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Best Packing Cubes for Backpacks: Find The Right One For You
I used to think packing cubes are lame and unnecessary… now I love them! I don’t travel without them anymore. They keep my backpack organized, make packing easier, and help at airport security.
Not all packing cubes are backpack-friendly. Many brands sell oversized cubes that don’t fit in a carry-on or sets with more cubes than you need. If you’re a minimalist traveler like me, you probably just need one well-sized packing cube for all your clothes.
In this post, I’ll break down the best packing cubes for backpacking and minimalist travel, so you can find the perfect one for your next trip.
Why Use Travel Packing Cubes
Here are some of the reasons why I love packing cubes:
- Keeps Your Bag Neat & Tidy: Packing cubes help organize your travel items by grouping similar items together, so you’re not rummaging through your bag to find what you need.
- Takes the Guesswork Out of Packing: Pack as much as fits in your cubes, and you’re done, no endless rearranging to make everything fit. I travel as a minimalist, so I put all of my clothes in one single packing cube.
- Adapts to Your Packing Style: Whether you travel light with one cube or prefer multiple cubes for better organization, they work for any packing method.
- Makes Airport Security Easier: No more awkwardly digging through your bag, packing cubes keep things contained and private.
- Helps With Outfit Planning: Sort clothes by type, destination, or weather to make getting dressed on the road effortless.
- Lightweight & Built to Last: Quality cubes add minimal weight to your bag while being very durable, so you can easily use them for light carry-on luggage.
- Multi-Purpose Use: Beyond packing, cubes can double as laundry bags, storage for small items, or even a makeshift pillow in a pinch.
Of course, packing cubes aren’t perfect. For example, they often don’t save as much space as you’d expect. For a full breakdown of the pros and cons, check out my post on whether packing cubes are really worth it.
Choosing the Right Packing Cube
Picking the right packing cubes can make a big difference in how organized and efficient your packing experience is. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
- Lightweight Construction: Opt for cubes made from light materials to avoid adding unnecessary weight to your luggage.
- Strong, Reliable Zippers: A durable zipper is essential to prevent tearing or breaking after just a few trips. Check reviews for quality.
- Convenient Handles: Especially useful for backpackers, handles make it easier to pull cubes out of your bag without hassle.
- Fits Your Luggage Properly: Make sure the cubes you choose align with the dimensions of your backpack to optimize space.
- Breathable vs. Waterproof Fabric: Breathable materials help keep clothes fresh, while waterproof cubes may be better for damp environments.
- See-Through Mesh Panels: If you use multiple cubes, mesh windows help you quickly identify what’s inside without having to unzip them all.
Best Packing Cubes for Your Needs
Best Compression Packing Cubes: Thule
The Thule Compression Packing Cube is hands down my favorite compression cube. It’s slightly heavier than others, but that’s because it’s built to last. The seams on the corners make packing easier, and the YKK zippers super strong, and the handle adds extra convenience.
On the technical side, it’s made from water-repellent 100D ripstop nylon. The compression zipper eliminates excess air helps you pack more efficiently. The semi-transparent fabric lets you see what’s inside while keeping things discreet.
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It comes in small and medium sizes, or as a set with both, and is designed to fit neatly into most carry-ons. If you want a sturdy, well-made compression cube, this one is a great pick.
Most Lightweight Packing Cubes: Eagle Creek
The Eagle Creek Pack-It® Isolate Packing Cube is unbelievably lightweight. The zippers look a bit small and flimsy but so far they work great. Eagle Creek packing cubes are always among the top rated packing cubes, so the zippers are probably more durable than they look.
Made from 100% ocean-recycled 70D nylon, it’s also water resistant and eco-friendly. With amazing reviews backing it up, this cube is a solid pick for anyone looking for a light, space-saving travel organizer.
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Most Sustainable Packing Cubes: Patagonia
When it comes to sustainable packing cubes, Patagonia takes things to the next level. Their Black Hole® Packing Cubes are made from 100% recycled fabric, they’re produced in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory and Patagonia donates 1% of sales to environmental causes.
Their unique clamshell design allows for packing on both sides, making it easy to separate different clothing items while keeping everything in one place. The material is super sturdy and weather-resistant and they come in cool color options.
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I already love my Patagonia Black Hole backpack, so I can’t wait to try these cubes even though they are a bit heavier because of their sturdy built.
Best Packing Cube for Underwear & Dirty Laundry: Tom Bihn
I’ll admit, this is a bit of a weird category, but the Tom Bihn Laundry Stuff Sack is so clever it deserves a spot on the list. Unlike standard packing cubes, it has two compartments with a floating divider, letting you start with everything on one side and shift items as you go.
What makes it extra smart is the color-coded drawstrings (black for clean clothes, red for dirty) so there’s no mix-up. As you take out fresh underwear or socks from one side, the other side expands to hold your dirty laundry, balancing itself out without taking up extra space.
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Because of its tube-like shape, it’s not ideal for bulkier clothing, but it’s perfect for clean underwear on one side and laundry items on the other.
Final Thoughts: Best Packing Cubes for Travelling
Packing cubes might not be essential for everyone, but I love using them. They keep my bag organized and make packing easier. And there’s so many great options out there, from durable compression cubes and ultra-light options, to clever ways of separate clean and dirty clothes.
The key is finding the right one for your needs, whether that’s the heavy-duty Thule Compression Cube, the ultra-light Eagle Creek Pack-It® Isolate, the eco-friendly Patagonia Black Hole, or the smart dual-compartment Tom Bihn Laundry Sack.
No matter which one you choose, packing cubes can make a big difference in how you travel.
Looking for more minimalist travel essentials? Check out my list of gift ideas for minimalist travelers, whether you’re shopping for a friend or just treating yourself, you might find other small travel essentials that make your trips even easier.
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