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T&C Tried & True : The Compression Packing Cubes That Make Carryon Only Even Easier
Saving space and efficiency are the name of the seasoned traveler's game after all.
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Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Here at T&C, we pride ourselves on our discerning eye for quality. With Tried & True, our editors will give you an inside look at the pieces they simply cannot live without.
LeanTravel LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes for Travel Organizers with Double Zipper (3-Pack (2L+1M), Black)
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I've been traveling a ton recently, but on a trip last year, I had to prepare for a full week abroad with an outfit for both day and night, in vastly different climates (potentially chilly in Paris, and boiling hot in Arles). I have to admit, I was really grappling with whether I was going to end up violating my own rules and checking a bag. But sometimes the internet delivers (algorithms are really something!) and almost as if by design, while I was worrying/planning, I came across a TikTok of Bethenny Frankel discussing packing cubes that were actually worth it, which I implicitly trusted because Bethenny seems to have the same amount of patience for nonsense and inefficiency that I do... exactly zero. So in my cart the LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes went, arriving on my doorstep right as I started to plot out my outfit plan for a week away in France.
And let me tell you, they are no joke. Not only did I get a full week of pajamas and workout clothes (which I didn't use, SMH) packed, but I had seven full days worth of outfits, and changes for the evening, plus one or two extra pieces just in case. And not only did I get my bag to close easily, the double zip compression saved me so much space that I was able to bring along 4 pairs of shoes, and still (still!) have room to do some shopping. Color me impressed.
Needless to say, Bethenny wasn't messing around when she recommended the LeanTravel Compression cubes and neither am I. I am buying more to see if the bigger sizes buy me even more wiggle room in my game of carryon bag Tetris. If you're traveling this summer, don't think twice. Once you go compression cube (specifically these), you don't go back. At least I haven't. In fact, I haven't traveled without them since I got them.
As the deputy digital lifestyle director at Town & Country, Roxanne Adamiyatt covers fashion, beauty, wellness, design and travel.
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The 8 Best Packing Cubes, Tested and Reviewed
These items organize your luggage better
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In This Article
- Our Top Picks
Final Verdict
How we tested.
- Others We Tested
- What to Look For
Frequently Asked Questions
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TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong
Packing for a trip is no easy feat, yet packing cubes can offer the organization and space we seek. But with so many packing cubes to choose from, how can we be sure which are the best?
We took on this challenge and had six travelers test 23 packing cube sets. They stuffed clothes and toiletries into the packing cubes, running them through various tests to determine which worked the best in terms of capacity, design, quality, and value. The result? We found the top packing cubes in a wide range of categories, from the best for maximum compression to the best for durability, families, and more.
Best Overall
Rei co-op expandable packing cube set.
Solid value
Durable, protective exterior
Big time space saving
The REI Co-Op Expandable Packing Cube Set only comes with two cubes. However, our tester loved their clever design, which sees the zipper curve around the perimeter of the cube twice for ultimate compression. In fact, the medium cube can go from 13 liters to 8.5 liters, while the large cube’s capacity changes from 21 liters to 14 liters when using the compression zipper.
Testers noted that the Bluesign-approved ripstop nylon fabric was akin to tent fabric and waterproof to boot. Of course, the mesh section won’t do much against water, but it does allow travelers to see what’s in the cube before opening it. The top handle makes pulling these cubes out of your suitcase easy, while the side handle is a bonus. For the price, you get two incredibly effective packing cubes with the kind of long-lasting material and stitching you’d expect from REI Co-op. The set fits comfortably in a carry-on suitcase and allows room for a toiletry bag.
Dimensions: Large: 14.5 x 10.5 x 6 inches, medium: 12 x 8 x 6 inches | Material: Ripstop nylon (Bluesign-approved), polyester mesh (Bluesign-approved) | Number of Cubes: 2
TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik
Best Overall, Runner-Up
Gonex compression packing cubes.
Simple and effective
Could be more protective
Our testers were surprised by the capabilities of this no-frills set of four packing cubes. They stuffed them all to the brim and used the double zippers to compress the cubes down. There was no indication that the threaded seams were stressed. This aspect made the testers overlook that the material is not as water-resistant as advertised. You can always double-wrap liquids, but you can’t always find packing cubes with excellent compression capabilities to fit a lot in a little space. Keep in mind, however, that the zippers do not go all the way around the cube. Our tester didn’t have any problem with that, but it is something we thought best to note.
The four pieces range in size from small to extra-large, giving you plenty of options for organizing all your items. With tons of color options and a phenomenal price point, we had to choose this set as our runner-up.
Dimensions: Extra-large: 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches, large: 4.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches, medium: 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches, small: 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches | Material: Ripstop nylon | Number of Cubes: 4
Veken Packing Cubes With Laundry and Shoe Bag
Large selection of pieces
Hassle-free packing system
Contents are easily visible
Not ideal for over-packers
You get a lot for a low price when it comes to the Veken Packing Cubes set. Buyers receive four cubes of various sizes plus two additional bags—a laundry bag and a shoe bag. The set comes in a wide range of colors but lacks a compression zipper, making them more apt for organization than saving space. See inside the cubes via the transparent strip of fabric and a small mesh section or just pack the cubes according to the clothing label found on the bottom right-hand corner of the cube.
Because the packing cubes don’t have compression zippers, this set works best for travelers with large suitcases who simply want their belongings well organized and easy to find.
Dimensions: Extra-large: 17.5 x 12.15 x 4 inches, large: 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches, medium: 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches, small: 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches, shoe bag: 16.96 x 9.06 x 4.72 inches, laundry bag: 20 x 14 inches | Material: Nylon, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyester | Number of Cubes: 4 cubes, 2 bags
Best Compression
Well traveled compression packing cubes.
Great for highly organized travelers
Choice of various shades
Easy to maintain
Not water resistant
The Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes set includes three cubes and one drawstring bag that can be used to store shoes or as a laundry bag. Available in a few colors, this set is reasonably priced and has an excellent compression zipper that maximizes your luggage space. In the larger cube, our tester fit one pair of jeans, two short-sleeve shirts, and two long-sleeve shirts. The medium cube fit two pairs of socks and two pairs of underwear; we packed the small cube with toiletries bottles . When a traveler utilizes the compression zipper, the cubes go from 5 inches in width to 1 inch.
These cubes are not as structured as they appear in marketing photos. And unfortunately, our tester found that they didn't protect against spilled liquids. That said, they are machine washable and have tiny pockets to fit one of the 50 luggage cards included in the package.
Dimensions: Large: 10 x 5 x 14 inches, medium: 8 x 5 x 11.5 inches, small: 5.5 x 5 x 7 inches, laundry bag: 11 x 18 inches | Material: Twill fabric | Number of Cubes: 4
Best for Families
Shacke pak 5 set packing cubes.
Budget-friendly
Ventilation/viewing patches
Also available in set of eight
Could be more functional
Go with the packing cube set from Shacke Pak when packing for a family vacation . This five-piece set comes in a few color options and includes four cubes and one drawstring bag. Although our testers didn’t mention whether the fabric was water resistant or not, Shacke advertises that it is. Of course, that doesn’t include the mesh panels that allow you to look inside the cubes.
The cubes don’t have compression zippers, so they’re primarily intended for those who need a lot of space to keep each family member’s clothes organized and separated. You’ll better fit all these cubes in a larger checked suitcase than a carry-on bag. Investing in multiple sets (one for each family member) is also a realistic option given the set's reasonable price tag.
Dimensions Extra-large: 17.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches, large: 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches, medium: 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches, small: 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches, Laundry Bag: 20.5 x 15.75 inches | Material: Not listed | Number of Cubes: 4 cubes, 1 bag
Best Durability
Peak design packing cubes.
Super light and tough fabric
Two compartments
Sustainably built
Pricey as a set
Somewhat involved to get into
You can buy Peak Design Packing Cubes as a single small or medium cube or shoe pouch or as a set of three, six, or eight. The way our testers raved about the small packing cube they tested, we suggest going for the three-piece set. But keep in mind the sets are expensive.
These packing cubes come in three color options, are designed with two handles, and have a moveable internal divider that lets you separate clothes however you see fit. Thanks to the double compression zippers, you can fit two packing cubes in the space of one. More specifically, the cubes are about 6.7 inches wide when fully expanded and have the capability of compressing to 3.1 inches. It's important to note that you'll have to use both zippers simultaneously when you want to open the main compartment.
These durable cubes are waterproof, though there is a slight gap near the zipper that, theoretically, water could get into. The likelihood of that happening is low. As we said, the price of this packing cube set is considerable, but with the superb craftsmanship and a lifetime guarantee warranty, you'll likely be satisfied with your purchase.
Dimensions: Medium: 12.6 x 12.6 x 6.7 inches, small: 12.6 x 6.7 x 6.7 inches | Material: Ripstop 70-denier nylon/poly shell | Number of Cubes: 1 to 8
Best Personalized
Paravel packing cube quad.
Water-resistant fabric
Sustainable materials
Not the most affordable
Lacks some nice-to-have features
We can see the Paravel Packing Cube Quad being a phenomenal gift for the traveler in your life, mainly because of the excellent colors and the opportunity to have the cubes embroidered with custom monograms.
Of the four cubes, we used the larger one to pack three pairs of shoes and the medium cube to pack a couple of sweatpants, two long-sleeve shirts, two short-sleeve shirts, two pairs of underwear, and two pairs of socks. Basically, you can get a lot of clothes in the larger cubes and use the small cube for extra socks, underwear, or toiletries. Our tester noted that there was still some space left for them to pack more items in the cubes.
Although the cubes have two-way zippers, they aren’t compression zippers. We were also surprised that the cubes didn’t have handles but liked that they do have clear windows to see inside. Environmentally friendly travelers will appreciate that the fabric features 16 upcycled water bottles and meets the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and the Global Recycled Standard . The only downside? The hefty price.
Dimensions: Large: 18 x 3.75 x 12 inches, medium: 12.75 x 3.75 x 10 inches, small: 8.2 x. 3.75 x 6.25 inches | Material: OEKO-TEX Standard 100- and Global Recycled Standard-certified, water-resistant Negative nylon | Number of Cubes: 4
Best Splurge
Calpak packing cubes 5-piece set.
Fun and classic tones
Feature filled
Long lasting
Only the pouch is water resistant
Packing cubes can be so bland in style, but not the Calpak Packing Cubes 5-Piece Set. Styles range from astrologically inspired to groovy wavy designs and even a few that have solid colors like hazel, olive, or black. Our tester found the four cubes and envelope pouch to be very durable. All the cubes (not the pouch) have mesh panels, organizing labels, and handles. While these cubes don’t have compression zippers and the price is a bit high, the durability of the material and the design options might be worth it.
Dimensions: Large: 17 x 12 x 3 inches, medium: 15 x 11 x 3 inches, small: 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches, envelope pouch: 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Cubes: 5
With excellent compression capabilities, durable ripstop fabric, and a price that won't break the bank, the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set earns our top pick. Another set that performed well was the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes , thanks to their double-zipper compression and range of available colors, not to mention that they come in a set of four.
After removing the packing cubes from their packaging, we quickly assessed the materials, checking aspects such as the stitching and zippers for durability. Our next step involved packing the cubes with apparel, shoes, and accessories such as toiletries and cosmetics before zipping them up and placing them in a carry-on suitcase to see how much space they took up. We also splashed them with a bit of water to test the water resistance of the packing cube material.
For each packing cube set, we made extensive notes on the capacity, design, material quality, and value. With any carry-on luggage , space is limited, and we wanted to ensure we chose packing cubes that not only allowed us to fit as many items as possible but had the kind of material and design that would be durable for frequent travel use. To round it out, we wanted the price to reflect the features presented.
Other Packing Cubes We Tested
Béis The Packing Cubes : While we loved the label that came with these bags, we didn't think that the price reflected the space or quality of the material.
Herschel Travel Organizers : This set's small and medium cubes were wonderful, but we found the large cube awkwardly huge. It made packing a carry-on difficult and didn't offer the kind of space-saving functionality we desired.
Briggs & Riley Packing Cubes : These cubes fit a decent amount of clothes, seemed durable, and had an excellent expansion feature, but there wasn't anything that particularly wowed us. One drawback was that one full side of the packing cubes is mesh, which won't protect your clothes if a spill occurs.
Away The Insider Packing Cubes : Mesh is great for breathability, but the mesh cover of these packing cubes isn't going to do much against spilled liquids. Not to mention, they're a bit expensive, which seems to be mainly because of the brand name.
Eagle Creek Pack-it Starter Set : If you only need two regular cubes and a folder-style cube, the Eagle Creek Pack-it Starter Set isn't too shabby, mainly because it held up to our water test. If you haven't used a folder-style cube before, it can be confusing to pack.
L.L.Bean Packing Cube Set : The price point seems accurate for L.L.Bean but may be expensive for what you get—cubes with a little stretch and a partly mesh top. Our tester wanted the cube to have a bit more structure.
Bagail Compression Packing Cubes : The price is right, and the design is pretty standard, but we were a little worried about the seam work, mainly when the compression feature was utilized. These may not last as long as others.
YAMIU Packing Cubes 7-Pcs : These packing cubes are standard, but does one need seven packing cubes? And you'll have to be okay with see-through toiletry bags.
Lean Travel Premium Compression Packing Cubes : These no-frills packing cubes may work for the newbie traveler, but fitting all three in a carry-on was a challenge for our tester.
EZPacking Clear Packing Cubes : These may work if you're comfortable with see-through packing cubes. The small cube only fits a few toiletry items.
OEE Luggage Packing Organizers : Who doesn't love a bargain? Unfortunately, the price reflects super thin material that doesn't do well with thick clothing and flimsy zippers that get caught in the mesh.
TRIPPED Compression Packing Cubes for Travel : These cubes were a bit expensive, especially since they didn't feel sturdy and the zipper didn't go all the way around the cubes, making them a little harder to pack.
What to Look For in Packing Cubes
If you check your suitcase, weight is always a consideration. Choosing packing cubes that are light enough to make a negligible difference to the airline scale is therefore important. For the most part, packing cubes are not particularly heavy, though we’ve seen some structured ones that may add a few pounds to your bag.
Packing cubes are typically made of nylon, though some use better nylon than others. Ripstop nylon, for instance, is less likely to tear than other types. Although we love to see a water-resistant or waterproof packing cube, many of our testers found that the water resistance or waterproofness wasn’t as effective as expected. Many packing cubes have mesh panels that somewhat defeat the purpose of using water-resistant fabric. Of course, mesh panels let you see inside the bag and are more breathable than plastic panels.
Packing cubes come in various sizes that differ from brand to brand. (A size small from one brand will have different measurements than a small packing cube from another brand.) Look at the dimensions for the packing cubes before buying. Most packing cubes will fit in a carry-on suitcase, though we’ve seen some large or extra-large packing cubes that are too big, take up too much space, or are an awkward size. The same thing can happen with small packing cubes—some are just too small to really fit anything inside. While not everyone likes packing cubes with compression features, they remove air and save space, which is a nice feature to consider.
Number of Cubes
Do you need more than five cubes? That all depends on the size of your family if you plan on buying one set to share, or if you're buying for a checked bag and a carry-on. Packing cube sets can range from two cubes to as many as eight. It never hurts to have a backup cube in case you rip one, lose one, or it just wears out, though if you want to limit how much you pack , it might be a good idea to buy a two- or three-cube set.
How you pack your cubes in a carry-on suitcase will depend on the type of luggage you’re using. No matter what type of carry-on bag you have, you’ll most likely have to play Tetris to figure out the best method for fitting the packing cubes in the luggage. Those with carry-on suitcases might find that positioning the cubes vertically rather than horizontally provides more space, but again, this can only happen if the suitcase is deep enough to allow such a packing strategy.
While you can find many tips and tricks for packing clothes in packing cubes, it’s likely that when you remove your clothing, it will have some wrinkles. Rolling your clothes—once you’ve buttoned and zipped all tops and bottoms—may reduce wrinkles. This is because there are fewer folds in the fabric. You could also try limiting the pressure exerted on the outside of the cube to prevent folds from compressing and forming wrinkles. Or, save yourself a headache and pack clothes made of fabrics resistant to wrinkling. As a last resort, consider bringing along a travel steamer.
Most packing cubes can be put in the washing machine on cold, but you should double-check the tag to see if they need to be hand-washed. If you put them in the washing machine, zip them up so the zipper doesn't snag on anything. Most people suggest air drying the packing cubes as the material tends to do poorly against the heat of a dryer. A hand-sanitizing wipe can clean away germs or small spills if you're in a bind. Although some suggest using Febreze or essential oils to refresh packing cubes, be mindful of how oily the product may be, as it could cause the packing cube to get sticky or stain your clothing. Putting a dryer sheet in the cube may be a better option.
Author Alex Temblador is an outdoor and travel journalist who lives in Texas. Alex seeks out adventurous travels all around the world, and often uses packing cubes to get to her destination. Throughout her career she has rappelled in Mexico, kayaked in Puerto Rico and Thailand, skied in Telluride and Montana, surfed in Zihuatanejo, scuba dived in Bonaire, and hiked in Peru and Switzerland. Products for this article were chosen according to the results of lab tests carried out by the TripSavvy team.
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LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes for Travel Organizers with Double Zipper (1 piece (1S), Grey)
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About this item.
- STYLISH, WRINKLE-FREE PACKING thanks to our premium quality polyester fabric and sturdy construction with durable mesh; Clothes can be seen through an inspection and odors are minimized thanks to increased breathability
- PACK MORE CLOTHING INTO LESS SPACE with the extra zipper feature for added compression; Reduce the packing bags thickness from 4 inches to 1 inches. Best quality rated SBS brand zippers with anti-catch technology
- LEAVE ORGANIZED & ARRIVE ORGANIZED - Organize your business and leisure traveling by packing garments and accessories neatly inside your suitcase carry on or backpack and then transfer packing cubes directly to dresser drawer; The reinforced side structure holds the form of the slim cubes to make your packing and unpacking easier
- MORE PACKING CAPACITY compared to other leading compression cubes in the market; small cube ideal for underwear, socks and other travel gear
- DIMENSIONS – 11 x 7.5 x 4 inches
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From the brand
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At LeanTravel , our lifelong passion is traveling and enjoying all the pleasures the world has to offer.
Our mission is to redefine the standards of luxury and functionality by providing leisure and business travelers with accessories of the highest quality and practical design for a more enjoyable journey.
With LeanTravel, your luggage will never be the same again.
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STYLISH, WRINKLE-FREE PACKING
Thanks to our premium quality fabric and sturdy construction with plastic piping on the sides and durable mesh. Breathable.
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PACK MORE INTO LESS SPACE
With the extra zipper for added compression feature. Reduce the packing cube thickness from 4 inches to 1 inch. More packing capacity.
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LEAVE & ARRIVE ORGANIZED
Organize your journey by packing neatly inside your suitcase and then transfer packing cubes directly to dresser drawer.
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You’ll wanna know this before you buy these Packing cubes
Cblaze Reviews
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Is it worth it?
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Honest review of the best packing cubes!
Jacqueline Fine
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Honest Review and Demo of Packing Cubes
Mackenzie Giller
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Our Point of View on LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes
WTI | We Tried It!
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Independent Play Expert - Sarah Bentley
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Compression cubes are LIFE CHANGING
Bhakti Chauhan
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Notorious Overpacker's Honest Opinion on Packing Cubes
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Lean Travel packing cubes- make packing easier!
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Traveling with a family? Watch this!
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Customer reviews.
- 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 79% 13% 5% 2% 2% 79%
- 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 79% 13% 5% 2% 2% 13%
- 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 79% 13% 5% 2% 2% 5%
- 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 79% 13% 5% 2% 2% 2%
- 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 79% 13% 5% 2% 2% 2%
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Customers say
Customers like the size, portability, performance, compression, and organization of the storage bag. For example, they mention it's easy to pack, works great, and provides good compression. That said, some say it'll keep their clothes organized on a long trip.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the storage bag. They mention that it's well-made, durable, and strong. The sides are strong enough to stand without propping, and the bag can easily hold space and protect more fragile items. Customers also appreciate the sturdy zippers and double stitching.
"...them, they are able to be compressed with ease and mine did not break at all . I was able to fit all of my clothes there...." Read more
"...Very good quality, bought the pink striped ones. Zippers durable & able to pack a lot of clothes & use the compression zipper to make the cube..." Read more
"These are very well made I used them for my trip they are lightweight can fit a lot of clothes since it's summer months it's always easy to pack I..." Read more
"...But the quality of this product is great . I still use them. I like have clothes in different compartments for easy access." Read more
Customers like the size of the storage bag. They mention that it can easily hold space and protect more fragile items. They appreciate the three different sizes, which makes it easier to pack and unpack. They also say that the larger size means fewer cubes and less time looking for the clothes they want.
"...I was able to fit all of my clothes there . Love the color and it's functionality." Read more
"...Zippers durable & able to pack a lot of clothes & use the compression zipper to make the cube compact. Easy to unpack & keep clothing organized." Read more
"...are very well made I used them for my trip they are lightweight can fit a lot of clothes since it's summer months it's always easy to pack I love..." Read more
"...including a pair of jeans, into one of the large ones and it fit in my backpack , which I used as a personal item...." Read more
Customers find the storage bag portable. They mention it's easy to pack, and has extra space in the cube, making it easy not to overpack. The middle zipper makes items compact, making repacking a breeze. Overall, customers say it'll make traveling with your items a lot easier.
"... Easy to unpack & keep clothing organized." Read more
"...can fit a lot of clothes since it's summer months it's always easy to pack I love that the mesh allows you to see in each cube did not have to use..." Read more
"The suitcase packing cubes are Fantastic ! Makes packing organized, neat, and so easy to use...." Read more
"... Easy to pack and unpack . If you are looking for packing cubes, and high quality, these are the ones to get!" Read more
Customers are satisfied with the performance of the storage bag. They mention that it works great, is sturdy, and does what it claims. Some say that the small size works great for a weekender or personal item size bags. Overall, most are happy with the product and recommend it to others.
"...I was able to fit all of my clothes there. Love the color and it's functionality ." Read more
"... They work great ! I would definitely buy from them again! I am working on my hubby to get some as well! You should have seen his suitcase lol." Read more
"...They work great in my carry-on for an 18 day trip. I will use the leftover bags to organize my backpack that I will use as my personal item...." Read more
"... They worked great . I packed them two different ways just to see which was better - folded clothes and rolled clothes...." Read more
Customers like the organization of the storage bag. They mention that it's the perfect way to keep clothing organized, and it makes packing so much more organized. They also say that it has some structure to it, holding items securely even when traveling.
"...Easy to unpack & keep clothing organized ." Read more
"...in my checked baggage and it helped me fit more than expected and stay organized ." Read more
"The suitcase packing cubes are Fantastic! Makes packing organized , neat, and so easy to use...." Read more
"...I kept my clothes in the cubes and kept everything super neat and used my clothes as I needed them. They work great!..." Read more
Customers like the compression of the storage bag. For example, they mention it provides good compression, it's hard to bend, and the brand of compression cubes is awesome. That said, they say the packing cube works well and are high quality.
"These compression packing cubes work really well , I bought the mixed pack...." Read more
"This was a great packing tool and I love the fact that you can pretty much compress it but it is hard to bend it around so can’t really be squished..." Read more
"I’m giving it 5 stars because the compression bags are fantastic . I’d say the only downside was how long it took to receive it...." Read more
"...larger Lean sizes if they are not "compressed", but it won't fit if compressed - all that "compressed" clothing has to go somewhere...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the storage bag. They mention that it has a rich look, beautiful colors, and a nice pattern. They also say that the different colors make them easier to find and keep their clothes neat.
"...I was able to fit all of my clothes there. Love the color and it's functionality." Read more
"...use all would repurchase love them oh and did I mention the print is simply adorable " Read more
"The suitcase packing cubes are Fantastic! Makes packing organized, neat , and so easy to use...." Read more
"Durable, colorful , and holds quite a bit. More pieces than in a typical purchase if packing cubes. Loved the design!Live the ability to expand!" Read more
Customers are mixed about the zipper. Some mention that the zippers are substantial, quality zippers that work well. They also like that there's an extra zipper to allow that compression so that clothes will take up less space. However, others say that the only downside is that the zips can jam if you're not careful, they're difficult to operate, and they have to work hard since they compress your clothes down.
"...I will highly recommend them, they are able to be compressed with ease and mine did not break at all. I was able to fit all of my clothes there...." Read more
"I would have given it 5 stars, but 2 of the cases the zippers failed , so I was quite disappointed...." Read more
"...I like that there's an extra zipper to allow that compression so that clothes will take up less space. These are also great quality cubes...." Read more
"...They’re lightweight, zipper works well and a great value for the money. Definitely would recommend" Read more
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The 6 Best Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
We love space-saving packing cubes for long and short trips, and these are the best out there.
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In This Article
- Our Top Picks
- Others We Liked
Our Testing Process
- Tips for Buying
You May Also Want
- Why Trust T+L
Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik
Packing cubes are hands down one of the best travel hacks out there. Whether you’re a meticulous list-maker or planning procrastinator, investing in a set of packing cubes is a game changer for staying organized and saving space without having to put in too much effort.
At Travel + Leisure , we take our travel hacks seriously so we put 29 sets of regular and compression packing cubes to the test both in our New York City lab and out during real travels to find the best ones on the market. We understand that everyone has unique preferences so we also found picks for travelers embarking on long trips, outdoor adventurers, and minimalist packers looking for one just a few cubes to do the trick.
Best Overall
Veken packing cubes with laundry and shoe bag.
This durable set includes four packing cubes, a shoe bag, and a laundry bag.
These have to be hand-washed and air-dried.
If you’re traveling internationally or taking an extended vacation, consider picking up a set of these Veken packing cubes from Amazon. The four packing cubes are thoughtfully designed with a clear strip on the top so travelers can easily see what they packed, and there are small graphics printed onto each cube recommending what type of clothing item could be stored inside. This set also includes a shoe bag and a laundry bag so you can keep your items separated and organized. We like that there are several different sizes so you don't have small items moving around in a cube that's too big or trying to cram a larger sweatshirt into something too small.
We think these nylon and polyester packing cubes are made to last with a thick fabric exterior and sturdy zippers and stitchwork. After six months of use, there is no sign of wear and the zippers are holding up well. Although we found the cubes to be slightly heavier than others we tested so keep that in mind if you’re an overpacker or striving to stay under the standard 50-pound limit for checked luggage.
The Details: 6 bags included | 17.5 x 12.15 x 4 (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 16.96 x 9.06 x 4.72 (shoe bag), and 20 x 14 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon, ethylene vinyl acetate, and polyester
- PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik
- PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao
Shacke Pak 5 Set Packing Cubes
The set includes four cubes and a laundry bag.
The mesh tops aren’t waterproof or resistant.
Whether you’re traveling with family or heading on a solo trip , these Shacke packing cubes are a steal of a deal. The set includes extra-large, large, medium, and small packing cubes, as well as a laundry bag for dirty clothes. Designed for up to 14 days of traveling, we found that the cubes lived up to their promise of providing plenty of space for a variety of types of clothing like pants, toiletries, shirts, and jackets. The cubes easily fit in the carry-on suitcase we used and with the various sizes, you can customize how many cubes you want to pack depending on the type of suitcase you have.
While the cubes likely won’t prevent water from seeping through due to the mesh tops, you can easily see what you packed inside so you won’t have to unpack everything to find a piece of clothing. During our tests, we felt the durable nylon material and zippers would hold up well with prolonged use, and you can't beat the price for the full set either.
The Details: 5 bags included | 17.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), and 20.5 x 15.75 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon
Best Sustainable
Peak design packing cubes.
Peak Design uses 100 percent recycled materials to make the cubes.
The easy access zippers were finicky to use.
San Francisco-based Peak Design is known for its slew of sustainable outdoor gear made with carbon neutral and recycled materials, including expandable packing cubes. We tried the small- and medium-sized cubes and found them to be spacious, well-built, and resistant to water after splashing a bit on the exterior. After regularly using the cubes for six months, we loved the capacity of the medium cube and found the smaller option to be good for packing undergarments or even toiletries. We especially love that the cubes are made from 100 percent recycled nylon that is solution-dyed to prevent excessive water use following the brand’s carbon-neutral footprint and each bag expands to fit even more items.
The cubes can compress down to a height of 3.1 inches, but we discovered they function best as an expandable packing cube that can increase in size, rather than a compression cube that is designed to heavily consolidate clothes. Additionally, the cubes feature an “easy access” zipper so travelers can reach inside the bag without opening the whole thing, but we think this feature is unnecessary to use due to the zipper getting snagged.
The Details: 1 bag included | Various sizes | Ripstop nylon
Best Personalized
Paravel packing cube quad.
The cubes can be monogrammed with up to three letters for an additional $25.
The large cube is so big it takes up most of the space of a carry-on bag.
Indulge your love for matching with this set of personalized packing cubes from Paravel. Although it costs an extra $25, you can get up to three letters embroidered onto the set of four packing cubes with 11 color options. If you're shopping for a stylish, functional personalized travel gift , this is a wonderful option. The set comes with one large, one medium, and two small-sized packing cubes that can hold an impressive amount of clothing and still fit in most carry-on bags. These cubes are great for any type of traveler, but especially for those looking for water-resistant cubes for checked bags that will be handled outside in different weather conditions. After six months of use, we found that these cubes provide exceptional organization with room to pack bulkier items in the larger bags and toiletries or undergarments between the two smaller cubes.
As a bonus, these cubes won't take up much space in between trips. They're easy to store and stack right inside one another. The size variety is also convenient for different types of trips and we love having the option to use one, two, three, or all four bags in a checked bag if needed.
The Details: 4 bags included | 18 x 3.75 x 12 inches (large), 12.75 x 3.75 x 10 inches (medium), and 8.2 x. 3.75 x 6.25 inches (small) | Nylon
Calpak Packing Cubes 5-piece Set
There are 14 designs to choose from including groovy blue, retro sunset, and cheetah prints.
The set might be better suited for frequent fliers.
If you travel often and are looking to invest in a splurge-worthy set of packing cubes, you can’t go wrong with these from Calpak. We love the unique design options with 14 colors and patterns to choose from including classics like solid pink and gold marble, or limited-edition prints like a wavy retro sunset and groovy blue picks. The set includes one large, one medium, and two small cubes, as well as a water-resistant envelope for cosmetics.
After six months of using these packing cubes during international trips, we found that all the bags were spacious enough to fit a variety of clothing options for organized and efficient packing. We love the diversity of sizes to hold things like undergarments as well as shoes if needed. We also love the option to bring a folded large cube to keep dirty clothes separate. The polyester material feels well-made and built to last, and the zippers zipped without any issues which helps justify the higher price point for this set. And, if you’re traveling with your family, we think the set would be great for separating and organizing clothing for several travelers thanks to the removable identification tags where you can write what clothing went into each cube.
The Details: 5 bags included | 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large), 15 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small), and 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope) | Polyester
Best Compression
Bagsmart compression packing cubes.
We were able to fit 10 days worth of travel and only used four out of the five cubes.
Pattern options are limited.
Available in five different sizes, these compression packing cubes from Bagsmart are ideal for compressing your essentials while traveling with limited space. We used these cubes for 10 days worth of travel and were able to pack away five dresses, five tops, two skirts, a pair of shorts, multiple swimsuits, a jumpsuit, a jean jacket, a sweater, and several pairs of underwear and bras. The cubes were so good at compressing our items that we only needed to use four out of the five to pack away our things.
We were especially impressed with how well-constructed and durable the cubes are. We packed them to the point of bursting, and the zipper never snagged and we were never once concerned about anything ripping. Our clothing also didn’t wrinkle as much thanks to how tightly they were compressed.
The Details : 5 bags included | 15 x 10.5 x 6 inches (large), 13 x 9 x 5 (medium), 13 x 5 x 5 (small), 21.5 x 12 inches (shoe bag) | Polyster
- PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
Other Packing Cubes We Liked
There were several sets of packing cubes we highlighted below that almost made our list of best packing cubes, but they fell short during testing due some minor flaws we noticed.
Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes : This set of compression packing cubes is great for budget-friendly travelers but our top pick is also a compression set that had a better overall performance in testing.
Lean Travel Premium Compression Packing Cubes : The set of three cubes is made with thick polyester that still feels lightweight, but besides that, there weren’t any standout features compared to our other top performers.
Briggs & Riley Packing Cubes : These cubes were spacious and water-resistant, but for $59, we expected a higher performance to match the price for three standard packing cubes.
Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik
We evaluated 29 sets of both compression and regular packing cubes in our New York City lab and based our testing on traits like capacity, design, quality, and value. First, we unpackaged the sets of packing cubes and examined the quality of the bags by twisting and pulling them to check the stitchwork and using the zippers to see if they snagged or glided smoothly. After packing the cubes with a variety of clothing items like pants, jackets, undergarments, and shirts, we placed the cubes in a carry-on suitcase to see how well they fit in a piece of luggage. Our top contenders for capacity and design provided plenty of space for a range of clothing items with useful and thoughtful features that made packing easier and more organized.
For compression-specific packing cubes, we paid close attention to how much space the packing cube saved once we zipped the compression zippers. For all cubes, we splashed a bit of water on the exterior and felt the inside to see if any of the packed contents were damp. After testing each set of cubes in our lab, we sent them home to be tested during real travels around the world for six months. We regularly collected insights on durability, functionality, and overall quality during this period to ensure each cube continued to impress.
Tips for Buying Packing Cubes
Compare compression versus regular packing cubes.
Compression packing cubes are designed to condense clothing by using the compression zipper to pack down the clothes in order to save space in a suitcase. Regular packing cubes are mainly for organizing clothes efficiently rather than consolidating clothing to make more room in a piece of luggage. Compression packing cubes can usually be expanded or compressed which gives travelers the best of both worlds.
Look for sets that include multiple sizes
One of the best parts about packing cubes is staying organized on the go with little effort. To help you keep like items together, consider buying a set of multiple packing cubes with different sizes. That way, you can know without opening the case what cube holds your pants, your shirts, your undergarments, and more. The various size options also let you mix and match the cubes to fit whatever luggage you're bringing from weekender duffles to large checked bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
Flexible fabrics like nylon or polyester are best for packing cubes as they'll allow you to pack the most items. These materials also tend to be water-resistant, keeping your items extra safe throughout your travels.
When it comes to saving space, experts say you can fold your clothes or roll them — it ultimately doesn’t matter. The most important thing is maximizing your space, and packing cubes are great for doing just that. Besides saving space, packing cubes can help you stay organized before and during your trip making them a must-have travel organizer .
For travelers who usually use checked luggage, consider purchasing a set with five or six cubes included so you can maximize space in each suitcase. And, if you’re a carry-on-only type of traveler, one or two packing cubes in small or medium sizes could be better suited for your needs, and you won’t have to worry about storing a large set either. Backpackers or campers should consider getting just one or two compression or regular cubes that can fit in a backpack or weekender bag for lighter packing .
Depending on the size of your packing cubes and luggage, the bags can be placed in either compartment of a suitcase or duffel bag . As always, you'll want to do your best to evenly distribute the heavy packing cubes so the bag doesn't become top or bottom-heavy. Ideally, the rectangle shape of your cubes should make it easy to take up every inch of space in a suitcase.
When it comes to organizing and maximizing precious luggage real estate, you're going to need more than just compression packing cubes. Whether you're traveling internationally or domestically via airplane, train, bus, or car, these simple solutions will have you packing like a pro on your next adventure.
Bounce Rapid Touch-up 3 in 1 Wrinkle Releaser Clothing Spray : This TSA-approved, multi-use product smooths, resolves static, and adds a clean, fresh scent all in a few spritzes.
Electrolux Garment Steamer : This travel steamer boasts a large water tank, an 8-foot-long cord, multiple steam settings, and only weighs one pound.
Mossio Shoe Bag : This compact bag is waterproof, fits multiple pairs of shoes, and can be used to store other items like toiletries and dirty laundry.
Steamline Luggage The Palm Cosmetics Set : The small, medium, and large pouches are made with fabric derived from recycled water bottles. Between the three pouches, you can fit a variety of travel essentials like phone chargers, makeup, an eReader, and more.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Anna Popp is an associate commerce editor at Travel + Leisure , covering all of the best travel products from luggage to footwear. A recently converted compression packing cube user, Anna didn't know what she was missing out on until investing in multiple sets of packing cubes. She put together this list of the best packing cubes based on the results from the packing cube test we conducted in our New York City lab.
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I fit 12 days' worth of stuff in my carry-on thanks to these compression packing cubes
There's an old travel-prep adage: Bring half the clothes and twice the money . But what if you could pack all the duds you wanted and spend less than the price of lunch on the Via Venezia to do it? If you are a notorious over-packer, you’ve probably tried everything from rolling your clothes and stuffing your shoes to sitting on your suitcase till you've squashed it enough to force it closed. Real talk: Maybe it’s time to invest in compression packing cubes. This set from Lean Travel has been a lifesaver for me many times, including on a recent trip to Europe.
LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes
As someone who hates checking a suitcase, I only travel with a carry-on, no matter how long the trip is, and these cubes help me globe-trot with my home in my hand. For my latest trip, I was able to pack enough stuff for 12 days in Italy and England — and I still had room for my souvenir-shopping booty.
What I love most about LeanTravel's packing cubes is how lightweight they are. They are made from a durable polyester material and add virtually no extra heft to my bag. Each cube has an extra zipper on the bottom, so once I’m done squeezing in all my clothes I can pull that closed and the cubes will be one-fourth of their size. The zippers are incredibly strong and have never snagged or come off the tracks, no matter how much stuff I have crammed inside.
Even better, each cube has a mesh panel on the top, so I can easily see what’s inside and don’t have to open each one to find the item I’m looking for. This three-pack comes with two large cubes and one medium-sized one. I was easily able to fit the majority of my clothes for the trip in one large cube and all my smaller items like undergarments, swimsuits, pajamas, etc. in the medium.
I put one on each side of my carry-on suitcase and still had plenty of room for shoes, accessories and souvenirs. Since I had an extra cube, I gave it to my travel companion — Mom! — and she was amazed at how much she was able to fit inside. FYI: There's also a six-piece set, if you're planning a longer getaway and/or packing for multiple people. Need more shopping flexibility? You can buy any one size individually.
And I’m not the only one who loves them. LeanTravel cubes have racked up nearly 3,000 five-star rating from shoppers who call them everything from “ a must-have for traveling ” to “ a total game changer. ” Be sure to grab a set for yourself before your next trip!
If you have Amazon Prime , you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here . (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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- OPTIMAL ORGANIZATION: Keep your travel essentials neatly sorted and easily accessible with our compression packing cubes. Featuring various sizes, these organizers help maximize luggage space and minimize wrinkles, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience
- SPACE SAVING DESIGN: Our packing cubes are designed with compression zippers to eliminate excess air, allowing you to pack more efficiently. Enjoy the benefits of a compact suitcase while keeping your clothes and accessories neatly packed and wrinkle-free
- PREMIUM POLYESTER FABRIC: Crafted from high-quality polyester, our packing cubes are durable and built to withstand the rigors of travel. The fabric is not only resilient but also lightweight, making these cubes the perfect companions for any journey
- EASY IDENTIFICATION: The mesh panels of our packing cubes allow for easy visibility, letting you quickly identify the contents without the need to rummage through your suitcase. Stay organized and save time during your travels with these efficient packing companions
- DIMENSIONS – 15.5 x 11.5 x 4 inches (2 large cubes) 11 x 11 x 4 inches (2 medium cubes) 11 x 7.5 x 4 inches (2 small cubes)
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- Is discontinued by manufacturer : No
- Product Dimensions : 40.64 x 30.48 x 10.16 cm; 1.03 kg
- Date First Available : Oct. 20 2017
- Manufacturer : LeanTravel
- ASIN : B074KQ4C85
- Department : unisex-adult (luggage only)
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Enhance your travel experience with a stylish and organized packing from our premium travel accesories - GIVE A CLASSY & NEAT TOUCH to your packing with our set of premium polyester fabric slim packing bags - OPTIMIZE THE SPACE in your luggage with our unique double zipper extra compression feature - HAVE MORE FLEXIBILITY for short and long travels with our set of 2 extra large packing cubes, 2 medium cubes and 2 small cubes. Each extra large cube can fit up to 12 trousers or 20 shirts. The medium cube can fit up to 30 pieces of underwear and travel accesories - 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED, no questions asked if this product does not meet your expectations
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LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes Luggage Organizers (6) Set (6 Set - Black)
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- STYLISH, WRINKLE-FREE PACKING Thanks To Our Premium Quality Polyester Fabric And Sturdy Construction With Durable Mesh; Packed Items Can Be Seen Through An Inspection And Odors Are Minimized Thanks To Increased Breathability
- PACK MORE CLOTHING INTO LESS SPACE With The Extra Zipper Feature For Added Compression; Reduce The Packing Bags Thickness From 4 Inches To 1 Inches. Best Quality Rated Sbs Brand Zippers With Anti-Catch Technology.
- MORE PACKING CAPACITY Compared To Other Leading Compression Cubes In The Market; Set Of 3 pieces Includes 2 Large Cubes For Coats Or Pants, and 1 Medium Cube For Shirts, Underwear Or Socks
- LEAVE ORGANIZED & ARRIVE ORGANIZED - Organize Your Travel By Packing Garments And Accessories Neatly Inside Your Suitcase Or Carry On And Then Transfer Packing Cubes Directly To Dresser Drawer; The Reinforced Side Structure Holds The Form Of The Slim Cubes To Make Your Packing And Unpacking Easier.
- DIMENSIONS – 15.5 X 11.5 X 4 Inches (2 Large Cubes) 11 X 11 X 4 Inches (1 Medium Cube)
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- 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 78% 13% 4% 2% 2% 78%
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Customers like the quality and versatility of the storage bag. For example, they mention it's great for compressing items for travel and brilliant for travelling. That said, opinions are mixed on the zipper.
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Customers are satisfied with the quality of the storage bag. They mention that it has good strong quality.
"... Quality was good , and better than some I have had in the past, zips where strong too, so no worries about zipping up when compressing." Read more
"...They are well constructed and well made perfect ." Read more
"...Zero clutter.Love the product - I ordered 3 sets. Well built , good zippers, seem durable. Much cheaper than branded alternatives." Read more
" Well made ,good zip" Read more
Customers like the versatility of the storage bag. They mention it's great for compressing items for travel, brilliant for travelling, and really good for packing.
"These bags are brilliant for travelling , you can fit so much into them and they are lightweight too.They are well constructed and well made perfect." Read more
"they are really good for packing !!" Read more
"These are great for compressing items for travel and I highly recommend them...." Read more
Customers have mixed opinions about the zipper of the storage bag. Some mention that it's well built and strong, while others say that it causes rips, breaks, and doesn't work at all.
"...Quality was good, and better than some I have had in the past, zips where strong too, so no worries about zipping up when compressing." Read more
"Used once, zips caused a rip !! Waste of money 🙄..." Read more
"...Love the product - I ordered 3 sets.Well built, good zippers , seem durable. Much cheaper than branded alternatives." Read more
"Well made, good zip " Read more
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Andrew's Tips: Learning Bagpipes without an Instructor
What exactly does it take to learn the bagpipes on your own? This article lets you know the ins and outs of self-instruction, offers some advice and suggests some resources to help you.
Is it possible to teach yourself bagpipes?
Yes—to a point—but it is a road fraught with peril, unfortunately.
What's going for you.
The bagpipe chanter—the bagpipe part with which you play notes with your fingers—only sounds one note at a time, so there are no chords to worry about. There are only 9 possible notes to sound (not counting a few special somewhat rarely played notes). This means that reading bagpipe music is relatively easy. And learning the basic fingering is simple.
What's going against you and why you should get an instructor.
You're going to get a lot of commentary in this section!
I have to say that the idea of a person teaching themselves bagpiping sets off warning bells in my head as it does most pipers. While sometimes it is a necessity due to a very remote location or poverty, in others it's a case of people thinking that somehow the bagpipes are a "teach yourself" kind of instrument.
If you are even half-way serious about learning the pipes, I strongly recommend that you find yourself an instructor.
The bagpipes come with about as much in the way of instructions as a piano comes with instructions on tuning it, or a guitar on how to play chords. Next to uilleann pipes, the Great Highland Bagpipes are the most complex wind instrument on the planet— four reeds! —this is a real instrument requiring real lessons. Bagpipes are exceedingly easy to play incredibly poorly and can be quite temperamental at an inexperienced hand. Maintenance is complex compared to most instruments. Tuning the instrument proves be quite a challenge to most new pipers—heck, even many experienced ones! That's one of the reasons the pipes get such little respect sometimes. Too many people try to teach themselves bagpipes, fail, and now here we are with a slice of the general public with a strong dislike for the pipes, oblivious to the fact that they were exposed to very poor piping.
The following may sound harsh. If you want to just doodle with them, in my opinion, you should avoid playing public as you will be representing all the truly dedicated bagpipers that have gone before you, world-class and otherwise. Friends and family fine—tell them you are a beginner—but not the general public. If you think you're getting good enough to play in public, play in front of an experienced piper or better yet, compete at a highland games to get a truly objective appraisal of your piping skills.
There are no world level pipers that I 'm aware of who were self-taught. Not that competing at that level is your goal necessarily, but it goes to prove a point. I've heard of one Grade I piper (the highest amateur grade) who was self-taught—David Daye, a link to his site is below—so it's possible to do well on your own if you have a disciplined perfectionist personality with a very good ear for picking out minute sound problems and figuring out how to correct them…it's very rare.
Anyone learning an instrument on their own can be their own worst enemy, with bad posture, poor fingering techniques, bad tuning, etc. If you are self-taught, try as you might, there's a good chance you won't know any better. You might get used to playing a chanter that's out of tune and think nothing of it. Having an instructor set up the tuning on your practice chanter as well as your bagpipe chanter will have you developing a sense for a true bagpiping scale while you are practicing.
Another thing is self-taught pipers tend to be impatient, as are probably most learners, so without an instructor to hold you back from techniques that you are not ready for, you may press ahead anyway. For example, you could try to learn complex embellishments (series of notes) without even having basic grace notes down correctly. It's much harder to unlearn a technique then relearn it correctly than to simply learn correctly the first time. To quote one formerly self-taught piper: "Like others, I found what I was doing was a misinterpretation of what I thought I was seeing and hearing."
If you decide to learn piobaireachd—prounced "pee-brock" and is called the "classical music of the pipes"—you'll discover that relatively huge departures are taken from existing sheet music. As an example, you may find three notes to be shown to be played even, when in fact the last should be played 2-3 times the length of the others. Granted, you can pick up a lot of this timing from recordings, but an instructor can help you pull every last bit of expression out a tune. This also applies to "light music" (marches, jigs, reels, etc.) though those are played much closer to the printed page. Commenting on his early unsuccessful competition experiences, PM Jim Harrington had this to say: "The problem was simply not knowing how to express the music—but that's a problem with just about every tune when you're a beginner with no instructor."
Having had a bagpipes teacher for years, I can testify to their value. I'm not alone in having an instructor tell me that a bad habit has snuck in, such as my wrists are in the wrong position or an embellishment has a subtle fingering error. Even with an instructor showing you in-person how to do something, you can often go home and practice an embellishment incorrectly. It may sound right to your untrained ear, but at least it'll be caught and corrected by your instructor as soon as your next lesson.
"No matter how many times you say it… No matter how much you may try to drill it into folks' heads… A person learning on their own is not going to realize they need an instructor, until after they find an instructor… A slurred D-Throw sounds perfectly fine to someone who has never had it played slowly and correctly for him." Andrew MacTao, after 18 months of learning, having starting on his own.
If I've convinced you that an bagpipe teacher is a good idea, you'll probably want to read my article How to Find the Right Bagpipe Instructor .
These's a saying that goes "Seven generations and seven years to make a piper." Your instructor will be your link to those past seven generations. The seven years is up to you.
"I already play a wind instrument, I don't think I really need an instructor."
I'm going to let someone's quote answer this one.
"I was classically trained in both trumpet and clarinet in college. Learning bagpipes has been a dream of mine since I was little, and there's no instrument comparable to pipes in a technical or musical sense. If you want to learn bagpipes at a high level, you need high quality instruction from someone who has learned from a high quality teacher. If I used my classical training on bagpipe music, none of the gracenotes, or even the beats, would be in the right place. Even bagpipe tuning is radically different. I could go on for pages about the differences, but I can't do anything right without my instructor. Each time I think I understand a new piece, nope , it's different than I thought." B. Hunter, band director in Houston, Texas.
"I can't afford an instructor."
Trust me, you can't afford to not have an instructor. Some bands even give instruction for free. But even if you can't find lessons at no charge, you are talking about an investment in your future. There are numerous cases where a self-taught "piper" cannot discard bad habits and learn the proper way to play and a frustrated instructor simply gives up on that individual. Often not the case, but it does happen. Get as much personalized instruction as you can afford as early in your piping career as you can manage.
"I don't live near an instructor."
Gregg Heath of Belgrade, Montana had this to say after a year and a half of learning: "I realized early on that self teaching was a non-starter. I did it long enough to pick up some bad habits that my instructor is gently helping me correct. I now travel 200 miles round trip once a week for instruction and band practice and it's well worth it. If you want to play the pipes bad enough you'll find away to get to an instructor."
Gregg isn't that unsual. I've heard of numerous students driving over three to four hours to get personal interaction with an instructor, it was so desired. Some cities have several piping teachers. Some counties have none. Maybe not "fair" but that's the way life is.
"The nearest instructor is really far away!"
Assuming that you've looked correctly and there truly isn't a piper around to instruct you face-to-face, then consider any personalized instruction very valuable. There are ways around not having an instructor within a reasonable distance. And you don't have to meet with an instructor in-person to get individualized attention.
A tried and true method of remote but individualized instruction is sending audio cassette tapes of your playing to a teacher who then records comments and lessons for your playing. Improvements in technology has lead to newer methods such as swapping video tapes, e-mailing sound files, interactive Internet video conferencing. Another method is to simply use the telephone to engage in a live two-way lesson. What's important is to get feedback specific to you so that you can concentrate your practice on your weaknesses.
Other opportunities for instruction are various piping seminars, workshops, summer schools, and the like which may be within your means to attend.
"I'm moving near a teacher soon, what can I do to get a head start?"
Probably the best thing to do is to simply wait and spend your free time listening to lots of bagpiping recordings. This will help develop your ear.
But if you know who your teacher is going to be, then ask him/her as to what practice chanter he/she prefers and with his/her permission, puchase that brand— but be careful, he/she may want you working on nothing! (Or if you have a practice chanter already, ask if him/her if it will suffice.)
If you don't know your instructor, purchase a good quality practice chanter made in an industrialized nation (Scotland, USA, Canada, etc.). Buy a rank beginner's tutorial book—check with your bagpipe supply shop. Learn the basic finger positions then learn to read bagpipe music and correlate the two. (Avoid learning combinations of notes, i.e. embellishments.) Avoid playing tunes, but if you can't control yourself, please ignore the gracenotes for the time being. Playing tunes can introduce the possibility of changing notes incorrectly resulting in "crossing noises"—most common are in changes from a lower hand note to a higher hand note or vice versa—which an instructor will then have to go back and spend time correcting!
Remember: the more you push ahead wihout a teacher, the more risk that you'll learn something that you'll have to undo later.
Things to do to accelerate your learning
Listen to a lot of professional solo bagpipe recordings. Get as many CDs as you can get your hands on and listen closely and critically.
Go to highland games and piping performances/competitions. Given the choice, listen to the more advanced pipers. Though it may be inspirational to hear lower grade pipers competing also—"I can do that!"
Read my article on How to Become a Rotten Piper then do the opposite!
Instructional materials
Here are a few recommended items for teaching yourself bagpiping (there are other good ones).
Online Instructors
A number of excellent pipers make themselves available for instruction remotely. The following are internationally respected pipers:
Other web resources.
If you are having a hard time—for whatever reason—getting personalized instruction, to quote Andrew MacTao again: "Don't Quit! When [it's time], you will find an instructor. Or, an instructor may find you… "
The pipes are a beautiful instrument and can bring about strong wonderful feelings from people. It can make them cry, dance, march into battle—or make them run in fear. An amazing musical instrument! If you have comments or suggestions for this page, please contact me .
Top of Page ©1998-2023. Contents of this page may not be published elsewhere without the permission of Andrew T. Lenz, Jr. All rights reserved.
![lean travel bags Steve's Nature Outside](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Leafs-641.png)
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Skyline to the Sea: Backpacking in the Santa Cruz Mountains
- By Steve
- June 25, 2018
- No Comments
![lean travel bags Skyline to the Sea title](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/0-Skyline-Title.jpg)
I am most alive among the tall trees…
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The forests of the Santa Cruz call to me like no other place. The cool breeze fills my lungs with the smell of pine needles and the aroma of broad-leafed trees. Flowers bloom in the understory wherever a gap in the canopy begets a pool of light. Wood rose, violets, and redwood sorrel peek from the shade. While lupin, monkey-flower, and pink honeysuckle bathe in sunlight.
Hiking these mountains delights the senses. And it’s been my dream to wander in them for days at a time. And this past week, my dream came true…
The Santa Cruz Mountains
The Santa Cruz Mountains are part of the Pacific Coast Ranges that extend along the west coast of North America from Alaska all the way into northern Mexico. The Santa Cruz section stretches from San Francisco southward to Salinas.
Where I live, the mountains form a roughly 3,000-foot-high ridge that separates the Pacific Ocean from San Francisco Bay. The moist ocean-facing slopes are home to coast redwoods, the tallest trees on our planet. While the higher slopes are chaparral. Dry-adapted plants like Manzanita, Madrone, and Coyote brush jut from sandstone escarpments. Between is oak forest filled with Tanoak and Douglas fir.
With such varied ecosystems, the Santa Cruz harbors amazing plants and animals. It’s also filled with hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners, birders, rock climbers, and just about every form of outdoor recreation imaginable. The price of paradise is that it’s sometimes hard to find solitude in the hills.
Skyline to the Sea
The most famous hike in the Santa Cruz Mountains is the Skyline to the Sea trail. It begins along the spine of the mountains and runs 33 miles from Castle Rock State park through Big Basin State Park. It finishes triumphantly at the Pacific Ocean at the sands of Waddell State Beach.
It’s too long for most people to hike in a single day. So there are trail camps along the way where foot-weary trampers can spend a peaceful night in the wilderness.
What makes the hike difficult is the car shuttle needed from the far end back to the trailhead. Unless you are traveling with a group, you need devoted friends to pick you up at the ocean. Because of the involved logistics, I’ve never found a good time to make the journey.
But that changed this summer because of CASPBA.
California State Parks wants to encourage backpacking in the Santa Cruz Mountains. So they’re offering ranger-led backpacking trips. The division of the Parks System is known as California State Parks Backpacking Adventures (CASPBA) . Their tagline is:
Travel from spectacular ridgelines, through old growth redwood forests, to sandy shores with our knowledgeable team of backcountry naturalists. We will share the secrets of this precious wilderness and give you a window into the lives of the people who lived here for thousands of years. – CASPBA
The program is modeled after the National Park Service’s High Sierra Loop. In fact, the CASPBA staff even mentioned the ranger-guide who led my 54-mile walk through Yosemite’s high country .
For me, it’s a golden opportunity. I can hike with knowledgeable guides, enjoy the camaraderie of a group, and let State Parks handle the car shuttle and permits. All for an affordable price!
I jump at the chance and pack my rucksack.
We meet our guides at a pre-trip meeting two weeks before the hike. I attend in-person at Henry Cowell State Park. But several hikers from out of the area join by video conference using their computers.
At the meeting we meet Rangers Jeremy and Brandon, our guides for the trip. They explain that we will hike 10 miles the first day, 10 miles the second day, 6 miles the third day, and finally 7 miles to the beach.
![lean travel bags Skyline to the sea map](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/SkylineTrailMap.jpg)
Schematic view of our route. This is a modified California State Parks drawing.
They also make an incredible offer: If we bring dehydrated meals, they will provide the hot water. This means I do not need to carry a stove, pots, cooking utensils, or even plates! I can carry a pack around 30 lbs. including food and water!
Despite my disdain for dehydrated food, I eagerly accept their offer. The chance to carry a light pack is too enticing.
The rangers also give us handouts and answer all our questions about the hike and equipment we need. Their enthusiasm is contagious and I leave the meeting counting the days until the trip starts.
Day 1: Castle Rock to Waterman Gap
We meet the rangers at the beach. It may seem strange to meet at the end of a hike, but it allows us to park our cars at our destination. When we return three days later, our cars will be waiting to carry us home.
It’s not a particularly cold morning. But strong gusts whip off the ocean. I instinctively turn my back to the wind as we load our packs onto vans that shuttle us to the trailhead. The blowing sand patters against the back of my rain jacket, which doubles as my windbreaker. The boom and hiss of the waves lend gravity to the start of our journey.
Conditions cannot be more different at the trailhead. Our vans deposit us on a warm, sunny ridge teeming with dry-adapted plants. We shed layers and apply sunscreen as we don our packs.
![lean travel bags unloading gear from van](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1-Van.jpg)
We grab our gear from the van. Our hike starts on a ridge in Castle Rock State Park.
![lean travel bags backpacker standing next to backpack](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/2-ReadyToHike.jpg)
Ready to hike!
Before we set out, Rangers Jeremy and Brandon gather us together for a lusty wolf howl. And thus announcing our intentions, we set off down the trail!
The first stage of our hike is through mixed black oak forest. The Black oak acorn was prized for food by Native Californians. But few of the trees remain due to habitat destruction. It’s a treat to walk beneath the open canopy and admire the wildflowers that bloom among the grasses.
The forest trail stops at an amazing site. A bastion of sandstone rises above us! I know from experience that this is Goat Rock. We are on the uphill side, and a 20-foot scramble takes us to the top.
Goat Rock is popular with local climbers. And many Bay Area residents learned to climb on its downhill face. You see, the downhill face towers 80 feet above the surrounding terrain.
But for me, its allure is the panoramic view from the top. On a clear day, you can see 40 miles south to Monterey Bay. Today it will show us the Pacific Ocean, our destination, and the intervening mountains we must traverse to get there.
Despite my fear of heights , I make the short scramble up it’s back face. The view is astounding.
![lean travel bags Scrambling up the back side of Goat Rock](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/3-ClimbingGoatRock.jpg)
Scrambling up the back side of Goat Rock
![lean travel bags The view from Goat Rock](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/4-GoatRock.jpg)
The view from Goat Rock
![lean travel bags view from Goat Rock](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/5-GoatRock.jpg)
Looking south, you can just make out the ocean
![lean travel bags view from Goat Rock](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/6-GoatRock.jpg)
This is the direction we must go
![lean travel bags person on goat rock](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/7-GoatRock.jpg)
Looking out at our route
Hike Through History
Our route through the mountains can be found on the Castle Rock State Park and Big Basin Redwoods State Park trail maps. Rangers Jeremy and Brandon mailed maps to us before the trip.
But even knowing the terrain as I do, there are a few surprises. Ranger Jeremy points out ruts worn away in the stony trail. These are from wagons and may be 150 years old. I have passed them dozens of times while day-hiking and never gave them much thought. I assumed a trail crew made the marks when the trail was built.
![lean travel bags Wagon ruts in the trail](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/8-WagonRuts.jpg)
Wagon ruts in the trail
![lean travel bags ranger explaining ruts on trail](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/9-WagonRuts.jpg)
Ranger Brandon explains the ruts on the trail
Jeremy and Brandon also point out another feature I missed – a huge oak tree that’s a hybrid of two common species.
![lean travel bags hybrid oak tree](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/10-Tree.jpg)
This gorgeous oak tree is a hybrid of two species
From the ridge we can see the view ahead. For some of us, it must be daunting. But I have day-hiked throughout these mountains. So I am able to discern landmarks and imagine the route we must follow.
![lean travel bags The view ahead. The ocean is on the horizon.](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/11-ViewAhead.jpg)
The view ahead. The ocean is on the horizon.
![lean travel bags The ridge we are hiking on](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/12-Ridge.jpg)
The ridge we are hiking on
The Water Ostrich
Eventually, the trail turns west and we descend deep into the forest. As we drop, the air becomes less arid. Until finally, we reach the headwaters of the San Lorenzo River. The river flows southward through the San Lorenzo Valley before emptying into Monterey Bay and the Pacific Ocean. It’s amazing that this impressive river begins as just a trickle.
Ranger Jeremy stops the group and says it’s a good time for a “Water Ostrich.” My antenna goes up immediately. I’m not familiar with this exotic bird.
But to our delight it’s not a bird at all! Instead Ranger Jeremy seeks refreshment from the heat in the cool headwaters of the San Lorenzo. To a chorus of cheers, Rangers Jeremy and Brandon demonstrate the Water Ostrich. Of course! What does an ostrich do when it’s frightened?
![lean travel bags Ranger Jeremy calls a halt](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/13-JeremyHalt.jpg)
Ranger Jeremy calls a halt
![lean travel bags The headwaters of the San Lorenzo](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/14-HeadwatersOfSanLorenzo.jpg)
The headwaters of the San Lorenzo
![lean travel bags Ranger Jeremy demonstrates the Water Ostrich](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/15-JeremyOstrich.jpg)
Ranger Jeremy demonstrates the Water Ostrich
![lean travel bags Others rush to try](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/16-WaterOstrich.jpg)
Others rush to try
![lean travel bags Thank you may I have another](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/17-WaterOstrich.jpg)
Thank you may I have another…
![lean travel bags Ranger Brandon gets into the act](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/18-WaterOstrich.jpg)
Ranger Brandon gets into the act
![lean travel bags Refreshing!](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/19-WaterOstrich.jpg)
Refreshing!
Mystery Cars
We continue our hike underneath the trees. Wood rose ( Rosa woodsii ) peeks at us from the side of the trail.
![lean travel bags Wood rose in bloom](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/20-Woodrose.jpg)
Wood rose in bloom
![lean travel bags The canopy above](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/21-Canopy.jpg)
The canopy above
Paralleling our route, Highway 9 travels over the crest of the mountains and down to the sea. We will need to cross it miles ahead. But for this stretch we hike parallel to the road. We can’t see it, but we hear the occasional car in the distance.
Over the years there have been many accidents on this curvy road. Cars rain over the edge like water droplets shaken from a wet dog. I’ve hiked this area before and have found the wrecks of many cars from different eras. From the 40s, 50s, and 60s – each has a story. What happened in the moments leading to the fateful wreck? Did someone have one drink too many? Did they lose control on a dark and rainy night? I wonder about the health of the occupants after plunging over the steep ravine.
![lean travel bags crashed car on trail](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/22-CrashedCar.jpg)
A more recent wreck. It looks like the station wagon my neighbors used to shuttle their kids to school in the ‘70s.
Waterman Gap Trail Camp
We pull off the trail in late afternoon.
I’m pleasantly surprised by the trail camp. Pine needles carpet the campsites beneath the forest’s comfortable shade. We walk through the dappled light to two campsites at the far end of the camp.
I wrinkle my nose as we pass the concrete structure that houses the pit toilet. But I needn’t have worried. When I use it later it is clean and the odors have disappeared.
I pitch my tent at the edge of a redwood grove. It’s an ideal setting and I feel comfortable in these woods. The wind whispers through the trees, hinting at greater gusts above. But the forest provides a cozy shelter.
I unpack my gear. There’s not much of it. Ray Mears, the famous bushcraft and survival instructor, said “Keep it simple – it’s easy to carry too many gadgets.” I agree. And nothing encourages minimalism like carrying your house on your back.
![lean travel bags My tent, backpack, food bag, water bottles, and metal cup](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/23-Tent.jpg)
My tent, backpack, food bag, water bottles, and metal cup. The metal cup is the only eating surface I brought on the trip.
![lean travel bags Inside my tent are my sleeping bag and sleeping mat](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/24-SleepingBag.jpg)
I nside my tent are my sleeping bag and sleeping mat
The first order of business is to get the roof up. Although the weather is beautiful, you never know when a storm may come along. My tent is a one-person ultralight tent . It’s not as luxurious or as easy to set up as the two-person tent I use for car camping. However, it’s a fraction of the size and weight.
Since I don’t use the tent often, I practiced pitching it before the trip. This allowed me to make sure nothing was broken or missing. I took time to commit the steps to memory so I could set it up in the dark if I needed. All that practice paid off – when I set up the tent I made the same mistakes I made during practice. 🙂
Next on the agenda is dinner. The rangers provide the hot water, which I use to reconstitute my dinner of dehydrated hamburger meat with mayo, mustard, ketchup, and relish wrapped in a flour tortilla. That’s 690 calories of deliciousness. Yum!
![lean travel bags Assembling for dinner](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/25-HeatingWater.jpg)
Assembling for dinner
![lean travel bags Heating water for dinner](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/26-Dinner.jpg)
Heating water for dinner
After dinner, Rangers Jeremy and Brandon brew pine needle tea made from Douglas Fir needles. Most pine needles are edible. And Douglas Fir is my favorite.
After dinner, I sip hot chocolate as a visiting ranger speaks to us about the role of fire ecology in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
As darkness falls, I retire to my tent to sleep.
![lean travel bags inside of tent](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/27-TentNight.jpg)
A small pocket stores anything I need if I get up in the middle of the night
![lean travel bags Getting into clean sleepwear for bed](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/28-Undressing.jpg)
Getting into clean sleepwear for bed
![lean travel bags Inside of tent](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/29-Goonight.jpg)
DAY 2: Waterman Gap to Big Basin
The plan is to wake at 7:00 am with breakfast at 8:00 am. But most of us wake with the sun a half-hour earlier. At 7:00 am on the dot, Jeremy strolls between the tents gently strumming his backpacking guitar. He plays a mellow Pink Floyd tune. It’s the perfect melody for this tranquil setting.
I’ve been part of other groups where you’re awakened every morning by someone banging on a pot or pan. This is infinitely better!
My breakfast is simple. Kashi Go-Lean granola cereal and powdered milk. A Kind bar adds some extra calories. I usually don’t eat much for breakfast. But this meal gives me the energy to get out on the trail.
![lean travel bags breakfast in camp](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/30-Breakfast.jpg)
Breakfast. Rangers Jeremy and Brandon provisioned water bottles as an alternative to the heavily chlorinated water at the trail camp. Much appreciated.
We hit the trail and make our first of two highway crossings. First, we cross Hwy 9. Then we traverse Hwy 236, which leads into Big Basin State Park. I’m amazed at the distance we covered since the start of our trip. But it occurs to me that the trail must cut a straighter path through the mountains than the highway.
These highway crossings mark an important point. We’ve entered the Big Basin watershed. We’re now in Big Basin State Park, where I lead outdoor programs as a naturalist.
Now under the redwoods, we happen upon a small coast garter snake . Ranger Jeremy scoops up the harmless reptile. Unable to prevent capture, the snake deploys its remaining defense – it musks him! The snake emits the musk from its cloaca. And it often comes with a bonus dose of urine and feces.
Despite this minor discomfort, Ranger Jeremy acquaints us with the creature.
![lean travel bags coast garter snake](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/31-Snake.jpg)
Ranger Jeremy captures a small Coast garter snake
![lean travel bags coast garter snake](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/32-Snake.jpg)
Say “Cheese!”
A moment to Appreciate
As we hike, I often glance up at the canopy to appreciate the enormity of the redwood forest. When we stop for lunch, Jeremy suggests we lay on our backs for ten minutes and look up into the canopy. The group goes silent as we lay on the soft bed of redwood needles. Slowly, absent our disturbance, the birds return and begin to sing. Squirrels resume their foraging in the brush. And we hear the creaking as the big trees sway in the breeze. It’s a magnificent moment. And I’m glad we took this short break to stay awhile.
![lean travel bags redwood trees](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/33-Trees.jpg)
Our lunch spot canopy
![lean travel bags The trees above our sit spot](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/34-Trees.jpg)
The trees above our sit spot
Another Ostrich
It’s back on the trail, and soon there’s another opportunity for a Water Ostrich. Ranger Jeremy is not one to let an opportunity pass by.
![lean travel bags ranger hiking](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/35-OnTheTrail.jpg)
On the trail
![lean travel bags water ostrich](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/36-WaterOstrich.jpg)
Water Ostrich. Ranger Jeremy goes off the deep end.
![lean travel bags ranger hiking by creek](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/37-OpalCreek.jpg)
Notice how we’ve descended out of the drier tanoak forest into lush redwood forest
We reach Big Basin Park headquarters and I share a secret with my fellow backpackers. The general store sells soft-serve ice cream cones. It’s not really “roughing it.” But I assure you, cold ice cream on a hot day does not detract from the wilderness experience. And I always try to use natural resources I find along the trail. In this case, it’s a “wilderness ice cream cone.” 🙂
We continue our hike to Jay Camp, a trail camp located about a half-mile beyond headquarters.
The Unwanted Visitor
Upon pitching our tents, we learn that one of our hikers has an unwanted passenger. It’s a Western black-legged tick. And it’s attached to her abdomen.
As I dig in my first aid kit for my tick key , the rangers use tweezers to extract the arachnid. Ranger Jeremy gives a slight clockwise rotation as he pulls. But the tick puts up a fight. With a little patience, Jeremey removes the blood sucker from our hiker’s stretched skin.
I give silent thanks that I treated my clothing with permethrin before the trip.
We use my tick ID card to identify it. The hiker plans to send the tick for free Lyme testing . Although I visited the website and they appear to have discontinued the service because they are so overwhelmed with requests. Fortunately, the tick wasn’t attached for very long. So the odds that it transmitted a disease are small.
![lean travel bags tick in plastic bag](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/38-tickbag.jpg)
We save the tick for later identification and analysis. The type of tick gives clues as to what diseases it may carry.
Night Program at Jay Camp
As evening falls we make a small campfire in the fire ring. And to my delight, I learn that Ranger Alex will stop by after dinner to present an interpretive program on traditional food preparation.
Ranger Alex has a keen interest in the traditional skills of the Ohlone peoples, who inhabited this region before Europeans arrived in California. And he’s learned much from their descendants, the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band .
Ranger Alex walks us through the steps for the preparation of California Brome grass ( Bromus carinatus ): Harvest the seed, winnow, parch, grind, and cook.
He starts by demonstrating how to make fire with a hand-drill. He uses an elderberry spindle on a California buckeye hearth board. On this occasion, he gets plenty of smoke but no ember. Ranger Alex is a bit under the weather, and he already has blisters on his hands from making fire earlier in the week. I’ve had blisters from using a hand drill and I know how they hurt.
The ancient inhabitants of Big Basin made fire by friction as part of their daily lives. In fact, their lives depended upon their ability to make fire. Like Ranger Alex, I only practice the skill occasionally. So I don’t begrudge him the lack of ember.
![lean travel bags Ranger preparing to use hand drill](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/39-HandDrill.jpg)
Ranger Alex preparing to use the hand drill
![lean travel bags ranger using hand drill](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/40-HandDrill.jpg)
Hand’s flying, Ranger Alex goes for the ember
![lean travel bags Hand drill - Elderberry spindle with California buckeye hearth board](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/41-HandDrill.jpg)
Hand drill – Elderberry spindle with California buckeye hearth board
Ranger Alex walks us through the steps for harvesting and processing the seed. He demonstrates each step.
![lean travel bags Ranger demonstrates harvesting grass seed](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/42-SeedBeater.jpg)
Ranger Alex demonstrates harvesting grass seed using modern stand-ins for seed-beater and basket
![lean travel bags California Brome grass seed](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/43-BromeSeed.jpg)
California Brome grass seed
![lean travel bags De-husking the seed using a mortar and pestle](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/44-DeHusking.jpg)
De-husking seed using a mortar and pestle
![lean travel bags Winnowing with a basket](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/45-Winnowing.jpg)
Winnowing with a basket discards the husks and keeps the seed
![lean travel bags parching seed with basket](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/46-Parching.jpg)
Ranger Alex parches the seed by tossing it in a basket with coals from the fire. This hardens the seed to make it easier to process.
![lean travel bags Parching seed](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/47-Parching.jpg)
Parching seed
We place ground seed and water into a pre-soaked watertight basket. Ranger Alex cooks the grain in front of us using hot volcanic rocks we warmed on the fire for two hours.
![lean travel bags Ground seed in water inside a pre-soaked water-tight basket](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/48-GroundSeed.jpg)
Ground seed in water inside a pre-soaked water-tight basket
![lean travel bags bent willow stirrer](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/49-Stirrer.jpg)
Ranger Jeremy helps by using a stirrer made from bent willow
![lean travel bags Ranger seizes a rock from the fire using wood branches as tongs](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/50-HotRocks.jpg)
Ranger Alex seizes a rock from the fire using wood branches as tongs
![lean travel bags hot rocks](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/51-HotRocks.jpg)
The rocks are hot!
![lean travel bags Ranger dunks rock into a basket of water to remove the ash from the fire](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/52-HotRocks.jpg)
Ranger Alex dunks a rock into a basket of water to remove the ash from the fire
![lean travel bags Cleaning ash from the hot rock](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/53-HotRocks.jpg)
Cleaning ash from the hot rock
![lean travel bags Ranger transfers the clean rock to the cooking basket](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/54-HotRocks.jpg)
Ranger Alex transfers the clean rock to the cooking basket
![lean travel bags stirring hot rocks](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/55-Stirring.jpg)
Cooking with hot rocks. It’s important to keep them moving to heat the food evenly and prevent burning the basket.
![lean travel bags stirring hot rocks](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/57-Stirring.jpg)
We continue to add rocks and stir. When rocks cool, we remove them from the basket.
![lean travel bags boiling with hot rocks](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/58-Stirring.jpg)
Finally, we reach a rollicking boil
![lean travel bags basket with cooked grass seed](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/59-DinnerReady.jpg)
Dinner is served!
After sampling the hot food, we thank Ranger Alex and retire to our tents for the night.
DAY 3: Jay Camp to Sunset Camp
I awake to the quiet patter of raindrops falling on my tent. But it isn’t quite rain. A heavy mist fills the forest and droplets fall from the trees above. The mist is how their treetops survive hundreds of feet above the forest floor.
It’s amazing to wake underneath immortal redwoods. The trees are thousands of years old, and their roots touch ancient underworlds that once saw the light of day.
I walk through the hushed forest to the restrooms. Jay Camp has flush toilets and sinks. An incredible luxury! And State Parks always keeps the facilities clean and well-maintained. My pack is lighter by several quarters I lent to other members of our party to use the pay showers. I eschewed the showers myself. Some things are a little too much for a backpacking trip.
Blister Clinic
The Rangers agree that the third day is the most trying. Not because of distance – we’re only walking six miles today. But blisters and fatigue begin to catch up to the participants.
Jeremy and Brandon hold a “Blister Clinic” after breakfast. Think of a M*A*S*H unit in miniature. I learn about a host of new products aimed at blister treatment. Their high-tech materials put my moleskin to shame.
![lean travel bags Blister clinic before departing camp](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/60-Blister-Clinic.jpg)
Blister clinic before departing camp
Blisters treated, we strike out on the trail. In our haste we forget our signature wolf-howl.
Ranger Pointing
We descend toward the ocean on the park’s famous Sunset Trail. It carries us to the Sunset Trail Camp near the top of two terrific waterfalls.
On the way, Jeremy tells me about a Facebook group called Rangers Pointing at Things . I’m dubious at first. But on second thought, you can find a group for just about everything on Facebook.
![lean travel bags ranger pointing](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/61-RangerPointing.jpg)
I can’t resist!
Fungus Among Us
As we’re hiking, I see a shelf fungus on a young Douglas Fir. Initially I think it’s an Artist’s Conk ( Ganoderma applanatum ). This is the one you can draw designs on. It’s white bottom surface can be scratched with a sharp implement and the dark brown tissue underneath shows through. When the fungus dries, the dark lines become permanent.
But it doesn’t quite have the look of an Artits’s Conk. It’s actually a Red-belted polypore (Fomitopsis pinicola). This fungus usually grows on conifers. I can tell this one is young because of its bright orange color. Recent molecular evidence indicates that Fomitopsis pinicola is restricted to Eurasia. So we await a new name for our species in the western United States.
![lean travel bags Red-belted polypore](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/62-Red-beltedPolypore.jpg)
Red-belted polypore
![lean travel bags fungi on forest floor](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/63-Fungus.jpg)
It’s well past the mushroom season. But someone needs to explain it to these fungi.
Sunset Trail Camp
We reach Sunset Camp in early afternoon. It’s much nicer than I anticipated. The campsites are far enough back from the main trail to have a wild feel. We site our tents underneath a cluster of Madrone trees . Their naked, red trunks lend atmosphere to our camp.
Once the tent is up, I inflate my sleeping pad and unpack my sleeping bag. I want the bag to loft before bedtime to improve its insulating ability.
Here are some pictures from around camp.
![lean travel bags My one-person tent](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/66-Tent.jpg)
My one-person tent
![lean travel bags The rest of our camp](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/67-SunsetTrailCamp.jpg)
The rest of our camp
![lean travel bags hammock](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/68-SunsetCamp.jpg)
Two in our party brought hammocks. I like the mosquito netting over this one.
![lean travel bags Putting up camp](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/69-SunsetCamp.jpg)
Putting up camp
![lean travel bags tarp and mosquito shelter](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/70-SunsetCamp.jpg)
I’m always interested to see other people’s set-ups. This is not a member of our group. But I’m intrigued by the tarp/mosquito shelter combination.
![lean travel bags pack hanging from tree](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/73-SunsetCamp.jpg)
One member of our group was smart enough to bring cordage to hang his pack at a convenient height. I may borrow this idea.
![lean travel bags bear box](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/72-SunsetCamp.jpg)
Two of our three trail camps have bear boxes to keep critters away from our food
Waterfall Excursion
The plan is to establish camp and visit two nearby waterfalls. We arrive at the first waterfall around 5:00 pm. This is a treat for me. When I pass these falls on day-hikes, it is still early in the day and I’ve got miles to cover to reach headquarters before nightfall. But this is a chance to visit the falls at the end of the day. The light is different. And the day hikers are long gone.
We visit Golden Falls first. It reminds me of an ancient Aztec pyramid partially hidden by the encroaching jungle.
The falls bask in pools of light and shadow. And we enjoy a lazy, peaceful feeling as we gaze upon the spilling water.
![lean travel bags Rejoicing at the base of Golden Falls](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/74-GoldenFalls.jpg)
Rejoicing at the base of Golden Falls
![lean travel bags Golden Falls in summer](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/75-GoldenFalls.jpg)
Golden Falls in summer
![lean travel bags Golden Falls seen from the trail](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/76-GoldenFalls.jpg)
Golden Falls seen from the trail
![lean travel bags Just below Golden Falls is a second cascade](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/77-GoldenFalls.jpg)
Just below Golden Falls is a second cascade
California Newts
In the pools below Golden Falls, Ranger Brandon finds a California Newt ( Taricha torosa ). Newts are amphibians, living part of their lives in water and part on land. Dipping his hands in the water and mud, Ranger Brandon grabs a newt to tell us more about it.
You need to be cautious when handling newts. Their bright orange color is aposematic. We now know that their skin secretes the deadly neurotoxin, tetrodotoxin. This is the same lethal poison found in pufferfish.
The discovery that these newts are poisonous is a particularly tragic tale. Many years ago, three hunters were found dead in Oregon. Their bodies were discovered around a campfire, and they showed no signs of injury or foul play. Nothing had been stolen.
Searching the campsite, investigators found a dead newt in the bottom of their coffee pot.
The hunters must have arrived at their campsite after dark. When they gathered water from a nearby stream for coffee, they scooped up the toxic amphibian.
![lean travel bags Ranger and California Newt](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/78-Newt.jpg)
Ranger Brandon and California Newt
![lean travel bags California Newt](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/79-Newt.jpg)
Notice the flat tail. The newt is in its aquatic stage.
![lean travel bags California Newt](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/80-Newt.jpg)
California Newt
We continue down the trail to Silver Falls. It’s the larger of the two waterfalls. Afterward, we return to camp for dinner.
![lean travel bags "<yoastmark](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/81-SilverFalls.jpg)
Day 4: Sunset Camp to the Sea
I rise from bed on our last morning. Sunlight peeks through the canopy, illuminating the walls of my tent. The warning cries of a brazen Stellar’s Jay tell me members of our party are up and about.
After breakfast, we depart on the last day of our journey. It seems to have flown by like the red-tailed hawks we see cruising over the ridges above us. I’m reluctant to leave our campsite. I’ve enjoyed its comfort and the jovial companionship of our party.
But once on the trail we set a good pace as we march to the sea.
One of my favorite moments happens next. Below Silver Falls, Ranger Jeremy calls us together. We’re to hike the next segment of our journey solo. Jeremy dispatches us every two minutes, and I’m lucky enough to go first.
Many people fear hiking alone. But I embrace it. I hear more, see more, and notice more when I’m on my own. I feel connected to my surroundings without distraction from my fellow man.
I force myself to slow my pace. And I meander down the trail, letting my senses drift. At this early hour the forest is still. The brook babbles beside me and I hear the occasional leaf falling from above.
![lean travel bags skyline to the sea trail](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/85-SoloTrail.jpg)
Walking solo down the trail
![lean travel bags skyline to the sea trail](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/86-SoloTrail.jpg)
The forest is still at this early hour
![lean travel bags sunset trail](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/87-SoloTrail.jpg)
It’s easy to lose oneself in such beautiful surroundings
![lean travel bags Pacific wren](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/88-PacificWren.jpg)
Pacific wren
I continue onward. Light shines through breaks in the canopy, creating bright stepping-stones across the trail. There’s a fresh breeze against my cheek and I smell redwood needles and moisture from lush ferns lining the creek.
![lean travel bags Redwood violet (Viola sempervirens)](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/89-Redwood-violet.jpg)
Redwood violet ( Viola sempervirens )
![lean travel bags Red clintonia (Clintonia andrewsiana)](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/90-Clintonia.jpg)
Red clintonia ( Clintonia andrewsiana )
![lean travel bags I continue my solo hike through the redwoods](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/91-Solo.jpg)
I continue my solo hike through the redwoods
![lean travel bags redwoods and ferns](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/92-Solo.jpg)
The lush redwood forest is a living Eden
I find a deeper pool and spot California newts hiding in plain sight.
![lean travel bags The newts remain motionless at the bottom of the pool](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/93-newt.jpg)
The newts remain motionless at the bottom of the pool
![lean travel bags california newt in stream](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/94-newt.jpg)
Newts breathe air. But they can hold their breath between 4 – 7 hours. This one has a small fish resting on its back!
I hike onward until I arrive at the top of Berry Creek Falls.
![lean travel bags redwood forest](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/95-Solo.jpg)
Hiking through the redwood forest
![lean travel bags redwood forest](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/96-Solo.jpg)
And of course, no hike through redwood forest would be complete without a Banana slug picture!
![lean travel bags banana slug](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/98-BananSlug.jpg)
For a banana slug, this is a modest size
Berry Creek Falls
I’ve written before about Berry Creek Falls . But here are some pictures from our journey past this spectacular cascade. We stopped for a short snack and photos before pressing on toward the sea.
![lean travel bags berry creek falls platform](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/99-BerryCreekFalls.jpg)
There is an observation platform two-thirds down Berry Creek Falls. This is the view from the top of the falls.
![lean travel bags berry creek falls](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/100-BerryCreekFalls.jpg)
Enjoying Berry Creek Falls
While hiking we found this fine fellow, a California Sister butterfly .
![lean travel bags California sister butterfly](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/104-CaliforniaSister.jpg)
California sister butterfly
![lean travel bags California sister butterfly](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/105-CaliforniaSister.jpg)
Happy Birthday
We stop for lunch at a sandy spot along Waddell Creek. It is one of our hiker’s birthday. So we improvise a cake from a snack purchased at the general store. We use one of my stormproof safety matches as a candle.
As we hike along, an old stump catches our eyes. Holes in the stump remind us of a human face. Apparently, an artist (vandal?) shares our opinion. He’s carved another face above the natural one.
![lean travel bags stump with face](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/107-Face.jpg)
A face in the forest?
![lean travel bags stump with face](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/108-Face.jpg)
Someone carved a face above the “natural” one
The Ocean and Journey’s End
As the afternoon wears on, we continue our march to the sea. Finally, we break into the open with a clear view of the Pacific. What are those strange colorful specs in the sky? They swoop like birds but are much too big.
![lean travel bags waddell state beach](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/109-Beach.jpg)
Our first view of the Pacific. Colorful specs in the sky?
![lean travel bags waddell state beach](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/110-Beach.jpg)
Kite surfers!
We assemble on the beach among dozens of kite surfers. The colorful wings create a huge fiesta in the sky. It’s like a victory parade in our honor! But at the same time, it’s strange to be among high-tech machines after spending days walking in the woods.
![lean travel bags waddell state beach](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/111-Beach.jpg)
We assemble on the beach for a last hurrah! Arm-in-arm we plunge into the waves! Rangers Jeremy and Brandon lead the way.
![lean travel bags waddell state beach](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/114-Beach.jpg)
Our hikers assemble on the beach
![lean travel bags hikers on beach](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/115-Beach.jpg)
Here we go!.. 1… 2… 3!
The water is shockingly cold! It stings our legs and chills us instantly. But I don’t mind. My feet and spirit are rejuvenated by the frigid water.
It’s a fitting way to end our journey. And I will always remember these last four days. I’m grateful to our intrepid guides, and to the other hikers who made the trip so much fun.
I hope each of you gets to enjoy a similar journey sometime in the future.
![lean travel bags hiker in ocean](https://www.natureoutside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/117-Beach.jpg)
Journey’s End!
Have you been on a meaningful journey? Share your experience in the comments section below.
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