Being a travel enthusiast made us familiar with various methods of packing and carrying. And if you value practicality and minimalism above all else, compression cube for travel is one of your best go-to options. Packing two months’ worth of clothes in two suitcases might sound nearly impossible. But with the right product, like the Eagle Creek compression cube set, for example, you can pack a lot of stuff with relative ease. Its compressed air-tight feature will help you keep all your belongings organized and while saving more space.
To help you find the best option, we’ve tested some compression cubes for backpacking here. We try to cover as many genres as possible, from super compact models to roomy six-piece sets. So, are you ready to pack like a pro? Let’s get started!
Table of contents
- Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter
- Gonex
- LeanTravel
- Suited Nomad
- Amazon Basics
- eBags Classic
- Tripped
- Well Traveled
- Osprey Ultralight
- Shacke Pak
- Alameda
- Bagail
- Vasco
- How to Choose The Best Compression Cube for Travel
- Do Compression Packing Cubes Really Work?
- Are Compression Bags Good for Travel?
- Do Compression Bags Reduce Weight?
Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter
13
The Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter would be a great investment. It comes with premium construction and a lifetime warranty. You might have a little trouble understanding the warranty descriptions they provide but rest assured. Basically, they’re ready to provide a replacement unit in case something goes wrong. That’s beyond the normal wear and tear, of course.
Crafted from 30D Ripstop Nylon with YKK zippers, the Specter is a top-rated compression cube for travel that you don’t want to miss. The material feels flimsy to the touch, but it actually works pretty well. You can use these cubes to pack oversized clothes like trench coats with relative ease. It might be a pain to zip up and as hard as a brick, but it works! If you love to pack lightly and effectively, this product is definitely worth checking out.
- What We Love:
- Comes with a lifetime warranty that actually works!
- Pros:
- Ultra-light ripstop fabric
- Quick grab handle
- Water-resistant fabric
- Lifetime guarantee
- Cons:
- The fabric tends to get stuck on the zippers
Gonex
12
The Gonex Compression Sets are highly recommended for camping trips. It comes with four cubes of varying sizes. They may look small at first glance, but boy, they can really hold a lot of stuff! The smallest cube alone can hold a week’s worth of clothes plus several pairs of underwear.
While this is definitely not an Eagle Creek compression cube set, the Gonex offers an equally impressive build quality. These cubes are compressed with a second zipper, which will immediately shrink to the size of the cube when the zipper is closed. And thanks to the quick handle, you can easily carry these cubes around the campsite. In case of rain, this four-piece pack is made of water-resistant nylon material.
And while we’re on the topic of bags and compression cubes for luggage, check out our best diaper bags for travel. We know that traveling with babies can be a hassle at times. But with these bags, you’ll get quicker access to your little one’s essentials.
- What We Love:
- Small compression cubes that are easy to carry around, great for camping trips
- Pros:
- Nylon material
- Double zippers
- Water repellent
- Available in various colors
- Cons:
- You need to close the zipper with extra care. Otherwise, it’ll get caught in the inner fabric.
LeanTravel
11
Are you traveling in a group? Then the LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes would make an excellent choice. This six-piece set comes with two small, medium, and large cubes, offering plenty of options to accommodate different needs. We found that the smaller cubes were ideal for storing underwear. Meanwhile, larger cubes are great for heavier garments like sweatshirts and jackets.
Thanks to their mesh panels, each of these cubes has impressive breathability and visibility. The latter will come in handy, especially when you need to access certain clothes or items quickly. Apart from that, there’s no need to worry about the risk of ripping since the zippers are made with anti-catch technology. So if you haven’t decided on any compression cubes for luggage, this one is worth checking out.
- What We Love:
- Great when you’re traveling in a group or need different sized packs for varied needs
- Pros:
- Stylish design
- Premium polyester fabric
- Reinforced wall structure
- Double zipper
- Cons:
- It’s not waterproof
Suited Nomad
10
Fitting all your backpacking needs in one backpack is no longer an impossibility. Just make sure you use Suited Nomad Compression Packing Cubes. The set you’re looking at right now is coming with three cubes of varying sizes. They’re all made of Ripstop material, which is known to be great at dealing with tears and wear. They’re also water-resistant, so there’s no need to worry if you suddenly get caught in the rain.
This compression cube for travel is also great for those looking for a super-compact pack. Each cube features a double-zipper compression system to ensure they’re small enough while leaving plenty of room to pack. So if you’re planning a backpacking trip in the near future, be sure to check out these compression cubes for luggage.
- What We Love:
- Double-zipper compression technology to ensure you get a super-compact pack that fits in your backpack
- Pros:
- Nylon material
- Reinforced seams
- Smooth zippers
- Ripstop fabric
- Cons:
- Limited color options
Amazon Basics
9
If you’re on a tight budget, look no further than Amazon Basics. This bargain set works well, especially for those relatively new to compression cubes for travel. It comes with a simple design and is easy to use.
Furthermore, these polyester cubes are made of lightweight yet durable nylon fabric. They’re also easy to clean using a standard washing machine. Meanwhile, the addition of a handle makes this affordable four-piece set a breeze to carry around. If you don’t mind spending between 20 to 23 bucks on your compression cubes, this one would be an excellent choice.
- What We Love:
- Comes with a simple design, easy to use, relatively affordable
- Pros:
- Double zipper pulls
- Soft mesh
- Made of high-quality fabric
- Webbing handle
- Cons:
- Not recommended for places with humid conditions
eBags Classic
8
eBags Classic does come at a premium price, but you definitely get what you pay for. The brand has been in the industry long enough to earn a reputation as one of the most modern and high-quality solutions for travel and luggage. Their compression cubes are extremely tough and have become one of the most popular products on Amazon in recent times.
The four-piece set you’re looking at right now is crafted using a special material called Techlite diamond nylon. It offers great flexibility and durability while maintaining good compression. For fast and reliable access, eBags embed premium YKK zips. Another thing to love about this set is the fact that they’re stackable. This means you can use them as temporary drawers when you’re at home. Overall, a really impressive set. This is an equally impressive alternative if you can’t get your hands on the Eagle Creek compression cube set.
- What We Love:
- Premium compression cubes with Techlite diamond nylon technology that offer great flexibility and durability
- Pros:
- Lifetime guarantee
- Durable & convenient
- Superior quality
- Fabric-bound interior seams
- Cons:
- The biggest cube isn’t too helpful
Tripped
7
When it comes to travel gears, Tripped is a name you can trust. This company was started by hardcore travelers with an ambition to make a massive difference in how you travel. As a result, they came with the Tripped Compression Packing Cubes, an impressive two-piece set designed with the traveler in mind.
These fantastic cubes will let you pack more efficiently and smarter. Coming in a variety of different sizes, this set can accommodate all your different needs. Tripped Compression Packing Cubes will be a great choice, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a quick business trip. All of them are made from lightweight Ripstop nylon and come with reinforced zippers. And in case you’re not happy with these compression cubes for luggage, send them back and get a full refund!
And in case you’re into biking, we’ve got some great recommendations here. Check out our best bikepacking bags for some of your best packing solutions.
- What We Love:
- Designed with the traveler in mind. Comes with cubes of varying sizes to accommodate different needs.
- Pros:
- Doubles as a mini drawer
- Ripstop nylon
- Reinforced zippers
- Versatile
- Cons:
- The compression could be better
Well Traveled
6
Want to travel in style? Well Traveled will be your best bet. Compared to most compression cubes out there, these products are superior in terms of attractiveness. You’ll definitely have no trouble identifying these compression packs, even from a distance! Not only do they come in different sizes, but these lightweight bags also come in varied designs.
Pack like a pro, as each cube of this 3-piece set, is made using reliable ripstop fabric. They also weigh no more than 0.65lbs, which makes them ideal for carry-on. And thanks to its dual zip compression system, you can save up to 30 percent of space! Plus, this compression cube for travel is washing machine-friendly. Just set your machine to warm mode and wash in the gentle cycle. It’s just that easy!
- What We Love:
- Dual zip compression system that allows you to create up to 30 percent more space
- Pros:
- Reliable ripstop fabric
- Unique design
- A dual zipper compression system
- Attractive design
- Cons:
- Need to be extra careful with the zippers
Osprey Ultralight
5
The Osprey Packs Ultralight Packing Cube Set will definitely make a nice addition to your travel gear collection. This impressive set was designed with one thing in mind – helping you carry lots of stuff while making sure they all stay organized. Available in Shadow Gray and Electric Lime, each piece from this set is made with a lightweight and sturdy Nylon ripstop fabric. For easy transport, Osprey embeds convenient handles on each cube.
And as you’d expect from Osprey products, this set comes with the famous All-Mighty warranty. This means that if you happen to have problems with your purchase, you can easily request a replacement product or a refund. Now that’s what we call the best compression cube for travel!
- What We Love:
- Keeps your things organized while you’re traveling. Made of durable and ultralight Nylon ripstop fabric.
- Pros:
- Convenient grab handle
- Secure zippers
- RFID protection
- All Mighty warranty
- Cons:
- Only available in two colors
Shacke Pak
4
The Shacke Pack should make another great alternative if you can’t afford an Eagle Creek compression cube set. It’s available at bargain prices and comes with four cubes of varying sizes. Each of them is crafted from waterproof nylon and black mesh. This means you can see what items are currently stored inside, making it easier when you need to get something out quickly.
Based on the short tests we did, the main material of the Shacke Pack feels quite light and sturdy. We don’t know exactly how long these compression cubes for luggage will last, but you definitely won’t need to find a new replacement in at least a few hundred trips. Apart from that, it’s available in various colors to suit different tastes. The only drawback is that the largest cube measures around 17×4 inches, making it too big for a backpacking trip.
- What We Love:
- Crafted from a combination of nylon and black mesh, allowing you to easily see what’s inside
- Pros:
- Nylon material
- Water-resistant
- Double stitch
- Includes a laundry bag
- Cons:
- The biggest cube isn’t ideal for backpacking trips
Alameda
3
Alameda is one of the most recommended compression cubes for backpacking. You’ll be amazed at how many clothes and stuff you can fit into these cubes. They’re also very easy to load and zip up. We’ve tried to cram a few larger items in these and have found no torn seams or signs of a broken zipper.
Another reason to choose Alameda is that they’re super light. You can stack them easily in your backpack. In addition, the ripstop nylon fabric doesn’t catch dust and is easy to clean using a regular washing machine. With all this being said, there’s still room for improvement, though. We wish Alameda included a see-through mesh on one side, so you can easily see what’s inside. Otherwise, it’s an awesome set. Check it out if you have time.
Are you planning to go to Europe shortly? Then make sure you do thorough preparation. Use only the best bags to make sure all your stuff stays safe as you make your way across the Blue Continent. Check out our best bags for traveling in Europe!
- What We Love:
- Lightweight compression cubes with tough zippers
- Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Ultralight
- High-density texture
- Double zipper system
- Cons:
- No see-through mess
Bagail
2
When you’re looking for a compression cube for travel, Bagail should be on your list of considerations. These compression cubes take up so little space. When not in use, you can have them nest inside of each other! But make no mistake, these cubes offer plenty of room to store your stuff. The largest pack can easily accommodate three pairs of pants, one pair of shorts, and a couple of shirts with some space left.
Meanwhile, the smallest cube would be ideal as an overnight bag. As for the quality of the zippers, they seem pretty well-made and sturdy enough. If you want to have an easy packing process and be more organized, this set would be a great choice. Plus, it’s available in seven color options to suit different personalities.
- What We Love:
- Take up a little space. Can nest inside of each other when not in use.
- Pros:
- Zipper closure
- Space-saving compression
- Premium nylon fabric
- Versatile
- Cons:
- The color description is a bit misleading
Vasco
1
Vasco offers a set of premium compression cubes for travel with excellent features. For the best compression, this product boasts a reverse coil zipper and double slider technology. Both allow you to save up to 60% space! This means you can store and carry more stuff without the need for a larger compression zip. What’s even more amazing, these cubes also help your clothes stay in a pristine state, free of any creases or mess!
Despite its lightweight, the Vasco Compression Cube set is quite sturdy. It’s made from a combination of nylon and TPU enforced mesh. Apart from that, all the stitches are made to professional standards to ensure they don’t give up easily after regular use. Last but not least, Vasco claims that the zippers they use have gone through extensive testing, so they won’t get stuck or come off. Excellent!
- What We Love:
- A set of premium compression cubes with quality zips, professionally crafted seams, and compression technology that allows up to 60 percent space saving
- Pros:
- Made from Nylon and TPU enforced mesh
- Easy to use design
- 100 percent satisfaction guarantee
- Water-resistant
- Cons:
- It doesn’t have a clear pocket on the outside
How to Choose The Best Compression Cube for Travel
There’s one important thing you need to keep in mind when looking for a compression cube for travel. It should make a valuable addition to your travel gear collection. So, stay away from products that look cute and don’t make any massive difference in how you travel.
Stick with well-known brands, like the Eagle Creek compression cube set. They generally use high standards in their manufacturing processes and offer extensive warranties. And with that being said, here are three factors you need to consider when choosing compression cubes for backpacking.
Weight
A compression cube for travel needs to be light. Remember, this travel gear is designed to keep your things organized without overloading your luggage. We recommend choosing a compression cube made of ultralight material, such as 30D or 40D nylon. They’re generally softer to the touch and perform really well against tear and wear.
And speaking of lightweight travel bags, be sure to check out our list of the best foldable travel bags. They’ll be great when you need another bag to carry extra items or some souvenirs!
Material
Popular products such as the Eagle Creek compression cube set are known for their high-quality materials. Besides being tough, they’re also washable and manufactured to last several long trips. So whenever possible, always pick a compression cube made of canvas or nylon.
Breathability
Another important factor to consider when choosing compression cubes for backpacking is breathability. Remember that mesh fabric is your best buddy. It’ll promote optimal airflow, so your belongings won’t be damp and potentially damaged.
Do Compression Packing Cubes Really Work?
Of course. Depending on the type of product you buy, you may not save as much space as advertised. However, the cubes will help keep your things organized. For example, you can use one cube for storing underwear, while the other for heavier garments like sweatshirts, jeans, and more.
But if you’re looking for a quick getaway, be sure to check out our best weekender bags for travel. Not only are they stylish, but they’re also highly functional and come in just the right size.
Are Compression Bags Good for Travel?
If you want to carry a lot of stuff but want to keep your luggage minimal, then the answer is yes! Packing cubes are great, especially for clothes. They will remove excess air, allowing you to save more space while keeping your clothes from getting wrinkled and messy during transport.
Do Compression Bags Reduce Weight?
Unfortunately no. Removing excess air will only make things heavier. But on the bright side, you’ll be able to save a significant amount of space. This is great when you don’t want to carry many bags or go on a backpacking trip.
