Head-to-head · Best Packing Cubes

Evergoods Transit Packing Cube 8L vs REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Evergoods Transit Packing Cube 8L and REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set score essentially the same (4.4 vs 4.4). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Ranked #3 in Best Packing Cubes

Evergoods Transit Packing Cube 8L

4.4

$45as of Jul 6

The EVERGOODS Transit Packing Cube 8L offers a balance of durability and organization with its 210D nylon shell and mechanical compression. Reviewers noted its sturdy construction and helpful internal zipper colors for organization, though some found it heavier than expected. Pack Hacker rated it 7.3/10, highlighting its solid middle-ground approach between simplicity and features. It's best suited for travelers seeking reliable packing organization rather than ultra-lightweight options.

Strengths

— Durable 210D HT nylon 6,6 shell with PU knifecoat and silicone finish for easy loading and nesting
— Mechanical compression via zipper line design provides extra packing space
— Internal zippers with uniquely colored orange and gray pullers for easy identification

Watch-outs

— Heavier than typical packing cubes at 6oz (170g)
— External attachment loops seem superfluous and lack clear purpose

$45 · Buy at shoprovegoods.com Full review →

Ranked #1 in Best Packing Cubes

REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

4.4

$49.95

The REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set offers significant storage capacity through its accordion-style compression feature, allowing users to pack twice as much as standard cubes. Wirecutter praised the cubes for their ability to hold more items while maintaining wrinkle-free clothing, though they noted the compression zippers can be difficult to operate and have broken on some units. Pack Hacker also reported issues with the compression zipper failing early in use. The cubes are made of ripstop nylon and come with REI's one-year satisfaction guarantee. Best suited for overpackers seeking maximum space efficiency, but those prioritizing durability may want to consider alternatives.

Strengths

— Expandable design allows storage to double from 3.5L to 6L (small), 8.5L to 13L (medium), and 14L to 21L (large)
— Compression zippers help maximize space while keeping clothes wrinkle-free
— Made of ripstop nylon that resists snags and tears

Watch-outs

— Compression zipper can be finicky to operate and has broken on some units after initial use
— Zippers may require extra force to close, especially when overpacked
— Largest bag in set is a slightly different color than smaller bags

$49.95 · Buy at rei.com Full review →

How they stack up

Evergoods Transit Packing Cube 8L

The Evergoods Transit Cube offers mechanical compression and a unique internal zipper color-coding system, features not found in the Thule Compression Cube Set or Eagle Creek model. While the Peak Design Packing Cube emphasizes quick access and the REI Co-op cubes offer expandability, the Evergoods cube balances durability with organizational features. The Patagonia Black Hole Cube focuses on sustainability, but the Evergoods model provides more comprehensive internal organization and a sturdier construction for heavy-duty packing.

REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

The REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set maximizes space with its accordion-style compression, something the Patagonia Black Hole Cube and Thule Compression Cube Set do not offer. While the Evergoods Transit Cube provides mechanical compression, the REI cubes are expandable and offer more volume flexibility. The Eagle Creek model focuses on garment folding, and Peak Design emphasizes quick access, making the REI set ideal for overpackers who want maximum capacity without sacrificing wrinkle protection.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Evergoods Transit Packing Cube 8L	REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set
Material	210d HT nylon 6,6	Ripstop Nylon, YKK Zippers
Dimensions	10.8"L x 5.5"W x 6.7"H	14 in x 10 in x 6.5 in (35.6 x 25.4 x 16.5 cm)
Weight	6oz \| 170g	9.9 oz (280.7 g)
Capacity	8L	3.5 to 21 liters
Features	Clamshell opening, mechanical compression, and exterior accessory pocket	3.5L to 6L (small), 8.5L to 13L (medium), 14L to 21L (large)

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