Packing Cubes: Are They Worth It? A Traveller’s Guide
Quick answer
Packing cubes are worth it if you want an organised bag, quicker repacking and easier access to clothes, but they do not add capacity on their own. Compression-style cubes can squeeze clothes slightly smaller, though they also add a little weight. Choose a few lightweight cubes sized to your bag, and always check your airline’s bag size and weight limits before you fly.
Compare live fares on ScanFlyGo →
What packing cubes actually do
Packing cubes are zipped fabric containers that divide a suitcase or backpack into compartments. They make it easy to separate clothes by type or by day, find what you need without unpacking everything, and move a whole category of clothing into a hotel drawer in one go. They do not magically create space. Their main benefit is organisation, and a modest secondary benefit is that tidy, rolled or folded items often fit more neatly than loose clothes.
The main types
| Type | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Standard cubes | Simple zipped fabric boxes in several sizes | Everyday organisation in carry-on or checked bags |
| Compression cubes | Extra zip lets you reduce the cube’s volume | Bulky items like knitwear; squeezing a little more in |
| Slim or flat cubes | Shallow pouches for shirts or underwear | Backpacks and flat-packed suitcases |
| Shoe and laundry bags | Separate pouches for dirty items | Keeping clean and worn clothes apart |
Pros and cons
Advantages: faster packing and unpacking, easy separation of clean and worn clothes, less rummaging at security if you need to open your bag, and a neater suitcase when you move between hotels.
Drawbacks: each cube adds a small amount of weight, rigid cubes can waste awkward corners, over-compressing can wrinkle clothes, and a too-full set of cubes can push your bag past size limits. If you travel with a tiny personal item only, cubes may be unnecessary overhead.
Choosing sizes
Pick cubes that match the internal shape of your bag, not just the label on the packaging. Measure your suitcase or backpack, then look at the cube dimensions so they sit flush with minimal gaps. A common setup is one large cube for bulkier items, one medium for tops and trousers, and a small one for underwear and socks. For short trips, two cubes may be plenty. If you use a carry-on, read our hand luggage size guide first so your packed bag still fits the limit.
How to pack with cubes
- Plan by category or by day. Group tops, bottoms, underwear and sleepwear, or pack one cube per outfit set if that suits your style.
- Roll or fold consistently. Rolling suits casual fabrics, while folding is better for structured shirts. Try both and see what keeps clothes neat.
- Do not overfill. A cube stuffed to the point that the zip strains wastes the benefit and may damage seams.
- Put heavier items near the wheels. In a trolley case, heavier cubes lower down improve balance.
- Keep one cube for the first night. Pack pyjamas, a change of clothes and toiletries together so you can unpack nothing else on arrival.
Carry-on, checked bag or backpack?
In a carry-on, cubes help you pull out the items you need at security, such as liquids bags and electronics, without disturbing everything else. In a checked bag, they keep items from shifting during handling. In a soft backpack, flat cubes can help create structure and keep the load tidy. Whatever you use, check your airline’s current baggage rules for size and weight, because cubes themselves do not change those limits. For a broader approach, see our packing light checklist and how to pack a suitcase.
Airport and security tips
- Keep liquids, gels and electronics in an easy-to-reach place, as rules require them to be separated at many airports.
- Avoid sealing items so tightly that a security officer cannot inspect them if asked.
- Do not pack lithium batteries or power banks in checked bags; keep them in your cabin bag as airline rules require. See our power bank rules guide.
- Weigh your bag at home so you avoid surprise fees at check-in.
Cheaper alternatives
If you are not sure about buying cubes, try packing clothes in reusable zip bags, spare tote bags or even pillowcases. You will not get the same structure, but you can test whether compartmentalising your clothing suits you before spending money. Many travellers find that two or three cubes cover almost every trip.
Once your bag is ready, you can compare fares and baggage rules on ScanFlyGo so you know whether your airline fare includes the cabin or hold bag you have packed.
Frequently asked questions
Do packing cubes save space?
Not by themselves. They mainly organise your bag. Compression cubes can reduce volume slightly, but over-packing can still exceed your airline’s limits.
Are packing cubes allowed in carry-on bags?
Yes. They are simply fabric organisers. Your packed bag still has to meet your airline’s size and weight limits.
How many packing cubes do I need?
Many travellers use two to four. A large, medium and small cube is a common set for a one-week trip.
Do packing cubes cause wrinkles?
They can if you compress them too tightly. Fold structured clothes carefully and avoid over-filling the cube.
The bottom line
Packing cubes are a simple organisation tool rather than a space-saving trick. If you like a tidy bag and fast repacking, a small set of lightweight cubes is a sensible buy, but always stay within your airline’s baggage limits and avoid overpacking. Start a live search on ScanFlyGo, browse the popular routes, and use the live flight tracker once you are booked.
Some links on ScanFlyGo are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are examples found in recent searches and are confirmed at the partner’s checkout.