REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Sets
Don’t break a sweat trying to cram that last T-shirt into your carry-on. These lightweight ripstop nylon packing cubes held the most of any set we tested, while taking up the least amount of space when fully compressed. They have two zippers to adjust their size, so you may even wind up with extra room for souvenirs.
Other things to know: Compression zippers can be finicky. The three-cube set includes small, medium, and large cubes, and the two-cube long set has one long small and one long large cube. REI members get free shipping; others can opt for store pickup or add to an order of $60 or more.
Read more: The Best Packing Cubes
Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set
With a newly updated design, these durable cubes — a longtime pick — repel water better and feel even sturdier than before. They stay upright when empty, so they’re easy to pack, and the tight-link mesh windows allow you to see inside a cube without opening it.
Other things to know: The street price increased with the redesign. We haven’t tested the updated version for more than a year yet, but Eagle Creek offers a lifetime warranty to original owners. On sale for REI members with single-use promo code ANNIV2025.
Read more: The Best Packing Cubes
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Del Dia Travel Pack
With an easy-to-pack clamshell design and highly adjustable straps, this backpack makes traveling an organized breeze. It has a rainfly to protect your gear, plus handles on all four sides for easily moving it in and out of overhead compartments. It’s protected by a full lifetime warranty, with the build quality to back it up.
Other things to know: Though well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. Del Dia bags use deadstock fabric that might have otherwise ended up in a landfill. Choose black remnant fabric (Del Dia dark version) or random multicolor fabric (Del Dia). At REI membership is required, with single-use promo code ANNIV2025. At Public Lands, single-use discount reflects in cart when signed in with free account.
Read more: The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
We think most travelers will appreciate this adjustable and customizable pack’s easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way it expands and contracts. And if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers, it’s a near-perfect system for photographers and gearheads.
Other things to know: Lifetime warranty. Committing to the whole system of packing and camera cubes adds extra cost to an already expensive bag. Matches the lowest prices we’ve seen in the past year. On sale for REI members with the single-use coupon code ANNIV2025.
Read our review of the best carry-on travel backpacks.
Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
Take full advantage of that remote work policy. This travel bag is like a suitcase on your back, but more pleasant to carry thanks to a simple interior and minimal external features. Its large capacity is complemented by dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and personal items.
Other things to know: You wouldn’t want to carry it all day, but it’s comfortable enough. Meets most carry-on size standards, but we wish it came in a few more sizes. Fits 17-inch laptops. Stowable straps. On sale for REI members with single-use coupon code ANNIV2025. At Public Lands, single-use discount reflects in cart when signed in with free account. At Al’s, use single-use code MEMORIALDAY25.
Read more: The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks
Peak Design Wash Pouch
This minimalist-looking bag hides the most thoughtfully designed interior of any dopp-style pouch we tested: It opens accordion-style to reveal several specialized pockets that keep essentials secure and separate. Made of lightweight and water-resistant recycled nylon, its wide base keeps it standing upright, even when full.
Other things to know: Shallower hook is more likely to slide off a towel bar when digging around in the bag; we think it works best sitting on a countertop. All pockets turn inside out for easy cleaning. Lifetime warranty. REI membership required; use single-use promo code ANNIV2025.
Read more: The Best Toiletry Bags
Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Compression Sack
We recommend this traditional compression stuff sack in our guide to overpacking. It can shrink to a third of its original size, squishing down a few days’ worth of apparel to maximize packing space.
Other things to know: See it in action here. We haven’t formally tested its waterproofing, but the brand claims it’s more moisture-resistant than previous models. Less ideal for trips in which you’re living out of your suitcase, but useful for single-destination journeys to reduce volume. Deal price is for the 13-liter size, but all sizes are on sale.
Read more: Overpacking 101: The No-Shame Guide to Stuffing Your Suitcase Silly
Purist Mover Water Bottle
Stay hydrated with this sleek-looking water bottle with an unbreakable glass interior that prevents flavors from transferring. It looks like a design object, insulates both hot and cold drinks well, and comes with a lifetime warranty.
Other things to know: Includes the Element twist top that typically costs less than the spout lid. Not dishwasher-safe. Clunky to drink from. Our most expensive pick. REI membership required; get the deal price with single-use code ANNIV2025.
Read more: The Best Water Bottles
