Do Packing Cubes Really Help Save Luggage Space & Make Travel Packing More Efficient? I Tried Them For A Long Trip & Here Are The Results

We all love to travel but there’s that small challenge before the good parts begin – packing. If you dread the packing process, you’re not alone. Packing can often feel like a game of Tetris, trying to fit everything you need into a limited space while keeping things organised. 

Here’s why packing cubes are a game-changing travel accessory that savvy travellers swear by. These small, lightweight fabric containers come in various sizes and are designed to fit snugly into your suitcase, helping you stay organised and make the most of every inch of space. 

I’ve heard and seen packing cubes being used as a travel hack a lot but was only recently convinced on a trip when I saw how much space my friend’s luggage had after she organised her stuff using some cubes. Soon after that, I got some packing cubes to ready myself for the next trip. 

What I Bought

When trawling online for the perfect set, I came across the Baggu packing cubes that were the perfect size I wanted – the cubes came in a set of two and was in the larger size. I had to pack for colder weather so I figured I needed more space. Plus, it's also very visually pleasing. I can't say no to cakes and cats.

Yes, it is a bit pricey, but will it be worth it for the extra luggage space?

What I Liked About It – And Didn’t 

After using the Baggu packing cubes on my recent trip, I was pleasantly surprised by how much easier packing became. I’m a “roller” type of packer so I’d say I’m pretty efficient when it comes to packing but the cubes not only helped me compartmentalise my clothes, but it also kept everything neatly in place. For example, even when I needed to rummage through my stuff to find things, it made it easy to locate things, and also to repack things. 

The lightweight design didn’t add any unnecessary bulk to my luggage. I was packing for a month-long trip to a place with colder weather and managed to fit and compress bulkier clothing items like jumpers. I also loved the added benefit of being able to separate clean clothes from dirty laundry, making unpacking after the trip a breeze.

The stylish patterns and colours were just an added bonus, making the cubes feel like a fashionable addition to my travel essentials rather than just a functional one. Overall, the Baggu packing cubes streamlined my packing process and reduced the usual pre-travel stress.

However, for just a two-pack at the price, it is quite expensive and I had to supplement it with some extra packing cubes. I guess in the end, I was paying for the brand, as there are cheaper options out there. 

Packing Cubes vs Compression Packing Cubes vs Vacuum Packs: Which should you use?

When it comes to maximising suitcase space, many people go for packing cubes, compression packing cubes or vacuum packs. While each has their advantages, personally I think packing cubes, regular or compression ones, often come out on top for a few key reasons. 

Unlike vacuum packs, which require a pump or vacuum to compress clothes tightly (and often lead to more wrinkles), packing cubes provide structured compartments that keep your belongings neatly organised without squeezing them into oblivion. This makes packing cubes more convenient, especially for travelers who like to keep their clothes looking fresh upon arrival.

Additionally, packing cubes offer more flexibility for various packing needs. You can easily rearrange the cubes or use them for dirty laundry, electronics, or even as small bags for day trips. Vacuum packs, while effective in saving space, don’t provide the same level of organisation and often end up being less practical when you need to access specific items quickly.

Somewhere in between a vacuum pack and packing cube are compression packing cubes. Unlike regular packing cubes, which simply compartmentalise items, compression packing cubes have an additional zipper or mechanism that allows you to compress the contents further, reducing the volume they take up. 

But unlike vacuum packs which are usually plastic, compression packing cubes are made from lightweight, durable materials such as nylon or polyester. Compression packing cubes add minimal weight to your luggage while withstanding the rigours of travel.

Here's a breakdown of which packing style is best suited for different types of travellers and clothing:

Vacuum Packs

• Great for: Travellers who need to pack bulky items like winter clothes or those who want to fit as much as possible into limited luggage space.
• Best for: Heavy jackets, sweaters, and other bulky clothing items that can be tightly compressed. Also ideal for storing off-season clothes at home.
• Pros: Maximises space by removing air from the bags, significantly reducing the volume of bulky items.
• Cons: Items may come out wrinkled, and you'll need access to a vacuum or pump to repack. Not ideal for quick access or frequent changes in your wardrobe during a trip.

Packing Cubes

• Great for: Travellers who prioritise organisation and want to easily access different types of clothing during their trip.
• Best for: Separating clothing by type, day, or outfit – like t-shirts, underwear, socks, and lightweight fabrics.
• Pros: Keeps items neatly organised and easy to find without disrupting the rest of your bag. Great for preventing over-packing and creating a streamlined packing process.
• Cons: Does not significantly save space as there is no compression. Items may still shift around within the cube.

Compression Packing Cubes

• Great for: Travellers who want a combination of organisation and space-saving. Ideal for those who need to pack efficiently without the need for a vacuum.
• Best for: A mix of clothing types, including slightly bulkier items like sweaters and pants, as well as lighter garments. Great for maximising space in carry-ons.
• Pros: Combines the organisation of packing cubes with the space-saving benefits of compression. Easy to pack and unpack multiple times during a trip.
• Cons: Some items may still wrinkle slightly, though not as much as with vacuum packs. Compression zippers can sometimes be tough to close if over-packed.

Overall, each style offers unique benefits, so the choice depends on the type of trip, personal packing preferences, and the kinds of clothes being packed.

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