allows you to break your packing down and separate items. I especially like that they have a bag for flip-slops and one for dirty laundry too.
Given that there are six different cubes in this set, this is an excellent set if you’re really into compartmentalizing all your belongings, and it packs about a week’s worth of clothes!
Material
- Water-resistant, ripstop polyurethane
Features
- Compression zipper
- Four cubes, 2 extra bags for accessories, and laundry
- Reinforced zipper stops
Set Options
- This is for the six-piece carry-on set
- 2 Small cubes: 10 x 7 x 4 inch
- 2 Medium cubes: 14 x 10 x 4 inch
- Compresses from four-inch depth to about one inch.
- 1 Accessory bag
- 1 Laundry bag
9. BAGAIL Compression Packing Cubes
BAGAIL has a range of really affordable packing cube sets that are perfect for budget travelers who have different travel needs. In this instance, I’ll look at their best-selling 6-piece compression cube set.
This 6-piece set comes with cubes ranging from large to small and will suit you if you’re going on an extended vacation and traveling with a full suitcase.
The cubes are an excellent way to organize your luggage neatly, making things easier to find and unpack. And because you’ll have so many pieces in your set, you could also use one of the cubes in your carry-on luggage to help organize space there. You could also share with a significant other or family member too.
The bags are lightweight and durable and are a well-priced budget option.
Material
- Ultra-lightweight nylon
Features
- Mesh window for breathability and easy viewing
- Double zipper pulls
- A wide variety of sizes
- Double stitching
- Grab handles
Set Options
- Set of six pieces
- 2 S – 13.7 x 5 x 4 inches
- 2 M – 13.7 x 9.8 x 4 inches
- 2 L 17.5 x 13.7 x 4 inches
Looking for more packing hacks or pointers on travel gear? You may also like:
- Cadence Travel Capsule Containers: Are They Worth The Money?
- 8 Best Women’s Travel Vests For Style, Safety And Smarter Travel
- 10 Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags For Your Next Vacation
- 7 Best Walking Shoes For Travel (That Are Actually Cute)
- 8 Smarter Tips For Packing Shoes For Travel
- 10 Best Carry-On Travel Bags For Your Next Trip
- Monos Carry-On Pro Plus: The Goldilocks Of Suitcases
