How to Pack with Packing Cubes: The Ultimate Guide

Packing can be one of the most stressful parts of travel, especially if you’re trying to fit everything you need into a small suitcase. However, packing cubes can make the process more efficient and organized, turning the daunting task into a simple, stress-free experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about packing cubes: what they are, their benefits, and most importantly, how to pack with them effectively.

READ BEST PACKING CUBES TO BUY

What Are Packing Cubes?

Packing cubes are small, rectangular fabric containers used to organize and compartmentalize your luggage. Typically made from lightweight and durable materials, they come in various sizes to accommodate different types of clothing and accessories. Packing cubes usually feature a zipper closure and sometimes have a mesh panel that allows you to see what’s inside without opening them.

Benefits of Using Packing Cubes

Before diving into the step-by-step guide on how to use packing cubes, it’s important to understand why they are so beneficial:

1. Maximizes Space: Packing cubes help compress your clothing, allowing you to fit more items in your luggage without overstuffing.
2. Organizes Your Belongings: By separating your items into different cubes, you can easily find what you need without rummaging through your entire suitcase.
3. Prevents Wrinkles: Packing cubes keep your clothes tightly rolled or folded, which reduces the chances of wrinkles.
4. Easier to Pack and Unpack: Packing cubes allow for quick organization, making it easier to transfer your belongings from your suitcase to a drawer or closet.
5. Keeps Items Clean and Dry: Some packing cubes are water-resistant, offering an extra layer of protection for your clothes.
6. Security: If your bag is searched by TSA, packing cubes help keep your belongings organized and intact, minimizing the disruption.

Choosing the Right Packing Cubes

Not all packing cubes are created equal. Choosing the right set for your needs is crucial to maximizing their benefits. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Material: Look for cubes made from lightweight, durable, and water-resistant materials. Nylon and polyester are popular choices.
2. Size: Packing cubes come in various sizes. Larger cubes are ideal for bulky items like jackets, while smaller ones are perfect for socks and underwear.
3. Compression Feature: Some packing cubes come with a compression feature that allows you to squeeze out excess air, further minimizing the space your clothes take up.
4. Mesh Panels: Mesh panels allow you to see the contents of the cube without opening it, making it easier to find specific items.
5. Handles: Handles on packing cubes make it easier to pull them out of your suitcase or carry them separately if needed.

How to Pack with Packing Cubes: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you understand the benefits and features of packing cubes, let’s walk through the process of packing efficiently with them.

Step 1: Lay Out All Your Items

Start by laying out everything you plan to pack. This step is crucial as it gives you a visual overview of your belongings and helps you decide which items can be packed together. Group similar items, such as shirts, pants, undergarments, and toiletries.

Step 2: Choose the Right Cube for Each Category

Next, select the appropriate packing cube for each group of items. Use larger cubes for bulkier clothing, medium cubes for pants and shirts, and smaller cubes for undergarments, socks, and accessories. Consider using a separate cube for toiletries or any items that may spill or leak.

Step 3: Fold or Roll Your Clothes

There are two main ways to pack clothes in packing cubes: folding or rolling. Rolling your clothes is generally the best method, as it saves space and reduces wrinkles. However, some items, like dress shirts, may be better folded to maintain their shape.

• Rolling Method: Roll each clothing item tightly, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Place the rolled items into the packing cube, filling any gaps with smaller rolled items.
• Folding Method: Fold each item as you normally would and stack them neatly in the packing cube. This method works well for thicker clothing, like sweaters and jackets.

Step 4: Pack by Outfit or Category

Decide whether you want to pack by outfit or by category. Packing by outfit means placing all the items needed for one outfit (shirt, pants, undergarments) into one cube. Packing by category involves grouping similar items together (all shirts in one cube, all pants in another). Both methods have their advantages:

• Packing by Outfit: This method is great for short trips where you want to quickly grab a complete outfit without unpacking multiple cubes.
• Packing by Category: Ideal for longer trips, this method allows you to easily find and access specific items without disrupting your entire suitcase.

Step 5: Fill in the Gaps

Once you’ve packed your main clothing items, use smaller cubes to fill in any gaps. These cubes are perfect for socks, underwear, and accessories. Place these cubes in any remaining space in your suitcase, ensuring everything fits snugly.

Step 6: Compress and Seal the Cubes

If you’re using compression cubes, zip them up and then use the compression zippers to squeeze out any excess air. This step will minimize the space your clothes take up, allowing you to pack even more.

Step 7: Place the Cubes in Your Luggage

Now that all your items are packed into cubes, it’s time to place them in your luggage. Start by placing the largest cubes at the bottom, followed by the medium and smaller cubes. Use any remaining space for shoes, toiletries, or other non-cubed items. The cubes should fit snugly, leaving no wasted space.

Additional Packing Cube Tips

1. Color Code Your Packing Cubes: Use different colored packing cubes to quickly identify what’s inside. For example, use a blue cube for shirts, a green cube for pants, and a red cube for undergarments.
2. Label Your Cubes: Some packing cubes come with a label slot where you can insert a note indicating what’s inside. This is especially helpful for family trips where multiple people are sharing a suitcase.
3. Use a Shoe Bag: Instead of placing your shoes directly in your suitcase, consider using a separate shoe bag. This keeps your shoes from dirtying your clothes and can fit alongside your packing cubes.
4. Keep a Laundry Cube: Dedicate one cube for dirty laundry. As your trip progresses, you can place your used clothes in this cube, keeping them separate from your clean items.
5. Separate Liquids: If you’re packing toiletries, use a clear, waterproof packing cube. This will keep any leaks contained and make it easier to go through airport security.
6. Plan for Security Checks: If you anticipate going through multiple security checks, consider placing essential items like electronics, documents, and toiletries in an easily accessible cube. This way, you can quickly remove it without disturbing the rest of your luggage.

Packing for Different Types of Trips

Weekend Getaway

For a short weekend trip, you may only need one or two packing cubes. Use a large cube for your main clothing items and a smaller cube for undergarments and accessories. Pack only the essentials and stick to versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched.

Business Trip

For a business trip, organization is key. Use packing cubes to keep your professional attire neat and wrinkle-free. Roll or fold your dress shirts carefully and pack them in a medium cube. Use another cube for pants and blazers, and a smaller cube for ties, belts, and undergarments. If you’re bringing a suit, consider using a garment bag in addition to your packing cubes.

Family Vacation

When traveling with family, packing cubes are invaluable. Assign a different color cube to each family member, making it easy to keep everyone’s items separate. This method simplifies packing and unpacking, especially when you’re sharing a large suitcase. You can also pack a “shared cube” with items everyone will need, such as toiletries, sunscreen, and snacks.

Extended Trip or Backpacking

For longer trips or backpacking adventures, packing cubes help you stay organized over an extended period. Consider packing by category rather than outfit, and bring extra cubes to accommodate laundry and souvenirs. Use compression cubes to maximize space, and keep one cube dedicated to essentials you’ll need frequently, such as toiletries, chargers, and a change of clothes.

Maintaining Your Packing Cubes

To prolong the life of your packing cubes, proper care is essential:

1. Regular Cleaning: Most packing cubes are machine washable, but always check the manufacturer’s care instructions. Wash them on a gentle cycle and air dry to prevent any damage.
2. Avoid Overstuffing: While packing cubes are designed to be durable, overstuffing them can cause the zippers to break or the seams to tear. Always pack them to a reasonable capacity.
3. Store Properly: When not in use, store your packing cubes flat or fold them and keep them in a dry place. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can cause the material to degrade.
4. Repairing Damage: If a packing cube gets damaged, consider repairing it rather than replacing it. Minor tears can be stitched, and broken zippers can often be fixed or replaced by a tailor.

Top Packing Cube Brands to Consider

If you’re ready to invest in packing cubes, here are some top brands known for their quality and durability:

1. Eagle Creek: Known for their durable and versatile packing cubes, Eagle Creek offers a variety of sizes and compression options.
2. TravelWise: Offering affordable and lightweight packing cubes, TravelWise is a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
3. Shacke Pak: These cubes are known for their durability and water-resistant material, making them ideal for all types of travel.
4. AmazonBasics: Amazon’s in-house brand offers a cost-effective option with a range of sizes and colors.
5. PRO Packing Cubes: These cubes are lightweight and come with a lifetime warranty, making them a reliable choice for frequent travelers.

Conclusion

Packing cubes are an essential tool for anyone looking to simplify their travel experience. By keeping your belongings organized, maximizing your luggage space, and making packing and unpacking a breeze, they transform the way you pack. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend getaway or an extended journey, using packing cubes will ensure you’re always ready for the adventure ahead.

Incorporate these tips and strategies into your packing routine, and you’ll find that packing cubes not only help you stay organized but also make your trips more enjoyable and stress-free. Happy travels!