How To Use Packing Cubes
HOW I LIKE TO USE MY PACKING CUBES
Currently preparing for our next getaway and wanted to revisit one of my favorite travel and packing tips, which is utilizing packing cubes! I’ve tried several brands and have kept going back to this set of packing cubes. They are under $30, have the most sturdy zipper, depth, and a great range of sizes within the six pieces. BK and I each have our own set that we use for trips to keep our stuff organized, especially when we’re sharing a bag.
Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized before, during, and even after traveling. I like to use each cube by category and assign a different compartment for dresses, swimsuits/coverups, shoes, undergarments, and another for athleisure/loungewear/pajamas. I’ve also heard that some families will assign a cube to each family member, you could also organize by outfit or do whatever feels right to you! When we arrive at our destination, I’ll usually hang the necessary items first and simply place one of the packing cubes in a drawer. That way, it stays rolled/organized and doesn’t touch the surface of the drawer. This set comes with a laundry bag, so I’ll throw it into my suitcase empty and arrive home with a bag full of laundry I dump immediately into my hamper. That way, if I don’t wear something, I can put it away and go from there.
When placing my garments, I like to roll/fold them into the packing cube so I can visually see what’s in there once I unzip it, as shown above. I’m a visual learner/thinker, so if I don’t see what I have, I won’t remember to wear it! Feel free to fold/pack in whatever way feels good to you, I prefer the rolling method to avoid wrinkles as much as possible and also be able to see what is in there quickly.
When it comes time to pack the cubes into the suitcase, I don’t necessarily follow any sort of method. Sometimes it’ll take me a few tries to get everything in there, depending on the size bag I’m using and any other items I’m packing like my toiletries, hair curler, etc. It sort of feels like a game of real-life Tetris!
other traveling related tips
We love and use our Away bags most frequently, I have previously shared a review of them here. I’ve also got several luggage recommendations on my Amazon Storefront here! I’ve also shared some travel outfit inspiration, how I packed light to Europe for 12 days with only a carry-on, my vacation beauty essentials, and the five tips I always follow when packing/sourcing outfits for a trip. I’ve also shared countless trip roundups from our recent travels, be sure to explore more on the travel tab of my blog! Here are a few items that I like to use to stay organized and other items I like to bring with me while traveling:
For storing/packing jewelry, I love to use this storage box - it fits way more than you’d think! If you travel with more delicate/smaller items, this zip-up pouch may be a better option for you. I took a chance on this makeup bag last year, and it has quickly become one of my favorite things! It fits a ton and packs nicely into my carry-on bag. It’s not chic whatsoever, but this flat toiletries case is my favorite because it fits without adding too much bulk to your bag. I also have this one which comes in a few sizes, is see-through, and is great for seeing what you have. These clear containers are great for organizing pretty much anything, and I like to travel with an open tote bag, so I use these to keep things contained.
I always like to throw this foldable tote bag into my suitcase, just in case I need an extra tote or to bring on the plane on our way home. It folds down to nothing and is super lightweight but sturdy. I also highly recommend traveling with AirTags or something similar like a Tile so that you’re able to track your bags. With all of the issues/delays, it’s nice to know exactly where your bag is, just in case, giving peace of mind.
I hope you enjoyed these tips! Let me know if you learned anything new from this or have any questions about anything above. I look forward to taking you along on our next adventure! Thanks for reading. xx CMK