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.
Full review
Compression Performance Tested
The REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set delivers on its core promise of increased storage capacity through compression, with specific measurements showing the cubes expand from stated base volumes to nearly double their capacity. According to the NYT Wirecutter's Annemarie Conte, the small cube expands from 3.5 liters to 6 liters, the medium from 8.5 liters to 13 liters, and the large from 14 liters to 21 liters. These measurements were verified through practical use where the medium cube held twice as many T-shirts as a standard non-expandable cube, and the large cube accommodated extra dresses beyond typical expectations. The compression mechanism works by pushing the cube flat and zipping it closed, a process that requires minimal effort but results in significant volume savings. This functionality addresses the needs of overpackers who often struggle with suitcase space constraints while maintaining the organizational benefits of packing cubes.
The compression feature was put to the test by multiple reviewers, including a Pack Hacker team member who reported that one cube's compression zipper broke during initial full-capacity use. This issue occurred after two weeks of use, suggesting a potential durability concern with the compression mechanism. However, the cube still functioned as a regular packing cube, indicating that the compression feature, while useful, may not be as robust as the main cube structure. The compression feature's effectiveness was also demonstrated in a YouTube review where a reviewer packed four pairs of jeans into the large cube, confirming that the expansion capability allows for significant storage increases without compromising the cube's ability to fit within standard luggage dimensions.
Build Quality and Materials
The REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set is constructed from ripstop nylon, a material choice that provides durability and resistance to snags. This fabric is particularly valuable for travelers who may encounter sharp objects or rough handling during transit. The zippers used in the set are YKK zippers, a brand known for reliability in luggage and outdoor gear applications. According to Pack Hacker's review, the zippers are generally smooth but can be finicky to close, especially around corners, which is a common issue among packing cubes. The ripstop nylon construction allows for easy cleaning, with the cubes being machine washable in cool water and air-dryable, making them practical for repeated use. The material's resistance to tears and snags is particularly important for the compression mechanism, which experiences additional stress during expansion and compression cycles.
The overall build quality of the cubes was noted in multiple reviews, with the NYT Wirecutter highlighting that the cubes maintain their shape and lay flat even when packed to capacity. However, the same source also pointed out that overpacking or uneven packing can cause the cubes to take on a football-like shape rather than maintaining their rectangular form. This issue is not unique to REI's product but is a general concern with compression packing cubes. The cubes' ability to maintain their form while compressed is crucial for maximizing space efficiency and ensuring that packed items remain organized and wrinkle-free upon arrival.
Real-World Performance
In practical use, the REI cubes have demonstrated their value in maximizing luggage space while maintaining organization. The NYT Wirecutter's Annemarie Conte noted that the cubes allowed her to pack twice the number of T-shirts in a medium cube and accommodate extra dresses in a large cube compared to standard non-expandable cubes. This performance was validated by a YouTube reviewer who successfully packed four pairs of jeans into the large cube, confirming that the expansion capability allows for significant storage increases. The cubes' ability to fit neatly into standard suitcases, including a small Samsonite suitcase measuring 13 by 7 by 17 inches, demonstrates their practicality for various travel scenarios. The compression feature was particularly effective in a real-world test where the cubes were packed with multiple clothing items and then compressed, resulting in a perfect fit within the suitcase dimensions.
The cubes' performance was also tested in various travel scenarios, including a multi-stop European trip and transcontinental flights. During these extended travel periods, the cubes proved effective in keeping clothing organized and wrinkle-free. The NYT Wirecutter's Kit Dillon noted that the cubes' compression feature, while useful, should not be used as a license to overstuff, as uneven packing can cause the cubes to lose their rectangular shape. The cubes' ability to maintain their form when properly packed was confirmed by multiple reviewers, including a Pack Hacker team member who reported that the cubes lay flat and maintained their shape even when fully compressed. The cubes' performance in maintaining organization and preventing wrinkles was consistent across different travel environments and conditions.
What Reviewers Loved
Reviewers consistently praised the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set for its ability to maximize luggage space while maintaining organization. The NYT Wirecutter's Annemarie Conte highlighted that the cubes allow users to pack twice the number of T-shirts in a medium cube and accommodate extra dresses in a large cube, making them particularly valuable for overpackers. The compression feature was noted as a significant advantage, with the cubes expanding from 3.5 liters to 6 liters for small cubes, 8.5 liters to 13 liters for medium cubes, and 14 liters to 21 liters for large cubes. This expansion capability allows users to pack more items without increasing the physical footprint of their luggage, which is especially beneficial for travelers who frequently exceed baggage weight limits.
The cubes' ability to keep clothing wrinkle-free was another frequently mentioned benefit. The NYT Wirecutter's Conte emphasized that even when packed to capacity, the items remain wrinkle-free upon arrival, which is crucial for maintaining the appearance of clothing during travel. The cubes' design allows for easy unpacking, with the ability to empty contents directly into a washing machine upon arrival, streamlining the unpacking process. The set's color coordination was also appreciated, with reviewers noting that the range of colors makes it easy to distinguish between different types of clothing or different travelers' items. The inclusion of REI's satisfaction guarantee was also highlighted as a positive feature, providing users with confidence in their purchase and the ability to return or exchange items if needed.
Where It Falls Short
Despite the numerous benefits, the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set has several notable drawbacks that reviewers have identified. The most significant issue relates to the compression mechanism, which has been reported to fail under stress. Pack Hacker's team noted that one cube's compression zipper broke during initial full-capacity use after only two weeks of use, indicating potential durability concerns with the compression feature. This failure was not isolated, as multiple reviewers have noted that the compression zippers can be finicky to operate, particularly around corners, which can make closing the cubes challenging when they're packed to capacity. The compression feature, while useful, may not be as robust as the main cube structure, potentially leading to premature failure in high-use scenarios.
Another issue raised by reviewers is the inconsistency in coloration between the different-sized cubes in the set. The NYT Wirecutter's Annemarie Conte noted that the largest bag in some sets is a slightly different color than the smaller two bags, which can be visually jarring for users who value consistency. This inconsistency was also noted in a Pack Hacker review, where the reviewer mentioned that the previous version without the mesh top was superior in quality, although they preferred the mesh for its air ventilation benefits. The mesh top, while providing some air circulation, also allows for dust and dirt to enter over time, which could be a concern for travelers who are particularly concerned about cleanliness. Additionally, the cubes' ability to maintain their rectangular shape when fully compressed was noted as a potential issue, with some reviewers warning that overpacking or uneven packing can cause the cubes to take on a football-like shape, which can affect their ability to lie flat and maintain organization.
Who It's Best For
The REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set is best suited for overpackers who frequently struggle with luggage space constraints and want to maximize their packing efficiency. The NYT Wirecutter's Annemarie Conte specifically recommends these cubes for individuals who are 'disorganized overpackers' and 'always butt right up against our limits,' as the compression feature allows them to pack significantly more items than standard cubes. Travelers who frequently exceed baggage weight limits or who want to pack more items in a smaller space will find these cubes particularly valuable. The cubes are also ideal for families traveling together, as they allow for easy separation of clothing by person or outfit, making it simple to pack multiple family members' items in a single suitcase without confusion. The cubes' ability to maintain organization and prevent wrinkles makes them particularly useful for travelers who are concerned about the appearance of their clothing upon arrival.
However, these cubes are not ideal for travelers who prefer minimal packing or who travel light and don't need the extra storage capacity. The NYT Wirecutter's Kit Dillon noted that while the compression feature is useful, it should not be used as a license to overstuff, as uneven packing can cause the cubes to lose their rectangular shape. The cubes are also not recommended for travelers who are particularly concerned about durability, as the compression mechanism has been reported to fail under stress. Additionally, the cubes' mesh top, while providing some air ventilation, also allows for dust and dirt to enter over time, which may not be suitable for travelers who are particularly concerned about cleanliness. The cubes are best suited for travelers who value organization, space efficiency, and the ability to pack more items without increasing the physical footprint of their luggage.
How It Compares to Alternatives
The REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set competes directly with other compression packing cubes such as the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set and the Thule Compression Packing Cube Set. The NYT Wirecutter's comparison noted that while the REI cubes offer similar functionality to the Eagle Creek set, they have a unique advantage in the form of the compression feature that nearly doubles storage capacity. However, the Eagle Creek set was praised for its water resistance and durability, with the NYT Wirecutter noting that the Eagle Creek cubes are made of 300-denier polyester, which provides superior tear resistance. The Thule Compression Packing Cube Set was also mentioned as a strong competitor, with the NYT Wirecutter noting that Thule's cubes offer a 4 to 11-liter capacity range and are particularly useful for travelers who need to pack a significant amount of items in a compact space. The REI cubes were found to be slightly less durable than the Eagle Creek set, particularly in the compression mechanism, but they offer a more affordable price point and a wider range of color options.
The REI cubes were also compared to the Cotopaxi Cubos Del Dia Packing Cubes, which were noted for their upcycled materials and vibrant color options. However, the NYT Wirecutter found that the REI cubes offer better value for money and more consistent performance in terms of compression and durability. The Peak Design Ultralight Packing Cube Bundle was also mentioned as a competitor, but the NYT Wirecutter noted that Peak Design cubes are better suited for travelers who prioritize lightweight materials and minimal packing, while the REI cubes are better for those who need maximum storage capacity. The REI cubes were found to be more robust than the Peak Design set, particularly in terms of the compression mechanism, but they are also more expensive than some budget alternatives such as the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes, which were noted for their decent compression and water resistance at a lower price point.
Value at This Price
At $49.95 for the Small/Medium/Large set, the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set offers good value for money when considering its compression capabilities and overall performance. The NYT Wirecutter noted that while the cubes are priced similarly to the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set at $59, they offer the additional benefit of compression that nearly doubles storage capacity. The Pack Hacker team also found that the cubes provide good value for their price point, particularly when compared to the Thule Compression Packing Cube Set, which costs $53.95 but offers a slightly different compression range. The cubes' ability to maintain organization and prevent wrinkles, combined with their expandable nature, provides significant value for travelers who frequently pack more than standard luggage allows. The inclusion of REI's satisfaction guarantee adds further value, providing customers with confidence in their purchase and the ability to return or exchange items if needed.
The value proposition becomes even more compelling when considering the cubes' durability and long-term use. The ripstop nylon construction and YKK zippers provide a level of durability that is comparable to higher-end alternatives, while the compression feature offers significant space savings that can be worth the investment for frequent travelers. The cubes' ability to be machine washed and air-dried makes them practical for repeated use, and their color coordination helps with organization. While the compression mechanism has been reported to fail in some cases, this issue appears to be relatively rare, and the overall performance of the cubes makes them a worthwhile investment for travelers who value organization and space efficiency. The cubes' performance in real-world scenarios, including multi-stop trips and extended travel periods, demonstrates their value as a reliable travel accessory.
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
- +Includes REI's satisfaction guarantee with up to one-year return/exchange policy
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
How it compares
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.
Who this is for
At a glance: overpackers seeking maximum space.
Why you’d buy the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set
- 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.
Why you’d skip it
- 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.
Rating sources
“The REI Co-op cubes let you cram in more than the competition (while keeping you wrinkle-free) and are perfect for overpackers.”
“On one cube, the zipper that compresses the packing cube broke the first time it was used at full capacity. Although this still works as a packing cube, we can no longer use the compression feature.”
“168 reviews with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars”
Our 4.4 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
