Quick Verdict
Packing cubes are one of the simplest travel accessories you can buy, yet they can completely transform the way you pack.
For families, they help keep clothing organised, reduce clutter, and make it much easier to find what you need during a trip.
Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway, a family road trip, or an international adventure, packing cubes can save time, space, and frustration.
What Are Packing Cubes?
Packing cubes are lightweight zippered fabric containers designed to organise clothing and travel gear inside your luggage.
Instead of placing everything loosely into a suitcase or backpack, packing cubes allow you to separate items into categories.
Common examples include:
- Adult clothing
- Kids clothing
- Underwear and socks
- Swimwear
- Electronics
- Travel documents
Many travellers consider them one of the best travel accessories available.
Why Families Love Packing Cubes
Travelling with children often means carrying more gear and managing more belongings.
Packing cubes help by:
- Keeping each family member organised
- Making unpacking easier
- Preventing messy suitcases
- Maximising luggage space
- Making items easier to locate
When travelling as a family, organisation quickly becomes valuable.
While you’re at it, check out our guide on the best backpacks for family travel.
What to Look for in Packing Cubes
Lightweight Design
Packing cubes should add organisation, not unnecessary weight.
Durable Zippers
Good quality zippers make a significant difference over time.
Multiple Sizes
A combination of small, medium, and large cubes provides flexibility.
Mesh Panels
Mesh sections help identify contents without opening every cube.
Compression Features
Some packing cubes offer compression to reduce bulk and maximise space.
Best Packing Cubes for Family Travel
1. Eagle Creek Pack-It Cubes
Best Overall
Eagle Creek remains one of the most respected names in travel organisation.
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Multiple sizes available
- Lightweight design
- Excellent reputation
Cons:
- Higher price than some alternatives
Best for:
Families who travel regularly.
2. Peak Design Packing Cubes
Best Premium Option
Peak Design produces some of the most thoughtfully designed travel accessories available.
Pros:
- Compression capability
- Premium materials
- Excellent organisation
Cons:
- Premium pricing
Best for:
Frequent travellers who value quality.
3. Amazon Basics Packing Cubes
Best Budget Option
Affordable, practical, and surprisingly effective.
Pros:
- Excellent value
- Multiple colours
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Less durable than premium options
Best for:
Families trying packing cubes for the first time.
4. Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
Best for Saving Space
Compression packing cubes can help reduce clothing volume.
Pros:
- Compression feature
- Good value
- Variety of sizes
Cons:
- Can encourage overpacking
Best for:
Longer trips and carry-on travel.
5. Osprey Packing Cube Set
Best for Backpack Travel
Osprey’s travel-focused design works particularly well alongside travel backpacks.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Backpack-friendly
Cons:
- Smaller selection of sizes
Best for:
Family backpacking and carry-on travel.
How We Use Packing Cubes
A simple system often works best.
For example:
Cube 1
Mum’s clothing
Cube 2
Dad’s clothing
Cube 3
Child 1 clothing
Cube 4
Child 2 clothing
Small Cube
Underwear and socks
Accessory Cube
Electronics and chargers
This system makes it easy to find items without unpacking everything.
Are Compression Packing Cubes Worth It?
Compression cubes can be helpful for:
- Carry-on travel
- Cold-weather clothing
- Longer trips
However, they aren’t essential for everyone.
Many families find standard packing cubes provide plenty of organisation without needing compression.
Packing Cube Tips
Roll Clothing
Rolling clothing often works better than folding.
Use Colour Coding
Assign different colours to different family members.
Keep Similar Items Together
Organisation becomes much easier when categories remain consistent.
Avoid Overfilling
Packing cubes work best when they can still close comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are packing cubes worth it for family travel?
For most families, yes. They improve organisation and reduce packing frustration.
Do packing cubes save space?
Standard cubes mainly improve organisation. Compression cubes can also reduce volume.
How many packing cubes do I need?
Most families find a set of four to eight cubes sufficient.
Are packing cubes good for backpacks?
Yes. Many travellers use packing cubes inside travel backpacks to stay organised.
Final Thoughts
Packing cubes are one of the simplest upgrades you can make to your travel setup.
They won’t make your luggage lighter or eliminate every travel challenge, but they can make packing, unpacking, and staying organised significantly easier.
For families in particular, they are often one of the most useful travel accessories available.