WIRED Reviews Tests Dozens of Packing Cubes to Identify Top Travel Gear
An updated May 2026 assessment challenges minimalist travel conventions, highlighting how compression cubes and specialised containers reduce wrinkles and protect belongings compared to standard plastic alternatives.
WIRED has published a comprehensive review testing dozens of packing cubes and related travel accessories to identify top options for travellers. The review challenges the minimalist view that packing cubes are unnecessary, arguing they offer significant benefits in organisation, wrinkle reduction, and protection from dirt and damage. The article updates its recommendations for May 2026, adding new products from brands including Eagle Creek, Bagsmart, and FlipSide.
The publication highlights that while minimalists may avoid them, packing cubes offer significant benefits including wrinkle reduction, dirt protection, and organisational ease. The article details specific models from brands such as Eagle Creek, Thule, Nomatic, and Bagsmart, noting features like compression capabilities, water resistance, and material durability. It also evaluates niche products including shoe bags, vacuum compression systems, and specialised travel accessories, concluding that cubes provide superior breathability and durability compared to standard plastic bags.
Eagle Creek is recommended as a top pick for versatility, featuring thick fabric, good compression, and opaque privacy options. The new VentureLite Gear Cubes are highlighted for durability and water resistance, constructed from ocean-recycled nylon that is abrasion and puncture-resistant. Thule is noted for exceptional compression in rigid, small-sized cubes, ideal for carry-ons but less suitable for bulky items. Nomatic is praised for thick, water-resistant ripstop nylon and excellent compression, with a lifetime warranty.
Bagsmart is highlighted as a strong budget option with compression features and a wide range of colours. Béis is featured for its label system and aesthetic appeal, designed to coordinate with Béis luggage. FlipSide introduces a new 22-inch carry-on described as a "big packing cube on wheels" with dual compartments. The review explicitly compares packing cubes to Ziplock bags, citing breathability, durability, and compression as key advantages of cubes.
The review also evaluates niche products including shoe bags, vacuum compression systems, and specialised travel accessories. It concludes that cubes provide superior breathability and durability compared to standard plastic bags. The article notes that cubes protect clothes from dirt, damage, and sand, while also providing privacy during security checks. Unpacking is described as quicker and easier, with cubes fitting directly into hotel drawers.
WIRED has tested numerous packing cube brands to determine the most effective options for travellers. The review highlights that while minimalists may avoid them, packing cubes offer significant benefits including wrinkle reduction, dirt protection, and organisational ease. The article details specific models from brands such as Eagle Creek, Thule, Nomatic, and Bagsmart, noting features like compression capabilities, water resistance, and material durability. It also evaluates niche products including shoe bags, vacuum compression systems, and specialised travel accessories, concluding that cubes provide superior breathability and durability compared to standard plastic bags.
