travel compression bags

10 Best Compression Bags for Travel in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

Most travelers who enjoy a relaxed trip without bulky luggage may come to learn the benefits of utilizing compression bags. Whether you’re taking a month-long trip with your wife or best friend, you want to make the most of every single space. Backpackers traveling around the globe, in particular, would enjoy a reliable compression bag because they are continually going from location to location in order to move easily and compactly as possible with a bag.

Packing light is ideal for flying. If it’s a quick break or a month-long visit, seasoned travelers know how to hold it all to a bare minimum. Put in exactly what’s needed. Recycle clothes and practice mixing and matching. Most do laundry while traveling, though some will resort to buying as the need appears. The less you carry, the easier you can proceed. Despite the utility of these travel packing ideas, there is still a great number of people that would still overpack. This is where having the best compression bags for travel becomes handy for you.

In a Hurry? The test winners after 9 hrs of research

TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes for Travel – Best Value

Why is it better?

• The ballistic nylon seems very good
• The compression zip alleviates the back from adverse strain during the zipping process
• The positioning of where the handle is stitched into, as well as the size of the handle make a big difference down the line
• Durable and packable

Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack – Premium Pick

• The compression straps are tough
• There is clasp in which you can fold down the top of the bag so it will be watertight
• There is extra room just in case you want to pack anything else you may want to compress
• The stitching is strong and seems well constructed

Best Compression Bags for Travel – Overview

There are three common types of compression bags. There are zip-top bags, simple drawstring sacks, and buckled nylon bags. The first type — thick zip-top plastic bags work by either rolling the packed bag in such a way that the remaining air flows through a one-way valve or using a vacuum to remove trapped air. The most common compression bags, the drawstring pack are perfect for sleeping bags but do not have the best clothes compression. And then there are nylon plastic bags with buckles — one of the better carrying choices for clothes. They are square or rectangular form and is ideal for clothes packing, and their buckles essentially allow you to compress your clothes best.

Compression Bags for Travel Reviews

1. osprey packs straightjacket compression sack.

Backpacks are just the beginning of the journey. Osprey makes gear-carrying solutions – big and small. Before your gear ends up in a pack, these smartly designed accessories allow you to pack more efficiently, stay better organized, and find and grab the gear you need when you need it.

Keep your gear dry and secure with the Osprey Packs StraightJacket Compression Sack . Compressible design makes this easy to pack away when not in use. There is a water-resistant fabrication with a waterproof coating at seams. It also has a spacious main compartment with zip closure and compression straps. Lastly, webbing grab handle is added for easy carry.

Key Features:

• Compressible nylon wings and buckles can be utilized for maximum compression to fit extra gear
• Rectangular shape assists with efficient packing
• Water-resistant coating helps keep gear and clothing dry and protected

Specifications:

• Brand: Osprey
• Dimensions: 2″ H x 9″ W x 12″ D
• Weight: 0.2 lbs
• The buckles are small and made of plastic but they do not feel cheap
• Has a wide opening so everything fits easily inside
• It’s a wonderfully simplistic way to compress your clothes to make room for all the other materials
• It’s also good for backpacking
• A lift handle on one end for future designs as this would make it easier to remove from top loading backpacks

2. Sea to Summit Ultra-SIL Compression Sack

When you need to compress volume without significantly adding weight, the Sea to Summit Ultra-SIL Compression Sack is an excellent solution. Made from a 30D diamond rip-stop siliconized CORDURA fabric, these bags can be compressed to one-third of the original volume. Ideal for use inside your pack or travel bag when you need to compress clothing or bulky soft items to allow space for other essentials.

The 4 extra long straps allow for max capacity and even compression around the bag. Bar tack reinforced stress points for durability. Pull handle on the bottom for easy loading and unloading. Slippery finish for easy packing inside a backpack or bag. Note: seams are not tape-sealed; therefore this product is not waterproof – only water-resistant.

• 30d diamond ripstop siliconized Cordura
• Internal pack organization
• 4 extra long straps
• Bottom pull handle on the bottom
• Brand: Sea to Summit
• Capacity: 20L
• Dimensions: 14.4″ H x 11.2″ W x 1.2″ D
• Weight: 0.22 lbs
• Its ultralight
• Very compressible
• The fabric is very thin and light, but it’s also tough
• The tightening straps are easy to work with and adjustable
• Not fully waterproof

3. TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes for Travel – Best Value

The search for the perfect compression packing cubes set ends here. TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes for Travel are the perfect blend of high quality and affordable to make this the ultimate travel accessory- whether you’re looking for a backpacking organizer or a way to organize your carry-on suitcase.

These are not your typical vacuum bags-these expandable cubes use a two zipper system to help eliminate the extra bulk when packing your luggage. The ripstop Polyurethane fabric stands up to nonstop travel. It is ultra-lightweight and durable and as well as being more reliable than even nylon alternatives for packing cubes. Additionally, polyurethane fabric is water-resistant to help keep moisture out of your clothes wherever they’re packed. Zipper on the packing cubes all have reinforced zipper stops. We also made a guide on some great luggage sets for international travel .

• Water-resistant
• Ripstop Polyurethane fabric
• Smooth zippers
• Brand: TRIPPED Travel Gear
• Dimensions: 14″ H x 10″ W x 4″ D
• Smaller than regular packing cubes so cannot hold as much

4. ALPS Mountaineering Compression Stuff Sack

Clothing, sleeping bags, towels, and bedding take up a lot of space when traveling, but they don’t have too! Available in four different sizes, the ALPS Mountaineering Compression Stuff Sack will help you to maximize space in your pack, trunk or backseat!

There is a top lid with a zippered pocket to keep small items easily accessible. Zippered pocket reverses to become a storage pouch. Bottom webbing grab handles with d-rings allow easy carrying and multiple attachment options. Its also made of lightweight polyester ripstop with bartacked stress points.

• Top lid with zippered pocket
• Bottom handle with d-ring clips
• Bartacked stress points
• Lightweight polyester ripstop fabric
• Brand: ALPS Mountaineering
• Dimensions: 9″ H x 9″ W x 20″ D
• Weight: 0.62 lbs
• Four cinch straps
• Very well constructed
• The set came with the compression sack itself as well as a small black mesh bag for storing the empty compression sack
• The seams are also double-stitched with bar-tacked stress points
• End caps could be a little smaller to allow for more compression

5. Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack – Premium Pick

The Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack is made from a sturdy 70D Nylon waterproof fabric in the body and lid, with an eVent® waterproof but air-permeable base that allows air to be pushed out of the sack. No need for a purge valve, making these lighter and simpler. The four compression straps, use hypalon roll-top non-wicking closure. These dry sacks are the epitome of durability, versatility, and compression.

The eVent Compression Dry Sacs are rated to 10,000mm hydrostatic head – more than sufficient water protection for paddle use (avoid full submersion.) There is no need to worry about your contents getting wet, so when you get to camp, you can get into a cozy jacket, blanket, or sleeping bag. Super tough, super pliable, high thread-count 70 Denier fabrics and it’s white visible color make it easy to find in your bag. Feel free to check out our guide on some great lightweight luggage for international travel .

• Air permeable eVent fabric base allows air to be pushed out but water can’t get in
• Rugged 70D Nylon body
• Waterproof seams – double stitched and tape sealed
• Reinforced stitching on all stress points
• Pull handle on the bottom
• Weight: 0.33 lbs
• It can take some practice to put the straps on correctly in the dark

6. SUITEDNOMAD Compression Packing Cubes Set

While other travel packing cubes are way too small, rip after a few trips or their zippers are impossible to close, the SUITEDNOMAD Compression Packing Cubes Set come with 2 large and 1 medium size well-made bags. The reinforced seams are extra durable to ensure that you don’t get stuck with ripped bags in the middle of your travels. Our premium zipper slides smoothly even when the cubes are full.

Made of 100% ripstop and water-resistant nylon which fully protects your clothing during any adventure. The sleek design will fit perfectly any luggage without wasting space and a sturdy handle allows for incredible portability. The unique double zipper compression system removes all the air from the bag and makes it incredibly compact

• Reinforced seams
• Ripstop fabric
• Sturdy handle
• Brand: SUITEDNOMAD
• Dimensions: 10.24″ H x 2.36″ W x 0.87″ D
• Weight: 0.43 lbs
• The compression zipper is very nice
• This set is a 6-pack, so it has basically everything that you would need to stay organized
• The quality of the fabric and zippers is absolutely top-notch
• Its ripstop fabric
• The zippers could be larger

7. REDCAMP Nylon Compression Bag for Travel

The REDCAMP Nylon Compression Bag for Travel is made of lightweight nylon material, high quality, water-resistant, durable fabric, and steady for a longer lifespan. Adjustable and sturdy widen strap can compact the bag to minimum condition for you to store it in your car, shoulder, backpack. It saves space. It is convenient for you to take it anywhere you go.

Features include a top lid with a zippered pocket to keep small items easily accessible, 4 adjustable straps that allow you to remove extra air inside your belongings, without unsightly bulging. The bottom handle strap is comfortable to carry

• Side adjustable buckle
• Made of lightweight Nylon material
• Comes with 4 adjustable straps
• Brand: REDCAMP
• Capacity: 27L
• Dimensions: 22.1″ H x 9.8″ W x 9.8″ D
• Weight: 0.28 lbs
• The material of the bag is very thin, but it is sewn together very well and feels pretty strong
• The straps are nice and easy to use too compress your item
• Half of the straps have a buckle to easily remove your item when you need it
• Compresses well
• Smaller than advertised

8. Hibag 12 Travel Compression Bags

Hibag 12 Travel Compression Bags are perfect for traveling, saving 80% space for your home and suitcases, providing you the best storage solution. Every bag at Hibag is uniquely designed with extremely thick material, smart zipper, specially designed valve, and stay-one slider, to ensure air-tightness.

Stay-one clips prevent clips from falling off the zipper or missing. The zipper is very smooth to open and close. When you close the zipper, the yellow line will be stuck between the two blue lines, clearly telling you if the zipper is properly closed. No need to use a vacuum cleaner or an electric pump or a hand pump to suck the air out. You only need to roll the bag from the zipper to the bottom and air is all pushed out. It’s perfect on the go.

• Includes 12 bags (6 M size & 6 L size)
• Double zip design
• Stay-on clip
• Simple to use rolling
• Brand: Hibag
• Dimensions: 6.9″ H x 2.3″ W x 10.8″ D
• Weight: 1.35 lbs
• Very easy to use and hold a lot of clothes
• The compression bag has a thicker plastic that holds up well for many packs
• The zip top was easy to use and easy to see with the two different color zips
• These bags seal tight
• You really have to listen to the “don’t fill bag past this line” rule or else the bag doesn’t roll like it should

9. GoBackTrail Compression Stuff Sack

Have you ever gone on a trip without everything you needed? Was this due to a lack of room or storage space? If so GoBackTrail has designed the perfect solution! The GoBackTrail Compression Stuff Sack was designed to shrink the size of your belongings up to 30 Percent!

These premium compression bags are made from high quality water-resistant, polyester. Each sack has 4 vertical one-inch wide compression straps with 2 buckles that cinch and two that unclip. This is the best design as it is less complicated and easier to load and unload the sack.

• 4 one-inch wide “compression” straps
• 2 buckles cinches
• Polyester material
• Water-resistance
• Brand: GoBackTrail
• Capacity: 14L
• Dimensions: 15″ H x 9″ W x 9″ D
• Weight: 0.23 lbs
• The sacks are fairly light
• Compresses clothes well
• The 2 clips are also helpful when opening it up
• Sturdy design
• The top “flap” isn’t attached to the bag, it’s attached to the bottom if bag with three straps, this makes it difficult to manage

10. AmazonBasics Vacuum Compression Storage Bags

Save space where you need it most with the AmazonBasics Vacuum Compression Storage Bags . This incredible storage solution allows you to easily vacuum-seal clothing, linens, drapery, and much more. Expertly protect your essentials and heirlooms from insects, mold, bad odors, and moisture while saving space at the same time.

Perfect for safely vacuum-sealing seasonal clothing, special linens, or bulky textiles, the AmazonBasics compression bags not only protect your items but shrink them down approximately 80% for compact, stackable storage. Stay organized and effectively store your personal effects for long-term preservation. The AmazonBasics storage bag set comes with a convenient hand pump that allows you to efficiently seal each bag to your desired compression.

• Heavy-duty plastic vacuum-seal compression bags
• Compresses clothing, linens, and more down 80%
• Defends against damage from insects, mold, odors, and more
• Hand pump included or connect to vacuum hose for quick compression
• Air tight valve and double zipper closure
• Brand: AmazonBasics
• Dimensions: 11.8″ H x 9″ W x 3.5″ D
• Weight: 1.8 lbs
• Sizes were good and not hard to use
• The pump provided works like a charm
• Feels very sturdy
• Vacuums down quickly
• It’s a little difficult to get things settled in without a lot of wrinkles

Buying Guide

Ideally, you want to use a lightweight bag that is around 20% or less of the total weight for packing. Something more than that can leave you concerned about getting it completely packed until it’s checked in under the weight cap. Moreover, because the bag weighs more it places you at a disadvantage for how many things you can carry with you.

Because most compression sacks are made of nylon, they already have some sort of water-resistance. Nevertheless, considering the volatile traveling conditions, it’s better to buy waterproof, particularly if you have a larger compression sack as your main luggage type.

As for everything else, when it comes to compression bags, you get what you pay for. Aside from the reasons listed above, the other aspect you want to remember is when and how much you’ll need a compression pack. If you pay less than $10, you ‘re still going to be able to pack your baggage just as easily as if you were going to invest 10 times that price, but it’s not going to last quite as long. You often run the risk of losing or ripping the bag during your journey and locating a substitute quickly will be challenging depending on your destination.

Another issue that is mentioned occasionally using compression bags for travel is the breaking of the seams. Because you are going to compress and put stress on these stitches, the performance of the stitching is also significant. For a compression block to break mid-journey, it may be a major pain between your travels. Without a functioning compression bag, you may not be able to fit anything in your bag. Ideally, the material must be durable enough to survive the natural conditions, as well as to resist rips and breaks.

Compression Type

The more common are external adjustable straps that allow you to compress the bag manually, with air fleeing through the top closure. Alternate solutions often operate for an air purging system that uses a fabric that is waterproof but air-permeable. For the purging method, the permeable content helps air to escape when you pack and compress the bag, which probably makes compression more lightweight and effective.

Frequently Ask Questions

What is a compression bag used for.

Compression bags are used to cut bigger items, such as clothes or sleeping bags, on size and weight. Compression bags allow you to cram more stuff into your luggage by eliminating excess air and limiting things to the minimum amount of space available. Compression bags are nice to organize and conserve space, but they are difficult to open in a hurry.

Are compression bags good for travel?

They are very good for travel if you intend on bringing a lot of items like clothes for your travel or backpacking trip. But if you don’t anticipate a lot of bulky items, then a packing cube might be more suited for you.

How do you travel with a compression bag?

To use a standard travel compression bag (those that look like a giant zip loc bag), fold, don’t roll, your clothing. Before closing, roll the bag like a giant toothpaste tube to get all the air out of it. Seal off, flatten, and pack up. Wash them with dish soap and a towel to scrub.

Do compression bags reduce weight?

No, they might compress your bulky clothes but they actually add a bit of weight. Although it won’t be much so this shouldn’t be a concern if you’re trying to save on weight since the weight add would be minimal.

We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best compression bags for travel as well as our guide on features to look for in a compression bag for travel. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.

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The Best Compression Bags of 2020 and How to Use Them

If you've ever gone overboard with the souvenirs or wanted to pack just one more outfit for a getaway, waving a magic wand and willing extra suitcase space into existence might've felt like the only fix. Luckily, there is an entire travel accessories category built around creating more packing leeway, and it doesn't have anything to do with sorcery. Compression bags and sacks are designed to reduce the bulk of clothing and other compressible items by squeezing out excess air and volume. Poof!: that pile of stuff you want to pack is all of a sudden way more manageable. Now you have room for the snow globes, back-up ensembles, and other things that simply cannot be left behind. Magic!

See recent posts by Molly Harris

How to Use Compression Bags

Compression bags fall into four general buckets. There are zip-top plastic bags, dry bags (designed for outdoor activities), basic drawstring sacks, and nylon bags with compression buckles. The first type—the thick zip-close plastic bags—work by either rolling the packed bag so that the remaining air escapes through a one-way valve or by using a vacuum or pump to remove trapped air. Next up, we have compression dry bags, aka stuff sacks. These feature waterproof seams and zippers, plus compression buckles. Buckles that go around the entire bag are more effective than roll-down tops with a buckle, as the extra material ends up using precious cargo space. The most basic of compression bags, the drawstring sack, is great for sleeping bags, but does not provide the best compression for clothes. And finally, there are nylon bags with compression buckles—one of the best options for packing clothes. Their typically square or rectangle shape is best for accommodating clothing, and their buckles effectively prune space and make your load more manageable.

What Is a Compression Bag Used For?

Compression bags are used to slash the size and bulk of larger items, such as clothing or sleeping bags. By removing extra air and constricting items to the smallest amount of space possible, compression bags allow you to fit more things into your luggage. Compression bags are great for organization and space-saving, but they’re tricky to open in a hurry (so don’t store a rain jacket in one).

What Sort of Items Are They Used For?

Sweaters, puffy jackets, and other hefty items made from flexible fabrics are ideal candidates for the compression-bag treatment. Compression bags will make no difference for structured objects, like jewelry, shoes, electronics, books. But if you’re wanting to sneak in additional warm layers for a ski trip  or simply get away with a few “just in case” options, confining your wardrobe via compression bags is the way to do it.

Do They Really Save Space?

Yes, compression bags really, truly save space. The larger the item, the larger the potential space payoff. Think of compression bags and sacks as packing tools that can shrink unwieldy space-hoggers to a fraction of their size, depending on the material. Even compressing itty items like swimsuits , travel dresses , shorts , and blouses is beneficial—it creates more negative space for bringing extra stuff or stashing vacation purchases. Just remember that compression bags save space, but don’t cut weight.

How Do They Work?

• Roll or fold clothes to be as small or flat as possible.
• Place the clothing inside the compression bag, leaving enough room to securely fasten it shut.
• Using the particular compression method—be it a vacuum, valve, drawstring, or series of straps—tighten the bag. This pushes out excess air from within the bag until it cannot be made any smaller.
• Double-check that the bag or sack is sealed well, then set aside to pack into a suitcase, backpack, or travel bag.
• Place the compressed, packed bags from largest to smallest at the bottom of a suitcase moving up, or from the back panel of a backpack moving forward.
• Arrange any additional non-compressible items around the compressed bags to ensure they fit and are not damaged during travel.

The Best Compression Bags for Travel

The best all-around compression bag for travel.

Osprey Packs StraightJacket Compression Sack

Our across-the-board top pick,  Osprey’s StraightJacket Compression Sack  is made from durable nylon and features heavy-stitched seams that protect against overpacking-induced tearing. The stuff sack’s zipper runs the length of the back, so loading up and accessing clothes is a cinch. Water-resistant coating will keep contents dry, so as long as the bag isn’t totally submerged.

The Best Compression Bag for Sleeping Bags

ALPS Mountaineering Compression Stuff Sack

Rolling up and packing a slippery sleeping bag with a mind of its own: infuriating. Keep your camping-kindled Zen in tact by loosely rolling up and slipping your sleeping bag into  ALPS Mountaineering’s Compression Stuff Sack , whose four  winged straps shield the bag from rips and distribute pressure to make cumbersome pieces (like sleeping bags) nice and compact.

The Best Compression Bag for Backpacking

Sea to Summit eVENT Compression Dry Sacks

Similar to most other dry compression bags, the waterproof  Sea to Summit eVENT Compression Dry Sack has a buckle at the top (also known as a lid). What makes it stand out from the rest is its  hood for the lid. After rolling down the top to push out excess air, it’s buckled then fitted by a secondary lid. In short: the entire thing can be compressed a second time.

The Best Roll-Up Compression Bag

Acrodo Space Saver Travel Bags for Clothes

This 10-pack  comes with five large (23 x 15.5 inches) and five extra-large (27.5 x 19.5 inches) thick plastic bags that don’t require a vacuum to remove air and seal. Simply place inside and roll up the bag, squishing out all surplus air along the way. You’re left with a shrunken air-tight and waterproof bag ready to slip into your luggage.

The Best Vacuum Travel Bags with Pump

Spacesaver Premium Vacuum Storage Bags 

These hard-core plastic bags by Spacesaver are intended for household items like pillows and comforters, but they’re game-changers for travel, too. Between the travel-friendly hand pump (a blessing when you’re packing for the return trip), the double-zip seal, and the triple-seal valve, every bit of air out gets sucked out and none gets back in.

The Best Small Compression Bag

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Compression Sack

Sea to Summit’s ripstop fabric sacks come in a range of sizes, but the small comes in at just under nine inches in length, while the extra-small is about five and a half inches. Despite their small size, the lightweight sacks have four winged compression straps for security and evenly doled out pressure.

The Best Compression Cubes for Travel

TRIPPED Travel Gear  Packing Cubes Travel Organizer

All packing cubes are good for organizing contents, but not all are good for condensing. This set of packing cubes pulls double duty, providing order and compression for a tidy suitcase with less heft. Open the expansion pocket zipper, pack clothes, then zip the first zipper to close. Then, to remove air, press on the cube until it is flat as you zip the expanded pocket closed.

The Best Hanging Packing Cubes

Artostravel Hanging Mesh Organizer

Though it’s not a true compression bag, Artostravel’s waterproof hanging closet organizer  does a lot to pull its weight on a trip. For starters, each of its compartments zips closed—a luxury not found on many hanging packing cubes.  In addition to the two zippered compartments for clothes and toiletries, there is a third pocket that can be unzipped to expand and pack dirty clothes or shoes.

Our Favorite Items to Stuff in Compression Bags

Related Stories

• The Packing Cubes That Will Change The Way You Pack
• The 11 Best Garment Bags to Up Your Packing Game and Stay Wrinkle-Free

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These $17 Amazon compression bags will save you so much space in your suitcase

As a travel writer, I should have packing down to a science — or at least a fine art. However, even with all my best tricks and the help of this handy 4-in-1 toiletries container , I still struggle to fit everything I need into my suitcase.

Fortunately, I own some of the best expert-recommended luggage . It puts up with my abuse. My poor carry-on has survived three years of me sitting on it and fighting the zipper to force it closed. But I'm tired of starting every trip out with my bags bursting at the seams. So, recently I decided to try these bestselling roll-up space savers that I found on Amazon. Here's why I think they're worth the hype.

shop We couldn't resist sharing these home hacks — and they're all under $20

Hibag travel compression bags.

Travel Compression Bags (Set of 12)

12 bags for $17.

I'm too cheap to pay a baggage fee, so the idea of paying $17 for a few plastic bags was a hard pill to swallow at first. I like that these Hibag Travel Compression Bags — which have over 3,600 five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers — come with 12 storage bags. That's less than $1.25 per bag. I also like that they come in two sizes, medium and large. I mostly use the larger ones because it only takes two of them to pack all I need for a week in my carry-on. But even the medium size can up to five days' worth of clothes. I don't need all 12 bags, but I think that number is great for families or big groups trying to save space.

Do these compression bags work?

Initially, I was worried that these bags wouldn't work that well since they don't require a vacuum. My vacuum seal bags, which I use at home for larger items like blankets and puffy coats , work great. But that's because my powerful Hoover can suck out all the air in a matter of seconds.

Getting the air out of these compression bags is a little trickier. First, I fill the bag with my clothes . Some people roll their clothes to save more space, but I prefer to lay mine out in a pile like you'd see in a shop. Next, I zip it shut, making a few passes with the zipper to make sure there are no openings. Remember: Air is the enemy. Thankfully, the bags have a double-zipper design and come with stay-on clips that keep the zipper securely shut.

shop 34 must-have Amazon travel essentials for your next trip — starting at $9

Finally, I roll the zipped-up bag to remove the air. This step requires some manpower and sometimes a bit of maneuvering. It takes a lot of effort if you just use your forearms to roll the bag. Since I don't have that much strength, I put my entire weight onto it. It may look silly, but it's an effective way to push the air out. In just a few seconds, the bag is much flatter and easier to roll.

It's easy to follow the instructions since they're conveniently printed directly onto the bag. I think the biggest mistake people make is trying to load them past the fill line. It's better to use two 2/3-full bags than one overstuffed bag. The latter will be too hard to roll, and you'll end up trapping the air inside.

I have so much more packing room

The Hibag compression bags claim to save up to 80 percent of space. While I haven't achieved that result (yet), I've definitely noticed that my carry-on storage space has grown. I'm only using half the space that I'm accustomed to cramming clothing and essentials into. These problem solvers have practically taken 100 percent of the pain out of packing.

When it comes to travel, these compression bags are a no-brainer for easy packing. However, Amazon has a huge selection of affordable storage options you can shop to make preparing for you next trip even more effortless.

Shacke Pak Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes (Set of 5)

Stow-n-go travel luggage organizer.

Travel Luggage Organizer and Packing Cubes

Morfone travel bottles set for toiletries.

Travel Bottles for Toiletries

Honestly, I don't even need an upcoming trip as an excuse to use these storage bags . If you could see under my bed (which I'm thankful you can't), you'll find at least five room's worth of stuff neatly packed there. While I normally use my regular vacuum seal bags for underbed storage, the Hibag ones work just as well.

So, if you like the challenge of starting each trip with a packing puzzle, stay away from these compression bags. They'll make it too easy. But if you're like me, tired of having to sit on your suitcase to close it and always worried about not having room to bring home souvenirs, these space-saving bags are a life saver.

For more on-the-go must-haves we're loving, check out:

• As a travel writer, I can't go anywhere without this compact luggage organizer
• This 5-in-1 skin care tool leaves my face feeling rejuvenated and refreshed
• Traveling for the holidays? This spacious bi-fold wallet will keep you organized

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The Best Compression Packing Cubes For Travel

Last Updated on September 11, 2023

In Summary: I looked at 14 different brands and choose these Gonex cubes as my pick for the top compression packing cube set.

They were my favorite because:

• The lightweight material doesn’t add unnecessary weight
• The high-quality zips and seams should prevent ripping and zip snagging
• They squashed my clothes down a reasonable amount
• The large overall volume capacity of the set
• The sizes of the cubes in the set were just right in that Goldilocks zone
• They were the best value for money at the time of review

I also liked the LeanTravel cubes and if I only traveled with rolling luggage and never carried my luggage I would choose their set. Visually they looked really professional but since my packing cubes are hidden from view style was not as important to me.

For a more colorful design I’d suggest version 2.0 of the Well Traveled cubes .

Many of the compression bags were of a similar design. There were 2 broad categories: lightweight designs that suit hikers and backpackers, and large capacity sets that work better for business travelers or anyone traveling with rolling luggage.

While glancing at the photos might not reveal much calculating the overall volume capacity gave a better way to figure out how much compression packing cube you were getting for your buck.

So I have included the volume capacity in liters for each of the sets under consideration.

At A Glance: Our Picks For The Best Compression Packing Cubes

• Eagle Creek 2 Piece Specter – 14 Liter Set
• Gonex 6 Piece With Windows – 30 Liter Set
• Gonex 4 Piece Without Windows – 32 Liter Set
• LeanTravel 4 Piece – 50 Liter Set
• Hynes Eagle 3 Piece – 27 Liter Set
• Semary 3 Piece – 18 Liter Set
• Tripped 6 Piece – 27 Liter Set
• SuitedNomad 6 Piece -26 Liter Set
• Coltant 5 Piece – 39 Liter Set
• Nomadz 3 Piece + Shoe Bag – 30 Liter Set
• Alameda 3 Piece – 18 Liter Set
• Taskin Duplex 4 Piece – 33 Liter Set
• Well Traveled 3 Piece Colorful Cubes – 25 Liter Set

Eagle Creek Pack-it Specter Compression Cube Set

The Eagle Creek Specter Pack-it Cubes are ultra-lightweight compression packing cubes that are well-liked despite their luxury price point.

I suppose you can technically call 2 a set but it is stretching it a bit. Especially when other manufacturers are providing sets of 5 and a laundry bag for around the same price point.

The goal of the Specter cubes was to make them as lightweight as possible. For that reason there are little weigh-saving ‘features’ like where top zip (the one you open to pack the cube) only opens half the way around. This does reduce the weight but unless you are a serious hiker worried about the tiniest fractions of ounces then it’s actually a pain that the bags can’t open all the way around.

These were the lightest compression packing cubes I came across. But only by a small margin. There are many cubes that are almost as light.

The cube had Eagle Creek branded zippers with zip pull strings. The compression zip snagged on the material regularly but after time I got the hang of using it without snagging.

Material and Build:

The Eagle Creek Pack-it cubes are made using ultra lightweight silnylon material. Silnylon (silicon impregnated nylon) is a fabric that is mostly used to make something waterproof.

These were lightest cubes I tested. But only marginally.

• The 14 x 10 cube is 2 oz.
• The smaller 10 x 7 cube is 1.5 oz.

The set included a 14x10x4 cube and a 10x7x4 cube.

Altogether the uncompressed volume was just under 14 liters.

That means the 2 cubes would take up 31% of a large carry on suitcase.

If you squash them down they might take up around 9 liters. That would be 20% of a carry-on.

If you wanted to squash a carry-on full of clothes you’ll need to buy 5 sets. Better make an appointment with your bank manager!

Eagle Creek offer a warranty but require you to ship the defective item to them for repair or replacement. The process has been reported to be lengthy and you need to pay the return shipping yourself.

Gonex Compression Packing Cubes

These popular Gonex cubes come in a wide range of colors. I tested the 6 piece set that includes 5 cubes and a laundry bag.

The laundry bag actually turned out to be very useful. It was great to put my dirty washing in.

They have Gonex branded zippers that work well. Snagging while opening and closing the compression zipper is probably going to happen. And you’ll need to learn how to deal with it and stop it happening. It can take some time to master it but once you get the hang of it you can use the compression zipper with no problems.

The Gonex cubes are made with a honeycomb Rip Stop nylon. I think nylon is a stronger fabric to use for the lightweight cubes. It can take the pressure you’ll put on it from stuffing the cube full.

These cubes are very lightweight. They are a good option for backpackers or anyone carrying their luggage.

There are 5 cubes in this set as well as a laundry/shoe bag:

• Large – 15.4 x 15 x 3.54 inches
• Medium – 11.8 x9.1 x 3.54 inches
• Small – 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches
• Even Smaller – 7.9 x 5.9 x 3.54 inches
• Slim – 13 x 3.9 x 3.54 inches

Altogether that adds up to around 30 liters of packing cube space when uncompressed. That would fill 66% of a large carry on suitcase.

You can probably squash that down to around 22 liters. So once compressed this set will take up about half of a carry-on.

Gonex offer a 1 year warranty.

Gonex Travel Organizers

These Gonex travel organizers are virtually the same as the previous set except they don’t have the mesh window. Don’t be fooled by the product renders which look very different to the real product. Your choice is window or no window, other than that they are the same.

These also had Gonex branded zippers that worked well and were not cheap. It was possible to avoid snagging by putting my finger between the zip and the fabric while zipping. You can also use something like a teaspoon to do this if you have one handy.

These are made of nylon. It’s water resistant which is great if you are using the cubes with a backpack and your luggage might get wet. The fact there is no window means you need to remember what is in each cube but they are more water-resistant to keep your clothes dry.

They are well made and you can really stuff a lot of things into these. However, the more you stuff inside the harder it is to close the compression zip. I find that a moderately stuffed cube works better for my blood pressure and keeps coins out of the swear jar.

The Gonex cubes are very light. Almost as light as the Eagle Creek cubes, and even lighter on your pockets too!

This set includes 4 cubes:

• 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches
• 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches
• 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches
• 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches

Altogether that’s 1972 cubic inches or 32 liters of packing cube .

So uncompressed they’d take up 71% of a full-sized carry-on.

You might be able to squash them down so they only take up half your carry on once they are compressed.

1-year warranty and lifetime customer service.

LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes

The LeanTravel 6 Piece is a large set. So large that you might not even fit them all in a carry-on before they are compressed.

If you’re looking to take packing cubes to the max or for a set to use with checked luggage then these might be your solution.

The LeanTravel cubes are made using SBS zippers. These Chinese zips are not top of the class like Japanese YKK zippers but they are good quality.

These are made with polyester with a mesh window so you can peek inside to remember what you packed.

The large cube weighs 0.4 lbs. The medium cube is 0.3 lbs and the small cube is 0.2 lbs.

Because it’s such a large set the overall combined weight of the cubes is 1.8 lbs. If you were carrying your luggage I’d say this is an unacceptable weight addition just for the sake of organisation. For rolling luggage you will probably not notice the difference, apart from when you need to lift your case into the overhead locker.

There are 6 cubes in the set. 2 large, 2 medium, and 2 small:

• Large – 15.5 x 11.5 x 4 inches
• Medium – 11 x 11 x 4 inches
• Small – 11 x 7.5 x 4 inches

I love that this set is so large but I wish they would tweak the sizes a little. I can’t put the 15.5 inch cube sideways in my carry on (14 width). This means I need to put it longways and then have a 2.5 inch gap at the side. The jigsaw doesn’t quite fit neatly together.

Uncompressed this set is 50 liters in total. A maximum sized carry on at 22x14x9 inches is 45 liters. And many rollaboards are a bit less that the maximum. You won’t be able to fit this entire set in your carry-on before you compress them.

You should be able to compress these cubes down to about 37 liters. So long as you have a larger carry on close to the max you can use them all. If you want to fill your suitcase with cubes then this is a good option.

Of course you don’t need to use all the cubes every time and maybe you have someone you can share them with!

There is no mention of a warranty beyond the standard Amazon 30 day warranty.

Hynes Eagle Travel Compression Packing Cubes

Hynes Eagle make great backpacks so I was excited to review their compression packing cubes .

These use a Hynes Eagle custom molded zip. The compression zipper snagged on the material a few times during testing but not fatally.

They opted for the mesh window approach. This lets your clothes breath and also lets you see what’s inside the bag. The window is great for seeing inside the cube but it also lets in dust and water. It’s a trade off and you need to decide if windows are important enough to you to lose out on the extra protection.

The large bag really doesn’t compress much at all in the middle.

These bags are lightweight. Not as light as eagle creek specter but I wouldn’t describe them as heavy.

This is a set of 3 cubes in different sizes. The large is 18 x 13 x 3.9 inches. So it’s really designed to occupy almost 1 full layer of a rolling suitcase.

The medium case is 14.2 x 10.2 x 3.3 inches. This means that their medium cube is somewhat shallower than many of the other brands who prefer a depth of 4 inches.

The small case is 11.4 x 7.1 x 3.3 inches. Again this is smaller in depth that most other brands.

All together the space in the uncompressed packs would be 27 liters . That’s 60% of a 45 liter maximum sized rollaboard.

Squashed down you’re probably looking at 20 liters volume. That means tons of extra space if you a have a full sized carry on backpack or trolley suitcase.

There is no mention of a warranty.

Semary 3 Set Organizing Cubes

The Semary Organizing Cubes come in a 3 pack with 1 large and 2 small cubes.

The zips of these are just regular zips. Be careful with the compression zips especially if the cube is tightly packed.

These are made with ripstop nylon. In theory any small holes shouldn’t spread.

These are made with a lightweight fabric. The large cube will bulge in the middle more because the distance is greater from the zips.

Be careful with this one. At the time of writing this post, they have the wrong size on their Amazon listing. They are advertising very large sizes in the text description but in the photos they write the real sizes. There is a big difference. In one place they write the sizes as 17.5 x 12.75 inches for the large and 13.75×12.75 inches for the medium.

In the photos and in real life the sizes are 14 x 10 x 4 for the large and 10 x 7 x 4 for the 2 small cases.

This is why the reviewers are saying these are smaller than expected!

This means that the 3 cubes combined are 18 liters uncompressed . That’s 40% of a maximum carry-on.

They do compress down though and I’d guess they will take up around 13 liters once the compression zips are used.

The seller is saying they compression up to 60%. I think this is misleading. Maybe you can compress a fluffy jacket 60% but most clothes won’t compress anywhere near this much.

Beware the marketing hype.

Semary offers a lifetime warranty with immediate refunds or replacements.

Due to the discrepancies in the size description and the hyped marketing I wouldn’t recommend buying these cubes.

Tripped Travel Organizers

The Tripped Travel Organizers (Tim & Fin) are a small company that got into manufacturing their own packing cubes after seeing how expensive the big brands were.

There are a few reports of snagging with the compression zipper. As always zip slowly and with caution.

Made with lightweight water resistant ripstop polyurethane. These cubes are another design that doesn’t open all the way on 3 sides. You should probably roll your clothes when using these.

The Tripped cubes are lightweight and would suit backpackers or anyone that carries their bag.

The set I looked at comes with 2 small and 2 large cubes. The large cubes are 14×10 inches and the small cubes are 10 x 7 inches.

That mean you have 27 liters of uncompressed packing cube space . The 4 cubes uncompressed would take up about 60% of a maximum legal carryon.

How much you can squeeze them down depends on what’s in them. But you’ll probably get them down to about 20 liters in total. Or less than half a carry on. Given the long list of clothes that you can squeeze into these things maybe you’ll be able to swap out your bag for something smaller.

The set also comes with a slim tube that is great for cables, adapters and other random items. And there is laundry bag that you could also use to stop dirty shoes from messing up the inside of your bag.

Tripped Travel Gear are a small business that cares a lot about how customers perceive their service and their products. If you are not happy in any way they will replace or refund you.

SuitedNomad Compression Packing Cubes Set

This set of SuitedNomad CPC’s come with a luggage tag and transparent TSA friendly toiletries bag.

While not YKK the zippers are of a good quality. You will need to be careful when compressing that the material does not snag, but that’s very common with CPCs.

Materials and Build:

Made with strengthened ripstop nylon. They are made with reinforced seams which is important because of the pressure they will be put under from the compression. Overall it’s a well made compression cube. But I would love to see a version that opens fully on 2 sides. The current design only opens on 2 sides meaning it can be hard to get things in and out without emptying the whole cube.

The weight of the total set is 1.19 lbs. But that includes the luggage tag, the laundry bag, and the TSA friendly toiletry bag. If you consider just the bags alone they are very light and only very slightly heavier than the Eagle Creek Specter bags. The difference would be too small to notice.

Overall these compression bags are lightweight and that makes them a great option for hikers, backpackers or anyone else that will be carrying their luggage.

There are 3 cubes each a different size. The extra-large is 16x12x4 inches. The large is 14x10x4 inches. The medium is 10x7x4 inches.

Altogether you are getting 26 liters of packing cube space . That’s 57% of a standard 45 liter carry on.

But that’s before you compress the bags! You can probably squash your clothes down to about 18 liters using these bags. That would mean the 3 CPCs uses only 40% of a standard 45 liter carry on limit. You will have plenty space for a laptop, shoes, the toiletry bag.

Alternatively they might help you to downsize your bag for an underseater or a even a personal item sized bag.

The set also includes a laundry bag and a handy toiletry bag that were not used in these calculation.

SuitedNomad have identified and fixed many of the common problems that other CPCs suffer from. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better lightweight compression packing cube.

Coltant 5 Set Compression Packing Cubes

The Coltant CPC’s is a set of 4 compression cubes as well as another non-compressible bag for shoes or toiletries.

This is a large set for people who want to have a carry-on pretty much full of cubes. It comes in 4 different color options all are soft muted hues. Black, grey, heather blue and heather red.

Zippers: Got to love those YKK zippers. Zippers are often the weak point on CPCs. Not so with the Coltant.

Materials and Build: They open on 2 sides and that can make it a little harder to pack the cubes. With cubes that don’t open fully I recommend rolling clothes rather than folding. It’s hard to fold clothes and slide them inside with only 2 side of the cube open up.

The fabric is an Oxford polyester. It’s not ripstop like some other CPCs are. So don’t go packing tweasers or any sharp item that might puncture a hole in the fabric.

They also have a mesh window so you can identify the bag by viewing the contents inside. It means the cubes are not waterproof but since these are best suited to trolly-luggage your case should be watertight.

The complete set weighs 1.65 lbs. These work best for users of rolling luggage. As nice as it is to organize clothes I wouldn’t add 1.65 lbs to a backpack. Of course you don’t need to use the full set every time. The wide variety of sizes gives you plenty packing options.

4 compression packing cubes and 1 shoe bag or toiletry bag.

The 4 bags all have different sizes. 17.5×12.75 , 13.75×12.8 , 13.75×9.75 , and 11×6.75 inches. They are all 4 inches uncompressed.

This means that uncompressed the set is a whopping 39 liters of packing cube space . It will take 86% of a carry on when uncompressed.

Of course you can squash these down so they take up perhaps 30 liters. That will leave you 15 liters of space in a 45 liter carry on for that shoe bag, your laptop, your toiletries bag or anything else you want to put in there.

They offer a full refund for any reason.

It’s hard to believe Coltant can offer as much value for money as they do. This is a massive set of compression packing cubes that work really well.

Nomadz Travel Luggage-Organizer Set

This Nomadz Set come in a set of 3 with an additional shoe bag that does not compress.

The shoe bag is a really great way to stop dirty shoes making a mess. Flip-flops can be washed before you pack them, but if you travel with more than 1 pair of street shoes then a shoe bag is a good idea.

Claim premium zippers and anti-snag system.

Nomadz went for 300D snowflake polyester as well as mesh windows so you can see inside.

A more dense material helps to increase compression and reduce bulging. The result is a more rectangular, less curved compressed cube.

There is also another benefit to using a more heavy-weight material. The fabric uses to extend the size of the bag is less likely to snag on the compression zips. It is still possible to get the zip caught but if you are careful you will be able to avoid this.

At 1.52 lbs for the set Nomadz cubes are not the lightest. For that reason, they perhaps are better suited to people that roll their luggage rather than carry their bag.

There are 3 sizes of cubes. The large is 17×13.4 inches. The medium is 14×10 inches And the small cube is 11×8.5 inches.

All cubes are 4 inches uncompressed.

There is also a 17×5 shoe bag that completes the set. The shoe bag does not compress.

The 3 cubes provide 30 liters of packing space uncompressed . That’s 66% of a full-sized carry on.

How small these will squash down depends what you put in them. But you can probably expect to squash that 30 liters down to maybe 22 liters. This means that compressed the cubes will take up 50% of a 45 liter carry on.

That leaves plenty of room for the shoe bag and whatever else you want to take with you.

Nomadz mention the Amazon 30 day warranty but also say that they’ve got you covered for life and when it comes to any defects contact them and they will make it right.

Alameda Travel Compression Bags

These Alameda cubes come in a set of 1 large and 2 medium cubes.

Careless zipping might cause problems. Alameda even warn to press the extension fabric down with your finger while zipping to avoid snagging.

The cubes don’t have mesh window. But the white cubes at least are translucent so you can see what you put inside.

The fact that they don’t have a mesh window means that the cubes are water and dust resistant. So if you have a leaky backpack you’ll know your clothes have that little bit extra protection to stay dry.

Together the 3 cubes weigh only around 7 ounces. That’s about the weight of a cell phone.

The 1 large cube is 14×10 inches. It will fit nicely sideways in a 14 inch carry on.

The 2 medium cubes are 10×7 inches.

Be aware that the suitcase in that photo is a clam shell design. You could actually for 2 sets of Alameda cubes in a standard carry on uncompressed.

If you compress them you could potentially even fit 3 sets of Alameda cubes inside a 45 liter maximum carry on.

All 3 cubes together have a volume of around 18 liters uncompressed. That would be 40% of a maxium legal carry on.

Squashed down they will take up less room than that. I expect you can squash the entire set down to take up around 13 or 14 liters. This will leave you lots of room in a carry on for shoes, laptops or other items that don’t compress.

Alameda come with a lifetime warranty.

Taskin Duplex Clean & Dirty Cubes

The Taskin Duplex have a feature that I’ve not seen on any other CPCs.

Their idea to keep your clean clothes and your dirty clothes separate is an appealing one. But perhaps for most people it won’t be a deal breaker.

I could see the feature could appeal to people who travel and get their clothes really dirty. Perhaps from adventures sports or something similar, especially because the dirty clothes section of the cube is waterproof.

Hurrah! A compression packing cube with my favorite YKK zippers.

Even though YKK zippers are the best you can still snag them on the extension material. The best remedy for this is to zip slowly and carefully.

650D honeycomb ripstop ballistic nylon. These are solid. No complaints about seams bursting.

The large case weighs 219 grams and the small one is 148 grams. In total the set weighs 805 grams or 28 oz.

The 3 large cubes are 14.25 x 10.1 inches. That means that it’s a snug fit to put it sideways into a 14 inch wide carryon. I would have preferred it if they were half an inch smaller in that dimension but it’s no big deal.

Uncompressed the entire set is around 33 liters . So that would take up 73% of a full sized carry on.

Taskin don’t tell you what size they are compressed because it depends what you put in them. But they do claim you can take 40% more stuff. 40% more would mean they are compressed down from 4 inches to 2.85 inches.

Squashed down to 2.85 inches the set would be about 24 liters and take up 53% of a full-sized carry on.

There is a limited lifetime warranty against materials and workmanship defects. I can’t find examples of the warranty being honored because I can’t really find anyone complaining about defects.

Overall these are really well-made compression packing cubes. That is reflected in the price point but they have extra features and a solid reputation that may justify spending that little bit extra for something that is going to last. They are solid but they are a bit heavier than other options.

Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes

These colorful cubes are the only cubes I came across that featured artistic designs.

The colorful designs means that they all look different and you won’t get confused which one is which. However, in this set they have 3 different sizes so you would be able to tell just from the size of the cube alone.

The zippers themselves seem to be sturdy and high quality. It’s the seams at the zippers that have been suspect in the past.

The latest versions of this product open on all three side allowing you to pack your clothes in easily.

Materials & Workmanship:

They are made with 420d ripstop polyester that will strengthen the fabric and small holes or punctures shouldn’t spread.

To save you time reading them all, any negative reviews are because of instances where the seams burst.

Even some of the positive reviews were initially negative reviews about seams that they turned around with replacements and good customer service.

I should point out. Most people who used these cubes didn’t have any problems.

Striving For Perfection

I reached out to Well Traveled for comment about the seams ripping.

Scott Bright the owner of Well Traveled let me know that after a lot of testing they had identified the problem as inferior fabric and switched to a new manufacturer.

He has dumped all the old stock and replaced it with the new improved design from the new manufacturing company.

Scott also traveled to the factory in China to test the packing cubes himself and ensure better quality control.

If you like the designs of the Well Traveled cubes but were put off by the reports of seams breaking I wouldn’t worry too much about it.

Having spoken to Well Traveled I am sure they have improved their product and these historical negative reports no longer apply to the product that is currently for sale.

How To Choose Good Compression Packing Cubes

While you might think that CPCs are all the same as each other there are some big differences between the cube sets.

Here are the things to consider then choosing a CPC set.

Check Those Zippers

Zipper failure is the biggest reason for angry customers. CPCs have that fabric to extend or compress the cube, and it can often snag. Are you a patient, careful zip user? You might need to be. Especially with the lightweight nylon varieties. Pay careful attention to the zippers on any CPC you are thinking of buying.

Top Tip: With any compression packing cube don’t over-pack it and make sure you zip the compression zipper slowly. Put your finger between the zip and the extension material to stop snagging as you close the zip.

10 oz for the set of 3

Large: 15.7 x 11.2 inches, Medium: 13.8 x 9.8 inches, Small: 11.8 x 8.5 inches. 3.75 inches deep uncompressed down to 1.8 inches compressed.

Uncompressed these 3 cubes are together around 25 liters in volume . Theoretically they can compress that 25 liters down to 12 liters, but you can’t squash the unsquashable it does depend what you put inside them.

For comparison a full-sized rolling carry on has a volume of 2772 cubic inches or around 45 liters.

So uncompressed this set takes up about half a maximum sized carry on and compressed perhaps a third of a regular carryon.

In addition to Amazon’s standard 30 days after delivery warranty Well Traveled offer a 6 month warranty on any manufacturing issues.

Customer service is pretty good and you will get a replacement if there are any problems within this time period.

Materials & Workmanship Matter

Another problem that is occasionally reported with some compression packing cubes is the seams tearing. Because you will be compressing and putting force on those seams the quality of the stitching is really important.

It would be a major pain in the ass for a compression cube to break mid-journey. You might not be able to fit everything in your case without a functioning cube.

So I advise you to pay extra attention to build quality to avoid this happening.

We’re going to look at 14 cubes. I’ll do my best to give you the lowdown on the build quality of each product in the individual reviews.

Keep An Eye On Unpacked Cube Weight

If you are a hiker or backpacker you might want to try to get lightweight cubes. There is no sense in adding extra weight to your back.

That said, even regular packing cubes usually don’t weigh a lot. It’s the clothes that you put in the cubes that accounts for most of the weight of your luggage.

Size Them Up

It’s not helpful if your packing cubes are not shaped to fit inside your bag.

For example, carry on luggage is often 22x14x9 inches. So cubes that are longer than 14 inches can’t be packed sideways. An ideal cube size to put into a carry on sideways would be 13.75 inches.

CPCs are also often sold as sets and the size and number of cubes in the set varies. The number of cubes you’ll need depends on how long your trips are and what you pack.

When you are choosing a compression packing cube it’s really time for a bit of mental Tetris. Think about the size of the bag you will be using and how you will arrange the cubes in your bag!

That’s why I calculated the total size in liters for each compression packing cube set.

For some people, a good warranty is highly valued. It shows that a manufacturer had confidence in its product. However, products with excellent warranties can cost more. In a way you are paying for the failure of the product in advance. If a product cube has a good reputation and solid reviews I don’t always think a long warranty is essential. Especially for a lower priced product like a compression packing cube.

If you buy from Amazon you have a lot of leverage because Amazon sellers hate to receive negative reviews. Especially small companies work hard to avoid this because a single bad review can be so damaging to the little guys.

FAQ’s

Do You Really Need Compression Packing Cubes?

CPC’s have 2 main features.

• They help you organize your things
• They help you squash down your things so they take up less space

No, they are not essential, they are just nice to have for some people. I might seem obvious to say but you don’t need to compress the cubes . If you use them uncompressed they just help you to segregate and organize your things like regular packing cubes.

They especially help if you are trying to fit many things into a small case. But if you never come close to your case being full you won’t benefit from compressing your clothes.

Also, if you are happy to have your socks mixed in with your underpants then the organization features won’t help you much either.

I think how much you like packing cubes goes right to the core of an individual’s personality. Some people just love being very organized, where others are more comfortable and perhaps even thrive on mess.

You know best what type of person you are!

How much do compression packing cubes weigh?

Even a large compression cube only weights around 2 – 4 oz. So if you had a carry on full of compression cubes they won’t seriously contribute to the overall weight of your bag.

For most travelers the weight of the cubes themselves won’t be an issue but ultralight hikers or anyone carrying their bag for long periods might have different requirements.

What can be a problem for your average Joe is that by compressing all your clothes you end up packing too many clothes!

Some people end up with a suitcase over 50 lbs because they are using packing cubes to squash down so much stuff! This can lead to extra charges for overweight luggage .

Compression packing cubes are a useful tool but if you are an over-packer then be careful how you use them.

Are packing cubes good for backpacking?

There are a few things to consider when backpacking.

• Is your backpack rectangular? Or more curved? – The cubed shape of regular packing cubes mean they they stack nicely together in a regular suitcase. A backpack with a curved interior can actually work well with compressed cubes because well… they are no longer strictly speaking cube shaped after pulling that zip shut.
• Do you change hotels or hostels every few days? – Compression packing cubes are great to squeeze things down and get everything into a bag under the limit. But it could see it being annoying to decompress a bag every day, remove socks, and then recompress. If you are in and out of your stuff frequently you might be better rethinking your packing strategy.
• Do you fly on budget flights often? – Compression packing cubes can help you fit almost 50% more stuff in the same space. This can mean the difference between taking a carry on backpack vs a checking a bag. Or you might be able to downsize your carryon. It can even mean the difference between carrying only a personal item vs a carry-on. And that could be important in the future because some airlines have even started charging extra fees for regular carry-ons.

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Best Compression Bags for Travel – 2023

If you’re looking for the best compression bags for travel, look no further. Below is our round up of the best travel-friendly compression bags that will make packing a snap.

When looking for the best bags, a main point we make sure to look for is that it will fit in your suitcase. Also, unlike other compression bags you may use for general storage at home, we want these bags to not need a vacuum to use. Lastly, a key point to look for is durability. We will rate the top compression bags based on how well they hold u over time, so you get your money’s worth.

Table of Contents

Top 5 compression travel bags for 2023.

This is a good compression bag set to try out traveling because they are so easy to use. They come in 3 different sizes to help fit any size luggage you plan on bringing. They bags are also thicker than most other compression bags, so you don’t need to worry about a zipper or other pointy objects popping them. The great thing about the Amazon Basics bags is that it is so easy to remove the air with the hand pump. Definitely the easiest option for air removal outside of using a full-on vacuum cleaner.

The drawback to this set is that it can be hard to get a tight seal, it took me several attempts. And if you are using these bags for traveling it can also be a bit of a pain. This is because you will also need to bring the small hand pump that is included so that you can re-compress the bags on your way home.

If you want a variety of sizes for a low price point, these bags are a great option! The bags come in three travel-friendly sizes, although I do think their smallest sizes a bit too small for my preferences. You might use it for scarfs or bathing suits and make it work perfectly well though.The plastic is also a bit thinner than the other bags, so I was worried about popping it when I began to roll. However, in the end that wasn’t an issue and I was able to get all the air out without issue.

These bags you will simply fill the bag, seal, and roll the air out with no need for a pump or vacuum.

This pack of travel compression bags comes in two different sizes that are perfect for travel. Both sizes work well for checked bags or carry on luggage. They could even be squeezed into a backpack or personal bag if you’re tight on space. Which always seems to happen to me on my way home from trips! Also, what makes Saversaver stand out among the other compression bags for traveling is their quality seal. This brand is know for their airtight seals that last long term.

To get the air out of these Spacesaver bags, you simply need to roll it out. No need for a vacuum or pumps that are not travel-friendly.

These compression bags are my top budget pick for travel compression bags. I have used mine for years, and they have held up really well over the years and on many trips. These bags are durable, and do a great job at keeping a tight seal. One of the key points for this particular pack from Hibag is the fact that they come in the perfect sizes for travel. In this combo pack you will get six checked bag sized bags, and six bags that are the perfect size for carry-on bags.

To use these, you simply put your clothes in until it’s filled to the line on the bag. Next you seal the bag, and then gently roll the bag and clothes until the air is out. The only downside being that it can take a some effort to roll it, and I feel like I’m going to pop it if I don’t start off very slowly rolling.

In the top spot, the best overall compression bags for travel is this set from Well Traveled. At first glance, it may seem like a regular packing cube set, but they are actually compression bags as well. This makes makes them so much more versatile.

Over the years I’ve used used plenty of packing cubes to organize my suitcase, but have always ditched them for compression bags when I was tight on space. But with this set you get the high quality materials and practicality of a packing cube, along with the compression created with their double zipper design. This also makes it so much easier and quicker to compress on the go, which is why it’s our top pick.

Common Compression Travel Bag Questions

Do compression travel bags really work.

Yes, travel compression bags really work! Especially for clothing, scarves, blankets, towels, stuffed animals, or most any soft bulky item. This makes them especially useful for packing for colder weather.

Do clothes wrinkle in compression bags?

Yes, your clothes will still wrinkle if you use a compression bag. However, if you fold or roll them properly they will not wrinkle any more than they would if they were normally packed in a suitcase. You can also keep a travel-sized bottle of wrinkle release spray to help.

How do you travel with a compression travel bag?

Once your bag is compressed and sealed, you can pack it inside your luggage normally. It’s important to make sure you get the right sized compression travel bags to ensure that they can lie completely flat inside your luggage. If not, you will not be optimizing your luggage space and are back to square one.

It is recommended, if you’re in doubt, just pick a smaller size compression travel bag. This way they will be able to lie flat and stack without issue. However, if you accidentally buy a bag that is too big, there is still a way to make it work. Simply measure the size of your luggage and make sure to only fill the bag to that width. Then when you compress it, it will still lay flat, with the excess bag easily folded under.

Do compression bags work for travel?

Compression bags can be highly effective for travel, helping you maximize space in your luggage and keep your belongings organized. These bags work by removing excess air from your clothing and other items, allowing you to pack more efficiently. Here are some benefits of using compression bags for travel:

• Maximizes Luggage Space: Compression bags can significantly reduce the volume of your clothes, allowing you to fit more items into your suitcase or backpack. This is especially useful when you have limited packing space or want to avoid checking in extra baggage on flights.
• Keeps Clothes Organized: Compression bags help keep your clothing neatly organized. You can separate items by category or outfit, making it easier to find what you need during your trip.
• Protects Clothes: These bags can also help protect your clothes from wrinkles, moisture, and odors. By removing air, they create a barrier against potential damage during travel.
• Easy to Use: Most compression bags are simple to use. Just pack your items, seal the bag, and roll out the air. Some compression bags even come with built-in air valves for effortless compression.
• Versatile: Compression bags are not limited to clothing; you can use them for other travel essentials like blankets, pillows, or even toiletries to save space.

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Packing Cubes vs. Compression Bags: Which are Better for Travel?

Published July 17, 2023

Written by:

Jessie Beck

Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

While packing for a trip to Portland, I posted ,”Finally trying out packing cubes!” on Instagram. In response, I got a flurry of messages from excited friends. “Packing cubes are a life changer! They’re the best!” one said.

The fanfare around my shiny, new packing cubes made me feel like I had just entered a secret, in-the-know club of savvy travelers. But it also made me realize that while I’ve traveled with compression bags and sacks, packing cubes were a different game. I’d always thought of them as similar, but packing cubes and compression bags have different pros and cons for travel.

Compression bags—also known as space bags—help you fit more stuff in your bag. Packing cubes, on the other hand, help you organize your luggage .

The real question is: which one makes the most sense for your travel needs? In this article, we break down the difference between packing cubes and compression bags for travel and figure out which one is worth investing in for your next trip.

Packing Cubes for Travel

What are packing cubes.

Packing cubes are rectangular organizers made of sturdy fabric that unzip on three sides, kind of like a mini suitcase.

“Think of a packing cube as a dresser drawer in your carry on . Each cube holds similar items to make packing—and finding stuff on the road—easier,” says Tortuga writer Laura Lopuch.

Travelers primarily use cubes to pack and organize clothing before placing the cubes inside their backpack or suitcase.

Packing cubes are usually sold as a set. The best ones will have different sizes and handles, and they allow you to see what’s inside without opening them up again. When not in use, they fold flat and can be left in your bag when you aren’t traveling.

Are Packing Cubes Worth It?

Yes, packing cubes are absolutely worth it. Here’s what makes them useful:

• Keep your luggage organized. Use packing cubes to group your clothes (e.g. one cube for undergarments, one for socks, and one for tops) so you always know where to find things when you need them.
• Help clothing stay neat and wrinkle-free. With packing cubes, your carefully folded or rolled clothing is less likely to come undone and get wrinkled (though rolling is the best method for packing clothes in a packing cube).
• Prevent small items from getting lost . Little things, like socks, tank-tops, or your last clean pair of undies, are less likely to disappear mid-trip.
• Allow you to pack and unpack quickly. Take out just the packing cubes you need for one night without having to unpack or rummage through the rest.

How to Use Packing Cubes

Using packing cubes is straightforward. While there’s no wrong way to use them, you’ll get the most out of your packing cubes if you use them for organization.

Packing cubes can be used for toiletries, electronics, or other items, but I still find small toiletry bags or cord organizers work better for non-clothing items.

To use your packing cubes, first group your clothes together and designate a bag for each grouping, like t-shirts or underwear. Next, roll (don’t fold) your clothes so you can easily see everything in each cube. Avoid under or overfilling the cubes, just like you would avoid overfilling your backpack. If you end up with a half-empty cube, try consolidating.

Finally, put the cubes in your backpack or suitcase, and win a game of Tetris. Stack them efficiently to eliminate unusable space in your bag. For maximum organization, buy a second set of cubes and layer them on top of the first set.

The Best Packing Cubes for Travel

To avoid overpacking, buy a set of three or more packing cubes with at least one large cube and two smaller ones. While some sets come with more, carry-on-only packers will rarely need more than four.

Look for cubes made of durable fabric with strong zippers.

Tortuga Packing Cubes

Unlike most cubes, the Packing Cubes are built to last. The zippers are YKK, the best in the business. The fabric is a VX03 sailcloth which we chose because it has enough structure to stand up while still being lightweight in your luggage. With the mesh “lids,” you can see what you packed in which cube.

These cubes were designed specifically to fit in the Travel Backpack but are flexible enough to work in most bags.

Do Packing Cubes Save Space?

Packing cubes help to consolidate your clothing and keep it dense. So, yes, they do save a bit of space. But if saving space is your priority, skip ahead to the next section.

Compression Bags for Travel

What are compression bags.

Compression bags (aka stuff sacks aka space bags) are not the same as packing cubes. Rather than organizing the items inside your luggage, a compression bag will compress bulky items, usually clothing, to help you save space in your luggage.

Compression often—but not always—lack the organization features of packing cubes. They are also more likely to wrinkle your clothes because of the compression. They are best for travelers who want to pack more in their backpack or suitcase like those packing for sweaters or coats for winter trips.

You will also find compression sacks that you can stuff items into and compress by pulling on external straps. These are common at outdoor and camping stores, like REI.

You’ll find three types of compression bags:

• Compression Bags: Plastic bags that look like big Ziploc bags
• Stuff Sacks: Nylon bags with webbing straps, similar to what you’d put your sleeping bag in
• Compression Cubes: A hybrid between packing cubes and compression bags

All are thin, lightweight, and designed for travel—no vacuum required.

Tip : While shopping, you’ll find home storage compression bags and travel compression bags. They are not interchangeable. Home storage bags are usually larger and designed to compress with a vacuum. Avoid these. You’ll want to search for travel compression packing bags to get the right type.

Are Compression Bags Worth It?

While compression bags can help organize and group items together, the main reason why you’d want to use a compression bag instead of a packing cube is to:

• Pack clothes more compactly . Unlike packing cubes, compression bags allow you to fit more in your bag. Just don’t use this as an excuse to pack more than you need.
• Step down from checked bag to carry on only. If you’re trying to transition from checking luggage to traveling carry on only , compression bags can help you get there by packing the same amount of stuff in a smaller bag.
• Separate dirty from clean laundry . Stick your dirties in an airtight compression sack to keep them from stinking up the rest of your bag.

How to Use Compression Bags

Packing with a compression bag depends on the type you’re using.

For compression bags—the ones that look like a giant Ziploc bag—fold, don’t roll, your clothes and fill it up. Before sealing, roll the bag like a giant tube of toothpaste to get all the air out of it. Then, seal, flatten, and pack away. To clean them, wash with dish soap and a sponge. These bags look like the ones that you would use for home storage but don’t require a vacuum.

For stuff sacks—the kind that look like a sleeping bag sack—you can roll or fold your clothes before packing them inside. Then, tighten the drawstring and tug the straps on the outside to shrink down the pack. To clean these, you should be able to toss them in the wash, but check the care label on your bag first.

The Best Compression Bags for Travel

The best compression bags for travel are ones that you can compress without a vacuum. You’ll also have to choose between a traditional compression bag, a compression sack, or a compression cube.

Traditional compression bags for travel fit better in square luggage like a suitcase or travel backpack . Stuff sacks are better for top-opening backpacks, though we don’t recommend these for travel. Either works in a duffle bag.

If you can, look for compression packing cubes that marry the best organizational features of packing cubes with the space-saving features of a compression bag.

Below are our top picks for travel compression bags, sacks, and cubes.

Eagle Creek Pack-It™ Compression Sac Set

Eagle Creek’s Compression Sac Set ($30 for 3) line of compression bags isn’t too dissimilar from big sandwich bags with a clip to close the zipper opening. In this case, that’s a good thing—the bags are quite effective at their jobs. 

The sacks can be manually compressed by rolling and squeezing the air out. Be careful not to overstuff them.

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Compression Sack

I’ve been a fan of Sea to Summit’s stuff sacks for years and use them frequently for travel, bike touring, and camping. When it comes time to squish clothes in a bag, though, the Ultra-Sil® Compression Sack ($33-50) is the best option.

Jenn, our editor, has carried her Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil for a decade and used it hard across six continents.

Unlike drawstring-only bags, this compression sack has straps connecting the top and bottom which makes it easier to compress the bag and keep it closed. Also, they’re waterproof , durable, and come in several sizes and colors.

The Best Compression Cubes for Travel

Compression cubes are a hybrid over compression bags and packing cubes that try to offer the best of both products: organization and space-saving.

Eagle Creek Compression Cube Set

The Eagle Creek Compression Cube Set ($32-47 for 2) is a hybrid between compression bags and packing cubes. They are shaped like packing cubes, making them easy to fit inside square luggage and to pack clothes inside . And they compress like the best compression bags.

To compress the cubes, use the zipper along the outside of the cube.

Gobi Gear SegSac Compress

The SegSac Compress from Gobi Gear ($35) offers a different approach to combining the space-saving of a compression bag with the organization of packing cubes.

Instead of being a cube that compresses, the SegSac is a stuff sack with four sections. The SegSac is perfect when you need some organization but want to prioritize volume.

Packing Cubes vs. Compression Bags for Travel

Packing cubes help travelers organize their backpack or suitcase, keep clothes neat and unwrinkled, and prevent small items from getting lost. But they don’t shrink down the size of your clothing much.

Compression bags work best for fitting more stuff into your backpack or duffle bag. They’re also useful for helping you step down to a smaller piece of luggage. However, they don’t organize your luggage well and can wrinkle your clothes.

Compression packing cubes offer some of the benefits of both: the organization of a packing cube and the space-saving benefits of a compression bag.

While we love condensing our bags, we recommend doing so by packing less stuff, not by taking more clothes but pushing the air out. Compression bags are better for longer-term storage as opposed to travel. If you’re relocating for six months or more and will overlap with winter then compression bags are a good choice. If you’re taking a shorter trip or will be relocating more often, they’ll become a hindrance because you’ll have to compress everything each time you pack your bag. Instead, pack layers, not bulky clothes, and organize your clothes in packing cubes.

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Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home and traveled to 45+ countries.

She now lives in San Francisco with her husband where she splits her time between traveling, adventuring outdoors, and cooking (okay, eating).

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The 7 Best Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We love space-saving packing cubes for long and short trips, and these are the best out there.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Look for sets that include multiple sizes

Frequently asked questions.

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Packing cubes are hands down one of the best travel hacks out there. Whether you’re a meticulous list-maker or planning procrastinator, investing in a set of packing cubes is a game changer for staying organized and saving space without having to put in too much effort. 

At Travel + Leisure , we take our travel hacks seriously so we put 23 sets of regular and compression packing cubes to the test both in our New York City lab and out during real travels to find the best ones on the market. We understand that everyone has unique preferences so we also found picks for travelers embarking on long trips, outdoor adventurers, and minimalist packers looking for one just a few cubes to do the trick.

Best Overall

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

The lightweight cubes easily compress clothing down to save space in a suitcase. 

They repel some water but are not waterproof. 

We love the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes thanks to their impressive space-saving ability. During six months of tests, we found these cubes to be monumentally helpful when it comes to consolidating and organizing clothing items between the different-sized cubes. The compression cubes help you get more items packed than a regular version of a packing cube and the sturdy zippers make compressing the packed cubes easy, leading us to believe that these cubes will last over time with the durable zippers and stitchwork. 

Although the nylon material isn’t waterproof, we splashed a little water on the outside and found that the material repels some water (but the clothing should remain dry with the extra protection of a suitcase, too). Plus, the handles on the top of each cube make it easy to grab the bags for packing and unpacking, and we love that the set includes an extra-large, large, medium, and small bag for variety.

The Details: 3 or 4 bags included | 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), and 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small) | Ripstop nylon

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Shacke Pak 5 Set Packing Cubes

• Design 4 /5
• Quality 4 /5

The set includes four cubes and a laundry bag. 

The mesh tops aren’t waterproof or resistant.

Whether you’re traveling with family or heading on a solo trip , these Shacke packing cubes are a steal of a deal. The set includes extra-large, large, medium, and small packing cubes, as well as a laundry bag for dirty clothes. Designed for up to 14 days of traveling, we found that the cubes lived up to their promise of providing plenty of space for a variety of types of clothing like pants, toiletries, shirts, and jackets. The cubes easily fit in the carry-on suitcase we used and with the various sizes, you can customize how many cubes you want to pack depending on the type of suitcase you have. 

While the cubes likely won’t prevent water from seeping through due to the mesh tops, you can easily see what you packed inside so you won’t have to unpack everything to find a piece of clothing. During our tests, we felt the durable nylon material and zippers would hold up well with prolonged use, and you can't beat the price for the full set either. 

The Details: 5 bags included | 17.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), and 20.5 x 15.75 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon

Best for Long Trips

Veken packing cubes with laundry and shoe bag.

The set includes four packing cubes, a shoe bag, and a laundry bag. 

These have to be hand-washed and air-dried. 

If you’re traveling internationally or taking an extended vacation, consider picking up a set of these Veken packing cubes from Amazon. The four packing cubes are thoughtfully designed with a clear strip on the top so travelers can easily see what they packed, and there are small graphics printed onto each cube recommending what type of clothing item could be stored inside. This set also includes a shoe bag and a laundry bag so you can keep your items separated and organized. We like that there are several different sizes so you don't have small items moving around in a cube that's too big or trying to cram a larger sweatshirt into something too small.

We think these nylon and polyester packing cubes are made to last with a thick fabric exterior and sturdy zippers and stitchwork. After six months of use, there is no sign of wear and the zippers are holding up well. Although we found the cubes to be slightly heavier than others we tested so keep that in mind if you’re an overpacker or striving to stay under the standard 50-pound limit for checked luggage. 

The Details: 6 bags included | 17.5 x 12.15 x 4 (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 16.96 x 9.06 x 4.72 (shoe bag), and 20 x 14 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon, ethylene vinyl acetate, and polyester 

Best for Camping

Rei co-op expandable packing cube set.

The tent-like material is lightweight and has a rugged look.

The mesh top doesn’t feel as durable as we hoped and these bags lose their shape when fully packed.

Outdoor enthusiasts should consider REI Co-op’s lightweight packing cubes for upcoming camping trips. The set of two comes with large and medium packing cubes that remain at the standard three-inch height or they can be expanded another three inches to double the capacity. After six months of regularly using the packing cubes, we found that all seams and zippers held up extremely well, even after packing heavy winter clothing.

In testing, the tent-like nylon proved to be water-resistant as advertised, however, the top of the cubes are made of a breathable mesh that doesn’t repel water and felt a little less sturdy than the nylon portion. Though the mesh top isn’t ideal for waterproofness, we like how easy it is to see what we packed through the little mesh holes. Plus, the lightweight materials are ideal for campers or backpackers looking to stay organized without sacrificing weight. 

The Details: 2 bags included | 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches (large) and 12 x 8 x 3 inches (medium) | Ripstop nylon and polyester

Best Sustainable

Peak design packing cubes.

Peak Design uses 100 percent recycled materials to make the cubes.

The easy access zippers were finicky to use.

San Francisco-based Peak Design is known for its slew of sustainable outdoor gear made with carbon neutral and recycled materials, including expandable packing cubes. We tried the small- and medium-sized cubes and found them to be spacious, well-built, and resistant to water after splashing a bit on the exterior. After regularly using the cubes for six months, we loved the capacity of the medium cube and found the smaller option to be good for packing undergarments or even toiletries. We especially love that the cubes are made from 100 percent recycled nylon that is solution-dyed to prevent excessive water use following the brand’s carbon-neutral footprint and each bag expands to fit even more items.

The cubes can compress down to a height of 3.1 inches, but we discovered they function best as an expandable packing cube that can increase in size, rather than a compression cube that is designed to heavily consolidate clothes. Additionally, the cubes feature an “easy access” zipper so travelers can reach inside the bag without opening the whole thing, but we think this feature is unnecessary to use due to the zipper getting snagged. 

The Details: 1 bag included | Various sizes | Ripstop nylon

Best Personalized

Paravel packing cube quad.

• Design 4.5 /5

The cubes can be monogrammed with up to three letters for an additional $25. 

The large cube is so big it takes up most of the space of a carry-on bag.

Indulge your love for matching with this set of personalized packing cubes from Paravel. Although it costs an extra $25, you can get up to three letters embroidered onto the set of four packing cubes with 11 color options. If you're shopping for a stylish, functional personalized travel gift , this is a wonderful option. The set comes with one large, one medium, and two small-sized packing cubes that can hold an impressive amount of clothing and still fit in most carry-on bags. These cubes are great for any type of traveler, but especially for those looking for water-resistant cubes for checked bags that will be handled outside in different weather conditions. After six months of use, we found that these cubes provide exceptional organization with room to pack bulkier items in the larger bags and toiletries or undergarments between the two smaller cubes.

As a bonus, these cubes won't take up much space in between trips. They're easy to store and stack right inside one another. The size variety is also convenient for different types of trips and we love having the option to use one, two, three, or all four bags in a checked bag if needed.

The Details: 4 bags included | 18 x 3.75 x 12 inches (large), 12.75 x 3.75 x 10 inches (medium), and 8.2 x. 3.75 x 6.25 inches (small) | Nylon

Calpak Packing Cubes 5-piece Set

There are 14 designs to choose from including groovy blue, retro sunset, and cheetah prints. 

The set might be better suited for frequent fliers.

If you travel often and are looking to invest in a splurge-worthy set of packing cubes, you can’t go wrong with these from Calpak. We love the unique design options with 14 colors and patterns to choose from including classics like solid pink and gold marble, or limited-edition prints like a wavy retro sunset and groovy blue picks. The set includes one large, one medium, and two small cubes, as well as a water-resistant envelope for cosmetics.

After six months of using these packing cubes during international trips, we found that all the bags were spacious enough to fit a variety of clothing options for organized and efficient packing. We love the diversity of sizes to hold things like undergarments as well as shoes if needed. We also love the option to bring a folded large cube to keep dirty clothes separate. The polyester material feels well-made and built to last, and the zippers zipped without any issues which helps justify the higher price point for this set. And, if you’re traveling with your family, we think the set would be great for separating and organizing clothing for several travelers thanks to the removable identification tags where you can write what clothing went into each cube. 

The Details: 5 bags included | 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large), 15 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small), and 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope) | Polyester

Other Packing Cubes We Liked

There were several sets of packing cubes we highlighted below that almost made our list of best packing cubes, but they fell short during testing due some minor flaws we noticed. 

Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes : This set of compression packing cubes is great for budget-friendly travelers but our top pick is also a compression set that had a better overall performance in testing. 

Lean Travel Premium Compression Packing Cubes : The set of three cubes is made with thick polyester that still feels lightweight, but besides that, there weren’t any standout features compared to our other top performers. 

Briggs & Riley Packing Cubes : These cubes were spacious and water-resistant, but for $59, we expected a higher performance to match the price for three standard packing cubes.

We evaluated 23 sets of both compression and regular packing cubes in our New York City lab and based our testing on traits like capacity, design, quality, and value. First, we unpackaged the sets of packing cubes and examined the quality of the bags by twisting and pulling them to check the stitchwork and using the zippers to see if they snagged or glided smoothly. After packing the cubes with a variety of clothing items like pants, jackets, undergarments, and shirts, we placed the cubes in a carry-on suitcase to see how well they fit in a piece of luggage. Our top contenders for capacity and design provided plenty of space for a range of clothing items with useful and thoughtful features that made packing easier and more organized.

For compression-specific packing cubes, we paid close attention to how much space the packing cube saved once we zipped the compression zippers. For all cubes, we splashed a bit of water on the exterior and felt the inside to see if any of the packed contents were damp. After testing each set of cubes in our lab, we sent them home to be tested during real travels around the world for six months. We regularly collected insights on durability, functionality, and overall quality during this period to ensure each cube continued to impress.

Tips for Buying Packing Cubes

Compare compression versus regular packing cubes.

Compression packing cubes are designed to condense clothing by using the compression zipper to pack down the clothes in order to save space in a suitcase. Regular packing cubes are mainly for organizing clothes efficiently rather than consolidating clothing to make more room in a piece of luggage. Compression packing cubes can usually be expanded or compressed which gives travelers the best of both worlds.

One of the best parts about packing cubes is staying organized on the go with little effort. To help you keep like items together, consider buying a set of multiple packing cubes with different sizes. That way, you can know without opening the case what cube holds your pants, your shirts, your undergarments, and more. The various size options also let you mix and match the cubes to fit whatever luggage you're bringing from weekender duffles to large checked bags.

Flexible fabrics like nylon or polyester are best for packing cubes as they'll allow you to pack the most items. These materials also tend to be water-resistant, keeping your items extra safe throughout your travels.

When it comes to saving space, experts say you can fold your clothes or roll them — it ultimately doesn’t matter. The most important thing is maximizing your space, and packing cubes are great for doing just that. Besides saving space, packing cubes can help you stay organized before and during your trip making them a must-have travel organizer .

For travelers who usually use checked luggage, consider purchasing a set with five or six cubes included so you can maximize space in each suitcase. And, if you’re a carry-on-only type of traveler, one or two packing cubes in small or medium sizes could be better suited for your needs, and you won’t have to worry about storing a large set either. Backpackers or campers should consider getting just one or two compression or regular cubes that can fit in a backpack or weekender bag for lighter packing .

Depending on the size of your packing cubes and luggage, the bags can be placed in either compartment of a suitcase or duffel bag. As always, you'll want to do your best to evenly distribute the heavy packing cubes so the bag doesn't become top or bottom-heavy. Ideally, the rectangle shape of your cubes should make it easy to take up every inch of space in a suitcase.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is an associate commerce editor at Travel + Leisure , covering all of the best travel products from luggage to footwear. A recently converted compression packing cube user, Anna didn't know what she was missing out on until investing in multiple sets of packing cubes. She put together this list of the best packing cubes based on the results from the packing cube test we conducted in our New York City lab.

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NBC Select Travel Awards 2024: The best duffels, backpacks and weekenders

At NBC Select, we spend hours researching and testing products so you can be more selective with your purchases. For our first-ever NBC Select Travel Awards, we spent months thoroughly testing numerous products covering a variety of travel categories.

We flew across the globe to Japan and Paris with suitcases , took train rides around New York City with weekenders and duffels in tow and packed bags full of packing cubes , toiletry bags and noise-canceling headphones to road trip across the East Coast. After all that testing, our editors sat down to choose products deserving of NBC Select’s stamp of approval.

Below are our award-winning duffels, weekenders and backpacks , plus information about how we evaluated each product.

SKIP AHEAD How we picked the best bags | Best duffel bags | Best backpacks | Best weekender bags

select We tested over 50 travel accessories for our first ever Travel Awards — these are our favorites

How we picked the best travel bags .

The backpack, the weekender and the duffel are all bags that need to serve multiple functions while on a trip. We fill them with whatever we can’t fit in our suitcases, throw our essentials inside them for overnight getaways and use them to carry our laptops and water bottles on planes, trains, and automobiles. They are versatile and multipurpose, making it useful to keep at least one at home when traveling. Here’s how we evaluated travel bags to find NBC Select’s 2024 Travel Award winners.

• Zippers, handles and straps : To ensure zippers glide smoothly and don’t get stuck at any point, we opened and closed each bag numerous times when it was empty and full. We also considered how strong the bags’ handles and straps were, including how they felt when we held or wore them on our bodies.
• Structure and organization : We assessed how each bag’s structure impacted our ability to pack it easily — for example, whether it stayed open while we added clothing or flopped over and whether it was too stiff to overstuff or just flexible enough. We counted how many outfits (and, if applicable, how many pairs of shoes) fit inside the bags, plus what type of organizational features they offer, including built-in dividers, pockets, and pouches.
• Comfortability : After filling our bags to the brim, we ensured they felt comfortable carrying for long and short periods. We carried them as the brand intended: on our backs or over our shoulders.
• Durability : We noted the material each bag is made from and how well it withstands being tossed around during travel. We also considered water resistance.

The best duffel bags

Best overall: calpak luka duffel.

Calpak Luka Duffel

With its spacious main compartment, exterior and interior pockets, exterior shoe compartment and trolley sleeve, this bag makes for the perfect travel and daily duffel. “I love that I can use this bag for trips as well as in my everyday life as a gym bag. I didn’t find that with the other duffels I tested, so I appreciated this,” says Zoe Malin , NBC Select associate updates editor. “The size of this bag and how lightweight it is makes it a perfect workout bag for me. I put my sneakers, a change of clothes, weights, a towel, toiletries and a water bottle inside it to go to yoga after work.”

The soft and puffy polyester bag is also durable, easy to clean and water-resistant. “I had to walk to the train in the rain with this bag and everything inside was totally dry,” says Malin. “I just wiped water off the bag in the bathroom of the train station with paper towels.”

Best large capacity: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel comes in four sizes — 40L, 55L, 70L and 100L — so you can choose the capacity that’s best for your travels. The duffel is made from 100% recycled fabrics, plus it has a durable and weather-resistant exterior.

On the inside, this spacious bag has interior pockets that are similar to a carry-on suitcase. It also closes and opens easily since the zippers glide easily, says Mili Godio , NBC Select updates editor. “The only thing I wish is that it had more pockets, especially for smaller items like my wallet and keys, but the ones it does have are super spacious.”

The best backpacks

Best overall: calpak laptop backpack.

Calpak Laptop Backpack

This Calpak backpack is great for frequent travelers looking for a large, durable bag to hold essentials of all sizes, as well as a laptop. The backpack has exterior and interior pockets, a water bottle holder and a trolley sleeve so you can slide it onto your luggage. “Calpak’s backpack has completely changed how I travel,” says Bianca Alvarez , an NBC Select associate reporter who’s a super commuter . She travels from Virginia to New York City every week for work. “I tossed my old backpacks after using this one because it makes my travel days easier,” she says.

Alvarez says storage and space are a guarantee with this bag due to its plethora of organizational features. She especially loves its interior pockets. They’re located near the top of the bag rather than the bottom, which prevents her from having to rummage through everything packed inside to find what she’s looking for.  Alvarez says the bag’s main compartment can easily fit clothes, shoes and cosmetics bags, and there’s a separate compartment for her laptop and notebooks.

Best for commuting: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Dagne Dover’s Dakota Backpack is ideal for commuters, like NBC Select staff who brought it back and forth to the office. “I’ve been using this backpack for two months as my work bag and it’s been a major upgrade from my last situation,” says Rebecca Rodriguez , NBC Select editorial projects manager. The backpack has padded straps, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and it has compartments and pockets to store whatever you’re traveling with.

Whether you’re commuting in the rain or accidentally spilled your morning coffee , no worries — this backpack will keep your items protected. “The backpack got dirty a couple of times while I used it, but the neoprene material was super easy to clean with soap and warm water,” says Rodriguez.

Best outdoors: Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure

Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure

While the Orvis Trekkage backpack is specifically designed for outdoor adventures like hiking and camping, it has features that allow you to use it in everyday life, including a laptop pocket and a hidden security pocket for valuables. The bag is made from heavy-duty recycled, water-repellent fabric, and its main pocket is lockable making it easier to protect your items while outdoors camping or just traveling. There are also expandable side pockets and a built-in hydration reservoir.

“This bag is big without looking like it belongs on the 'Amazing Race,'” says Rosalie Sparaco, NBC senior social media editor. “It has a ton of space, although it could potentially use more internal pockets since it was easy to lose stuff.” She also says the backpack is comfortable to carry thanks to its padded back panel and curved ergonomic shoulder straps. If you need extra support, you can use the bag’s adjustable sternum strap and adjustable, removable waist strap. The backpack also fits under the seat of a plane.

The best weekenders

Best overall: dagne dover landon carryall.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

The magic behind Dagne Dover’s Landon Carryall lies in its structure, says Malin: “It has shape, so it stays open while I’m packing and never flops over, yet it’s flexible and soft, so I can overstuff it without any issues.”  The bag is also expandable. “You can unsnap the sides of the bag to make it bigger, which is such a great option,” says Malin. “I expand it for longer trips, but leave it snapped for overnight trips when I don’t need a ton of space.”

The organizational features this bag offers vary by size. It’s available in extra small, small, medium, large and extra large options — the bigger the bag, the more extensive its organization features are. Because of this, we recommend the medium, large and extra large options for traveling (the extra small and small Carryalls function more as everyday handbags, based on our testers’ experiences). They’re designed with a laptop carrier, an exterior phone pocket, interior side pockets, a key leash and an attached zip-top pouch. The larger bags also come with a shoe bag and a detachable adjustable crossbody strap.

Best for a long weekend: July Carry All Weekender Plus

July Carry All Weekender Plus

If you need a weekender bag that fits enough clothes and toiletries to last you a few days, this one from July is exactly what you’re looking for. “I’m very impressed by how incredibly spacious this bag is,” says Ari Night, NBC Select editorial assistant. “Not only does it fit multiple outfits, but it also has segmented pockets that keep everything organized inside.” The bag’s clamshell opening allows it to lie flat making it  easier for packing, and there’s a padded pocket in the center to put delicate items like a laptop or tablet . This weekender also has a hidden internal pocket with a magnetic opening for valuables like jewelry, an exterior zip pocket and a luggage sleeve. It also  comes with a detachable adjustable shoulder strap.

Why trust NBC Select?

Products underwent an eight-week trial before being selected as our favorite in their respective categories. We utilized our editors as shopping and trying experts. Each editor was given the same criteria during the testing period to ensure each item was held to the same standards and procedures. We looked at spaciousness, durability, comfort, zippers and much more. You can read more about our process here .

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When a product carries the NBC Select badge, you can trust that our team of editors as shopping experts and professionals vetted the item thoroughly. First and foremost, we are journalists, so we will always do our research and reporting.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

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These Two-In-One Convertible Bags Are a Travel Necessity

By Lauren Dana Ellman

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

When it comes to picking the perfect travel bag , versatility is key. With that in mind, it’s well worth investing in one—or more—of the best convertible bags. As you can likely tell by the name, these innovative accessories can be worn at least two ways—and in some cases, three or four. Some examples of great options for travelers include a tote that transforms into a backpack to help more evenly distribute weight (and avoid an achy shoulder in the event of overpacking), a purse that turns into a clutch to take you from day to night, and a shoulder bag that can also be worn crossbody . When you've only got a carry-on suitcase to work with, having bags that serve multiple functions can help trim down your packing list.

When selecting this edit of the best multi-purpose bags, I looked for ones designed with durability and functionality in mind, be it in the form of several pockets, a waterproof exterior, sturdy straps, and so on. Keep reading to discover 16 excellent convertible backpacks, purses, and weekenders from Traveler -approved brands like July, MZ Wallace, and Béis, broken down by category.

The best for travel days

The best for parents, the best for day to night, the best for commuting.

This endlessly versatile bag from Tumi can be carried as a backpack (the padded adjustable straps provide plenty of support) or a tote bag, making it especially convenient for sightseeing. It also has a removable leather top handle, two front zip pockets, and a dedicated pocket for your smartphone.

I took the older version of this belt bag-slash-fanny pack everywhere on my two-week Hawaii honeymoon. The updated version, available in 15 colors and patterns, is just as impressive with its water-repellent construction, extendable strap, and an exterior zippered compartment with interior pockets for small but necessary items like keys, credit cards, and lip balm. Wear it around your waist, across your chest, or on your shoulder.

This convertible bag—which features a fully removable bottom compartment that doubles as a packing cube —works exceptionally well as a weekender and an everyday bag. The removable padded laptop sleeve is just the icing on the cake.

Few travel bags are as innovative as this tiny-but-mighty crossbody option. When emptied and not in use, it can be easily stored away or conveniently carried in hand (or via wrist) using the attached strap.

Ideal for on-the-go families, this diaper bag easily converts from a backpack to a shoulder bag. It has plenty of pockets to help you stay organized and an insulated pouch for snacks or bottles.

This workhorse of a bag—which can be worn as a traditional backpack or shoulder bag thanks to its long strap—is equipped with dedicated spots for all your (and your kids’) essentials, including diapers, wipes, bottles, toys, and more. Its waterproof nylon construction is a bonus.

This chic quilted backpack is unique in that it doubles (er, triples) as a crossbody or shoulder bag. The 18 pockets(!) ensure you stay organized while on the go, while the built-in luggage sleeve allows for hands-free carrying—a must when trekking through an airport with little ones in tow.

As you can guess by its name, Calpak's convertible stroller caddy crossbody seamlessly converts from a crossbody bag to a stroller caddy (and vice-versa). Don’t be fooled by its small size: The bag features two insulated bottle pockets plus expandable sides for extra storage.

Designed to be carried everywhere, this miniature hardshell case from Traveler -approved suitcase brand July stands out for its detachable strap (which converts it into a clutch) and durability.

Read a full review here .

Made from 100 percent Italian leather, this timeless accessory can be worn as a shoulder bag or crossbody simply by adjusting the strap length. Its internal double compartments, center zippered divider, and back slip pocket are equally impressive.

This sleek leather bag is named for how the buckled tabs embrace its size—adorable, I know—and it’s just as functional as it is cute. The adjustable shoulder strap can be removed, allowing you to carry it as a clutch for a formal event.

Behold, your new summer wardrobe staple : the Staud Bean Convertible Leather clutch. Thanks to its clever convertible and removable strap, the purse can be worn as a clutch, shoulder bag, or wristlet.

The aptly named Transform Tote from Pond Los Angeles is a favorite of associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny , who describes it as “the most functional tote I've ever used” thanks to its roomy interior, sleek design, and water-resistant construction. Plus, it can be worn not two, not three, but four ways: as a shoulder bag, a crossbody bag (thanks to its longer adjustable strap), a backpack, or on top of your carry-on courtesy of the built-in trolley sleeve.

This office-appropriate backpack will garner some compliments thanks to its structured silhouette and textured leather construction. The padded laptop compartment and multiple storage pockets add an extra-functional touch. Simply pull and extend the back strap to wear it as a crossbody or over the shoulder.

Whether worn as a backpack or carried as a briefcase, this convertible Timbuk2 bag was designed with savvy professionals—looking at you, business travelers —in mind. The luggage sleeve, which allows for hands-free carrying, is a bonus.

During the workweek, carry this Mark & Graham bag as a traditional work tote and stash your tablet inside the matching laptop sleeve. Come the weekend, switch things up by wearing it as a shoulder bag (there are built-in double shoulder straps) or a crossbody bag (I love the style of the attachable twill crossbody strap). Best of all, it can be monogrammed with your initials.

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The 13 best carry-on backpacks of 2024, tested & reviewed.

Enjoy hands-free travel with a versatile carry-on backpack.

The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Not sure whether to take a rolling suitcase or a travel backpack on the plane? Both types of carry-on luggage certainly have their merits, but if you like keeping your arms and hands free when traveling, a backpack is the right choice for you. Furthermore, compared to a hard-sided suitcase , it's easier to squeeze a malleable backpack into an overhead bin or under the seat. And if your vacation is focused on adventure travel, you might value a durable pack on your back over wheels on the ground.

U.S. News compiled this list from extensive research and testing along with consumer reviews. Whatever your reason for choosing a backpack, there are plenty on the market to satisfy your needs. Read on for the best carry-on travel backpacks.

Best Overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Budget: ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

Best lightweight: mz wallace metro utility backpack.

• Best for Business Travel (tie): Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack – Large
• Best for Business Travel (tie): Aer Travel Pack 3

Best for International Travel: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

Best for weekend getaways: solo grand travel tsa backpack, best for women: tumi voyageur celina backpack, best for men: peak design travel backpack 45l, best for adventure travel: kelty redwing 36, best with wheels: samsonite tectonic nutech wheeled backpack, best organization: augustnoa classic noa, best leather: monos metro backpack in vegan leather.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of backpacks are height by width by depth.)

Price: $200 or less

When it comes to bag travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs a serious punch. The carry-on backpack is available in three sizes – 42L, 35L and 28L – and a variety of colors, including the vibrant multicolor Del Día style. The 35L size not only fits everything you need for your next getaway, but it's also TSA-compliant as a carry-on item . On the outside, the Allpa features a removable waist belt, a padded laptop sleeve on the side, anti-theft zippers, carabiner lash loops for extra gear, a sternum strap and a front zippered pocket. The backpack straps can be tucked away if you're looking to save more room in the overhead bin or you want to carry the bag via its grab handles.

The bag opens suitcase-style; inside, you'll find one large zippered mesh compartment on the right and a subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left, providing ample space for all your clothes, shoes and accessories. What's more, the bag comes with a rain cover (though it's already water-resistant).

What our editors say:

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures, from a road trip around Iceland to camping all over Colorado. It fits more than expected, is comfortable to wear (especially if using the waist belt) and is extremely durable. I just wish the 35L had an exterior water bottle pocket like the 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $15.99 or less

This backpack has three excellent things going for it: It's affordable, lightweight and durable. It's a great option for a weekend getaway bag and is an excellent little backpack to have on hand for tours and day trips once you make it to your destination. If you're planning to hike or kayak on your next getaway, you'll definitely want to have the ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Backpack in your back pocket – literally. It can be folded into a compact pouch and tucked away in a larger carry-on bag if you're planning to only use it as a daypack.

The lightweight travel bag is both tear- and water-resistant. With all of its pockets – including one on each side for water bottles or umbrellas – you'll be able to fit everything you need for an adventure-filled trip.

It can fit enough for a weekend trip, plus it's super useful for hiking, boat excursions and more once you're in your destination because it's so light and water-resistant. I've used it for years and it has held up incredibly well; it comes in so many fun colors, too. I love it so much, I bought two so my husband has one he can use as well. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $345 or less

Constructed with recycled bluesign-approved quilted nylon, this chic bag is packed with pockets and organizational details. The interior has a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, a large zip pocket with two slip pockets, two water bottle pockets and two removable pouches. On the front of the bag there's a deep phone pocket and multiple zippered pockets of various sizes, including a small one that's ideal for a boarding pass, earbuds or wipes.

A water bottle pocket sits on each side of the bag, and the back of the bag has a luggage trolley sleeve that can be zipped shut on the bottom to be a pocket when not attached to your suitcase. This backpack has a top-zip design, and can be carried by the two top handles or the adjustable padded backpack straps.

This bag has completely changed my mind about backpacks. It's extremely spacious and works so well for my laptop, change of clothes, toiletry bag and other carry-on essentials. I love all of the pockets and that I can carry this like a north-south tote in addition to using the trolley sleeve or backpack straps. But what truly sets this apart is the beautiful fabrication that is so soft and the luxurious Italian leather details. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best for Business Travel: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack and Aer Travel Pack 3 (tie)

Dagne dover dakota neoprene backpack – large.

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $215 or less

This sleek, professional backpack by Dagne Dover is perfect for professional and casual settings alike, with a vast array of organizational features and a 20-liter capacity for the large size. On the outside, you'll find a zippered padded pocket for up to 16-inch laptops and a slip pocket for your phone, while an interior sleeve can fit a tablet or a second laptop, allowing you to travel with multiple devices. The inside of the bag has two mesh slip pockets and a zip-top pouch attached with a leash, as well as three zippered pockets in the front panel.

To help you stay even more organized, the exterior also features a zippered front pocket with pen loops and a key clip; two zippered side pockets; two slip side pockets; and straps to secure a small bottle. The water-resistant bag comes with adjustable shoulder straps, a luggage sleeve and a separate shoe bag.

I adore bringing this bag to work and using it as a personal item on flights. I don't think I've ever used a backpack with better organization than this one – there's a dedicated place for every little thing, from keys to pens to my devices. I also love that the neoprene material is extremely lightweight and water-resistant. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Aer Travel Pack 3

Price: $249 or less

With a pocket for everything, the clamshell-style Aer Travel Pack 3 keeps you organized to the max on business trips. Keep your laptop (up to 16 inches) safe in the padded, zippered laptop sleeve, and stow your passport in the quick-access side pocket. The front compartment features several sizes of pockets perfect for chargers, notepads, pens and more. Along with the lay-flat main compartment for clothes, there's also an interior pocket for small accessories as well as a hidden luggage tracker pocket.

Designed for one-bag travel, the durable Aer Travel Pack 3 also features a water-resistant nylon exterior along with load lifters for a more comfortable fit. You can purchase a hip belt separately.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 has one of the sleekest designs when it comes to carry-on backpacks. I also appreciate all the pockets: The sizable laptop pocket is perfect for someone like me who uses a huge laptop; the eight pockets in just the front compartment are so handy for everything you could need while traveling; and the bag even comes with a zippered water bottle pocket on the side. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $185 or less

The Osprey Farpoint is truly an all-in-one travel pack that combines quality with minimal weight. The clamshell-style carry-on bag features a substantial main compartment across from a large mesh pocket. There's an easy-to-access zippered laptop sleeve on the side for devices up to 16 inches.

For extra support and comfort, the backpack includes a sternum strap, back panel, harness and hip belt; the latter three can be zipped up for fully streamlined travel, and compression straps help slim the bag down even more. The Osprey Farpoint 40 meets most domestic carry-on size requirements and is compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack , which can be brought onto the plane as a personal item .

This is one of my favorite backpacks. I love how the back can be zipped up so the bag more resembles a duffel; this makes it easy to stow away without having to deal with a lot of straps. Additionally, the interior compression straps can really help cinch down belongings, especially if you're using packing cubes . – Leilani Osmundson

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Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $117.99 or less

Perfect for weekend getaways , the Solo Grand TSA Travel Backpack opens like a regular suitcase. In the main compartment, you can secure several outfits with compression straps and store accessories and toiletries in two zippered mesh pockets. In the back, a padded compartment protects laptops up to 17.3 inches in size, and on the front there are a variety of pockets – even pockets within pockets – for your phone and other essentials. This backpack is also equipped with two side mesh pockets, a trolley sleeve, and side and top carry handles.

This backpack is flawless. It's big without the bulk and has plenty of pockets, which not only makes it ideal for weekend getaways but also prevents me from having to awkwardly rummage through my bag when I need something on the plane. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $475 or less

This backpack blends function and fashion with a compact design. On the front of the bag are two zip compartments and a U-zip pocket with a card slot, a slip pocket and a pen holder. The interior of the bag is divided into two separate compartments: one zippered section with a padded laptop compartment (holds up to a 15-inch PC or 16-inch MacBook), and another large compartment with a zippered pocket and two slip pockets (ideal for glasses or charging cords).

There is also a zippered compartment on each side of the bag, one of which has a water-resistant lining for a water bottle. On the back of the bag you'll find a hidden phone compartment and a trolley sleeve to attach to a roller bag.

This style oozes sophistication, especially the black with the gold hardware. From its sleek material to its many pockets and details, this backpack looks and feels like a chic handbag that can go from the office to a beach resort with ease. I especially like that there are two places you can access the front compartment of the bag, and I like that the laptop section is separate from the rest of the backpack so it's easier to take out my computer and go through airport security (which makes me less likely to drop something from inside my bag). – Rachael Hood

Price: $299.95 or less

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a solid, rugged choice that will last. The nylon canvas shell of the backpack is weatherproof and water-resistant, with a waterproof bottom liner as well. You can unzip the back panel to access the main packing compartment, which is also accessible via zippers along each side of the bag and can be divided in two by a mesh sleeve. To keep you organized, this backpack has quick-access pockets for small items like passports and glasses, plus expandable side pockets for water bottles, tripods or umbrellas.

The bag meets carry-on size requirements but can expand by 1.5 inches if you need the extra room; the shoulder straps and hip belt tuck away if you plan to check it instead. If you prefer a smaller bag, the Peak Design Travel Backpack also comes in a 30-liter size .

If you only want to bring one bag on a short trip, you can't go wrong with this backpack. It's sturdy, reliable and able to fit a ton while still being carry-on-sized. It served me well on a recent trip to New Zealand, and I'd definitely recommend it for travelers who like hands-free luggage. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $134.95 or less

If you'll be adventuring in the great outdoors for your next trip, consider purchasing the Kelty Redwing 36 backpack. You'll find two exterior water bottle pockets as well as a hydration-friendly inner pocket (for storing a water bladder). Tool loops can hold hiking poles, fishing poles, ice axes or other adventure gear. Organization is made easy with plenty of zippered pockets, including one on each side of the bag, a large one on the front and one on top that's perfect for storing travel documents such as a passport. Plus, a ventilated back panel helps keep you cool when you're hurrying through airports or hiking up a mountain.

If you need a bigger backpack, the Kelty Redwing 50 Tactical is a great checked bag option and has many of the same features as the Redwing 36 along with more straps and pockets.

The Kelty Redwing 36 can be cinched down quite a bit for truly streamlined travel and to better meet carry-on size guidelines. However, I'll caution that the waist belt is difficult to remove. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $159.99 or less

If you want the flexibility to either carry or wheel your luggage, a wheeled backpack style may work best for you. The Samsonite Tectonic NuTech Wheeled Backpack transforms from a rolling bag into a backpack by just tucking in the handle, pulling out the stowed straps and using the wheel cover. The durable polyester material is water-repellent and has red accents.

There are three sections to this bag: a main compartment with space to pack for a weekend trip, a dedicated sleeve for both a laptop up to 15.6 inches and a tablet up to 11 inches, and a front pocket equipped with various organizational features. There are various small pockets, pen sleeves, card slots and a key leash within. You can tuck a water bottle and umbrella into the exterior pockets on either side of the bag. Just keep in mind that this bag may slightly exceed carry-on size restrictions on some airlines with stricter rules.

I expected a wheeled backpack to be uncomfortable to carry, but this convertible bag has proved surprisingly convenient. I like having both the rolling and hands-free options for different circumstances, and it has ample packing space. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $148 or less

This sustainable water-resistant backpack is constructed with 100% recycled materials and has 10 pockets to organize everything. The spacious interior compartment has a 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve with a strap to secure it in place, as well as an interior mesh pocket for small items or charging cords and a removable shoe bag.

On the exterior, the front pocket has a built-in mesh organizer for pens, and there are mesh water bottle holders on each side of the backpack. The back of the bag has two adjustable padded straps, each with a built-in zippered compartment ideal for keys, ID or tickets. A hidden zip pocket makes for a secure space for a wallet or passport, and the trolley sleeve provides added versatility.

This backpack is great for travel or everyday use. I especially appreciate the comfortable backpack straps with the small zip pockets. They are easy to reach and perfect for small items like lip gloss, cash or a transit card. Durably constructed, the water-resistant exterior performs well in any weather, and I love that there's a padded space for both my laptop and iPad. – Rachael Hood

Price: $230 or less

For an upscale backpack that can be dressed up or down, this Monos style is an ideal choice. Constructed with sustainable vegan leather (there's also a nylon version with vegan leather accents), this structured style is both water- and scratch-resistant. The 15-inch laptop sleeve is separate from the main packing compartment so you can access your device easily. The brand's QuickSnap Modular Kit System means you'll have a detachable Metro Kit for small items that attaches magnetically to the front of the bag; this kit is interchangeable between Metro bags and can be swapped out for a different kit or removed entirely, depending on your needs.

The backpack's main compartment is designed for maximum functionality with a felt-lined document sleeve, a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets, and a waterproof zippered privacy compartment for a rain jacket or gym clothes. On the back, you can make use of a hidden slip pocket for your phone, a trolley sleeve and adjustable padded straps. There's also two top carry handles if you'd prefer to carry this backpack like a tote.

I really like the elevated styling and durability of this vegan leather bag. But what sets it apart is the separate laptop compartment (I don't like to have to open my entire bag to get out my laptop while on the go), and the modular Metro Kit system that can be removed when it's not needed. It's full of value-added design elements, and the material looks classic and appropriate with any attire. – Rachael Hood

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on its size, a backpack is considered a carry-on item. To be able to put it in the overhead bin, you generally don't want it to exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but that sizing varies by airline, and since backpacks are soft-sided, the dimensions can be somewhat malleable. If it fits under the seat in front of you on the plane ( check your airline's specific size requirements ), it is typically considered a personal item. If the backpack can fit under the seat, then you can often bring it in addition to a larger carry-on bag (based on your airline ticket type and inclusions).

For a backpack to be a carry-on for most domestic airlines, it should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (or should be able to be squished to approximately those dimensions). To be considered a personal item, it must fit under the seat in front of you. Underseat size and space varies by airline and airplane type, so it's best to check with your airline's size restrictions.

How We Tested

From the comfort of the straps to the capacity of each bag, our team tested more than 20 carry-on backpacks from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see how the overall structure of the bag works for travel needs, along with the durability and details that make a difference. After taking these backpacks on a variety of adventures, we've selected these carry-on backpacks as the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Rolling Duffel Bags
• The Best Toiletry Bags
• The Best Fanny Packs
• The Best Travel Insurance

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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