I travel nearly 100,000 miles annually and never leave home without my Calpak packing cubes.

For years, I was skeptical about packing cubes; they felt like an unnecessary complication. However, as someone who's now a packing bag enthusiast, I've learned that if you want to stay organized while traveling, maximize your suitcase space, and even protect against bed bugs, packing cubes are essential. Just remember, not all packing cubes are made the same.

Once you decide to incorporate packing cubes into your long-term packing routine, you'll want the best options available. That's where Calpak packing cubes come in. I've used them for over a year and have really put them to the test. After countless flights and numerous trips, I can confidently say they outperform many other packing cubes I've tried.

Calpak five-piece packing cube set: $68

Key features to consider when selecting quality packing cubes

Having tested several disappointing packing cubes that fell apart after just a trip or two, I've found that the best ones share a few key traits. They come in multiple sizes, feature sturdy zippers, are machine washable, constructed from durable materials that can withstand heat and frequent use, and include a waterproof pouch.

The cheapest packing cubes are often crafted from flimsy nylon that tends to wear out quickly, especially when subjected to dryer heat (which I do recommend, more on that later). While it's not a must, it’s a bonus if the cubes you choose come in fun colors or patterns that you enjoy.

Using cubes in different colors can be a helpful tactic for organizing by day or by family member, particularly on trips with the whole family. Additionally, packing a cube with everything you need for the first 24 hours can greatly simplify your arrival at the hotel, making that first night and morning much smoother.

Reasons we love Calpak packing cubes

Calpak crafts its packing cubes from a durable mesh and polyester blend that has proven incredibly resilient during our theme park visits, skiing trips, cruises, and more.

I appreciate the handles, charming designs (like marble and polka dots), and the breathable, see-through mesh that lets you glimpse the contents inside. However, those features are more like added bonuses for me.

The reason I've purchased from Calpak not just once but twice is their impressive durability during extended real-world use. After a trip where I accidentally brought bed bugs home in my luggage a few years back, I've completely revamped my packing and unpacking methods.

To avoid a repeat of that nightmare, my luggage stays out of the house. It resides in the garage in large plastic bins, and only the clothes and packing cubes are brought in and out. However, before entering the house, these items are heated in the dryer for about 30 minutes to eliminate any potential pests.

Packing outdoors or in the garage can be tricky without packing cubes, but it becomes effortless when all you need to do is place some fully packed cubes into your luggage and hit the road. This may sound extreme if you haven't experienced bed bugs, but it’s quite manageable once you get used to it.

Unlike other brands that use less durable materials, my Calpak packing cubes have withstood multiple rounds in the dryer without any noticeable wear—something that can’t be said for many other options out there.

Moreover, these cubes feature waterproof pockets designed to keep wet or particularly dirty items separate from your other belongings, ensuring that your bag doesn't end up soaked from a morning swim.

What does a Calpak packing cube set include?

In the five-piece Calpak packing cube set (currently available for $68), you receive:

• One envelope pouch (13" x 10" x ¼").
• Two small cubes (12" x 8 3/4" x 3").
• One medium cube (15" x 11" x 3").
• One large cube (17" x 12" x 3").

I find the large and medium cubes to be the most useful, though the small ones occasionally come in handy for swimsuits, underwear, and other really tiny items. They’re also perfect for my youngest child's belongings, as they’re smaller than adult-sized items.

The entire packing cube set weighs just 1.8 pounds, adding minimal weight to your bag even if you use several cubes in your luggage.

In my Rimowa carry-on, I can typically fit two large and one medium Calpak cube, along with various other items like a curling iron and a pair of shoes.

Key takeaway

Given my frequent travels—often packing for the entire family—and my strong commitment to avoiding bringing home bed bugs, I really put my luggage and packing cubes to the test. I've tried at least six different brands over the years, and while there are definitely cheaper alternatives to Calpak, none have performed or met my needs as effectively.

If you're not in a hurry to buy packing cubes, keep an eye out for Calpak sales and coupon codes, especially when they occasionally clear out limited-edition prints.

While Calpak cubes are pricier upfront compared to more affordable brands, after using them for 18 months, I confidently recommend them as a top choice since they’ve proven incredibly durable through extensive travel without any damage or issues.

As an extra perk, the marble colors are stylish and add a bit of fun to the less-than-exciting tasks of packing and unpacking.

Calpak five-piece packing cube set: $68