Join me and make packing for your next trip easier than ever.

A few years ago, I received a set of packing cubes as a free gift when I ordered new walking shoes from DSW. The cubes were a blue stripe, and since blue is a color I’m not fond of (a story for another day), I gave them to my husband. After watching him use them on several subsequent trips, I bought an inexpensive set for myself. And my travel packing hasn’t been the same since.

I now pack easily the day prior to our travels, instead of willy-nilly throwing things into the suitcase minutes before our planned departure. Not only can I fit more in my suitcase, but unpacking at my destination is much easier, if you even bother to remove the cubes from your luggage. I usually place the cubes in a drawer or on a shelf and everything stays organized. Socks in one pouch, undergarments in another. My workout gear even gets its own cube. Clothes stay much less wrinkled whether you fold or roll them. My set of bags even has an expansive toiletry bag with a hook to hang in the bathroom.

When shopping for packing cubes, options abound. Price points vary widely, but you don’t need to spend lots of money. Just check the reviews for quality. Some brands provide a compression feature, while others offer specialty items to hold shoes, laundry, and the aforementioned toiletries. With some quick research, you’re bound to find something to fit your needs. Or just wait for the next free-gift offer from one of your favorite retailers.

I now proudly consider myself part of the cult of packing cubes. It’s been the easiest area in my life to improve my organization and efficiency. And who couldn’t use an easy win?