TL;DR
WIRED's kit roundup tested a range of packing cubes and compression sets for different travel needs, naming standout options for compression, carry-ons, sturdiness and value. The review emphasizes how cubes save space, protect clothes, speed unpacking and add privacy when bags are inspected.
What happened
Writer Kat Merck evaluated a dozen packing-cube sets and compression options, updating the guide in January 2026 to add new picks and honorable mentions. The story groups winners by use case: Eagle Creek's Pack-It Reveal set is highlighted as the top compression option for carry-on-style capacity and a useful split clean/dirty large cube; Thule's Compression Packing Cube Set is praised for high compression in compact sizes ideal for carry-ons; Nomatic's ripstop nylon cubes are noted for extreme durability; Bagsmart offers a budget-friendly six-pack with labeling windows; Monos is presented as a premium choice for suitcase organization. The review also calls out inexpensive dupes like Gonex and lists recent additions (Cotopaxi, Kulkea) plus honorable mentions (Aer, Airback). Test notes cover materials, mesh visibility, water resistance, zipper quality and warranty terms, and include practical use cases such as duffels, backpacks and family packing.
Why it matters
- Compression cubes can reduce volume and help fit bulkier items into carry-ons.
- Cubes make it easier to organize multiple outfits, family members' clothing, or clean vs. dirty laundry.
- They protect garments from dirt and sand and can reduce wrinkling compared with loose packing.
- Using cubes speeds unpacking—many sets can be placed directly into hotel drawers—and limits exposure during inspections.
Key facts
- Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Carry-On Set reviewed at $104; noted for sturdy fabric, water resistance, a mesh window, and a large cube split for clean/dirty use.
- Thule Compression Packing Cube Set listed around $54 (shown discounted to $48) and praised for strong compression, lightweight construction and 100D ripstop nylon with YKK zippers.
- Nomatic Compression Packing Cubes priced from about $30 (medium) to $40 (large) and highlighted for very thick ripstop nylon and a lifetime warranty.
- Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes set (six-pack) featured as an affordable Amazon option, shown at approximately $43 ($25 during a discount), polyester construction, label windows and 25 color options.
- Monos compressible cubes presented as premium suitcase-focused picks, with set prices shown at $95 (four-pack) and $115 (six-pack).
- Gonex compression cubes cited as a budget dupe at $20–$30 for four pieces.
- Specifications reported in testing include compression capability (many sets compress bulky sweaters and sweatpants), mesh windows for ventilation/visibility, water-resistant fabrics on several picks, and zipper quality details.
- Warranty coverage varies: Eagle Creek and Nomatic offer lifetime warranties; Thule carries a limited lifetime warranty; Bagsmart’s return/warranty period is shorter (30 days).
- Total set weights cited: Eagle Creek set about 1 lb 2.5 oz; Thule set about 7.5 oz; Bagsmart two-piece set about 0.56 lb; Nomatic set just under 1 lb.
What to watch next
- WIRED is currently testing a packing-cube–inspired carry-on from FlipSide (confirmed in the source).
- Newer entrants added to this roundup include Cotopaxi and Kulkea as picks and Aer plus Airback as honorable mentions (confirmed in the source).
- Long-term durability and performance after heavy travel beyond initial testing cycles: not confirmed in the source.
- How price and stock levels change over time for specific sets (discounts shown in the review may not persist): not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Packing cube: A small zippered fabric pouch used to organize clothing and gear inside a suitcase or backpack.
- Compression cube: A packing cube equipped with a zipper or panel that reduces the packed volume by pressing air out of clothes and compacting the load.
- Ripstop nylon: A woven fabric reinforced with thicker threads to resist tearing; commonly used in durable travel gear.
- Mesh window: A breathable fabric panel on a cube that allows ventilation and partial visibility of contents.
- Lifetime warranty: Manufacturer coverage that promises repair or replacement of defects for the expected usable life of the product, subject to terms.
Reader FAQ
Are packing cubes worth buying?
The reviewer found them valuable for organization, compression, protection from dirt and faster unpacking; they recommend sets for many travelers.
Do packing cubes add a lot of weight?
The story notes cubes typically add less than a pound to your load, though exact weight varies by set.
Will compression cubes fit bulky items like sweatshirts?
Some sets (Thule, Nomatic, Bagsmart) compressed bulky sweats successfully; Eagle Creek’s largest cube can barely fit a bulky sweatshirt and sweatpants by some measures.
Are packing cubes machine washable?
Not all cubes are machine-washable; the review specifically notes some tested models are not machine-washable.
Which cubes are best for budget shoppers?
Bagsmart’s multi-pack and Gonex’s four-piece compression sets are presented as affordable options in the review.
KAT MERCK GEAR JAN 15, 2026 10:00 AM The 12 Best Packing Cubes for Traveling Whether you’re a no-frills backpacker or a bag-checking fashionista, there’s a perfect packing cube out…
Sources
- Best Packing Cubes for Every Kind of Trip (2026), Tested and Reviewed
- The 9 Best Packing Cubes of 2026, Tested and Reviewed
- The 4 Best Packing Cubes of 2026 | Reviews by Wirecutter
- Best Packing Cube 2026
Related posts
- Sony Bravia 8 II review: a QD-OLED TV that will please enthusiasts
- Ricoh GR IV Monochrome launching in February for about $2,200 preorder
- Verizon to issue $20 credit after nationwide outage — how to claim