Do Packing Cubes Make a Difference? Exploring Their Benefits

 
 
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    According to a survey by Travel + Leisure, 73% of frequent travelers use packing cubes to stay organized and make packing easier.

    A blue suitcase with five blue packing cubes of various sizes arranged next to it.

    Are you wondering if packing cubes make a difference when traveling?

    I love shopping for travel supplies, but I avoid buying useless products. I was curious to know if packing cubes are really worth it.

    After trying different brands and packing methods, I have the answers you are looking for. "Do Packing Cubes Make a Difference? Exploring Their Benefits" covers all the details. Once I show you how to use packing cubes to organize your belongings and save space in your luggage, you'll never want to travel without them!


    What Are Packing Cubes?

    If you're unfamiliar with packing cubes, they are small bags that help you organize your belongings. You can pack your clothes, toiletries, and electronics in separate cubes, making it easy to quickly find what you need when you're on the go. Packing cubes come in different sizes, colors, styles, materials, and prices, so you can choose the ones that suit your needs and travel style.


    Do Packing Cubes Make a Difference? Exploring Their Benefits

    A comparison image showing an overstuffed suitcase on the left and an organized suitcase with packing cubes on the right. The background features a dotted line with airplane icons connecting the two images.

    Packing for a trip can often feel like a game of Tetris, trying to fit everything in while keeping it organized and accessible. Packing cubes are a travel game-changer, offering a smart and efficient solution to this common challenge. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a weekend warrior, or planning a family vacation, packing cubes streamline your packing process, save space, and keep your belongings organized. Let's dive into the key benefits that make packing cubes an essential part of any traveler's toolkit.

    Traveling doesn’t have to mean chaos in your suitcase. Packing cubes bring the same level of organization to your luggage that you enjoy at home. Imagine knowing exactly where to find everything you packed, whether you’re hurrying through security or spending just one night in a hotel. Packing cubes make this possible, ensuring you’re always organized on the go.

    You might wonder, are packing cubes worth it? The answer is a resounding yes. Here’s why:

    SAVE SPACE:

    Prevent Overpacking: With limited space in each cube, you’re encouraged to pack only the essentials, preventing the tendency to overstuff your bag.

    Compression Packing Cubes: These specialized cubes go a step further, squeezing your bulky clothes to their smallest size, allowing you to fit more into your luggage.

    KEEP ORGANIZED:

    Do packing cubes make a difference in how you pack? Absolutely. They provide dedicated compartments for everything, from clean clothes to dirty laundry. Here’s how:

    Mesh-Topped Cubes: These are great for clean clothes, offering breathability and visibility so you can quickly see what’s inside.

    Sealed Compartment Cubes: These are perfect for storing dirty laundry, locking in odors and containing any dampness, ensuring your clean clothes stay fresh.

    Shared Luggage Made Simple: If you're sharing luggage with a travel partner or kiddos, packing cubes can help keep your belongings separate and organized. Each person can have their own set of cubes, making it easy to find and access personal items without mixing things up.

    PROTECT YOUR BELONGINGS:

    Packing cubes add an extra layer of protection for your items. They keep your clothes from shifting around in your luggage, reducing the risk of wrinkles and damage. Additionally, they can protect delicate items like jewelry or electronics when packed strategically.

    SIMPLIFY PACKING AND UNPACKING:

    Packing cubes not only make packing easier but also streamline the unpacking process. When you reach your destination, simply transfer the cubes to your hotel drawers or closet. This method saves time and keeps your clothing organized throughout your trip.

    A tidy bag also means less stress while traveling. Your luggage remains neat and organized with packing cubes, even after rummaging through it for days. This organization makes repacking a breeze, ensuring you don’t leave anything behind.


    Packing Cubes VS Compression Cubes

    COMPRESSION CUBES:

    • Compression cubes will most likely wrinkle delicate fabrics

    • They are great for compressing bulky items like towels, sweaters, jackets, jeans and more

    • You’ll fit more in your luggage with everything squished in the cubes

    • Ideal for compressing and separating your dirty clothes from your clean ones

    • I use them for socks, underwear, PJs and swimsuits

    PACKING CUBES:

    • Slightly compress clothes if you overpack

    • Decrease the chance of wrinkling items

    • Keep everything organized and within reach

    • Use them to organize and dedicate space to a variety of travel items

    • Help you save space in your luggage

    • I use the kind that keeps its shape. I unzip these all the way and place them in drawers to keep organized at accommodations.

    I use both compression cubes and packing cubes for myself and my family when traveling, even on short road trips. Here is a link to the compression cubes that we use and the packing cubes that stand up and keep shape. I recently used these on a cruise to Alaska and they made a huge difference!


    An open suitcase neatly packed with blue packing cubes, a woven bag, and a camera. Shoes are placed on the floor beside the suitcase.

    Packing Cubes Are Perfect For Almost Any Trip

    Their versatility makes them a must-have for any traveler. Whether you’re taking a long vacation, a quick weekend trip, or even just heading to the gym, packing cubes are invaluable.

    They fit seamlessly into both suitcases and backpacks, making them perfect for any type of travel. Plus, they help maximize your carry-on space, which is crucial when you’re trying to avoid extra baggage fees.

    When it comes to packing cubes, there are different types to choose from. Here are some of the most common types of packing cubes:

    • Clothing cubes – These are the most common type of packing cubes. They are designed to hold your clothes and come in different sizes. You can pack your shirts, pants, and underwear in separate cubes, making it easier to find what you need.

    • Toiletry cubes – These are smaller cubes designed to hold your toiletries. You can pack your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and other essentials in a toiletry cube. This keeps them separate from your clothes, prevents leaks, and often comes with a hook to make it easy to hang up in the washroom.

    • Electronics cubes – These cubes are designed to hold your electronics. Pack your laptop, tablet, and other devices in an electronics cube. This keeps them protected and prevents them from getting scratched.


    How To Choose The Right Packing Cubes For Your Luggage

    When choosing packing cubes for your travel backpack, overnight bag, or suitcase, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the size of your luggage. You want to choose cubes that fit well and don't take up too much space. Second, think about the type of trip you're taking. If you're going on a long trip, you may need more cubes than going on a short one. Finally, think about your personal style. Choose cubes that match your personality and make you happy.

    I prefer packing cubes with handles because it is a small feature that makes a difference. I also like packing cubes that hold their shape, and I consider online ratings.


    A set of blue packing cubes of various sizes on the left and an open suitcase packed with them on the right. The background features a world map with a red dotted travel path connecting an airplane and a location pin.

    How To Pack With Packing Cubes

    Once you've chosen your packing cubes, it's time to pack. Here's how to do it:

    1. Start by planning your travel wardrobe. Roll your clothes to save space and fit more in the cubes or file fold your clothing.

    2. Pack outfits together so you don’t have to open multiple cases to get ready for the day.

    3. Pack your toiletries in a toiletry cube. Make sure to pack them in leak-proof containers to prevent spills.

    4. Pack your electronics in an electronics cube. Make sure to wrap them in a soft cloth to protect them from scratches. These cubes also help keep cords together and organized,

    5. If traveling with a backpack, start with the heaviest and largest cubes on the bottom and the lighter and smaller cubes on top.

    6. Assign everyone in your family with a specific colour so you don’t mix up your cubes. But if you are packing for kids, pack one cube for everyone’s PJs to make bedtime easier.


    Tips For Maximizing Space With Packing Cubes

    If you want to maximize space with packing cubes, here are some tips:

    • Use compression cubes to compress your clothes and fit more in your luggage.

    • Pack your socks, underwear, swimsuits, and PJs in a compression cube and dirty laundry in a separate compression cube.

    • Use packing folders to pack your dress shirts and pants to help decrease wrinkles.

    • Pack your shoes in a separate bag or shower cap to keep them from touching your clothes.

    Pro Tips:

    • Pack an extra empty cube in case you need more space on your way back.

    • Use a packing cube as a pillow.

    • Pack a small cube in your carry-on with a change of clothes in case your luggage gets lost or delayed.


    Cleaning And Maintaining Your Packing Cubes

    To keep your packing cubes in good condition, here are some tips:

    • Wash them in cold water with a mild detergent.

    • Hang them to dry instead of using a dryer.

    • Don't overstuff them, as this can damage the zippers.

    • Store them in a dry place to prevent mold and mildew.

    Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.


    Other Travel Organization Accessories To Use With Packing Cubes

    If you want to take your travel organization to the next level, here are some accessories that you can use with packing cubes:

    • A backpack organizer to keep your backpack tidy and organized.

    • An electronic organizer to keep your cords and chargers in one place.

    • A passport wallet to keep your passport and other travel documents safe.

    • A travel purse or a crossbody bag to keep your essentials handy.


    A blue suitcase with a clear toiletry bag containing travel-sized bottles and a jade roller, topped with a pink neck pillow.

    are pacKing cubes worth it?

    Absolutely! Packing cubes are a must-have for anyone who loves to travel. They help you save space, stay organized, and protect your belongings. By choosing the right packing cubes and using them correctly, you can make packing for your next trip a breeze. So, pack smarter, not harder, and enjoy your travels to the fullest!

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