Monos Compressible Packing Cubes

After 15 years my trusty fabric zip up carry-on suitcase made its last trip. I’d been eyeing Monos and along with similar cases for a while. I decided to go with monos and decided to purchase the Hybrid Plus Carry-On, Metro Duffel, The entire system is amazing! It works seamlessly, and it’s so well thought out with compartments that help keep small objects secure and handy. Personally, I’m a travel writer and don’t usually stay much more than 3-4 nights in the same spot reviewing properties and locations. My monos maiden voyage was more than I could’ve expected. I packed 18 days worth of clothing including SCUBA gear, photography equipment and of course my laptop and accessories.

I just finished up reviews on the carry-on (regular) and Metro backpack, now finishing up on the compression cubes.

I have never owned compression cubes before, but I’m thrilled I’m starting with ones at the top of the competition. They stay up on their own when empty, allowing me to load items and keep them neat (without fussing!). I got the 4 pack made for their carry-on size. Biggest one; fits perfect for dress shirts and pants. Third biggest one, fits perfect for tank tops and shorts. Second to smallest fits great for underwear and PJs. Smallest one works for socks! With the 4 pack I would not recommend sweaters, might want to spring for the 6 pack as it includes a extra large compression cube.

PROS:

Great quality! I love that it holds its shape when the cube is not compressed. The cubes are also very sturdy. And they do compress clothing, unlike the ones that I already own.

CONS:

I don't know if it is just me, but I wasn't able to compress the bigger cube when using thicker clothing. I tried putting in a Summer PJ set, 2 pair of pants, 2 long sleeve tops that are a bit thicker (not sweaters) and I couldn't pull the zipper to compress.

I think the cubes work better if you don't put in more than one set of thicker clothing, which is unfortunate if you travel in fall or winter.

Also, perhaps a second zipper to help you compress will make it easier? I spent some extra time trying to pull the zipper around the cube completely, so perhaps a second zipper to compress would be good.

As an obsessive product researcher I've looked at many packing cubes. This is the only one I've found so far that ticks all of the boxes.

Material, construction and design all top notch. LOVE the fact the sides will stay and hold shape up even when empty. The look is very sleek and modern; no ugly logos or designs.

The ONLY thing I would request is that Monos add the ability to purchase cubes individually. I would love to get a few more large cubes but don't want to have a bunch of extra little ones.

I almost didn't get these packing cubes because I already owned a set, and that would have been a mistake. These cubes have a structure that I've never seen before. They collapse easily for storage, but when fully expanded retain their shape incredibly well on their own. So glad I got them.