A closer look at the practicality of packing cubes reveals them as a travel essential for keeping your luggage organised. These compact, zippered storage tools have seen a surge in popularity, no longer a secret of seasoned travellers but embraced by the wider public, thanks largely to social media and celebrity endorsements.
Evolution of Packing Cubes
Packing cubes, although not a novel concept, have recently gained prominence as a mainstream travel item. They are typically sold in sets of various sizes and are used to keep items like shirts, trousers, or even socks and underwear neatly arranged within your luggage. Despite the name, which suggests a rigid form, most packing cubes are soft-sided and have a cuboid shape. Some brands refer to them as “packing cells,” acknowledging this difference.
Variations in Design
While many packing cubes may look similar, they come with subtle differences in design and materials. Buyers can find variations like more rigid structures or units made with higher aesthetic appeal and softer materials. Particularly popular are double-zippered compression cubes, which aid in space-saving by expelling air.
Comprehensive Testing Reveals Best Options
This examination involved testing 14 packing cube sets, evaluating them through real travel experiences, including staycations and work trips around England. The top 11 selections are detailed below, highlighting their best features and areas needing improvement. This testing diversifies across contexts, ensuring practical insights into each product’s functionality and utility.
Spotlight on Top Packing Cubes
Best Overall: July Packing Cells (four pack) – Priced at £40, these cubes are lauded for maintaining clothing organisation, though they appear better suited for full loads to ensure rigidity.
Best Budget: M&S Packing Cubes (five pack) – For £15, this set offers practical organisation with a blend of cubes, a shoe bag, and a laundry pouch. However, they might restrict larger garment storage.
Best with Sections: Stubble & Co Packing Cubes (three pack) – Sold for £60, these cubes cater to meticulous packers with multiple compartments but may compromise on space.
Best Compression: Antler Stripe Packing Cubes (four pack) – At £55, these cubes are effective in compressing contents, saving room in luggage, though the smaller sections have limited utility.
Best Shoe Storage: Troubadour Elemental Shoe Bag – This £39 shoe bag excels at protecting footwear, proving a valuable accessory for busier travel itineraries.
Testing Insights and Impacts
All testing was conducted under real travel conditions, providing reliable evaluations of the packing cubes. The donated review samples support the Cat Action Trust 1977, aligning product testing with a charitable cause. These products are not only practical for travel but contribute positively beyond personal use.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.