Packing Cubes vs. No Packing Cubes | Side by Side Comparison

We've been packing carry-on only for over a decade and have been using compression packing cubes basically that whole time.

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CHAPTERS:
0:00 Should you use Packing Cubes?
0:50 What are packing cubes, really?
1:26 Benefit 1: Organization
2:20 Benefit 2: Moisture Resistance
3:19 Myths and Mistakes
4:14 Do Packing Cubes Save Space?
5:36 Side by Side Test
7:02 The Verdict

[Ingridnorthvan]

Another reason to love packing cubes is when you go through security; especially places like Mexico, a very organized case (without cubes) turns into a jumbled mess when they look through your case. With cubes, they tend to just feel around or check each cube individually.

[aleidixon]

Spot on conclusion. Compression cubes may save a little bit of space but the best use of packing or compression cubes is organization and compartmentalization.

[helle_larsen]

Started packing now with cubes, and one thing I noticed which I am so happy for is how I can sort the items into groups so it will be easier to check I remembered everything, but also easier to find things during the trip

[ChristiannLSIAL]

I use gallon Ziplock bags for the things you used packing cubes for. I zip them most of the way, place a finger in the remaining hole at the zipper to hold it open, kneel on them to compress all the air out, and zip it up. That definitely uses less space!

[danieloneil]

I’m a recent convert to packing cubes (started using them in fall 2022). My cubes and suitcase are designed by the same company (Away Travel) so the cubes fit my suitcase efficiently without leaving odd gaps. I find the biggest advantage of using cubes is that they make packing and unpacking much quicker and less stressful:

—if all the clothes I’m bringing fit into my set of cubes, they will fit into the suitcase with no difficulties
—once I’ve finished filling the cubes, it takes just a moment to fit the cubes into my suitcase
—when I go to a hotel, it takes only a few minutes to unpack my entire suitcase. I simply pull out the cubes and put them into dresser drawers or on closet shelves. It’s so much nicer than always rifling through a suitcase and digging to find things. I also appreciate that my clothes are protected by the cube fabric from contact with the drawer/shelf surface, which may be unclean.
—similarly, repacking the suitcase when leaving the hotel is quick and easy. Dirty clothes go in a laundry bag. Clothes that can be worn again go back into their respective cubes and then the cubes are slotted back into the suitcase.
—with cubes, I find I’m more likely to wear the full range of what I’ve packed since it’s so easy to access everything.

[grepora]

Plastic grocery/shopping bags -- especially clear ones. Cheap (free -- in most places). Good size: not too big, not too small. Can be compressed and sealed by crossing over the handles and secured with a slip knot. Can be labeled with a Sharpie. Great for shoes and dirty clothes too. Recyclable. Carry extras.

Large contractor (trash) bags. Light weight, thick, heavy-duty plastic. Can be used to cover luggage, back packs, etc. Can be cut for a poncho. Can be used to cover wet surfaces: seating, grass, etc. Carry at least two.

[jeffgreenwaldJLG]

I like using good quality large 1-5 gallon ziplock style bags. They offer moisture resistance and allow you to see what’s in the bags. They’re also very affordable compared to most packing cubes.

[DLFH]

The organization benefits were the biggest seller for me. However one thing to consider is the more you can pack into your luggage adds more weight which can be problematic for flying with an airline with tighter weight restrictions.

[jackienaiditch]

This is my first trip using packing cubes (non-compression). I do love the organizational aspect. And what you said about them keeping rolled items in place is spot-on. Also, as you mentioned, I didn't roll denims and a few other items. I'm very happy with the way everything fit into my small suitcase.

[allisonroorda]

We're carry-on only folks too, and I like rolling my clothes and not using packing cubes when traveling internationally in order to see everything at a glance. For bulky jackets or dirty clothes, I enjoy using a space-saver clear bag (that you squeeze the air out of). Can't wait for the next trip!

[womanworthywomanwise]

Great job on the side by side presentation comparison. You’re the only one I’ve found who has done this. Thanks.

[Jocantral]

Interesting topic. I love packing cubes and have used them for years. Besides the organization, (underwear in one small cube, bathing suits and cover ups in a larger size etc) I want all my stuff out of my suitcase and put away when I am in a hotel/resort. So I feel safer putting my cube inside the drawers, rather than having anything sitting in a drawer where I don’t know what has been there before. Some may say- a bit compulsive, but who knows what the previous occupant has put into the drawers. Oh, and when not travelling, I still use some cubes to store in my own drawers. Keeps things neater.

[wendyfromnewyork]

Packing cubes maintain organization, especially if you color coordinate cubes to items. I will always use packing cubes and unknowingly all of my cubes compress. I had to evacuate the hotel on one trip, packing cubes made it easy for me to repack and get out fast. additionally with dryer sheets in each cube everything smells great and dirty clothes (of which are few as I usually wash as I wear) don't funk up my clean clothes. Tip, always bring a few scented plastic garbage bags to provide extra protection from dirty items. Put the in a cube, put the cube in the plastic bag and funk is controlled. By the way, scented bag is optional, as are dryer sheets as not everyone likes scents. Happy travels.

[helencherry]

I use a combo: some into packing cubes and some into the space saver bags (the vacuum sealer kind, but don't require a vacuum to press the air out) I get so much more into those, leaving more room for other things in my bag.

[Victor-khrh]

Packing cubes are very helpful when using duffle bags because they provide more structure. Since I generally travel with a backpack + duffle bag, they are very helpful.

[davecomstock]

One advantage I've found with packing cubes is if we're traveling by car and either staying a night or two in multiple places or in a hotel room without enough space for multiple large suitcases, we can each bring in a single packing cube (plus a second cube or small flight bag of toiletries and other essentials) and leave our large suitcases secured in the trunk. You just have to remember to fetch your clothes for the next day each evening.

[lionessm]

Ah. . . COMPRESSION packing cubes . . . That’s where I’ve veered! I do like having all of my clothes in meaningful compartments. I also like the idea of the water resistance and separation of dirty and clean. Great video, very helpful! Also, the packing music! 😂🕺🏼

[marshatomkins]

My experience is ordinary packing, rolling, regular cubes, compression cubes, and plastic SpaceSavers with a one-way valve for squishing out the air. Only this last one gives you more room but at the possible disadvantage of over-packing since you have that extra space. All the other ways don’t matter because the suitcase will do the compressing when we shut it. I do like the cubes very much for organization, and I have the same ones you showed.

[terryjones]

I love the organization packing cubes offer, plus keeps things together as shifting occurs during travel. Before packing cubes, I used the plastic, zippered bags bedding comes in when I packed my luggage.

[AnneMB]

Packing cubes are a godsend to my travel habits. Mainly due to compartmentalisation. Thx for your no nonsense tips and tricks. ✈️