What's the best method to use the packing cubes efficiently?

[conejo23]

I've been reading about the different ways of packing, like bundling, rolling, etc... I'm just wondering what's the best way to make the most efficient use of space in the packing cubes. My guess is rolling, but I'd appreciate hearing what others do.

[Frank II]

What is "best" is subjective.

Whether to fold or roll when using packing cubes is a personal choice. Both work well. I go back and forth depending on what I'm taking and basically if I'm bored with one method and need to change.

My suggestion is to try both and see which one you prefer.

One caveat: I do find I can fit more in by rolling. But fitting more in isn't necessarily a good thing. It leads to overpacking.

[conejo23]

Thanks Frank.

That's what I figured. In this case, there will be no overpacking. I've got a set packing list and what's on it needs to come with me, and what isn't on it is staying home. Just a question of how much room what's on my list will occupy.

[Frank II]

In that case, do a test pack of both ways. Then see which you prefer and which wrinkles less. I'm currently in a rolling mode for cubes and save the folding for folders.

[conejo23]

Thanks Frank, will do.

[flitcraft]

I have tried bundle packing, which is best in my opinion when you aren't using packing cubes. But if you are, you have to undo your whole bundle just to extract what you're looking for, then re-bundle back the rest. I am definitely a rolling gal, and it is true that you can pack an amazing amount that way. My husband is a folder, and when we recently traveled together, he was surprised that his Tristar weighed less than my Western Flyer. The magic of rolling is that it is incredibly efficient in utilizing space; the downside is that even the Western Flyer can hold enough to become uncomfortably heavy if you don't watch it. On the other hand, rolling my clothes in packing cubes will allow me to spend three weeks in Kuala Lumpur this summer with only my Tristar and a 'personal item' for my electronics.

One of the things I really like about packing cubes is that they keep my clothing organized once I get where I'm going, and make packing up to return home a breeze.

Bundle packing is the most practical way to pack things like suit jackets that would wrinkle, though. I tend to wear my one and only blazer on the plane, and make sure it coordinates with all my tops and pants. But when I used to bring a business suit in my Aeronaut, I bundle packed it.

[JLE]

I love the TB cubes - I invariably use them even if I am not using a TB bag - and mostly fold. But t shirts etc are often best rolled and slotted into the ends and corners of the cube - as everyone says, rolling is a very efficient way of using the space. I have never tried a bundle pack, mostly because I don't like the idea of having to dismantle the bundle to extract something from it.