Yes: packing cubes make a backpack much more organized and easier to access. They don’t automatically give you a lot of extra space, but they do help you use your bag more efficiently. This is especially handy if you’re traveling with a carry-on backpack, a larger travel backpack, or a bag that you open and close frequently while on the go. Below, you’ll learn how to choose the best packing cubes, how to organize your backpack logically, and which extra accessories really make a difference. Are you looking for a backpack that goes well with your packing cubes? Check out our backpacks.
Why Packing Cubes in a Backpack Bring So Much Peace of Mind
In a suitcase, you can often lay items flat next to each other, but in a backpack, you usually have just one deep main compartment. That’s exactly why packing cubes are so handy in a backpack. Instead of digging around for a T-shirt, socks, or a charger, you can simply grab the right cube. Many travelers find that they pack and unpack faster, create less clutter, and can more easily separate clothes by category. Think clean and dirty, day clothes and sleepwear, or clothes and accessories separately. Just don’t expect miracles in terms of extra space: regular cubes mainly help with organization, which fits well with minimalist travel—it helps you cut your luggage in half. For real space savings, compression packing cubes are sometimes a smarter choice.
What to Look for When Choosing the Right Cubes
| What should you look out for? | Why is this important? | Practical Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Size and Aspect Ratio | One large cube often fills a backpack too tightly, while smaller shapes stack better and fit into corners. | It's better to choose a mix of small and medium-sized cubes rather than one large block. |
| Backpack Type | A bag with a suitcase-style opening is packed differently than a deep model with a narrow opening at the top. | Choose the shape of your cubes based on how your backpack opens. |
| Weight and Material | Lightweight cubes keep your backpack easy to carry, while sturdy zippers and a flexible fabric make it more convenient to use on the go. | Mesh or a viewing window helps you quickly identify the contents. |
| Function per cube | Not everything has to be grouped together; that actually slows down the search. | Use separate cubes for clothes, underwear, electronics, or items you want to grab quickly. |
Here's how to organize your backpack smartly with packing cubes
Good organization isn't just about what fits inside, but also about when you need something and how comfortable the bag is to carry.
- Place your daily essentials at the top or in the front, such as documents, medication, a charger, small toiletries, and, if necessary, a clean set of clothes.
- Place heavier cubes as close to the back as possible; this feels more stable and comfortable when carrying them.
- Put clothes you don't use as often toward the bottom of your backpack—for example, extra layers, sleepwear, or spare clothes.
- Leave some extra space for a jacket, snacks, or items you might add along the way.
Common mistakes that actually take up space
The most common mistake is stuffing the cubes too full. Then they turn into hard blocks that don’t fit well in rounded corners or a narrow backpack, which actually makes you lose flexibility. Having too many small cubes also creates chaos: you’ll end up spending more time searching than packing. On the other hand, a single cube that’s too large is often impractical as well, because you’ll have to unpack a lot just to get at one small item. Also, don’t put wet items, dirty laundry, or shoes loose among clean clothes. If you’re traveling with thick sweaters, a coat, or extra laundry on the way back, a compression or vacuum solution is often a smarter choice than regular cubes.
What Travel Accessories, Besides Packing Cubes, Are Really Useful
Packing cubes provide a solid foundation, but a few smart extras make your system even more practical. At Voyagoux , you’ll find that combination of organization and convenience reflected in travel products such as packing cubes from Voyagoux, backpacks, luggage tags, and passport covers.
- Use a compact organizer for cables, documents, or small travel items so you don't have to use your packing cubes for everything at once.
- Bring a protective cover if your backpack often ends up under a seat, in an overhead compartment, or on a rough surface.
- Add a VacuPack for bulky clothing; it's a supplement to the cubes, not a replacement for your organization system.
- Choose a simple identification or security solution, such as a luggage tag, passport cover, or small lock, if you often set your backpack down or hand it over to someone.