Packing cube

A packing cube (or packing square, packing pouch) is a small bag designed to organize and compartmentalize clothes inside luggage, as well as compressing clothing to ensure optimum use of space.

Packing cubes are used by backpackers,^[1] business travelers,^[2][3] and holidaymakers.

Benefits

Packing cubes come in different sizes that fit into each other. Each set contains from three to six pieces. They are meant to replace the classical heavy bags with fixed compartments that cannot be customized to accommodate the different needs of travelers.^[4]

Saving weight is very important for travelers, especially when they have to fly. All airlines have strict weight limitations and a pound can make the difference between a free carry-on and a paid check-in bag. Packing cubes are extra light, which makes them a great choice over the traditional travel bags.^[5] Another weight-saving trick is to take one of the smaller cubes as the second carry-on instead of paying fees for excessive weight. Many travelers prefer packing cubes because they help them keep their baggage organized. The different sizes of the packing cubes allow travelers to separate toiletries, medications, electronics or underwear from each other ^[6] Some people prefer to keep their dirty clothes apart from the clean ones and packing cubes make this a lot easier.

Types

There are two general types of packing cubes:

• Lightweight packing cubes, made from either nylon or polyester fabric and including mesh panels. There are ultra-lightweight models such as Sea to Summit’s Silicon Nylon, eBags’ ultra-lightweight model, Eagle Creek's Specter fabric and Pro Packing Cubes' Signature lightweight fabric. Some packing cubes are partially made of mesh materials which allow the clothes to breath and they save space by squeezing the air out.^[7]
• Padded packing cubes, made from more traditional nylons and polyesters. These are strong and steady but at the same time they weight more and take up more space in the luggage.

References