Compression Packing Cubes Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

If you are like me, you are probably skeptical about compression packing cubes or packing cubes in general. If you look at them, it may seem like they don't do much. It wasn't until I bought my first set of compression packing cubes that I realized the hype and the benefits they provide. Now I never travel without them; no matter what type of trip I am going on. There are a lot questions, tips, and tricks about compression packing cubes that I would love to provide some insight on.

What Are The Benefits of Compression Packing Cubes?

In short, the TOP REASONS to invest in compression packing cubes are because they

 

How To Compress Packing Cubes? How To Use Compression Packing Cubes?

TIP: With compression packing cubes, you are taking extra fabric and condensing it (it's not a vacuum). So if your packing cube isn't completely full or the clothes inside aren't spaced evenly, the compression zipper could get caught on the extra fabric if you zip quickly (this is why high quality fabric is important). A trick to zip-up quickly is to simply use your middle finger to guide the extra fabric inward while you zip-up the compression zipper with your thumb and index finger (a backpacker secret - see photos below). This reason specifically is why we added extra grip onto our zipper pulls.

  

 

How Many Compression Packing Cubes Do I Need?

There is a general rule of thumb for Travel Backpackers to follow:

You'll need one standard-size compression packing packing cube per every 10L in your backpack.

For example, if you are traveling with a 40L backpack, you'll probably need 4 standard compression packing cubes. A standard compression packing cube measures 14" x 10" or (35.5 cm x 25.5 cm).

TIP: Get all your compression cubes the same size to maximize baggage space! If your packing cubes are all different sizes, it causes gaps in your backpack. Gaps in a backpack are wasted "prime real estate".

What Size Compression Packing Cube

For the most part, you’ll find compression packing cubes that come in three different sizes.

The large size is perfect for suitcases, especially larger suitcases that you would check on a flight.

The medium size is really the standard size as it is ideal for backpacks and carry-on baggage. It also works great in larger suitcases too. No matter if your backpack is top-loading or front-loading, the medium size compression packing cube will fit in any style or size. They can stack vertically, horizontally, or even flat.

The small size (in my opinion) is a tad useless. I’ve seen people use it for their underwear and socks. However, these garments don’t really have much volume to compress. Besides, the second you start adding in different size packing cubes is when you get wasted gaps and spaces between the cubes.

TIP: Depending on how many compression packing cubes you will use, instead of having a small compression packing cube for socks and underwear, have one medium or large cube that serves for miscellaneous items. For example, add your travel towel, rain coat, swim suit, neck gaiter, thermals etc. to the packing cube that is serving your socks and underwear.

Why I Created My Own Compression Packing Cube

When I was on my 5-month travel backpacking trip from Egypt to England, I brought around two different types of compression packing cubes. One set of two from Eagle Creek (white with yellow accent set) and another set of two from The Container Store (black set). When I was in Albania, one of the packing cubes from The Container Store ripped. Where the hell was I going to get a replacement compression packing cube in the middle of Albania?

When I reflected on the two types of compression packing cubes, I slightly preferred the ones from Eagle Creek but it wasn't perfect.

I hated that anytime I take a t-shirt out of the Eagle Creek top-loading packing cube, everything gets unfolded. The easy front-loading, suitcase style opening was much better on the packing cubes from The Container Store. I also was not a fan that ONE packing cube from Eagle Creek is $25 USD so TWO packing cubes are $50 USD. They sell sets but the sets are not the same size. Also, when you have a product that has 2 zippers that you are constantly opening and closing, you need a better quality fabric like nylon and thicker handle to prevent snags from the zippers. 

When I continued to backpack travel with my ripped packing cube, I picked the brains of other backpackers and we came up to what we believe is the best set of compression packing cubes. There wasn't any on the market the ticked off all the boxes so we had to make our own.

(These 3 packing cubes went through a lot of testing. The larger one of the black from The Container Store didn't even make it through the testing; hence the smaller version for the photo.)

Do Compression Packing Cubes Work? How Do Compression Packing Cubes Work?

Yes, compression packing cubes do work, and they work by using a combination of compression straps or zippers to compress the contents inside. When you pack your clothes into the cube, you zip it closed and then tighten the second compression strap or zipper, which squeeze out excess air, compressing the contents inside. This process helps to minimize the volume of your packed items, allowing you to fit more into your backpack. It also keeps your items compact together so it mitigates movement or damage.

Not a well-referenced benefit but compression packing cubes are usually made from nylon or polyester. Even though nylon is stronger and better than polyester, both materials can be water resistant. Meaning if something spills in your toiletry bag or its raining outside, liquids won't get all over your clothes.

If keeping your items dry is a concern for you, definitely look into getting a waterproof bag cover, water resistant toiletry bag, and of course a microfibre travel towel. All three made specifically for backpackers.

 

Which Compression Packing Cubes? Where To Buy Compression Packing Cubes?

There are numerous brands and styles of compression packing cubes available on the market. One of the most popular brands is Eagle Creek. You can find compression packing cubes at various retailers, including outdoor stores, luggage stores, and online marketplaces such as Amazon and REI.

I would suggest to be careful when finding your compression packing cubes on Amazon. Amazon is inundated with crappy packing cubes since it is difficult to distinguish between poorly-made ones from high quality ones online. You can see some in the photos below.

TIP: If you find packing cubes on Amazon you are interested in, Google to see if the company has a website. If they don't have a website, I would skip over them and find a more reputable brand. The last thing that you want is your packing cubes to rip mid-trip.

     

(Amazon reviews of some cheap compression packing cubes)

 

What Do Compression Packing Cubes Do?

Compression packing cubes serve multiple purposes. Primarily, they compress clothing to save space in your backpack or bag. By squeezing out excess air, these cubes allow you to pack more. Additionally, they help keep your belongings organized, separating different types of items to prevent clutter and make unpacking easier.

What is also cool about compression packing cubes is that you don't have to compress them. Just because the extra compression zipper is there, doesn't mean you have to use it but it is good to have that option. By squeezing out that extra air and limiting the movement of your clothes, your clothes stay in place and don't wrinkle much.

 

Are Compression Packing Cubes Worth It?

The worth of compression packing cubes ultimately depends on your packing style and preferences. For Travel Backpackers or those seeking to optimize baggage space, compression packing cubes can be incredibly valuable. They help maximize space, keep items organized, and reduce wrinkles in clothing. Additionally, compression cubes can make unpacking and repacking a breeze, saving time and hassle during your travels.

Compression packing cubes are absolutely worth it!

The space saving aspect is amazing but for me, the organization aspect is everything. Like most Travel Backpackers, I like to separate my clothing. I usually backpack with 4 compression packing cubes (with my 40L backpack) and separate my 4 cubes like this:

 

TIP: I like to get two different colored packing cubes. So 2 in one color and 2 in another color. Why? After some days, you'll want to start separating your clean vs your dirty clothes. And two different colors makes it easy to tell them apart.

If there is one travel accessory that I would tell all backpackers to get, it is compression packing cubes. Without them, your clothes would be a mess. Your clothes would fall to the bottom of your backpack and be totally wrinkled. Your backpack would be completely unorganized and you wouldn't be able to tell what is clean and what is dirty.

 

Do Compression Packing Cubes Make Luggage Heavier?

Compression packing cubes themselves do not add significant weight to your luggage. Each compression packing cube probably weighs roughly 3 oz or 90g. However, by allowing you to pack more efficiently and fit more items into your suitcase, they may tempt you to pack additional items, which could potentially increase the overall weight of your baggage. It's also essential to be mindful of weight restrictions imposed by airlines to avoid excess baggage fees.

 

Top Benefits Of Compression Packing Cubes

 

Now check out our Ultimate Guide for Travel Backpacking! Collaborating with a select group of backpacking bloggers and industry professionals, we've compiled a diverse range of knowledge, essential hacks, and insider tips to meet you wherever you are on your backpacking journey.