I’m a Carry-on-only Travel Writer, and This One Packing Hack Saves Me Luggage Space on Every Trip

Over the years, I've tested countless packing hacks, from rolling clothes to using compression cubes. Some were helpful, others were not. But there’s one technique that consistently delivers, trip after trip, saving me valuable luggage space: the strategic use of packing cubes.

The Power of Packing Cubes: More Than Just Organization

While organization is definitely a benefit of using packing cubes, their space-saving potential is what truly sets them apart. They achieve this in a few key ways:

• Compression: Packing cubes help compress your clothing, squeezing out excess air and reducing bulk.
• Structure: They provide structure within your bag, preventing your clothes from shifting and taking up unnecessary space.
• Compartmentalization: Separating different clothing types into different cubes makes it easier to find what you need without unpacking everything, further reducing wasted space.

Imagine trying to Tetris your clothes into a bag without any organization. You end up with uneven shapes and wasted pockets of space. Packing cubes create neat, compact blocks that fit together efficiently, maximizing every inch of your carry-on.

My Go-To Packing Cube System: A Breakdown

I’ve refined my packing cube system over years of travel. Here’s a look at how I use them to maximize space and stay organized:

This system allows me to easily locate any item without having to rummage through my entire bag. It also helps me keep track of what I've packed and what I've worn, making it easier to re-pack efficiently.

Beyond Cubes: Combining Hacks for Maximum Space Saving

While packing cubes are my top space-saving hack, I combine them with other techniques to truly maximize my carry-on's potential:

• Rolling, not folding: Rolling clothes takes up less space than folding, and it can also help prevent wrinkles.
• Choosing versatile clothing: Packing items that can be worn in multiple ways reduces the number of items you need to bring.
• Wearing your bulkiest items: Wear your heaviest shoes, jacket, and sweater on travel days to save space in your bag.
• Using vacuum compression bags (sparingly): For particularly bulky items like down jackets, vacuum compression bags can be helpful, but be careful not to overpack and exceed weight limits. Remember, these are best for large items, otherwise, packing cubes work much better.
• Utilizing the "one in, one out" rule: When packing, ask yourself, “Will I wear this more than once?” If the answer is no, leave it behind. Every item should earn its place in your carry-on bag.

Investing in Quality Packing Cubes: Are They Worth It?

Absolutely. While inexpensive packing cubes are available, investing in a set of durable, well-made cubes is worth the investment. Look for cubes made from lightweight, tear-resistant materials with sturdy zippers. Quality cubes will last for years of travel and provide better compression and organization than cheaper alternatives.

The Freedom of Carry-On-Only Travel

By mastering the art of minimalist packing, I've transformed my travel experience. I no longer dread baggage claim or worry about lost luggage. I move more quickly through airports, and I'm free to explore destinations without being weighed down by heavy bags. And at the heart of it all is the humble, yet mighty, packing cube.

So, the next time you're preparing for a trip, give packing cubes a try. You might be surprised at how much space they can save and how much more enjoyable your travels become.