Packing for a trip can be a hassle, especially if you want to keep things organized and efficient with small packing cubes. I recently tried the Peak Design packing cubes, which made my life (and family) so much easier.
While packing for a multiple-week getaway, I found these flexible packing cubes incredibly helpful in fitting tight spaces without compromising the essentials. If you know us, you know how much we love packing cubes, especially coming from me, a person who loves city-hopping through Europe.
The normal ultra-light packing cubes are made from durable material that kept my clothes dry, even when my luggage got wet in the rain. The mesh packing cubes are excellent for hard-shell luggage and a great outdoor travel companion. Both are offered in several sizes, so you’re sure to find something for short trips that doesn’t take up much space or something for a bigger adventure.
I used all four packing cubes during my recent 2-week excursion from Amsterdam to Norway and Paris, and they were a lifesaver. Say goodbye to unpacking and repacking for those varied climates. This makes packing cubes an important tool in your packing checklist. The climate in Norway was dramatically different than Paris, particularly in summer.
List of packing cube sizes and types reviewed:
- XS (Extra Small) Packing Cube
- S (Small) Packing Cube
- S (Small) Ultralight Mesh Packing Cube
- XS (Extra Small) Ultralight Mesh Packing Cube
Let’s get into it with a video from the ViaTravelers YouTube channel, where I unbox and compare the mesh and traditional ultra-light packing cubes. After this, you’ll get an inside look at my photos of the products, pros and cons, and a full look to see if they are truly worth the price.
Initial Impressions from Unboxing and Testing
Overview: Peak Design Ultra Light Packing Cubes
I recently acquired a Peak Design Ultra Light Packing Cube, and it’s been a game-changer for my travels. These cubes are incredibly practical for anyone who wants to stay organized on the go. The weatherproof Terra Shell material is super helpful for those rainy getaways.
What impressed me is how rugged it feels despite being so lightweight. The UltraZip is built to last, which is a relief because I often worry about zippers breaking. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, with 100% recycled materials and Bluesign approval—a nice bonus for those trying to be more environmentally conscious.
On the downside, opting for the XX-small size might be too tiny for some people’s needs. It’s great for small items like socks or underwear but won’t hold much more. Despite this, it’s perfect for neatly organizing those smaller bits and fits easily into the nooks of my suitcase.
Peak Design Ultra Light Packing Cubes are great if you’re looking for a compact, reliable packing cube for your travels. Its weatherproof design and durable material will keep your belongings safe, perfect for your travel backpack. Don’t wait—click here to check the pricing of the Peak Design Ultra Light Packing Cubes on Amazon and make packing a breeze!
Product Specifications
When I first used this ultra-light packing cube, its compact size struck me immediately. Measuring just 3.15 x 7.09 x 2.36 inches, it’s perfect for squeezing into tight spots in luggage. A feather-light of 1.41 ounces hardly adds any weight to your bag.
The material is a standout feature. This cube is made from tough, weatherproof nylon, so you don’t have to worry about your clothes getting wet. Plus, it’s got a strong #5 UltraZip zipper, which feels like it will last forever. I also noticed how easily it folds flat when not in use, making storage super simple. It’s tiny but mighty in terms of functionality.
First, let’s set the stage for the features of each of the products:
| Packing Cube Type | Volume | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Small (S) Ultralight Packing Cube | 10L | 27g (0.95 oz) |
| Extra Small (XS) Ultralight Packing Cube | 2.5L | 21g (0.74 oz) |
| Small (S) Ultralight Mesh Packing Cube | 12L | 17g (0.6 oz) |
| Extra Small (XS) Ultralight Mesh Packing Cube | 3L | 15g (0.53 oz) |
Common features for both sizes:
- Material: Ultralight ripstop nylon
- Closure: Zip
- Design: Mountable, compatible with Peak Design travel bags
- Packing: Compressible for easy stowing
- Sustainability: Climate Neutral Certified, 1% for the Planet member, Certified B Corporation
- Origin: Designed in San Francisco, made in Vietnam
- Warranty: Lifetime guarantee
Additional information:
- Both sizes feature a tear-away zipper for quick access
- They have a see-through mesh panel for visibility
- The cubes are designed to be packable and compressible
Key Features
Ultralight Weatherproof Material
I was genuinely impressed by how light the cube felt. The material used is a Terra Shell 50D, and it’s incredibly weatherproof. I took it on a recent trip, and my packing cube kept everything dry, even during an unexpected rainstorm. It’s also durable, so I didn’t worry about tearing or wearing out quickly.
Innovative Weatherproof Zip
One standout feature is the weatherproof UltraZip. I’ve had issues with zippers breaking on other travel gear, but this one is tough and built to last. It feels like it could handle decades of traveling even after frequent use. The zip keeps the contents secure and protected from the elements, which brings peace of mind when you’re on the road.
Sustainability and Safety
Like all Peak Design travel products, the eco-friendly aspect is another big plus. The cube is made from 100% recycled materials and is Bluesign-approved. It doesn’t use PFAS, which is reassuring from a health and environmental standpoint. If you want to make responsible purchasing decisions, this packing cube ticks all the boxes.
Compact and Efficient Design
It’s amazing how much you can fit in such a small item. The XX-Small size is perfect for slipping into the nooks and crannies of your luggage, just like a tech pouch. I managed to squeeze in a surprising amount of clothing without getting bulky. At first, I had serious doubts about its usability, but after packing it fully, I realized why so many people rave about it.
It also has a nifty feature that compresses your clothes, saving even more space and keeping things neat. The quick-access pull tabs are a godsend when you need something urgently.
Ease of Use
Using the Peak Design Ultra Light Packing Cube is a breeze. The quick access system is excellent when you need to get something fast. Just grab the Hypalon pull tabs and pull them apart to open the whole cube. This system is not only convenient but also highly satisfying to use.
The compressible feature of this mesh packing cube is a big win for packing and unpacking. You can easily fill it up, compress your clothes, and save space. However, be careful when zipping to avoid catching the stretchy mesh part, which could rip your small packing items.
Since it’s ultra-light, it doesn’t add extra weight to your luggage. Small grab handles also make it easy to carry and move around. Despite the lightweight fabric, the cube feels durable and of high quality. It’s designed to make your travel packing more efficient and less stressful.
Pro Tip: Who says you only need to use them while traveling? You can use them for gym clothes, organizing drawers at home, or even as tech pouches. The mesh packing cubes can be a great addition to your camping accessories.
Read Also: Our Favorite Packing Cubes for Travel
Environmental Impact
I was impressed by the environmental impact of this Peak Design Cube. Peak Design uses 100% recycled materials, and its small packing products are Bluesign-approved, which ensures less environmental harm. The Cube’s Terra Shell material is light but durable and completely weatherproof.
The company is Climate Neutral Certified, meaning it has measured, reduced, and offset its carbon emissions (I also LOVE that, as mentioned in multiple packing cubes reviews, Peak Design publishes an Impact Report each year). It is also a B Corp committed to social and environmental performance.
On the downside, products made from recycled materials can sometimes feel different from those made from new materials. But the durability and sustainability make it worth it.
And, with Peak Design being part of the 1% for the Planet initiative, they donate 1% of their revenue to environmental causes. So, buying this Cube means supporting a company that truly cares about our planet.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Ultralight and highly weatherproof Terra Shell 50D material
- Durable UltraZip designed to last for decades
- Compact size fits easily in suitcases
- 100% recycled and Bluesign-approved materials
- Dual compartments for separating clean and dirty clothes
- Compressible design to save space
Cons
- Handles could be sturdier
- Limited size (XX-Small) may not suit all travel needs
- More expensive than some other packing cubes
Read Also: Sea to Summit Travel Products Reviewed
Customer Reviews
After trying out the Peak Design Ultra Light Packing Cube, I wondered what other travelers thought. Most of the reviews are glowing. People love how easy it is to organize their luggage. Many mention its compact size, which makes it perfect for carry-ons and weekend trips.
One consistent praise is how lightweight it is. Other travelers appreciate that it doesn’t add unnecessary weight to their bags. The material feels durable, too, and several reviews note that it held up well to frequent use.
One user commented:
“I’ve been using these cubes for six months now, and they’ve held up incredibly well. The weatherproof feature came in handy during a rainy trek in South America!”
While most comments are positive, some users wish it came in more colors. A few people found the price a bit high but agreed that the quality justifies the cost.
Are the Peak Design Ultra Light Packing Cubes Worth It?
After thorough testing and research, the Peak Design Ultra Light Packing Cubes are a game-changer for organizing packing items and travel essentials. Their innovative features, durability, and eco-friendly design set them apart. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the quality and longevity make them a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers.
The compact size might not suit everyone, especially for longer trips or bulkier items. However, these cubes are hard to beat for those who value efficiency, sustainability, and top-notch design. Grab your Peak Design Ultra Light Packing Cube today and make travel easier.
What are your thoughts on these essential travel accessories? Leave a comment below.
