Howdie travelers and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best compression packing cubes to shrink your load with this year. For many of us, traveling light is the way to go with the ability to take ‘carry-on only’ something that can not only save us time, but often luggage costs as well.
And one of the best tools to assist with here are compression packing cubes. However of course there are quite a number of options out there to choose from so to help you out, I have had a good look around and come up with three decent choices below.
Let’s check them out…
My Three Recommended Compression Packing Cubes
I will review these in more detail below however if you just want to get travelling without all the carry-on (no pun intended haha), my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
What are Compression Packing Cubes
In short, compression packing cubes are small material bags or packs allow travelers to pack their clothing in on order to save space. They do this by the inclusion of zippers or even little release valves that expel any air inside the cube once it is zipped up and ‘squashed’ down.
These are great for those looking to travel light or on a budget by taking a carry on bag or similar only with them. And for those taking larger suitcases with them, packing cubes also assist with organization as well.
What Should You Be Looking For?
The following factors should be considered as you look around for a good set of compression packing cubes for your travel needs.
- Dimensions
- Compression options
- Durability
- Waterproofing
Dimensions
Although usually determined by the size of your suit case, the size of your compression cubes will also determine the clothing options you can take with you. In many cases you a set will come with a number of options such as:
- Large cube: fits 1 pair of jeans, 1 sweater and 2 T-shirts
- Small cube: fits 6 t-shirts or 4 pairs of shorts
- Tube cube: 1 small towel or two bathing suits etc.
Put simply, the dimensions of your cubes will need to be able to handle the clothing that you plan to take with you.
Check out these: Hardside Carry-On Luggage Cases
Compression options
As above, the advantage of a compression cube is their ability to squash down and fit inside luggage. In most cases, this is done via the use or air tight zippers that are tightened up once the air has been pushed out.
Others include a second zipper run around the cube that is zipped up to hold the cube flat once the air has been releases. Other models also include a little air release valve as well or for extreme needs, you can also try a vacuum pack too..
Durability
As we all know, travel can be especially tough on luggage. And whilst compression bags may not get the rough treatment as your luggage, it will still be bumped and bashed around the plane, car, hotel and airport.
To counteract this, the best compression travel bags are found with lightweight ripstop nylon and extra strong zippers as well.
Waterproofing
Again, even though your cubes will usually be found protected inside a suitcase or bag, waterproofing is another aspect that is highly recommended here. This also allows you to use them whilst away for such uses as swimming bags, wet towels and even for dirty laundry.
Oh and if nothing else, they provide extra protection against in-transit spills as well.
FAQ
Are compression packing cubes effective?
In short, absolutely! They not only assist in keeping your clothing protected and effectively sorted, but they will save you plenty of space as well. Many travelers highlight their ability to allow you to pack a little extra too.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Tripped Compression Packing Cubes
This first option is light weight and durable made with super strong Polyurethane fabric and reinforced zippers. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Tripped
- Set size: 2, 3 and 6 pieces including, large, small and tube cubes with cinch sacks
- Construction: Polyurethane fabric
- Compression: Air compressions via zippers
Other inclusions:
- Waterproof
- Machine washable
Why have I chosen it?
This first set is designed to perfectly fill a standard carry-on suitcase and as above, is made of strong fabrics and zippers to withstand the rigors of travel as well.
2. BAGAIL Compression Packing Cubes
This second option is another super durable option that can handle anything thrown at it with upgraded nylon fabric for both strength and clothing protection as well. See its specifications below:
- Brand: BAGAIL
- Set size: 4, 5and 6 pieces including, large, medium, small and tube cubes
- Construction: Wear resistant nylon
- Compression: Compression via zippers
Other inclusions:
- Waterproof
- Double way zipper with extended cord
Why have I chosen it?
This is another great lightweight option with a wear resistant shell and durable zippers. It comes with a second set of compression zippers for ease and is waterproof to protect against spills. And if space is not an option It also expands providing for an extra 30- 40% in internal space with all the organizational ticks met.
3. Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
My last packing cube option comes from a well known and trusted luggage brand with everything needed for long lasting use trip after trip. See its specifications below:
Brand: Gonex
Set size: pieces including, large, medium, small., extra small, slim and a laundry bag
Construction: Ultra soft lightweight rip-stop nylon
Compression: Compression via zippers
Other inclusions:
- Waterproof
- Quick grab handles on each bag
Why have I chosen it?
These cubes are light in weight and built to last with a rip-stop nylon cover that is strong and wear resistant all the while soft enough internally for optimum clothing protection. This is a fantastic option for frequent travelers who need quality in their luggage needs.
Conclusion
There you have it, my three best compression travel cubes for your packing needs. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
