When you’re traveling with just one backpack, space isn’t just limited, it’s precious. Every inch, zipper, and piece of fabric matters. That’s why the 14×10 inch (about 35×25 cm) compression packing cube has become the universal size for backpackers everywhere. It fits perfectly into nearly every travel backpack and gives you the freedom to pack smarter without overcomplicating things.
Compression Packing Cube for Backpacking
If you’ve read our post on What Size Backpack for Travel, you already know that most travel backpackers use packs between 40 and 70 liters. The most common size for long trips or minimalist travel sits right around 40 liters. That size gives you enough room for your essentials while still fitting as a carry-on.
What really matters though is the backpack’s width. Most travel backpacks over 40 liter range measure about 12 to 14 inches wide (30 to 35 cm) on the inside.
Compression Packing Cube Sizes
For the most part, you’ll find compression packing cubes that come in three different sizes.
The medium size (14×10 inch) compression packing cube makes the perfect match for travel backpacking packs. The large size seems better for suitcases and the small is kind of useless. The standard packing cube for backpackers (the medium) fills the width of the backpack neatly without wasted space or bulging corners. It doesn’t matter if you use an Osprey, Cotopaxi, Tortuga, CabinZero, or Peak Design pack. The fit is universal.
However, even if you use compression packing cubes in a small pack, let's say a 20 liter day bag, these are still the perfect size cubes. You would just have stack them standing instead of laying flat in the larger bags.
Why the Standard Compression Packing Cube for Backpackers Works
In our Compression Packing Cubes: Tips & FAQ article, we talked about why it’s best to keep all your cubes the same size. When your cubes match in size, they stack cleanly, fill the backpack evenly, and don’t leave awkward or wasted gaps. The 14×10 inch (35×25 cm) size is the sweet spot that does exactly that.
One standard size makes packing more efficient. It also simplifies unpacking in hostels or when you’re on a tight schedule. You always know which cube holds what and how it fits in your bag.
The depth of the cube when expanded is usually around four inches (10 cm), but once you zip down the compression zipper, it can shrink to about one or two inches (2.5–5 cm). That space savings adds up quickly when you’re living out of one bag.
Pack Using the Standard Compression Packing Cube for Backpackers
The best system for backpackers is to use multiple cubes of the same size. For a 40 liter pack, four cubes is usually perfect. There is actually a general rule of thumb for how many people cubes you need.
You need one standard size compression packing cube for backpacking for every 10 liters of space in your bag.
With most travel backpackers using a 40L travel backpack, you can organize your clothes like this.
Cube 1: shirts and tops
Cube 2: pants, shorts, or a light sweater
Cube 3: towel, sleepwear, and small accessories
Cube 4: laundry or spare gear
Since each cube shares the same footprint, they stack together seamlessly. You can place them side by side in a front-loading backpack or layer them in a top-loading one. Everything stays balanced and easy to access.
The trick to compressing is simple. Zip the cube halfway, press out the excess air, and then guide the fabric inward with your fingers as you close the rest. The goal is to flatten it evenly without forcing the zipper.
If you want more tips on how to maximize your packing space, check out our Compression Packing Cubes: Tips & FAQ article where we show step-by-step how to pack and compress efficiently.
One Size Compression Packing Cube for Backpackers and Why Backpackers Should Stick to One Size Compression Packing Cube
Using one standard size keeps things modular and lightweight. It also keeps your pack organized in a way that mirrors your lifestyle on the road. When you move from one city to another, you can open your bag, pull out exactly what you need, and close it again in seconds. No rummaging, no chaos.
Our team tested dozens of backpacks while designing Generation Nomad’s Compression Packing Cubes. Every single time, the 14×10 inch (35×25 cm) size fit perfectly. They work beautifully with 20 liter carry-on packs all the way up to 70 liter long-term travel bags. It’s the one size that never fails.
WRITTEN BY
MARK CIPOLLINA
