Why You Should Use Packing Cubes On Your Next Vacation

It's rare to find a person who loves packing and unpacking. For the ones that do, they likely use cubes as a way to look cute, save space and make it easier to keep organized throughout their trip. If you think that they're just extra items that take up space in your closet, think again.

One of the benefits of packing cubes comes from their ability to protect your clothes — goodbye gross bottoms of shoes! Travel and Leisure notes that these cubes also ensure fewer wrinkles when you roll or fold your garments to place them inside. By the time you get to your destination, you can open your cubes to find clean, unwrinkled clothes — no matter how long the journey. But, perhaps the biggest advantage comes from ease of use; rather than tossing your clothes right and left to find the dress you want, you can pull out your container, unzip and find it with ease. The outlet explains that you can also place your cubes in the dresser at the hotel to negate rifling through your suitcase for the rest of the trip.

Furthermore, SF Gate explains, they save room. If you're used to overpacking and never having space to bring back souvenirs, these cubes could be a godsend for your next trip. Helping you stay organized at every point on your journey, these little mesh or plastic bags can save you time and headaches in the long run.

Now that you've learned the reasons why packing cubes are great to have, it's important to choose the right type for you and your travels. Travel and Leisure explains that most options include canvas and nylon bags that protect your garments while offering ease when it comes time to wash them. Simply toss them in with your dirty clothes from your trip to keep them clean. These types of cubes are lightweight and durable as well. 

Otherwise, plastic cubes provide even more protection from liquids and other spills while they're in your suitcase. The outlet notes, however, that these don't offer the same breathability so those dirty clothes may be pretty gross after a few days. They're also heavier, which is important to note if you have a lot to pack. Lastly, be careful with mesh options as these can tear rather easily.

SF Gate adds that some packing cubes use an antimicrobial agent that inhibits odors and ensures that your clean clothes stay that way. Instead of getting home and sifting through your dirty clothes, you'll have one sealed pack that doesn't interfere with the rest of your luggage. Furthermore, these additions make packing for two much easier. If you're sharing a suitcase with your spouse, for instance, you can easily differentiate your packing cubes from theirs for an easier travel experience.

Even if you don't take trips very often, these packs stand the test of time and you'll be happy you have them.