Packing Cubes, Compression Cubes & Vacuum Bags: Which One Should You Use For Your Next Trip?

Packing for a trip can be a game of strategy, especially when you’re trying to maximise limited luggage space. Choosing between packing cubes, compression cubes, and vacuum packs might feel overwhelming, but each has unique benefits to suit different travel styles and needs. 

For example, packing cubes are ideal for keeping items organised, compression cubes help you save space without the hassle of a vacuum, and vacuum packs offer unmatched space-saving power for bulky items. Knowing which one to pick can make all the difference in staying organised, saving space, and ensuring easy access to your essentials on the road. 

Here’s a guide to help you decide which packing solution best fits your trip, whether it's a weekend getaway, a long-haul adventure, or a family vacation.

Packing Cubes

Best for: Travellers who prioritise organisation and want easy access to specific items without rummaging through their entire suitcase.

Packing cubes are simple, structured pouches designed to keep your clothes and accessories organised and separated by type. Unlike vacuum packs or compression cubes, they don’t compress your items but provide a compartmentalised packing style that can make unpacking and repacking a breeze. Packing cubes are a favourite for travellers who need to access different outfits or categories of items quickly, such as day-by-day clothes, workout gear, or shoes.

Things to Note:

• Ideal for short trips where keeping items separated and organized is more valuable than compressing clothes.
• Great for carry-on travellers who need a streamlined packing system that still meets space requirements.
• Not space-saving but very effective at preventing overpacking and keeping items wrinkle-free.

Compression Packing Cubes

Best for: Travellers who want a balance of organisation and space-saving but prefer a fuss-free, vacuum-free solution.

Compression packing cubes take traditional packing cubes a step further by including a secondary zipper that compresses clothes within the cube itself, reducing their volume. These cubes are a go-to for travellers looking to maximise space without sacrificing organisation. Unlike vacuum bags, they don’t need a pump or vacuum to compress, which is a big perk if you’re moving from place to place during your trip.

Things to Note:

• More versatile for multi-stop trips since you can easily access items without needing a vacuum to re-pack.
• Useful for both carry-on and checked luggage, especially when packing heavier items.
• Works best with non-bulky items as extremely thick clothes may still take up space even when compressed.

Vacuum Packs

Best for: Travellers packing bulky items or embarking on long-term trips where luggage space is at a premium.

Vacuum packs, or space bags, are plastic pouches that remove air to compress items down to their smallest size. By using either a vacuum or a hand pump, you can create airtight bags that significantly reduce the volume of thick clothing, bedding, or towels. Vacuum packs work best for travellers who need to pack large, fluffy items like winter coats or sweaters and want to fit as much as possible into a suitcase.

Things to Note:

• Ideal for storage and extended trips, particularly if you don't need to be accessing clothes so frequently.
• Access to a vacuum or hand pump is usually necessary to compress and re-compress the bags, so they may be inconvenient for travellers moving from place to place.
• Clothes often emerge wrinkled, which may be a drawback if you need your items to be presentable upon arrival.

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