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10 best packing cubes to keep your luggage organised in 2024

Keep things neat, tidy and organised on the go with our pick of the best packing cubes.

By Laura Cooke | Last updated Feb 15, 2024

Best packing cubes

Packing to go on holiday, I’m sure we’d all agree, isn’t a massive funfest – especially if your family wants to take all but the kitchen sink. So anything designed to make this task a little easier and to make unloading at the other end less stressful can only be a good thing.

Packing cubes can help you load suitcases, cabin baggage and kids' luggage more efficiently and can save you vital space in the process. And they can keep you super organised on trips near and far.

Whether you’re looking to keep clothes clean and dry, want extra space in your suitcase or just like to keep things neat and tidy at all times, our list has you covered.

Mumsnetters are pretty clued up when it comes to storing stuff in style. We've got handy roundups to the best suitcases, the best cabin bags, the best kids' luggage, the best women's backpacks, the best laptop bags, the best toiletry bags, the best beach bags and the best tote bags, all featuring top recommendations from Mumsnet users.

Best packing cubes at a glance

  • Best overall: Eono by Amazon Packing Cubes 8-Piece Set | Buy now, £27 

  • Best budget: Go Travel Packing Cubes, Pack of 3 | Buy now, £13 

  • Best expandable: LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes | Buy now, £45 

  • Best hanging packing cubes: ELEZAY Hanging Packing Cubes | Buy now, £30

  • Best patterned: Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Starter Set Koi | Buy now, £49 

  • Best for backpacks: Sea To Summit Hydraulic Packing Cube Medium | Buy now, £35 

  • Best compact: Briggs & Riley 3-Pack Zippered Packing Cubes | Buy now, £60 

  • Best sturdy: Osprey UL Packing Cube Set | Buy now, £42 

  • Best lightweight: Mountain Warehouse Packing Cube | Buy now, £20 

  • Best compression: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes  | Buy now, £28 

1. Best overall packing cubes: Eono by Amazon Packing Cubes 8-Piece Set

Price on writing: £27 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Size: Pack of eight | Weight: 400g | Material: Nylon | Waterproof: Yes

What we like

  • Affordable

  • Mesh panel allows you to see what's inside without opening

What we don't like

  • No compression element

What Mumsnet users say

"Get cubes which are partly mesh so you can see what is in them" - mast0650

"I have these Eono ones" - Isabelle70

Our verdict

Packing your suitcase can be a bit of a Tetris-style task - thankfully these basic Amazon packing cubes help to keep your belongings neatly stored and conveniently organised. Best of all, the fabric containers help protect garments against wrinkles so there's no need to ask for the hotel iron after you’ve unpacked.

This eight-piece set comes with small, medium and large cubes with mesh panels so you can easily see what's inside and there are also smaller cubes for underwear and toiletries. To really be on top of your packing game, make use of the shoe bag and slip the drawstring bag in your suitcase to sort laundry items on your return. The bundles come in 14 different colours to match your luggage and there's a reassuring 12-month money back guarantee - pretty rare for a budget buy.

Read next: The best suitcases to buy, as recommended by Mumsnetters

2. Best budget packing cubes: Go Travel Packing Cubes, Pack of 3

Go Travel Packing Cubes, Pack of 3

Price on writing: £13 | Buy now from John Lewis & Partners

Key specs

Size: Pack of three | Weight: Not specified | Material: Polyester | Waterproof: Not specified

What we like

  • Lightweight

  • Great value

What we don't like

  • Only three in a pack

What Mumsnet users say

“The John Lewis ones are great.” Recommended by Mumsnet user YellowHpok

Our verdict

If you are looking for something cheap and cheerful, without compromising on quality, then the Go Travel Packing Cubes are a great buy.

Each of the three cubes in the pack has a zip which opens up three of the four sides to allow for easy packing. A breathable mesh window helps you to identify what you need without having to unzip each cube for a root around. They are not the most sleek or glamorous-looking packing cubes around, but for £13, they do the job nicely.

Read next: The best cabin bags to buy, as rated by Mumsnetters

3. Best expandable packing cubes: LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes

LeanTravel packing cubes

Price on writing: £45 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Size: Pack of three | Weight: Not specified | Material: Polyester | Waterproof: Waterproof plastic zipper bag included

What we like

  • Offers even more packing options

  • Sturdy walls

What we don't like

  • Reviewers say these cubes are on the heavy side - something to bear in mind when it comes to weight allowance

What Mumsnet users say

"I've just bought the LeanTravel compression ones" Rated by Mumsnetter jay55

Our verdict

Sometimes you just need that little bit more space to fit that ‘just in case’ item of clothing which makes these expandable packing cubes perfect. The cubes change easily between one to four inches wide by using the double zipper. LeanTravel pride themselves on their zippers which feature anti-catch technology to prevent fabric from getting caught when opening and closing. The cubes also have reinforced wall structures and can be transferred straight from your suitcase into dresser drawers. The bags have a durable mesh which means you can see what’s inside each one and the set of three include two large cubes for coats or trousers and one medium cube for shirts, underwear or socks.

Read next: The best kids' luggage to buy, as recommended by parents

4. Best hanging packing cubes: ELEZAY Hanging Packing Cubes

Price on writing: £30 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Size: 45 x 30 x 62cm | Weight: 557g | Material: Polyester | Waterproof: Yes

What we like

  • Designed to help you pack AND unpack!

  • Available in a range of colours

  • Strong hooks make it easy to hang from a wardrobe

What we don't like

  • Can't handle very heavy/bulky items

What Mumsnet users say

"Recently invested in this and found it a game changer" - HobnobbingAboutHobnobs

Our verdict

We're all for time-saving products that make life that little bit easier so we're big fans of this travel accessory that helps to keep things organised in your suitcase and makes it super easy to unpack when you've reached your destination. Items can be stored in the base cube and when you unpack, the organiser folds out to reveal three 'shelves' in which you can store your holiday gear. The hooks mean it can be neatly hung in a wardrobe and there are a couple of inner pockets for extra bits and bobs. There are nine different colour options and a choice of sizes to suit the length of your trip or family set up.

5. Best patterned packing cubes: Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Starter Set Koi

Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Starter Set Koi

Price on writing: £49 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Size: Pack of three | Weight: 462g (folder), 113g (cube), 77g (half cube) | Material: 30D Poly Silnylon Ripstop | Waterproof: Not specified

What we like

  • Beautiful koi carp design

  • Hard-wearing

What we don't like

  • A bit on the pricey side, but Mumsnetters say Eagle Creek cubes are built to last

What Mumsnet users say

“I’ve got a set of eagle creek cubes that I bought over 15 years ago, I use them every time I go away, they are great quality and a good shape for fitting lots in and packing into a bag neatly.” Rated by Mumsnetter NannyR

“The Eagle Creek ones are really great quality. I’ve had cheaper ones which have bitten the dust after one or two uses.” Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Divebar2021

Our verdict

For the traveller with a lot to pack, this cube set will help keep you super organised and the quirky koi carp pattern brings a bit of style to your luggage.

This pack of three contains a folder, cube and half cube and although they feel lightweight, don't be fooled into thinking they are flimsy. Mumsnetters swear by Eagle Creek packing cubes for their durability. In fact, some say the cubes have accompanied them on more than a decade's worth of travel without any tears or breaks - more than justifying the £40 price tag.

6. Best backpack packing cubes: Sea To Summit Hydraulic Packing Cube Medium

Sea To Summit Hydraulic Packing Cube Medium

Price on writing: £35 | Buy now from Wiggle

Key specs

Size: 10 x 26.5 x 14cm | Weight: 62g | Material: TPU-laminated 70D ripstop nylon | Waterproof: Water-resistant

What we like

  • Made from tough materials to keep your clothes and valuables safe and dust-free

  • Lightweight

What we don't like

  • Only one in a pack - best for solo travels

What Mumsnet users say

“I have Sea to Summit. And some cheap ones as well. The only thing that matters is the zip. Good, strong zip. Because I massively overpack them and it needs to be good!” Rated by Mumsnetter MrsTerryPratchett

Our verdict

If you like your holidays on the adventurous side, then you need a packing cube that is ready for anything. The Sea To Summit Hydraulic Packing Cube is dust-proof and water-resistant, with strong RF-welded seams and PU-coated water-resistant zips helping to keep the elements at bay.

This cube also comes with a translucent panel so you can check on its contents without having to open it all up, plus there is a sturdy handle for easy handling and secure lashing.

Read next: The best beach bags to buy for family holidays

7. Best small packing cubes: Briggs & Riley 3-Pack Zippered Packing Cubes

Briggs & Riley 3-Pack Zippered Packing Cubes

Price on writing: £60 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Size: Pack of three | Weight: Not specified | Material: Polyester | Waterproof: Yes

What we like

  • A great option if you don't want a big or oversized packing cube

What we don't like

  • Price reflects the brand name

Our verdict

Good things come in small packages and this three-cube set fits that description. Sometimes you only need a small packing cube to keep things separate and organised in your case and these do that job well according to user reviews.

Machine washable, the mesh windows make clothes easily visible as well as increasing breathability. They come with an integrated carry handle on each cube for easy transferring and storage.

8. Best sturdy packing cubes: Osprey UL Packing Cube Set

Osprey UL Packing Cube Set

Price on writing: £42 | Buy now from Osprey

Key specs

Size: Pack of three | Weight: 59g | Material: Not specified | Waterproof: Not specified

What we like

  • Sturdy

  • Available in a range of colours to suit all tastes

  • Comfortable webbed handle

What we don't like

  • No mesh or translucent panel to view cube contents

Our verdict

Osprey is well-known for its quality luggage so it’s no surprise its packing cubes make travelling as stress-free as possible. No one wants to spend more time packing and unpacking than needed and this sturdy and ultra-light packing cube set will mean you can spend more time enjoying your holiday. They come in either electric lime or black and have top access zippers and handles to make them super simple to use.

9. Best lightweight packing cubes: Mountain Warehouse Packing Cubes - set of three

Price on writing: £20 | Buy now from Mountain Warehouse

Key specs

Size: Pack of four | Weight: 150g | Material: Not specified | Waterproof: Not specified

What we like

  • Compact and lightweight

  • Comes with handy laundry bag

What we don't like

  • No choice of colours

  • No transparent panels to see inside cube

Our verdict

These lightweight packing cubes from Mountain Warehouse are perfect for travelling and outdoor adventures. The set comes with different sized bags and an additional laundry bag for keeping your dirty undies or shoes separate from the rest of your clothes.

There is no mesh or transparent window to allow you to see inside the cubes, and they do look very 'no frills' from the outside, but these cubes will keep your belongings separated and safe.

10. Best compression packing cubes: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes Mesh Travel Luggage Packing Organisers

Gonex Compression Packing Cubes

Price on writing: £32 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Size: Pack of six | Weight: 500g | Material: Nylon | Waterproof: Yes

What we like

  • Compression means you can cram even more into packing

  • Various sized cubes mean there is one for all occasions

What we don't like

  • If you are travelling on a short trip alone, a set of six may be overkill

What Mumsnet users say

“I got these ones as a gift for my sister and she raves about them. These are compression ones which as well as helping to keep your clothes organised also allows you to pack more because the air is compressed out of them.” Recommended by Mumsnetter LifeInAHamsterWheel

Our verdict

This fancy looking packing cube set comes in a variety of colours and looks quite different to other packing cubes on our list. The cubes are made from lightweight, soft and washable nylon fabric and there’s plenty of space for your clothing without adding much extra weight to your luggage, despite being some of the heaviest we’ve reviewed. Not only do they do the job of organising your clothes but they cleverly compress them so you can take more away without the risk of zips breaking as they’re doubly reinforced.

How to choose the best packing cubes

There are a few things to keep in mind when buying packing cubes. How often you travel is one of the main considerations. If you don't travel very often, there are lots of budget options that should suit your needs but if you travel a lot it might be worth investing in a more durable brand and spending a bit more money. It’s also worth considering how much you normally pack as that will determine how many cubes you need. Packing cubes pretty much always come in multi-pack sets with larger sets including accessories like shoe bags and flat cases for items like laptops and tablets. The longer you’re travelling, the larger the set you’ll need. The other two important considerations are whether you need to protect your possessions and how much space you need. If you’re off on a family adventure holiday and your luggage will be exposed to the elements it would be a good idea to buy waterproof packing cubes. If space is a problem and you need to fit a lot into your case, compression-style packing cubes would be a good buy.

Are packing cubes better than rolling items?

There’s no right or wrong way to pack but travel experts at Airfarewatchdog recommend bulkier items such as sweatshirts and jackets would be better in a packing cube as laying them flat will take up less space than rolling. But in general, rolled items often take up less room and can be configured to fit into otherwise wasted space (like putting rolled up socks inside your shoes).

Are compression packing cubes worth it?

As mentioned above, if you’re short on space in your bag or suitcase, compression-style packing cubes can prove invaluable. These are designed with an extra zip that, once closed, will push your possessions down into as little space as possible.

What are the best packing cubes to buy?

Our overall best buy is the Amazon Basics 4-piece Set which receives top marks across the web and on the Mumsnet forums. Not only is it a great price for four good sized cubes, it’s rated highly for durability. And when you’re done, the cubes can be stored away without taking up too much room in the cupboard.

How we chose our recommendations

We’ve thoroughly researched the best packing cubes you can buy this season including tried-and-tested experiences from a wide range of honest, trusted sources. Here’s how we narrowed it down to our top picks.

Mumsnet community

When it comes to packing cubes Mumsnetters know a trusty carrier when they see (and use) one.

We first assessed all the recommendations from the Mumsnet community, getting feedback on the best packing cubes hey have personally used, reviewed and rated, including their favourite brands and additional features, such as extendable zips and mesh windows. We also considered the reasons why Mumsnetters would avoid certain packing cubes.

Expert opinions

We know that choosing the right packing cubes takes a lot of thought and consideration, so we made sure our recommendations were well received within the bags and luggage industry, rated or recommended by travel experts and industry leaders.

Trusted consumer reviews

Finally, we scrutinised honest customer reviews on retailer sites such as Amazon and John Lewis to get wider consumer opinions on the products on our shortlist. Through this research, we were able to weigh up the top packng cubes for a variety of needs, from solo business trips to family holidays, and gain a greater understanding of the pros and cons of each.

About the author

Laura Cooke is a Content Editor at Mumsnet, with a special focus on home care content. She is a mum of two and lives in Sussex. She has worked for local newspapers and magazines across Sussex, and her work has appeared in titles, including the Daily Mirror, the i, Metro, Stylist and Happiful magazine.

Laura started writing Swears By articles for Mumsnet in 2021 and has recently taken over responsibility for floor care and laundry content. She writes buyers guides, including what to consider when buying a robot vacuum cleaner, cleaning articles and tests products, including the Henry Quick vacuum and the Beldray 60m Rotary Airer, to help Mumsnetters make informed choices when it comes to parting with their pennies.

Why you should trust us

Mumsnet has been helping parents make their lives easier since 2000 and, in those years, we’ve seen, tried and reviewed thousands of products in a wide variety of categories.

We work hard to provide honest and independent advice you can trust and we spend hours scouring the Mumsnet forums and online bestseller lists to find products that real parents rate.

Transparency is important to us and that's why we're always upfront about the research we do, and where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family and strive to offer impartial advice across the board.