Even though I'm a frequent traveler, I lived well over four decades of my life without thinking I needed packing cubes. I know how to pack, I thought. I can roll my things up tightly to fit in any carry-on suitcase or backpack. Are packing cubes really worth it? Why would I spend money on something simply to separate my workout pants and pajamas from my daily outfits? Then I bought a set, and I will never go back. Packing cubes are often scoffed at by r/onebag minimalists and those who can live three weeks out of a backpack with four outfits and a toothbrush. To their point, regular packing cubes do add weight (usually less than a pound), but compressible styles, like the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Carry-On Set ($104), Thule's Compression Packing Cube Set ($54), or Bagsmart Compression Cubes ($43), are a game changer for overpackers. Even noncompression versions like Beis' Packing Cubes ($68) have labels that will help you take your packing organization to the next level. Unpacking is also much quicker and easier with a set of cubes. You don’t even have to take your clothes out—you can put the packing cubes right in the hotel drawers. If you're ready to give the packing cube life a try, or upgrade a current set, check out my list of road-tested favorites for every situation. For more travel gear, check out our guides to the Best Toiletry Bags, Best Luggage, Best Carry-On Luggage, and Best Travel Pillows. Updated May 2026: I've added new packing cubes from Eagle Creek and Bagsmart, a carry-on from FlipSide, and two accessories I've loved during spring travel: Rumpl's Tech Towel and Lazy Skinscience's Double Duty. I've also ensured up-to-date links and prices. An inexpensive alternative: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes (4 for $24) aren't as sturdy as Eagle Creek's and obviously don't come with the same warranty, but for the price, they are one of the more decent budget dupes, with a water-resistant exterior and pretty decent compression. They also come in eight c