vacuum bags clothes travel

Best Vacuum Storage Bags and Compression Bags for Travel

Packing , Packing Tips

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Struggling with packing efficiently? Try vacuum packing to maximize your carry-on space and fit a bit extra without the bulk!

Vacuum Seal Bags for Clothes

Written By: Laura Pulling

Table Of Contents

In recent years, I’ve traveled a lot and was always overpacking . Since being a member of team TFG, I have learned to slim down my packing (where I can!) and now I am proud to be able to travel carry-on only. 

However, sometimes you need to take a little more in your suitcase for certain activities, and many airlines now charge for checked baggage, with some fees being pretty high. Perhaps you need to take extra clothes for something sport or event-related, or to make a temporary or permanent move—everyone has their own reasons to pack a bit more! 

This is where vacuum storage bags’ come in! These impressive packing tools can more than triple the room inside your suitcase, so you can still manage to travel with just a carry-on! They’re also handy for backpacking to ensure your things don’t get wet. 

In fact, read about TFG editor-in-chief Alex’s experience using them during an international move from the UK to Playa del Carmen in this post . And compression bags can be used for more than moving or storing items; Alex also used them to pack bulky winter clothing for a snowy trip to Deer Lake in Park City, Utah. Read her entire post to find out how she packed more than usual successfully in a carryon! 

They are even super useful between trips, you can store your winter comforter and pillows, or seasonal wardrobe clothes in your closet, and barely use up any space.

We’ve checked out the best clothing vacuum bags available so you can maximize packing space for your next trip!

Best Vacuum Bags for Clothes

Shop: Amazon | Walmart

SpaceSaver Premium Vacuum Storage Bags

Space Saver bags are handy for maximizing your travel space in your suitcase, or for organizing your closet at home. You can get these bags in a variety of sizes to suit your needs, to store away your duvet, bed sheets, and towels, or maybe even shift between a fall/winter and spring/summer wardrobe. 

These clothes storage bags have a double-zip seal and a triple-seal turbo valve which are designed to get every last bit of air out of the bag during the suction process. Plus, these bags can be used for travel, as they have a travel pump included. Pack at home using your normal vacuum, and for your return trip, pack them and empty the air using the travel pump.

One user shares, “Bought Space Saver vacuum bags to reduce space of clothing for four people for a two-week road trip in the back of the car. Definitely made a difference and let us pack without running out of space.”

Shop: Amazon

Reusable Ziploc Space Bags

Ziploc is a brand we know and trust in the kitchen, now they are helping us to travel too. For less than $8, you can get a two-pack of travel Ziploc vacuum bags , which can help you pack for any weekend getaway smoothly. They measure 18 x 22.5 inches and the air rolls out to make them compact.

Users love these large plastic storage bags for clothes and one shares, “ I purchased these bags because I wanted to condense my clothes and use only a single computer backpack for short (one to two day) air travel. These bags worked perfectly. When I got to my destination, the vacuum seal was still in the bag—no leaks at all after more than 2,000 miles of flying.”

You can also get Ziploc vacuum sealer bags too, a variety bundle that includes space travel bags is available here .

Check out these packing cubes for carryon luggage !

Hibag Travel Space Saver Bags

These Hibag air tight bags are a terrific budget option for travel. Each set contains 6 medium size & 6 large size reusable storage bags. 

They are easy to use, simply open them up and pack your clothes inside. Zip the clothes inside and then roll them to squeeze out the air. They are awesome for traveling, as you do not need to use a vacuum to suck out the air. These travel space bags save your clothes from bugs, odors, dirt, and mildew.  

One user had a savvy packing tip, she shares, “The bags worked well and keep your clothes fresh. For the future travel packer, a suggestion would be to put outfits together including undergarments into one bag so that you do not need to keep opening and closing bags to get one item out of each bag.”

GONGSHI Vacuum Storage Bags

These  GONGSHI bags  come in different sizes and can be used with either a typical standard vacuum cleaner or the provided pump.

The double-sealed zipper is specially designed for air to get out and they’re so easy to use! I put in my items, zip them up, and insert the pump to remove air. And the variety of sizes can fit everything from clothes to duvets.

Shop: Amazon  

Storage Master Clothes Vacuum Bags

These   clothing storage bags from Storage Master includes in a variety pack of sizes, so you’ll have something for every need.  You get three jumbo (40 x 28 inches), three large (32 x 24 inches), three medium (28 x 20 inches), and three roll-up vacuum pack bags . The roll-up bags work well for travel, but they are the smallest, at 24 x 8 inches. But you can use the others for travel too as this set comes with a handy hand size travel pump to suck out the air, without needing a vacuum cleaner. 

One traveler explains, “I bought these mostly for travel since the price of carrying luggage has increased. I used the three travel bags and fit quite a bit of clothes in a 19” carry-on.”

Find out which packing organizers will work best for you!

VMSTR Travel Vacuum Bags With USB Electric Pump

This set of VMSTR vacuum seal storage bags has a technological advantage—it comes with a USB powered pump! Pack them and suck out the air before your trip using your traditional home vacuum cleaner, and still fit clothes in on your return journey by using the small included vacuum (which only weighs a mere four ounces!). Reviews say it’s slow but faster and more convenient than using a hand pump, or rolling air out of the bags. 

You can choose different sets for your packing suitcase , but we like the variety of the 8-pack that has two extra-large bags (18 x12.5 inch), two large (14 x 12.5 inch), two medium (12.5 x 10 inch), and two small (11 x 8.5 inch).

One user took hers to Europe, and shares, “I really like the weight of the bags, sturdy, not flimsy, and they are a good size. I also like that the USB cord on the pump is a decent length.”

Hibag Vacuum Garment Storage Bags

The Hibag clothes bag set comes in a combo of sizes, so you can have a bag for every occasion! They can fit in a ton of stuff at home but are also excellent for travel. The set has two specific roll-up clothes bags for travel , but the others can also be used on the road as it includes a handy hand pump to suck out the air. 

The zipper on these bags is secure, to ensure no air gets out, and the double color design on the zipper lets you easily see that it is properly closed. They also peel apart without problems, as they have a higher and lower side on the zipper for easy handling. 

If you prefer to just have the travel option—this brand also sells a set of 12 travel roll-up bags too.

You’ll learn how to pack light in this post !

Best Compression Bags for Travel

Gonex Compression Space Saving Travel Bags​

These Gonex compression storage bags are a twist on our usual favorite packing cubes . They are made from lightweight, rip-stop nylon that is super soft and stretchy. You pack them, like packing cubes, but then they have a nifty, durable zipper around the outside that allows you to compress them further and squeeze out any excess air. 

The large set comes with a variety of bag sizes, with the multi-pack having: one large (15 x 15 inches), one medium (12 x 9 inches), one small (10 x 7.5 inches), one smallest (8 x 6 inches), one slim (13 x 4 inches), and one laundry bag (18 x 13 inches).

One user shares, “While it’s not as much as silicone storage bags or a sealed bag with all the air pushed out, this is both better than I expected and a lot easier than the alternatives. I just finished packing for my first trip since purchasing, and I was pleasantly surprised both at how much I could fit in these bags and how little space it took up.”

TRIPPED Compression Packing Travel Storage Bags

These cute TRIPPED clothing bags for travel are perfect for getting ready for your next trip! With a double zip design, they work similarly to packing cubes , but allow you to also remove excess air to squeeze your clothes into the smallest space possible. 

The rip-stop polyurethane fabric is tough and the zippers have reinforced double stitching. 

In a set, you get two large storage bags (14 x 10 inches), two small (10 x 7 inches), one slim (4.5×12.5 inches), and a laundry/shoe bag (18 x 13.5 inches).

One user raves, and calls these the ‘best cubes on the market’ as they “ make your packing experience less dramatic, and handles all the issues of a long or short trip.” They come in a variety of designs and colors, too!

SUITEDNOMAD Vacuum Compression Bags Set

Sometimes family trips or a bigger trip calls for something more robust. The SUITEDNOMAD set has been voted by many as the best compression packing bags for families, long-term backpackers, and carry-on suitcase travelers. 

The six-piece set comes with small, medium, and large sized compression travel bags for packing , a laundry bag, a bag for toiletries, and a bonus luggage tag (suhweet!). You can also get just the three-piece set if you have less to pack. 

One user bought both sets and had this to say, “ I ordered a three-piece and a six-piece set of these cubes. I plan on using them for an upcoming trip to Europe. I practiced packing my international carry-on bag and a second under seat bag which is compatible with European airlines. All of the clothes I’m planning to bring fit with ease. These compression cubes allowed me to fit more into my bags than I would have been able to do otherwise. Yes, I’m a fan!”

Packing folders vs cubes , find out the difference!

Vacuum Space Bags Product Comparison Chart

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

What’s the Difference Between Vacuum Bags, Compression Bags, and Packing Cubes?

You may be wondering, if I just want more space, why can’t I just use my packing cubes ? (And if you’re savvy, you’ll obviously have Compass Rose packing cubes !).

In all seriousness, let’s discuss the difference between all three so you can decide which is best to meet your needs.

Airtight storage bags vacuum air out with a device that sucks away air pockets, usually a regular vacuum or one that’s travel-sized. There are obviously no vacuum storage bags in the market that work fairly well, but to get the most out of this type of storage, a vacuuming device is a smart way to go. 

Compression bags for packing clothes have specially designed zippers and fabric that push all the air out as you pack and press clothes in, so you can fit more and maximize space in your suitcase or backpack.

Finally, packing cubes can compress clothes a bit while you’re packing but these are typically used for organizing your clothes. For example, the Compass Rose packing cubes have a color-coded and numbering system so you can know where you’ve packed everything (split by days or activities). 

There are packing cube hybrids on the market that do both (compress and organize) but ultimately, TFG readers tell us what wins is quality of the fabric, sturdy zippers that help compress and don’t break off, the flexibility to pack what’s needed and avoid baggage fees, and the ability to augment more space in their luggage.

Hopefully, knowing the differences between all three can help you decide how best to pack!

What are your best vacuum bags storage picks? Share with us below!

For more packing organizational tips, please read:

• These Are the Best Packing Cubes for Carry on Luggage
• Alternate Uses for Packing Cubes Organize your Closet Space
• Packing Organizers: These Luggage Accessories Help You Travel Carry-on
• What I Learned From Packing My Life into 5 Bags

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We hope you liked this post on the best vacuum storage bags for clothes . Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

LOVE compression packing cubes – really is amazing how much easier packing is with them. I‘d never heard of them before I read about them on your blog a few years ago – thank you for that one and all the other great tips!

Thanks for the tips! I was able to travel for 6 weeks this Summer with my carry-on bag with the help of packing cubes (seriously, how did I travel without them before?!).

I love using a combination of packing cubes and the compression bags

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Using vacuum sealed bags for travelling: The BEST way to save luggage space

By: Author Monica

Categories Blog , Packing Tips

Have you seen the viral videos online showing people packing for a month away using vacuum sealed bags and just a tiny suitcase or backpack?

If you’ve ever used a vacuum sealed bag before you’ll know how amazing they are for compressing soft items and saving so much space. Many people have used vacuum storage bags for years for items like seasonal clothing and bedding. I used them for my ski clothing as I rarely use it and a vacuum bag allows me to squish these bulky items into a tiny bag and slip them under my bed.

Vacuum sealed storage bags work by removing the air from a bag and therefore compressing the bag by up to 75%.

Not only are vacuum sealed bags great for storing soft items in your home, but they’re brilliant for travel.

Here’s my guide to using vacuum sealed bags for travelling and my recommendations for the best vacuum bags for holidays.

Can you use a vacuum sealed bag for travelling?

Yes, you can! Vacuum sealed bags are great for travelling because they save so much space in your luggage.

And vacuum bags can be used without a vacuum cleaner to suck the air out – so you don’t need to worry about finding a vacuum cleaner when you’re on holiday! All of the vacuum bags I’ve mentioned in this post do not need a vacuum cleaner!

Even if you will have access to a vacuum cleaner, I wouldn’t recommend buying vacuum bags that rely on a vacuum cleaner to remove the air. If you need to open your vacuum sealed bags at the airport you’ll need a way to suck the air back out of them so they fit back inside your luggage, so I recommend using one of the 3 I’ve mentioned below.

I like to use them for:

• Family holidays where we all share one big suitcase – vacuum bags keep everyone’s clothes separate and save space too
• When I’m travelling with just hand luggage and need to save space
• When I have lots of bulky items like winter holidays and ski trips
• On my return journeys when I have more to come home with than I left with!

My 3 favourite vacuum sealed bags for travelling

Are there any disadvantages to using a vacuum sealed bag for packing your suitcase?

The main disadvantage to using a vacuum sealed bag in your suitcase is that your clothes are going to be creased. I’ve tried rolling and folding my clothes in many different ways but there is no getting around it, your clothes will be more creased using a vacuum bag.

Travel Hack Tip: Rolling your clothes rather than folding them does help but it won’t avoid the creases all together.

For some clothing it isn’t really a problem if you crease them and other items will quickly and easily iron out. But there are some items of clothing that will need to be rewashed if they’re REALLY creased. 

Can I use a vacuum sealed bag even if I don’t want my clothes to be creased?

I often use a vacuum sealed bag but I actually only use the vacuum compression part when I’m coming home with a suitcase full of dirty clothes.

I’ll use the vacuum bag like a regular packing cube for my departure and I won’t compress it at all. But when I come home (and my clothes are dirty and creased and will need to go straight in the washing machine anyway) I’ll use the compression part. 

I find this works really well because I often end up coming home with more stuff in my suitcase anyway. I will have picked up souvenirs and gifts while I’m away so that extra bit of space comes in very handy.

Should I travel with an iron if I’m using vacuum sealed bags?

If your accommodation on holiday doesn’t have an iron available then I do recommend travelling with either a travel iron or a steamer.

Personally, I always travel with a steamer. I just have a cheap travel steamer from Amazon and it’s great. The exact one I use is out of stock but this steamer here is basically the same one. I use it at home now too and I barely ever get the big iron out. A steamer is much easier while you’re travelling as you don’t need an ironing board and it’s much lighter.

You do need to consider the amount of space a steamer will take up in your luggage vs the amount of space you’re saving by using vacuum sealed bags. 

It’s also worth noting that many hotels don’t have irons in the room but they are available on request.

I REALLY don’t want super creased clothes!

If you really don’t want your clothes to be creased then I’d recommend using a compression bag rather than a vacuum bag.

A compression bag will compress your clothing and will save a lot of space, but it won’t remove the air completely so your clothes won’t be as squished.

I like to use The Travel Hack Compression Packing Cube alongside The Travel Hack Backpack. These items have been designed together so the cube fits perfectly inside the case. 

Will my suitcase be too heavy if I use a vacuum sealed bag for my luggage?

Another thing to be aware of is that your luggage could quickly become overweight if you’re using vacuum bags!

You’ll be able to fit so much more in your luggage so it’s obviously going to weigh a lot more so be very careful and make sure you weigh your luggage.

When I’m at home I weigh my suitcase with my normal bathroom scales but if you’re travelling it might be worth getting some travel scales for luggage . 

Travel scales cost around £10-£15 and I think they’re worth it to give you peace of mind and avoid the extortionate fees you’ll pay for having overweight luggage.

What happens if there isn’t a weight limit for my hand luggage?

You’ll often find that there isn’t actually a weight limit for your hand luggage. Many airlines simply request that you can lift your luggage into your overhead locker unassisted so, if you’re strong enough, your hand luggage can be as heavy as you like.

If this is the case then go for it!

Just be aware that you may need to carry your luggage a long way and often up and down flights of stairs, so don’t make it so heavy you can barely carry it! I’d also recommend trying to act casual around the airline staff if your suitcase is really heavy! Don’t draw attention to it and try to act like it isn’t that heavy.

Which are the best vacuum sealed bags for travelling?

There are lots of vacuum sealed bags to choose from which will work perfectly in your luggage for a holiday. I’m going to keep it simple and share three of my favourites.

In all honesty, all vacuum bags are fairly similar so you don’t need to go trawling the internet looking at different designs as there isn’t much of a difference.

The main thing you want to look out for when looking for vacuum bags for travel is that they can be used without a vacuum cleaner! Many of us won’t be able to rely on having a vacuum cleaner available while we’re travelling so you wouldn’t be able to vacuum it shut for your return journey. There is also the possibility that you’d be asked to open it in the airport and you’d need to be able to remove the air and seal it shut again while you’re at the airport.

#1. The electric pump – Vago Electric Portable Luggage Compressor

• Compressible - Soft items get compressed to make up to 50% more space
• Small - Only weights 77g and is 70mm long
• Smart - Detects pressure and stops automatically

The Vago portable luggage compressor with an electric pump to remove the air is my favourite. These bags were my first introduction to using vacuum sealed bags for travelling 

I wrote this Vago baggage compressor review back in 2018 and I still love it and use it today.

The main benefit with the Vago vacuum bag is that the pump on it is electric so it does all the hard work for you.

Of course, this could also be a disadvantage because there is the chance your pump could break or you wouldn’t have a plug handy. So that’s something to consider.

The pump is small and you get a medium sized vacuum bag included with the pump. Larger vacuum bags are also available to buy separately. 

Pros for the Vago Luggage Compressor

• Good quality
• Has lasted me years with lots of use
• Electric pump is easy
• Variety of bag sizes available for the pump

Cons for the Vago Luggage Compressor

• Most expensive
• Electric pump could break and relies on being close to a plug

The hand pump – Spacesaver Vacuum Storage Bags with Hand-Pump for Travel

• PACK INCLUDES: 2 Jumbo Space Saving Vaccuum Storage bags for bedding, duvets, pillow, etc. . JUMBO/EXTRA LARGE storage bags are great for pillows, bedding, winter clothese storage, and as a duvet...
• EASY TO USE: Extra Large vacuum storage bags are easy to use and come with a user-friendly vacuum pump. Just put the item inside the bag, seal it and use the pump to remove as much air as possible....
• HOME STORAGE SOLUTIONS: JUMBO storage bags with zips Increase your storage space with these vacuum storage bags for clothes, bedding, and more. Our Spacesaver vacuum bags are an ideal solution for...

These Spacesaver vacuum storage bags are the best sellers on Amazon with tens of thousands of positive reviews. They come in a variety of sizes and they come with a small hand pump that is suitable for travel. The air can also be removed using a vacuum cleaner.

While using a vacuum cleaner is obviously much easier, the hand pump is also very easy and just as effective and doesn’t require any special strength.

Pros for the Spacesaver Vacuum Storage Bags

• Great price
• Can be used with a vacuum cleaner or hand pump

Cons for the Spacesaver Vacuum Storage Bags

• You have to carry the hand pump with you – it’s quite small but it’s an extra thing to remember – or have a vacuum cleaner available.

No pump – Roll Up Compression Bags

• 4 Travel Roll Up Storage Bags: 24x16 inches (60x40cm), hand roll items into the storage bag, the Unique Roll-up Design squeezes every ounce of air out of the bags.
• No pump or vacuum required: When you're travelling and want the most space, these storage bags are perfect. No need for a hand pump or vacuum to use, just simply roll up and seal.
• Save Up More Storage Space: Rolling and pushing out air reduces the size of items up to 75% leaving extra space in your suitcase.

These roll up compression bags don’t have a pump at all and you remove the air by rolling them up and squeezing the air out before sealing them.

While they aren’t quite as effective as vacuum bags with a pump, they are still perfectly suited to travelling – possibly even better for travelling. They don’t remove as much air but this means your clothes aren’t quite as creased so for many people these will be a better option.

The fact that they don’t have a pump means there’s nothing technical that could go wrong with them and there’s nothing extra to pack (and potentially forget to pack!)

They are still brilliant for removing the air so they’re a great, simple and cost-effective option.

Pros for the roll up compression bags

• There is no pump to potentially forget, lose or break
• Clothes aren’t quite as creased
• Cheapest option

Cons for the roll up compression bags

• Doesn’t remove quite as much air as the vacuum bags with pumps
• Can be a bit tricky as you try to squish the air out while also not allowing too much air back in – could be a little awkward if you have mobility issues (I found it easiest to sit or kneel on it)

There you have it. Three of my favourite vacuum bags suitable for travelling.

If I had to choose one favourite I would say it’s the Space Saver Vacuum bags.

They’re extremely effective at removing the air and the portable handheld pump is really easy to use. The Vago one is better but it’s more expensive and relies on a pump you need to plug-in (which could be awkward if you need to open it and reseal it at airport security!)

The roll up bag is also brilliant and I couldn’t believe how effective it was even without a pump. So this is a good option for a budget vacuum bag or for anyone who doesn’t want to rely on a pump.

Tuesday 13th of December 2022

thank you for this article, life saver!

Wednesday 26th of October 2022

I always use vacuum bags for travel and never use a vacuum. Just open the vent and roll like a compression bag, then replace the cap. Why bring the pump and take up space?

Thursday 27th of October 2022

I've found the pump does remove a bit more air but I agree, it's not needed at all and I don't like removing ALL the air because everything gets too creased.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

The 8 Best Vacuum Storage Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We stuffed, stored, and submerged bags in water to find the best performers

Katherine is a professional home organizer and certified KonMari consultant with over 5 years of experience helping clients get their homes in order. She launched her own professional organizing business, Tidy Milso, in the summer of 2020, to help reorient those feeling overwhelmed with both clutter and disorganization in their homes. To date, she has logged over 500 hours of organizing with her clients using Marie Kondo’s KonMari method.

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Vacuum storage bags are a great way to protect items in long-term storage, make the most of your storage space, and even prepare for an upcoming move. They're great for storing off-season clothes and blankets, too.

In fact, we think using vacuum bags to keep your warmest blankets in storage during the summer months is a smart idea. You can store heavy comforters, extra quilts, and flannel sheets together in a large bag. That way, it's very easy to keep track of bedding sizes, even in storage.

If you've never used a vacuum bag before, or aren't sure what kind to get, rest assured that we've been there, too. We recently conducted extensive testing in The Lab to see which brands and types of vacuum bags are really up to the task of protecting your belongings for long-term storage. We scrutinized them, filled them with all kinds of bedding, and even submerged them in water to come up with a list of recommendations in a variety of categories.

Editor's Note: This review was revised in March 2024 to include updated testing insights.

Other Options We Tested

• How We Tested
• What to Look For
• Why Trust The Spruce

Best Overall

Gongshi vacuum storage bags.

• Design 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5
• Capacity 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Simple and straightforward to use and seal

Can be used with vacuum or included hand pump

Strong yet flexible plastic material

Good value for set

Water tight

Had to re-thread and adjust some plugs when sealing

Bags showed wrinkles after contents were removed

One small piece of plastic dislodged after usage

Ranking at the top of our list is this convenient Gongshi set that features 12 bags in four varying sizes, plus a travel hand pump. During testing, we filled the bags with queen-sized sheets and were pleased with how well they held up. They handled both the vacuum and the hand-pump well when it came to removing air, and both methods were easy to manage. Our best overall didn't show any signs of leaking when we submerged them in water. The material, a durable plastic, felt like it would protect our items for long-term usage, while still being light enough that it wasn't cumbersome to work with or handle.

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

We had few complaints about this set overall, but if we were to be nit-picky, there were a couple small details that weren't ideal. We did find that instead of going on perfectly, the plugs needed to be re-threaded for a proper seal. The bags were rather wrinkled after we removed our props, too. Lastly, there was a small piece of plastic that seemed to shift from the zipper.

But, overall, these felt like very small notes on an otherwise impressive set that performed well, and proved to be a great value. We could see it working well for frequent travelers, people with upcoming moves, and anyone who has long-term and seasonal storage needs.

Amount: 12 (other sets available) | Dimensions: Varies, range from 24 x 16 inches (small) to 40 x 30 inches (jumbo) | Pump Included: Yes | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Not listed

Storage Master Vacuum Storage Bags

• Design 4.3 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

Can be used with vacuum or included pump

Plaid patterns are easy to spot in storage

Sturdy, durable material with textured top

Colorful designs might not suit all tastes

The Storage Master vacuum bags stood out in the lab in a couple of ways. First, their brightly colored plaid print is unique among the field of vacuum storage bags. We like how this makes them easy to spot in storage, and because different sizes come in different colors, it can help with organizing, too.

We also appreciated the subtle texture on the exterior of the bags. Most vacuum bags are smooth, but the slight weave can help them stay in place and limit sliding when stacked. Plus, they come in multiple sets and packages, suiting all kinds of budgets.

Mostly, though, we gave these a big thumbs up, because they proved effective during testing, and we sampled them with both a pump and a vacuum to deflate the air inside. Both methods worked well. We were pleased with their tight seals and performance after we checked them at 24 hours, too. If their colors suit your taste or you're not particular about the appearance of your vac bags, then they're a solid choice. And with such an inexpensive price tag, we think this set of six is a solid best value pick.

Amount: 8 (other sets available) | Dimensions: 19.7 x 27.5 inches (medium) | Pump Included: Yes | Clips Included: No | Warranty: None

Best for Clothes

Taili hanging vacuum storage bags.

• Design 3 /5
• Performance 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Built-in hangers accommodate short and long garments

Reduces need for dry cleaning or pressing

Available in multiple colors

Straightforward sealing process

No travel pump included

Tricky to align clothing inside bag

Cumbersome to remove air from bags

Storing off-season clothes in a vacuum storage bag is a great way to save space. We like the Taili hanging vacuum storage bags to keep your hanging items perfectly pressed. While they can be a little tricky to use, we're fans of the concept and the protection they offer (once everything is in place). The challenge lied in getting all of our garments properly positioned. But once we got the hang of that, we found the sealing process to be straightforward and effective.

As we hoped, they kept everything dry when submerged and didn't appear to lose any air when we checked them 24 hours after sealing them. The plastic material felt a little thinner than some of the others that we tested, but we were okay with that, as it was easy to maneuver and manipulate.

Each bag has a five-hanger storage rod that swivels and a double-zip seal. Plus, these bags come in long and short sizes and in variety packs of four or six. They also come in a few different color options and are among the only vacuum storage bags on the market that do. The short bags work great for jackets and pants, while the long bags are better for coats and dresses. Keep in mind that extra-long items may need to be folded at the bottom. If your goal is to safely store longer garments, they're a great pick, and we think they are a sure win for best for clothes.

Amount: 4 (other sets available) | Dimensions: 53 x 27.6 inches (long), 41.3 x 27.6 inches (short) | Pump Included: No | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Free 90-day experience

Best for Comforters and Bedding

Vacwel vacuum storage bags.

Variety of sizes to and sets available

Larger capacity sizes work for cushions, bedding, and mattress toppers

Bag shrank nearly 15% in size during testing

Hand pump not included

Clips not included

This pack of XXL bags from Vacwel can truly fit your bulkiest duvets, comforters, quilts, or blankets. It can even work for mattress toppers, cushions, and pet beds for those hoping to pack these areas for a change in seasons or an upcoming move.

During testing, we were impressed with their large capacity, tight seals, and the fact that they shrank in circumference by roughly 15 percent when we removed the air (the average was just under 14 percent, and few bags were as large as these). We even tried folding the bag after filling and sealing it, and we found that we were able to still fit it underneath the mock bed in the lab. Their contents remained dry after we tried submerging them in water, proving that the seal was effective.

One thing to note is that this pack doesn’t come with a hand pump or adhesive clips. However, with larger storage options, we don't think that's a big deal as you're less likely to travel with them. We tested a package of five XXL bags, which proved ideal for storing several sets of winter bedding or even heftier sweaters for different family members, but other sizes are available, too. The seal is compatible with a standard vacuum hose and can be reused year after year.

Amount: 5 | Dimensions: 47 x 35 inches | Pump Included: Comes with some pack sizes | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Not listed

Best for Long-Term Storage

Ziploc space bags.

• Capacity 4.8 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

Made of durable plastic

Effective and strong Ziploc seal

Contents were tightly sealed; bags stayed compressed

Designed for clothing usage

Higher than median price of tested products

Travel pump not included

When you hear the brand name "Ziploc," you may think of sandwich baggies, but rest assured that the company's vacuum storage bags deserve some attention, too. The brand offers a number of different sizes and sets. During testing, we filled one of these bags in size Large with six plush bath towels, and it was easily up to the task. We even think that more items would have probably fit just fine.

We were definitely satisfied with the overall compression and durability they showed, and no air or water seemed to get in. We're also fans of the XL-sized Space Bag. It can fit bulky items like bedding, linens, or even stuffed animals. You can use it for one large item, like a king-sized blanket or quilt, or multiple smaller items, like winter clothes.

These are slightly higher priced compared to many other vacuum storage bags. But we think their overall performance and the reliable Ziploc name makes these bags a reasonable value, especially for long-term use. Once you vacuum the air out of the bag using a standard vacuum hose, you can be sure that it will stay sealed and airtight for a long time.

Amount: 2 (other sets available) | Dimensions: 17.5 x 22 inches | Pump Included: No | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Not listed

Best for Travel

Hibag space saver bags.

• Design 4.5 /5

Textured material feels sturdy

Great value

Multiple bag sizes and package variations available

Pump included

Had to use fingers to seal

Contents (2 bath towels) were tough to fit

The set from Hibag Space Saver Bags checks the important boxes for what you'd need in a set of travel-friendly vacuum bags: a pump is included, the bags proved durable and effective, there are multiple sizes available for easy packing, and belongings were protected while sealed (we saw no signs of water seeping in when we submerged them). The material has an extra layer that reminded us a bit of bubble-wrap, which felt sturdy when we handled it during testing.

We did struggle a bit to insert two bath towels into one of the small-sized bags, but ultimately we got them to fit. We needed to use our fingers (along with the included clip) to seal everything up.

Ultimately, we were satisfied with how condensed they were once air was removed via shop vac. We also tried out the included pump and found it to be efficient, too.

Amount: 10 | Dimensions: Varies; starts at 15.7 x 23.6 inches (small) | Pump Included: Yes | Clips Included: Yes | Warranty: 1-year replacement or partial refund

Best for Underbed Storage

Woolite jumbo cube vacuum storage bags.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

Roomy enough for bedding

Bag shrunk significantly (20%) with vacuumed air removal

Bag appeared tightly sealed after 24 hours

Pump not included

Opening could be larger

With one of the roomier sizes we tested (23.5 x 11 x 35 inches), these Woolite bags are a great choice for blankets, bedding, and other bulky items you want to tuck under your bed for long-term yet easy access. They're on the larger size, and they don't come with a pump, so we think they make the most sense for at-home storage, and underbed use in particular. Depending on your space and home, you could also easily tuck them into a closet, laundry room, or garage. They held up well during the 24 hour testing period, protecting contents and keeping items dry when we submerged the bag.

Now, the packaging does claim that these bags can hold up to two Queen size bedding sets and four pillows. Based on our experience, a single bag wouldn't hold that much, but you may be able to come close if you use both sets. We would have liked to have seen a clearer statement about whether you can count on one or both bags for this volume. Still, once we had our hands on these bags and tried one of them, it did very well and proved to be an effective and efficient storage choice.

Amount: 2 | Dimensions: 23.5 x 11 x 35 inches | Pump Included: No | Clips Included: Yes | Warranty: Not listed

Best Heavy-Duty

Magicbag vacuum storage cubes.

Bag held all expected items without feeling overfull

No signs of air leakage after 24 hours

Design of bag is easy to fill

Zipper felt more effective than others tested

Took a few tries to seal bag with zipper

During testing, we appreciated the cubic shape of these bags, which allows them to stand upright—almost like a gift bag—for filling, as opposed to having to lay flat or sideways. The ease with which we could position our belongings and secure everything was a lot smoother and easier than the awkward angles that some of the sideways designs required.

These bags were also roomy enough to comfortably hold two pillows and three sheet sets without feeling like we were overtaxing them. The zipper also had a higher-quality feel to it, and while it took a few tries to properly seal when we were packing it, it proved to hold a tight seal. It was also comfortable to re-zip when we tried the second day.

We had a few complaints about this bag. While a pump would be a convenient addition, using a vacuum to remove air was smooth and easy. Overall, it's a high-performing set that's a good value, too.

Amount: 6 | Dimensions: 27.5 x 39.35 x 12.6 inches | Pump Included: No | Clips Included: Yes | Warranty: Limited warranty

Our best overall pick for vacuum storage bags are the  Gongshi Vacuum Storage Bags . They're super easy to use, proved effective at holding and protecting contents, and they work with a vacuum or travel pump. We also like the  Storage Master Space Saver Bags , which we named our best value pick. They also held up impressively well during testing, come in budget-friendly sets, and have patterned exteriors for easy sorting and spotting.

Spacesaver Vacuum Storage Bags : While these bags did an impressive job at condensing a duvet into a stunningly small size, we were disappointed to see that they started re-inflating just a few minutes after sealing. It did seem to protect items inside, but we would have preferred them to stay compact.

Amazon Basics Vacuum Compression Storage Bags with Hand Pump : At first, these bags seemed consistently sturdy with some of the other picks we've named. However, roughly an hour after we sealed them, they started to re-inflate, too. They were also one of the few picks that allowed water to reach the contents when we submerged them.

MagicBag 6-Pack Large Flat Vacuum Compression Bags : After filling and sealing this bag, we were optimistic about it. However, it also re-inflated within 30 minutes of sealing. Instead, we would suggest another pick from this brand, the MagicBag Vacuum Seal Storage Bags (XL Cubes ), our best heavy-duty pick.

How We Tested the Vacuum Bags

We tested 16 different types of vacuum bags in The Lab . There, we assessed, filled, and even submerged them in water to come up with a list of picks that we can confidently recommend. The first step was a visual inspection of each bag, noting everything from the material to the port attachment.

Next, we filled them with an appropriate amount of linens, which ranged from sheets and blankets to towels and pillows. We paid careful attention to how much we could fit, versus how much the brand or packaging claimed that the bags hold. Once the bags were full, we measured their circumference.

Then, we compressed each bag. For most, this step was completed with a vacuum, but when a pump was included with a set of storage bags, a second sample bag was filled so we could compare both the pump results with the vacuum results. After the bags were compressed, we remeasured them to compare the difference in circumference and to see how much space was gained.

Finally, compressed bags were set aside. We returned after 24 hours to assess how well the seals remained, whether the bags reinflated at all, and how both bags and their contents held up (including through water submersion). These results were then compared, analyzed, and we landed on our top list of recommendations that you're reading today!

What to Look for in a Vacuum Storage Bag

Vacuum storage bags can fit everything from toiletries to a few sweaters and a  king-size comforter . The best size of bag for you will depend on what you're trying to store or organize. Some users prefer to get multiple bags of the same size so they can be stacked and stored together. Others look out for variety pack options so they can store items in the most efficient way possible and ultimately do not waste any space. Some bags come in traditional flat styles, while others are designed to be more like cubes.

Typically, vacuum storage bags come in small, medium, large, and jumbo sizes. A small bag can be as little as 24 x 16 inches, while a jumbo bag can be as large as 48 x 36 inches. Many of our recommendations come in variety packs or are offered in sets, including our best for travel , the Hibag Space Saver Bags , which are available in 19 different sets, and our best value pick, the Storage Master Vacuum Storage Bags , which come in 14 sets.

Intended Use

It's also key to consider how you'll be using your vacuum storage bags. For starters, if you intend to reuse them year after year or if you want to store items once for a longer period of time, look for ones that are made of durable plastic and don't have valves or gaskets that will break easily (we recommend the MagicBag Vacuum Seal Storage Bags (XL Cubes ), our best heavy-duty pick). On the other hand, if you want to use your bags for travel—say, when you take a trip across the world—be sure to buy ones that come with a hand pump, like the Hibag Space Saver Bags (our best for travel pick) so you don't need to track down a vacuum at your destination.

Vacuum storage bags tend to be made of thick plastic. Although they aren’t puncture-proof, regular use usually doesn’t cause problems with the plastic itself. Take it from us, it's the bag's valves, zip top, or seals that are typically the first to go. If you plan to reuse your vacuum storage bags often or want to use them long-term, look for a brand that offers a lifetime guarantee or has invested in the durability of their bags. It may be helpful to look for notes about lifespan and to check on potential warranties. During testing, and while creating this list of recommendations, we did our best to only suggest bags that held up well and showed potential for long-term durability.

Standout Features

Travel pump.

If you're using your vacuum storage bags on the go to keep your suitcase organized and neat, look for one that includes a hand pump. Using this handy accessory, you can remove air from your storage bag while you travel and don’t have access to your normal vacuum. This can make packing even easier when you are on your way home and can even free up space for extra souvenirs. Among our picks, three come with a pump: our best overall , the Gonhshi Vacuum Storage Bags ; our best value , the S torage Master Vacuum Storage Bags , and our best for travel , the Hibag Space Saver Bags .

Adhesive Clip

An adhesive clip is a great way to make sure you get a good seal on your bag. Any place that opens, including the main opening to the bag where you put your items, is a place where air can potentially get into the vacuum-sealed storage bag. An adhesive clip keeps this area secure and airtight, even when the regular seal is a bit worn. We made careful note on which sets came equipped with a clip.

Vacuum storage bags remove the air from a bag by using a vacuum hose or travel hand pump. Once the air is removed, a one-way valve keeps air from going into the bag. It's important to follow the manufacturer's directions when using vacuum storage bags. You may need to secure zip tops, turn seals, or complete other steps required to make the bag absolutely airtight.

You can store things in vacuum storage bags indefinitely, although most will start to leak and allow air back inside over time. High quality vacuum storage bags will remain airtight for at least a few months. This makes them an ideal way to store clothes, bedding, and linens as the seasons change. You can also use them to pack for travel and maximize the space in your luggage.

You should not vacuum pack food items unless you are using a vacuum sealed bag specifically made for food. These vacuum storage bags require a system or appliance other than your traditional vacuum. In addition, clothing and bedding items should not be vacuum-packed for too long, especially when it comes to a  puffy duvet . If you're hoping to pack them, it might be best to take them out of the vacuum storage bag every once in a while to let them move. Also, it's key to make sure all items are completely dry before packing them away.

Quilts are a great item to store in vacuum storage bags, especially if you want to  protect handmade quilts  for a long period of time. Just be sure to take them out of storage every once in a while and pack them a bit differently to prevent any hard creases from forming.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by  Dena Ogden , a commerce writer at The Spruce focusing on technology, appliances, cleaning, and organization. Ogden has over eight years of experience covering lifestyle, commerce, and culture topics, and has been with The Spruce since August of 2022. She also has firsthand product testing and review experience. For this round-up, she considered testing insights from  The Lab  to inform selections.

Our Experts:

• Katie Melynn , freelance writer at The Spruce
• Michelle Lau , editor at The Spruce

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The Best Vacuum Storage Bags For Travel

Discovering the best vacuum storage bags for clothes may seem gimmicky and fake, much like those infomercial products that advertisers have been peddling since the advent of modern TV. Although they have appeared on several infomercials, vacuum-sealed bags are nothing like the vast majority of those advertising gimmicks. They make excellent storage containers for both home use and of course, travel!

But what are vacuum storage bags, really?

Built with a small valve, these bags can easily be sealed with a hand pump or a vacuum cleaner. They are designed to release air—not seal it. As you squeeze the air out of these containers, you compress everything that’s inside them. This technology comes in handy when you’re traveling, especially when you’re trying to stuff a lot of items in a small suitcase. Whether you want to bring extra clothes, blankets, or plush toys, you can place them in vacuum-sealed containers to fit everything in your bag.

If you don’t like how vacuum storage bags wrinkle your clothes on a trip, carrying a few extra suitcases won’t do any harm. As a matter of fact, these should come in handy for your return trip. All you need to do is pop your dirty laundry inside and compress everything to make more room for souvenirs and other goodies. Even when you’re not traveling, you can use these vacuum-sealed bags to store your clothes. Likewise, they can be used to store seasonal items like winter jackets and thermal blankets.

How to Choose the Right Vacuum Sealed Bag

Jumbo bags are excellent for carrying heavy winter clothes. Let’s say you’re traveling with family in winter. You can squeeze all your coats and jackets in oversized vacuum bags. Once the air has been pumped out, you will be able to fit everything in a few suitcases, and you won’t have to carry around heavy luggage. Bags for everyday clothes have to be smaller. To get the best bang for your buck, buy variety packs that offer bags in different sizes.

If you’re always on the go, buy high-quality vacuum bags so they can last longer. Look for ones made with thick and durable materials. This way, they won’t rip easily. At the same time, you can ensure that your clothes are safe from dust, moisture, and other elements that might ruin them.

Sealing methods

Find out the sealing methods they use to keep air out. An excellent sealing method will preserve the quality of your clothes while they are inside for extended periods of time.

There’s nothing new about vacuum bags for clothes. Now, you can easily find hundreds of manufacturers who produce such products. But there are a few items that do stand out from the rest. Here, you will see five of the best vacuum storage bags for travel in our opinion.

Don’t forget to read our 5 Ways to Fit More in You Carry-on Bag

Spacesaver Premium Vacuum Storage Bags

The Spacesaver is one of Amazon’s best-selling vacuum storage bags for good reason. It comes with one-of-a-kind double-zip seals and a triple-seal turbo valve. This combination lets you squeeze every bit of air out of your bag using the free hand pump that’s included in your purchase. This makes it easier to seal items inside an air-tight container when you’re traveling. Spacesaver promises to give you 80% more space than any other vacuum storage bag.

Spacesaver is made out of anti-microbial materials, which keeps your items safe from mold, mildew, or bacteria. In other words, it keeps all your clothes in pristine condition no matter how long you intend to store them. The bag is designed to keep out moisture, and even critters trying to nibble on your clothes.

Only four different sizes are available, but the 40- x 30-inch jumbo pack is larger than most of the bags on the market. Best of all, Spacesaver offers a lifetime replacement guarantee. You just need to get in touch with them to have your bags replaced.

Best features:

• Oversized storage bags, perfect for large items like pillows and blankets
• Double-zip seals protect your belongings from moisture, mold, and bacteria
• Has a travel-sized hand pump

Vacwel Jumbo Vacuum Storage Bags

Measuring 43 x 30 inches, the Vacwel vacuum storage bag is one of the largest, if not the largest, on the market. It can fit winter clothes, blankets, pillows, and more. Not only can this vacuum-sealed bag store large items, but it can also reduce their storage volume by 75%, making it ideal for under-bed storage. Plus, it’s made with durable materials, which reduce tearing vulnerability. Compared to other compression bags, it is 25% thicker. That means you won’t have to worry about it ripping apart when you stash it under the bed.

Once you seal your belongings inside your Vacwel bags, they will remain airtight. After rigorous testing, the company developed a triple-valve technology to maximize air expulsion. If you’re looking to store items for long periods of time, you can trust Vacwel to keep moisture, mold, mildew, and mites out.

There are different variety packs available, each of which comes with its own combination of small and larger bags. However, the smaller sizes aren’t sold separately. Additionally, not all bundles come with a complimentary hand pump.

• Oversized storage bags with enormous capacity
• Triple-valve technology keeps it airtight; protects it from mold, insects, bad odors
• Thicker than most vacuum storage bags on the market

Space Max Premium Vacuum Storage Bags

Even if you decide to use your vacuum bag for storing items for longer periods of time, you won’t have to worry about mites getting to your belongings. Your seasonal clothes and other items will be safe and sound inside your Space Max bag.

For about $19.99, you can purchase six jumbo vacuum storage bags. You can maximize the space in your apartment or in your suitcase by reducing the volume of your belongings by 80%. A complimentary hand pump comes with your purchase. So, wherever you want to go, you can travel light and more efficiently, with Space Max.

• Double-zip seal and triple-seal turbo valve technology

Bayco Vacuum Storage Bags

Ideal for households on a budget, the Bayco jumbo pack comes with eight 40- x 30-inch vacuum storage bags, and it’s available for only $15.99. It might be cheaper than most of the options out there, but in terms of quality, it can compete with some of the biggest names in the business. With a Bayco bag, you can fit huge items such as duvets, pillows, and blankets. You can also reduce each item’s original size by 80%. Although it is compatible with any vacuum cleaner, you might find it more convenient to use the travel-sized hand pump that comes with your purchase of a Bayco pack.

All of the Bayco bags are durable and reusable. You can use them as many times as you want. However, you need to make sure everything is dry and clean before placing your belongings inside. Once everything is ready, you can store your winter clothes in jumbo packs and shirts in smaller bags. The Bayco bag keeps moisture and bacteria out. It also prevents foul smells from seeping inside.

• Affordable jumbo-sized vacuum storage bags
• Made with durable material

Simple Houseware Vacuum Storage Bags

Another budget-friendly vacuum-sealed bag comes from Simple Houseware. This 39.5- x 26.5-inch bag is more affordable than most storage bags. With Simple Houseware, you can have more for less. Like most of the bags on this list, it claims to reduce storage volume by 80%. It’s airtight and waterproof. However, it doesn’t have a complimentary hand pump. On the other hand, Simple Houseware does offer free utility clips for each storage bag.

Simple Houseware’s vacuum bags also have noticeably thinner plastic, which could lead to some leakage in the long run. Instead of using these for long-term storage, you can use them whenever you’re traveling instead. You only have to keep your clothes for short periods of time, so you won’t have to worry about ruining your clothes in case air starts to seep inside. Since it doesn’t have a complimentary pump, you will either have to buy your own or borrow a vacuum cleaner at your hotel to be able to use this on your travels.

• Affordable price
• Has a variety of sizes
• Has utility clips for storage

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The 7 Best Vacuum Storage Bags of 2024, According to Testing

We put 16 vacuum storage bags to the test to find the best options.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

The Bottom Line

Our testing process.

• Others We Tested
• What to Know Before Shopping

Your Questions, Answered

Better Homes & Gardens / Dera Burreson

It can sometimes seem like storage space is always at a premium, especially in smaller homes. Storage space is certainly precious when it comes to packing a suitcase for travel, too. Vacuum storage bags can be an excellent way to save on space, whether at home or on the road. 

Michele Vig, founder and chief organizer of Neat Little Nest, says vacuum storage bags can be an excellent option for long-term storage of fabrics at home. When it comes to travel, she believes they’re “top-notch” and adds, “Make sure you’re finding a bag that seals by rolling it so you can repack your luggage for the trip home.” 

To help you find the best vacuum storage bag for your needs, we tested a total of 16 options. We evaluated each option based on how durable the bag is, its capacity, whether the bag stayed sealed after 24 hours, and whether the bag kept items dry after being submerged in water. After all, the last thing you want is to open up a storage bag to find mildewed linens. 

We then ranked the best options into seven different categories to suit everyone’s storage needs. Here are our picks for the best vacuum storage bags.

Best Overall

Gongshi vacuum storage bags.

• Design 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5
• Capacity 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

The bags kept out water, were easy to use, and are made of durable plastic.

We found sealing the bags with the hand pump allowed for fewer items to be stored.

Our pick for the best vacuum storage bags goes to Gongshi. This option includes 12 bags in four sizes (small, medium, large, and jumbo), and it comes with a hand pump. We tested out the medium-size bags with five sheet sets, using the hand pump with one bag and a vacuum with the other to seal them. 

Vacuum sealing the bags with a wet/dry vac allowed us to fit all five sheet sets in the bag while the hand pump only allowed for three sheet sets. We found the sealing process for both options to be quite simple and straightforward, with both the vacuum nozzle and the hand pump fitting easily into the bag’s valve. Sealing with the wet/dry vacuum took only 18 seconds, while the hand pump seal took a full minute—something to note if you’re in a time crunch. Both sealed bags fit nicely in the 12-inch storage space under a queen bed and on a shelf meant for cube storage.

During testing, we gave the bags glowing reviews. We found the plastic to be durable and didn’t feel that it might tear, though it did have some creases after compression. After submerging the bags in water for one full minute, neither bag allowed water to enter, meaning everything was nice and dry. After 24 hours, both bags stayed sealed and compressed, though the hand-pumped bag did increase in size by roughly 3%. We felt that the number of bags, how well they held up, and the price all combined to make these the best vacuum storage bags. 

Product Details: Bags: 12 | Sizes: Small (24 x 16 inches), medium (28 x 20 inches), large (32 x 24 inches), jumbo (40 x 30 inches) | Included accessories: Pump

Best for Clothes

Ziploc space bags.

• Capacity 4.8 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

These bags kept the contents dry and easily held six bath towels.

You may not want to use these for storing zippered or embellished clothing since the thin plastic could tear.

These vacuum storage bags come in a pack of three and have a clip that simply slides across the zippered lock to seal it, plus an intuitive flip-open cap for attaching a vacuum hose. We were able to seal the bag in an impressive 10 seconds, which is one of the quickest compression times we observed during our 16 tests. 

During our testing process, we were able to compress six bath towels in the bag. According to Ziploc, the bag should hold up to 10 sweaters, and we feel that’s an accurate claim. Once compressed, we were able to place the bag both under a queen size bed and on a Z-rack with no problems. 

The bag includes a bit of bubble wrap, so it has some cushioning for delicate clothing. We observed that the bag felt thin, but found it held up to the compression process with no tears—just a bit of wrinkling afterward. However, it might be wise to avoid using them to store zippered clothing or sweaters with metal embellishments in case they tear the thin plastic. 

After 24 hours, the bag was still sealed and measured only about 2% larger than the initial seal, so it kept out air quite well. Even after being submerged in water, the towels were protected and dry. The valve did leave an indent in a towel resting against it, which we were able to fluff away. You may want to avoid placing more delicate clothing closest to the valve to keep from potentially damaging your favorite sweater, however. 

Product Details: Bags: Three | Sizes: 22 x 30 inches | Included accessories: None

Best for Bedding

Vacwel vacuum storage bags.

During our testing, the bag’s circumference shrank by more than 10 inches, making it a wise choice for storing large linens in a small area.

The price feels a bit high when you consider that the bags are all the same size, which doesn’t provide much variety.

This the best vacuum storage bag if you have extra bedding to stash away. It was able to handle two pillows as well as three sheet sets. And despite holding that much, the bag’s circumference shrank by more than 10 inches, making it especially handy for smaller storage spaces . We could easily place it under a bed, and it still fit nicely in this 12-inch space after we folded the bag and its contents in half—meaning it’s perfect for storing lots of items in a compact area.

Using a wet/dry vacuum, we found it simple enough to remove the valve cover, attach the hose, and replace the cover. It took about 15 seconds to compress the bag, but we felt the end of the bag could have benefited from more compression, so we gave it another 10 seconds of sealing time but didn’t see a significant change in size. 

We appreciated the moderately thick material with its sturdy feel, and we didn’t feel that the bag might tear when storing bedding. The bag stayed compressed with no sign of air leakage, plus it didn’t allow water in during a one-minute submerging. Post-compression, we observed some minor wrinkling but no signs of stretching, so we’re confident they’ll stand up to multiple uses, such as when storing seasonal clothing that you’ll use each year. Though five bags are included, the price tag felt a little high, especially since each bag is the same size.

Product Details: Bags: Five | Sizes: 47 x 35 inches | Included accessories: None

Best Hanging

Taili hanging vacuum storage bags.

• Design 3 /5
• Performance 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The bags easily hold five coats and come with a hanger so you can simply hang them in a closet once sealed.

It can be difficult to use the zipper because it’s on the long edge, and the valve’s placement leads to less efficient airflow and a longer compression time.

Sometimes, closet space is all the storage area you have to spare. In that case, these are the best vacuum storage bags since they come with a hanger for easy vertical storage. They come in two sizes, with two bags included per size. 

We loved the capacity of the larger size bag, which fit five hip-length coats along with their hangers. We didn’t love the thinner plastic that didn’t feel terribly sturdy, yet it held up to the 24-hour compression test with no tears. We measured a decrease in size of nearly 12% immediately after sealing the bag, with a negligible increase in size after 24 hours. Plus, the bag didn’t allow water in when it was submerged for a full minute.

We didn’t feel that using the bag was very easy, though. We struggled to lay the coats flat within the bag because of the zipper’s placement on the long edge of the bag. We also had to search for sealing instructions online, and found it difficult to properly align the vacuum with the bag’s valve. The bag’s design meant the coats were pressed up against the valve, interfering with airflow, which then led to a longer compression time—about 2.5 minutes. 

Product Details: Bags: Four | Sizes: 41.34 x 27.56, 53.15 x 27.56 inches | Included accessories: Built-in hanger

Best for Travel

Hibag space saver bags.

• Design 4.5 /5

The set includes 10 bags that work extremely well with the included hand pump, so they’re perfect for people who are on the go without access to a vacuum.

These perform slightly better with the hand pump, so you may want to skip sealing with a wet/dry vacuum.

Frequent travelers will find these to be the best vacuum storage bags, in part because the set of 10 bags comes with a hand pump for easy use while you’re on the go. We tested out the small bags, and the set contains eight more in four additional sizes, including a travel-friendly roll-up style, a feature Vig recommends. We were able to fit two towels in the small bag, although it was a bit of a struggle and our testers resorted to stuffing the towels in versus folding them neatly. 

Once items were inside, the bag was very easy to seal thanks to the dual-colored zipper lock that lets you see when the bag is sealed at a glance. We sealed two bags—one with a wet/dry vac and one with the included hand pump, both of which worked well. Surprisingly, the hand-pumped bag shrunk by nearly 14% in size while the vacuum-sealed bag only shrunk by about half that much. Both bags fit beautifully under a queen bed, and we liked how durable the plastic material felt. 

Both bags remained sealed after 24 hours with no significant signs of air leakage, plus they kept the towels dry under water. The vacuum sealed bag increased in size by about 3.7% while the hand pumped one actually shrunk another 2% after 24 hours. Neither showed wear and tear after our 24-hour test, although the towels needed to be fluffed up to remove indentations afterward. Our tests show that these are designed to work well with the hand pump that’s included, which makes the bag a must-have for travelers looking to save precious luggage space. 

Product Details: Bags: 10 | Sizes: Carry-on size (15.7 x 19.7 inches), small (15.7 x 23.6 inches), medium (19.7 x 27.5 inches), large (21.7 x 33.5 inches), jumbo (27.5 x 39.4 inches) | Included accessories: Pump

MagicBag Vacuum Storage Cubes

The high-capacity bags easily fit two pillows and three sets of sheets—and still had room for more items.

The bag left wrinkles in the sheet sets, which may mean you’ll want to throw the sheets in the wash or give them a quick pass with an iron before using them again.

If you’re after generously sized storage options, then these are the best vacuum storage bags. They come in a set of six, and we found that one bag held two pillows plus three sets of sheets without even meeting the maximum fill line. In part, that’s thanks to their cube-shaped bottom design, which means the bags stand upright, allowing for an easier loading process.

The zippered lock is nice and sturdy, as is the bag material itself. We found the zippered closure to be a bit difficult though, taking multiple tries to seal properly. The plastic clip that’s included does help to increase pressure for a better seal, however. The bags shrunk by a little more than 10% and once compressed, fit easily under a bed and on a cube shelf. Vacuum sealing the bag took only about 30 seconds, falling in the middle of our compression time ranges.

Contents stayed dry even after a one-minute dunk in water, and the bags remained sealed during our 24-hour compression period. The sheets did show some indentations and wrinkles, so you may want to inspect any items you take from storage before using them. Some people may not mind a wrinkle or two, but if wrinkles bother you, know that you’ll likely need to wash or iron fabric items once they’re out of the storage bag. 

Product Details: Bags: Six | Sizes: 27.5 x 12.6 x 39.35 inches | Included accessories: None

Best for Long-Term Storage

Storage master vacuum storage bags.

• Design 4.3 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

The textured top material of the bags allows for easy stacking during storage, plus using a vacuum allowed us to fit five sets of sheets in one bag.

The included hang pump took much longer to create a seal and didn’t allow the bag to hold as many items as when vacuum-sealed.

There are some items you want to store over a longer period of time, like heirloom quilts or your grown kids’ baby clothes you can’t bear to part with just yet. In that case, consider this set of six bags from Storage Master. For one thing, they have a textured outer material that lets you easily stack bags together without having them slide off of one another. Sealing the bags is an easy process, so it won’t be a hassle to seal multiple bags if you happen to have quite a few blankets or vintage clothes to tuck away.

The sealing process itself took us about 16 seconds using a wet/dry vacuum. However, it took 1.5 minutes when we used the included hand pump, making it a much less efficient way to seal the bag. The hand-pumped bag also only fit three sets of sheets while the vacuum-sealed bag held five. Plus, the hand-pumped bag inflated about 10% in size 24 hours after sealing it. The vacuum-sealed bag grew as well but by closer to 6%. The bag’s plastic material is thick and sturdy, though it kept some indentations from being folded in the packaging.

The sheet sets from the hand-pumped bag were wrinkled when we pulled them out after 24 hours, so bear in mind you may have some ironing work ahead of you after storing fabric items. Both seal types (wet/dry vacuum and pump) stayed sealed, but we noticed a few drops of water on the sheets from the hand-pumped bag. This was likely due to the sheets picking up water from the outside of the bag, though it’s worth noting if you’re planning to store items in an area that may be wet or damp. 

Product Details: Bags: Six | Sizes: 19.7 x 27.5 inches | Included accessories: Pump

After testing, we found that the Gongshi Vacuum Storage Bags are the best vacuum storage bags. They earned top marks in each of our categories, plus they’re easy to use, durable, stored five sheet sets, and kept air and water out.

To find the best vacuum storage bags, we put 16 options through five tests over a period of 24 hours. We analyzed each bag according to several factors, including the thickness of the plastic, quality of its seal, size before and after sealing, number and type of items that fit, time needed to compress the bags, how it fit on a shelf or under a queen sized bed with 12 inches of storage space, how it fit on a Z rack for hanging (where applicable), whether the bags resisted water when submerged for a full minute, and what the contents looked like after storing them for 24 hours.

With bag options that included a hand pump, we sealed one bag using the hand pump and the second using a vacuum. Interestingly, we found that the hand pump worked better with some options than others—though not in all cases.

Other Vacuum Storage Bags We Tested

Spacesaver vacuum storage bags (electric pump + variety 10-pack).

Though we liked the capacity of these bags from Spacesaver , it was quite a challenge to fit the items (three pillows, a duvet, and a set of sheets) into the bag, so our testers had to be rather forceful when filling. We found using the electric pump that’s included meant we could only fit two of the three pillows in the bag, so the bag held less than when we sealed it with a vacuum. It also took close to two minutes to fully seal the bags no matter which method we used, and both bags began to inflate within 45 minutes to two hours after our initial seal. 

AirBaker 10 Pack (Small) Vacuum Storage Bags

After stashing two towels in the bag, we felt these bags from AirBaker were too small and their material too thin for towels. While using a vacuum and the hand pump both resulted in about 15% bag size shrinkage, the hand pump was quite tiring. The vacuum sealed bag  reinflated by about 14%, and we noticed water on the towels after submerging this bag.

Hefty Shrink-Pack 2 Jumbo Storage Bags

We found that Hefty’s vacuum storage bag shrunk by an impressive 24.26%, but it was difficult to be sure the zipper lock was actually sealed. The bag comfortably fit three pillows along with a duvet and sheet set, which we tucked under a bed once compressed. And though it kept water out, the bag reinflated before 24 hours, which means it didn’t make the cut for the best vacuum storage bags.

What to Know About Vacuum Storage Bags Before Shopping

Jill Moore, owner and certified professional home organizer of Organized Jill Professional Home Organization advises, “Be sure to not overstuff vacuum bags and utilize the correct size.” She adds, “It is better to place less things in more bags for easier retrieval without having to dig through a large pile.”

Michele Vig, founder and chief organizer of Neat Little Nest, elaborates, “I would choose the bag to best fit the category of items going in—the smaller the category, the smaller the bag.” Vig explains that large bags, for example, are more suited for blankets while summer clothes may fit nicely into smaller bags. She also notes that bigger bags can be “more cost-effective” because they hold larger things and allow you to buy fewer bags. 

On the flip side, large bags might be more challenging to store and can hold too many things, making it a struggle to easily find a specific item. To ensure you have the right size, look for guidance from the manufacturer. Moore notes that most manufacturers tend to list which contents they recommend storing in their bags, plus they may include a line on the bag itself to serve as a capacity guide.

Intended Use and Contents

In terms of the type of items you’re storing, you’ll want to consider how the material might interact with the bags. Vig explains, “Some types of materials store better in containers/bags that can breathe—like natural fabrics (think cashmere). I would prefer to use linen boxes to store those types of items than plastic airtight bags or bins.” Moore agrees, adding, “Different fabrics may react differently to being stored without air circulation and ventilation. Damage could occur to certain fabrics if they were not intended to be stored in this manner.”

Whether you plan on using a vacuum storage bag for extra sheets and towels or to store off-season clothing like winter sweaters, consider how long it will stay in storage before you return to the items. Moore adds, “It is important to rotate the contents of the bags seasonally, as well as use and enjoy the items, so we're not just storing things in perpetuity.” She continues, “Rotating your items seasonally will give you an opportunity to evaluate your belongings before bringing them back into the seasonal rotation in your everyday closets.”

Vig adds, “Unless there is a clear reason items need to be stored in the bags for a long period of time (like a large home renovation), there is a chance that what gets stored in the bags might never be used again.”

Accessories

Depending on the vacuum storage bags you buy, you may find that accessories come with them. You can buy just the bags by themselves, of course. But some brands include a hand pump or even an electric pump as an alternative to using a vacuum cleaner—which can be ideal for traveling when you typically won’t have access to a vacuum for sealing the bags. 

Moore has a few words of advice when you’re looking at seal types. To start, she recommends you “invest in a good brand with a good sturdy ‘locking’ zipper.” She cautions that opting for a less expensive brand may mean the bag will be thinner, which ultimately might result in accidental holes or even a seal that doesn’t stay tightly closed. She says, “It is always better to invest in a better-quality organizing product that will last a longer time than to have to replace inexpensive or flimsy storage items multiple times.”

Do vacuum seal bags actually save space?

Michele Vig, founder and chief organizer of Neat Little Nest, says it depends. “While a vacuum seal bag can save space by shrinking items down, the result of a large plastic bag filled with stuff needs a place to go,” she says. “Without having a good place to store those vacuum bags (a proper-sized shelf, for example), you might not have gained that much storage space.” Vig recommends viewing vacuum storage bags as long-term storage since it can be difficult to access items and reseal frequently. 

Moore adds, “When used correctly, they can absolutely save space, however, fabric prefers to breathe. It can be better to declutter items that you are considering storing for extended periods than to overstuff a vacuum bag and tuck it away; out-of-sight belongings often become out-of-mind belongings, which translates to clutter.” 

Are vacuum storage bags waterproof?

According to Moore, “Vacuum storage bags are water resistant. If something were to spill or drip on them, the contents would likely survive unscathed. However, if a vacuum bag was submerged in a flooded basement, the water trapped inside would quickly grow mildew and mold in the contents.” Vig adds that you’ll need to read the directions from the manufacturer to know for sure if the bag is waterproof.

Do you need a vacuum for vacuum storage bags?

Vig says you may not always need a vacuum to seal vacuum storage bags. She notes, “Many vacuum storage bags now are able to be sealed by rolling the air out of the bag, which makes them excellent for using with air travel.” According to Moore, “For best results, a vacuum is recommended and will remove more air than other methods, such as pressing on the bag to force out the air manually.” Other bags may come with a pump, though they still allow the option of using a vacuum for sealing.

Brittany VanDerBill is a travel and lifestyle writer whose work has been published with several Dotdash Meredith brands. To find the best vacuum storage bags, she researched a variety of options, keeping in mind capacity, performance, durability, and more. She also consulted Michele Vig , founder and chief organizer of Neat Little Nest, and Jill Moore , owner and certified professional home organizer of Organized Jill Professional Home Organization in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, for additional insights.

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Using Vacuum Bags For Packing Your Clothes For Travel

Using vacuum bags for packing your clothes for travel is one sure way to get more clothes in a limited space. Fit a weeks worth of clothes easily into one carry on with this one travel hack.

 First off I want to start with a warning that you have to be very careful about using vacuum bags for packing if you are flying. No it isn’t dangerous, at least to anything but your pocketbook. If you use vacuum compression bags you can easily blow past the weight limit on your luggage.

That being said using vacuum bags is a great way to get a lot of clothes into a small space. This is particularly true if they are fluffy items like sweaters.

The concept behind travel vacuum bags is very simple. You put in your clothes, seal the bag and then either suck or push all the air out. This squishes everything down as flat as possible. This compression means you can get a lot more in your suitcase.  At least without having someone sit on your to close it.

When looking at vacuum bags for travel there are two main types. The first are true vacuum bags that you seal and then use a vacuum or a small vacuum pump to pull the air out of. The other are bags with closures that allow you roll up the bag, forcing out the majority of the air. The first do a better job of getting all the air out, but require you to have access to a vacuum.  This can obviously a problem.

For traveling I lean towards the ones that you manual force the air out. You may not be able to flatten them out as hard but you can use them everywhere.

Do Vacuum Bags Wrinkle Your Clothes

If you are wanting pristine, flat pressed dressed shirts, then stuffing them in a vacuum bag randomly and compressing them isn’t a winning plan. That being said, for most clothes, if you put them in neatly, they will only get mildly wrinkled. Compressing all your clothes into a small space does come with some wrinkleage.

The TSA and Vacuum Packed Clothes

A common question that comes up is if the TSA will allow vacuum packed clothes through checkpoints. The official answer is yes . They don’t love them, but yes you can pack your clothes in them for flying.

Personally if I am using them, I pack only clothes in the bags and keep any objectionable items separate. So don’t pack you ‘adult novelty items’ containing batteries deep inside your vacuum sealed clothes.

Advantages of Using Vacuum Bags for Packing Your Clothes

• More clothes in a small space
• Clothes are protected from moisture
• Clothes are safe from bugs

The first advantaging to using vacuum bags to pack your clothes for travel is that you can cram an amazing amount of clothes in one bag. Especially if you use a bag fitted with a seal for a vacuum pump, you can make a big stack of clothes get really small.

The next advantage traveling with vacuum bags, is that your clothes will stay dry even if your luggage gets wet.  Even if your suitcase gets soaked, your clothes will stay nice and dry

The last big advantage is that clothes in vacuum bags are immune to bugs. Depending on where you are traveling, you may want to avoid taking any of the wildlife home with you. The fact is that bed bugs among other insects are nut uncommon in some areas and anything you can do to reduce the change of bringing them home is worth it.

Disadvantages of Using Vacuum Bags for Packing Clothes

• Your luggage can get very heavy
• Very easy to over pack
• Some wrinkling is inevitable
• Can be hard to get into small bags
• Not easy to just grab an item
• Vacuuming them flat can be pain away from home

Top of the list for disadvantages when using vacuum bags to pack clothes is that it is VERY easy to overload your bag. With most airlines getting more and more strict about checked baggage, this is a serious concern. Now for carry on bags that magically don’t seem to matter to the airlines, you can go crazy on the compression. Beyond all the airline rules, trying to drag a 75# suitcase through the airport and in and out of cars is not fun.

Tied to this is the tendency to overpack. Just because you can get 15 outfits in your carry on bag doesn’t mean you should. Use the power of the vacuum bag wisely and still only take what you really think you will need.

Some wrinkling of your clothes is inevitable. Whether you lay them flat or roll them up, sucking all the air out of your clothes will add some wrinkles. The more carefully you put them into the bag will make a huge difference on how badly they get wrinkled though.

Getting a loaded up, flattened down vacuum bag full of clothes into a small suitcase can be tricky. Once you have flattened all your 1980s vintage rock band t-shirts into a brick, it isn’t going to want to mould itself into the shape of your suitcase very well. Planning ahead and sizing your vacuum bags to your luggage helps with this though.

If you are on the move, quickly grabbing an item out of your stash of clothes is a little trickier if they are all vacuumed away. One trick to make this less of an issue is to use several smaller bags as opposed to one large one. They will be easier to reseal, and helps keep your clothes organized at the same time.

Getting vacuum bags flattened all the way out when away from home can be a pain. At home you have room to spread out and do your thing or have a vacuum handy to suck the air out of your bags. Sitting in the Dallas airport after the friendly TSA people wanted to know what that one thing was in your bag, trying to recompress all your outfits into your overhead bag isn’t my type of fun.

Another Option for Compressing Clothes for Travel

Personally I only use vacuum bags for clothes under rare circumstances. In most cases I use compression packing cubes to organize and compress my clothes into my suitcase. They do a fairly good job of compressing clothes, but don’t require any of the fuss that vacuum bags do.

Check on Amazon and you will find a wide variety of compression travel cubes for anywhere from $10 to $30 depending on how many you get. If you are really crazy about travel organization, you can even separate out your dirty from the clean clothes with them.

Vacuum bags for packing your clothes for travel do have their place though. If you need a lot of clothes in a small space and need them to stay safe, they would definitely be my go-to choice.

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This Space-Saving Closet Hack Is The 'Best Amazon Purchase Of My Life'

Staff Writer

As the weather turns in some parts of the country, you’re probably already daydreaming about pulling out your sandals and swimsuits. Of course, before you get your warm weather gear out, you have to put your bulky winter gear away — something that’s a heck of a lot easier with vacuum storage bags .

Whether you don’t have a lot of storage space or are gearing up for a move, vacuum bags let you pack your clothes, coats, linens and pillows extra tight. Some come with hand pumps some have electric ones, but all will compress your garments, making them easier to transport and store and giving you more space in your closet or basement.

To help you get a head start on your spring cleaning , we rounded up the highest-rated vacuum storage bag sets on Amazon . We’ve included options with a variety of bag counts and sizes so that you can find the one that’s best for your storage needs.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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The Ultimate Vacuum Space Saver Bags Travel Hack

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Most of you know that we are a carry-on travel family. We didn’t used to be, but a few years ago, we got into a great carry-on routine and haven’t looked back! We each use a roller bag and a personal item.

However, we flew Spirit to SW Florida and the  Hyatt Regency Coconut Point  last month. They charge more for carry-on luggage, so we checked one large bag and used Space Saver bags.

When I posted an  Instagram reel  of us vacuum-packing our clothes, I received a lot of questions! People wanted to know how we planned to get everything back and just how wrinkled our clothes got.

So, today, I am sharing everything you’ll need (or want) to know about using  Space Saver bags  when traveling!  

Space Saver Bags

First of all, this technique isn’t new. However, modern technology has made these vacuum-sealed bags of higher quality and pumps smaller and easier to use. 

Beyond travel, these Space Saver bags are great for storing coats, off-season wardrobes, blankets, and quilts. But today, I am focusing 100% on the travel benefits of using vacuum-sealing bags. 

My Favorite Space Saver Bags

I have the  Space Saver Variety 20-pack  of bags and handpump. I like this set because it has 5 small bags, 5 medium bags, 5 large bags, and 5 jumbo bags. We use the various sizes for different purposes.  

SHOP:  Click here to browse all Space Saver bags ! 

How To Vacuum Seal Pack Your Clothes

These Space Saver bags are surprisingly easy and satisfying to use. The set I have includes the bags (with screwcaps), the hand pump, and little clips to help you seal the zip-up area tightly. 

Here are some photos I took to show you how these bags work.

In the first photo, you can see just how much room Jake’s 5 outfits would have taken up initially. In the next picture, you can see how they looked after vacuum sealing. These are pretty dense pieces of clothing, yet it still saved a good amount of space!

In the next set of photos, the items are bulkier including pajama pants, socks, etc. In the first photo, we have the cap off and are pulling out all of the air. The next two images show the bag from the front and side.

Isn’t it crazy how flat it became?

Lastly, I want to show you what the entire side of the suitcase looked like after vacuum-sealing four bags of clothing. This half contained Matt, Jake, and Abby’s entire wardrobes for this trip.

Mine is on the other side. Because we were already at the max weight limit and didn’t need any more space, we opted to just use my regular compression packing cubes for my clothes.

We did keep shoes, toiletries, and heavy items out of this bag in hopes of not exceeding Spirit Airlines' weight limit of 40 lbs. Most full-service airlines have 50-lb weight limits, so we really could have fit even more into this suitcase. Always check your airline’s policy!

Space Saver Bags Travel FAQ

Now, I want to take a minute to answer the questions that I know you all have. Trust me, I had the same ones before we did this the first time! 

How do you get your clothes home?

The same way you got them there! We pack our handpump and literally vacuum-seal our dirty clothes for the trip home. I also pack an extra bag or two in case one happens to rip.

Won’t my clothes be wrinkled?

Yes, they will. But they aren’t really that much more wrinkled than they usually get rolled into packing cubes.  The photo below shows the four bags unpacked as we got settled in at the hotel. As you can see, Abby’s bag at the bottom wasn’t sealed nearly as tight because we realized we didn’t need quite that much space.

We always travel with my  favorite portable garment steamer . This steamer removes wrinkles quickly and easily, so it’s not much of an issue. 

Will I go over the weight limit? 

You might! It depends on what you are packing. The total weight of the items is the same. However, you could be tempted to overpack when you realize how much you can fit in your suitcase once your clothes are vacuum sealed. 

If most of your items are “airy,” such as jackets and sweaters, then they will save the most space. On the other hand, if you have dense items such as denim and even swimwear, they will get small and heavy.

I recommend that you have an inexpensive  handheld luggage scale  on hand to check the weight of your luggage before heading to the airport. 

What if my Space Saver bags rip?

These bags are durable, but that is always a possibility. This is why I pack 1-2 extra bags just to be safe. I highly recommend that you do the same. 

The more you use them, the more you risk that happening. I would just make sure you are using caution when opening them and storing them between uses.

When is the best time to use Space Saver Bags?

These bags come in particularly handy in the winter when clothes are bulky. Think about packing for a ski trip and all of the winter layers you need to have with you. These are very helpful in that situation.

Also, there are times when I do not pack in these on the way to our destination but instead use them on the way home. It’s easy for me to seal up the dirty clothes and make some extra room for souvenirs!  

Another use is when you need to pack your own bedding, beach towels, etc, for trips, especially when you don’t have to fly to your destination.  Space Saver bags  really help to create more trunk space on road trips when you aren’t worried about weight limits like on airplanes. 

The handheld pump is the size of your hand, so easy to transport! 

Buy Your Space Saver Bags 

These popular Space Saver Bags are available nationwide. They can be ordered via Amazon for fast shipping and usually the best price. 

SHOP:  Space Saver Bags on Amazon 

You May Enjoy These Other Travel Blog Posts

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The Best Crossbody Bags For Travel, Built With Storage And Style

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Roomy enough to carry everyday essentials, the best crossbody bags for travel give you the freedom to explore without having to lug your suitcase around. We researched the best crossbody bags for travel that offer both storage and style and selected the MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe as our top pick. We also found other great options for different travel styles, like a spacious crescent bag for beach trips and a sleek sling bag for organization.

The best crossbody bags for travel give you the freedom to explore without having to lug your ... [+] suitcase around.

A solid crossbody bag is versatile and provides convenient hands-free storage for every situation. This 4-in-1 leather bag from Lo & Sons stylishly transitions from day to night, while Lululemon’s popular Everywhere Belt Bag can be worn on the hip or across the body. Meanwhile, active travelers will get great use out of the Nomatic Navigator Sling , which features a water bottle holder and a stabilizer strap. Below, the best crossbody bags for travel in a variety of price points, styles and materials.

• Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall: MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe
• Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
• Best Crossbody Bag For Organization: Aer Day Sling 3
• Best Crossbody Bag For Parents: Hobo Sheila Large Satchel
• Best Crossbody Bag For Beach Trips: Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag
• Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips: Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L
• Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel: Lo & Sons Waverley 2 in Nappa Leather
• Best Belt Bag For Travel: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1 L
• Best Crossbody Bag For Men: Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack
• Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel: Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Crossbody

Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall

Lightweight, stylish storage, mz wallace small sutton deluxe.

Dimensions: 9.8 × 5.5 × 10.20 inches | Weight: 1.08 pounds | Materials: Recycled oxford (polyester, nylon), leather

With a handy key ring strap and five interior pockets, this versatile bag is perfect for staying organized during travel. It can be worn as a crossbody or top handle tote and its water-resistant oxford fabric won’t weigh you down on your journey. There’s an easy-to-adjust nylon strap for a customized fit and the detachable interior pouch is big enough to hold a pair of shoes, plus the ample pockets provide plenty of space for your phone, keys, tickets and more. It weighs only a pound but can fit a surprising amount of items, plus its plush fabric folds down for packing.

Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel

Security features plus many pockets, travelon anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 2.25 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds | Materials: Polyester, nylon

Travelon’s Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag packs an impressive punch for being so small. Its six pockets keep everything where you need it—including an RFID-blocking passport and card interior organizer—while a tethered key caddy with an LED light eliminates that dreaded “can’t-find-it-in-my-bag” feeling. The 5-Point Anti-Theft security system protects against theft threats with slash-resistant fabric, lockable straps and secure zipper pulls. Not only will you feel safe wearing this bag, but thanks to its 13 colors and prints, you’ll also look stylish anywhere your trip may take you.

Best Crossbody Bag For Organization

A compact sling bag with room to spare, aer day sling 3.

Dimensions: 11.5 x 6 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.8 pounds | Materials: Cordura nylon

With a ballistic nylon exterior and a unique design that zips open for easy access, Aer’s Day Sling 3 is one of the more durable crossbody options out there. It has a 3L capacity that fits a surprising amount of items and its 8 pockets ensure everything stays in its place. There are multiple loops for strapping onto your luggage or storage and a handy front pocket with a key leash and cool security features like a secret back pocket. There’s also a sneaky Fidlock clasp that makes it harder for a pickpocket to snatch your bag.

Best Crossbody Bag For Parents

Extra space and storage for the whole family, hobo sheila large satchel.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 14 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Materials: Raffia, leather

For parents or travelers who need to tote a lot of stuff on the go, a larger bag might be in order. Hobo’s Sheila Large Satchel offers nice organizational features and high style points. It’s made of a lightweight woven raffia with leather trim for added durability, plus its six interior pockets, key lanyard and accessible side exterior pocket are perfect for storing smaller items you may need throughout the day. Its main compartment is quite roomy, easily fitting a laptop, kid’s tablet, diaper wipes, snacks, toys, a backup outfit and more. The flexibility of its 3-in-1 styling really stands out—the adjustable strap can be worn as a crossbody, shortened for a shoulder bag or simply removed to transform into a classy top handle bag for a night out after the kiddos go to sleep.

Best Crossbody Bag For Beach Trips

Large and easy to wear for sandy days in the sun.

Urban Outfitters

Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag

Dimensions: 10.5 × 19.5 × 5.25 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Materials: 100% recycled nylon

A beach bag calls for some pretty specific features: it needs to be durable and water-resistant, it should be big enough to hold bulky towels and ideally, it has a simple shape so sand won’t get lodged in the nooks and crannies. After much research, the Baggu Crescent Bag fits the bill. Its adjustable strap can be worn across the chest or as a tighter-fitting shoulder bag, the large size is roomy enough for a couple towels and a change of clothes and the zippered interior pocket keeps your wallet and keys secure. The quick-drying ripstop nylon is not only recycled, it’s also durable enough to withstand the windiest—and wettest—of beach days. Consider adding a few of Baggu’s fun printed flat pouches for additional organization.

Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips

A durable sling with no detail spared, nomatic navigator sling 6l.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 9 x 4 inches | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Materials: 80% nylon, 20% polyester

Whether you’re hiking, biking or riding the metro, the Navigator Sling from Nomatic offers durability, storage and some impressive features. There’s a water bottle holder that zips away when not in use, a molded EVA back panel for wearable comfort and breathability, a tamper-resistant zipper and tech features like built-in tablet storage, an RFID-blocking pocket for your cards and a cord-pass through for charging your devices in different pockets. If you’re running or moving around a lot, there’s also a stabilizer strap that clips on to keep the sling even more secure to your body. Unlike some sling styles, this bag has multiple zippered storage compartments, the main one opening extra wide for easier access.

Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel

Four ways to wear it.

Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 in Nappa Leather

Dimensions: 5.6 x 8 x 2 inches | Weight: 0.6 pounds | Materials: Nappa, Saffiano or cactus leather

When you’re on the go, sometimes the last thing you want is to ruin the flow of the day by making a pit stop at the hotel to change out a bag before dinner. We like the Lo & Sons Waverley for its inventive versatility that adapts to your needs. The minimal leather design has an adjustable strap that can be worn 4 ways: as a hands-free belt bag, a longer crossbody, a casual shoulder bag or an elevated clutch with (or without) a wristlet. The main compartment is large enough for the essentials and the zippered inner pocket keeps smaller items secure no matter where your day—or night—takes you.

Best Belt Bag For Travel

Hands-free storage in a slim profile, lululemon everywhere belt bag 1 l.

Dimensions: 7.5 x 2 x 5 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Materials: Nylon, recycled polyester

Over 22,500 reviewers agree: the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is sleek, lightweight and versatile enough to be worn just about anywhere your travels take you. It has a water-repellant nylon exterior and one main compartment, three mesh interior pockets for added organization and a back zipper for your phone or cards. Its adjustable strap can tighten for comfortable wearing around your waist or it can be extended as a crossbody sling. With a 1L capacity, this bag is definitely on the smaller side, so you might want to consider their larger 2L size if you need more space.

Best Crossbody Bag For Men

Rugged looks for when you're on the go, cotopaxi coso 2l hip pack.

Dimensions: 11 x 7 x 3 inches | Weight: 10 ounces | Materials: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester

This easy-wearing hip pack from Cotopaxi combines an urban rugged look with smart storage solutions. The recycled nylon exterior is durable with a matte TPU coating, making it water-resistant and easy to clean, while a fleece interior pocket stores your phone or other small devices without any scratch risk. There’s multiple grab handles for easy carrying, secure pockets for smaller items and in addition to the main zippered compartment, the exterior front flap pocket can store a rolled-up lightweight jacket when you get warm on the go. G-hooks on both sides can be adjusted for customized storage and it can be comfortably worn as a crossbody on the front or back, or around the waist as a belt bag.

Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel

Three storage sections in a minimal package, quince italian leather triple compartment crossbody.

Dimensions: 7.8 x 9.5 x 3 inches | Weight: 1.54 pounds | Materials: Leather

Quince’s smooth Italian leather crossbody might look simple from the outside, but there’s actually a lot of unexpected storage inside. The bag has three main compartments—two zippered sections flanking one open area that closes with snaps—plus three internal zippered pockets to take your organization a step further. It also comes with two detachable straps that allow for crossbody or wristlet wear. Quince is known for its fair prices and ethical manufacturing process, and if that’s not impressive enough, the brand also offers a generous 365-day return policy.

The 10 Best Adirondack Chairs That Balance Comfort And Durability

Nespresso vs. keurig: which pod coffee maker is right for you, why trust forbes vetted.

Our team at Forbes Vetted is comprised of seasoned editors, writers and researchers who not only love travel, but love to shop. We approach all of our travel product roundups with a discerning eye, focusing on quality, value and more, taking the time to assess products so you don’t have to. From the best luggage locks to the best carry-on backpacks , we spend countless hours researching, vetting and testing travel products to bring you the best of what’s on the market so you can make smart and informed shopping decisions for that next big trip or cruise . This story was written by contributor Becky Eaton , who regularly writes fashion, accessory and travel product guides for Forbes Vetted.

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Traveling Light: How to Pack a Carry-on

By Stephanie Rosenbloom

For some travelers, the mere thought of packing a carry-on bag can sour even the most potent vacation anticipation . But packing light can also be a creative endeavor that helps build excitement for your upcoming getaway. And with fees for checked bags on the rise, it makes economic sense to master the art of packing a carry-on. Here are some tips on how to save space — and your sanity.

Get in the minimalist mind-set

If you tend to over-pack, begin by thinking about why you’re traveling in the first place. Doing so may help you focus on the many sights, sounds, scents and tastes you’re about to experience instead of the many outfits you’re unable to cram into your bag.

“It’s all about the mind-set,” said Pauline Frommer, co-president of the Frommer’s Guidebooks and Frommers.com , who has not checked a bag in more than 20 years. “When you’re traveling,” she explained, “it’s more about you seeing the world than the world seeing you.”

Pack colors that coordinate so you can bring fewer items yet still have options, like re-wearing the same pants with various shirts. Darker colors mean a stain won’t render something unwearable. And invest in some technical clothing. Such pieces keep you warm without being bulky, are easy to move in, have pockets for necessities like glasses and cellphones, and resist water as well as odors so they can be worn more than once. Many outdoor apparel brands ( Patagonia and Arc’teryx , to name a couple) make clothes that are great for hiking yet sleek enough to dress up when the sun goes down. Just pack some eye-catching accessories.

“I tend to maybe throw in a necklace,” Ms. Frommer said, which she wears on top of her day clothing “to make it look more dressy.”

Choose your bag

There is no perfect carry-on for everyone. To determine the bag that’s best for you, ask yourself how you’ll be using it. Will you be carrying it long distances, through subway turnstiles and city streets? Or will you typically be rolling off a plane and into a car? Bags with wheels tend to be less taxing on your body, though if you’ll be taking public transportation or flights of stairs, a backpack or lightweight duffel can keep you hands-free and may make for smoother transitions. Also consider the things you’ll be bringing. Structured, harder luggage is often best for keeping dress clothes wrinkle-free and organizing unwieldy items like high heels. That said, a soft duffel bag without wheels has a better chance of being able to squish into an overhead bin.

Nerissa Settie, who, as the butler executive at Raffles Doha in Qatar trains the butler team and oversees day-to-day operations, wrote in an email that “each option offers a different benefit,” with duffel bags providing more depth, and wheeled bags providing more compartments and less strain on your shoulders. If you opt for the latter, buy a bag with four wheels, Ms. Settie advised, which is easier to maneuver along an aircraft aisle.

Whatever bag you choose, know the rules. Carry-on bag dimensions vary by airline, so be sure to check your specific airline’s size and weight requirements, including those of any connecting carriers.

Also pay attention to your route and fare class, which can affect the number of bags you’re allowed to carry on, as well as their weight. And remember: While your bag may comply with the carry-on policy, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be allowed to bring it on. For instance, if you’re in a low boarding group, you’re more likely to have to gate-check your bag. With that in mind, keep essential items like medicines in a small bag that can easily fit under the seat in front of you. If you’re unsure about whether you’re allowed to pack a particular item, check out the government websites for the places you plan to travel through, such as the Transportation Security Administration’s What Can I Bring? page and the European Commission’s Information for Air Travellers page.

Know when to fold ‘em

When it comes to packing your clothes, the question is: Should you fold them flat or roll them? Ms. Settie recommends rolling because it uses less space and results in fewer creases. That’s easy enough with T-shirts, but what about a suit jacket? The butlers at Raffles Doha use a technique that involves turning one shoulder of the jacket inside-out and then tucking the opposite shoulder inside it, aligning the sleeves and then folding the jacket in half while inside-out, which minimizes wrinkling and helps protect the outer layer of the jacket (Ms. Settie shared instructions here ). Or simply wear your blazer onto the plane, something Ms. Settie suggests because jackets and jeans take up a lot of space and weigh more. Besides, she said, doing so gives you “the added benefit of traveling in style.”

As you place items in your bag, think about balance. Put heavier items, like shoes, at the bottom (near the wheels, if your bag has them). Ms. Frommer said she typically packs two pairs and stashes things such as socks and jewelry in them.

Clothing should go toward the top of your bag to reduce creases created from weight, with jackets going in last, Ms. Settie said. You can also add a layer of protection from wrinkles by putting skirts and blouses in plastic dry cleaning bags before folding them flat and then placing them at the top of your bag.

Borrow and buy

A bit of research ahead of time can free up a lot of room. Call your hotel or vacation rental to find out if items like hair dryers and sunscreen are provided so you don’t have to pack your own, and ask if they have washing machines or offer cleaning at reasonable prices.

And don’t worry about packing for every possible eventuality. Buying practical things while you’re away can be great fun. It’s an opportunity to talk with locals, try regional products (like the affordable beauty elixirs found in Parisian pharmacies) and, of course, bring a few treasures home, thanks to all that room that’s left in your bag.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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I’m a Former Lululemon Employee, and I’ve Got My Eye on These 16 Pieces From the New Travel Collection

Belt bags and buttery-soft leggings are just the beginning.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

It’s no secret that Lululemon’s beyond-comfortable athleisure has become a favorite of travelers. As a travel writer, I see Everywhere Belt Bags and Wunderlust Weekenders on planes, trains, and the ground everywhere from Australia’s white sand beaches to Europe’s cobblestone streets. And when I worked at Lululemon in a past life, I sold thousands of buttery-soft bottoms to shoppers in pursuit of the perfect pair of travel pants .

Now, nearly 30 years after its founding in Canada, the world-famous brand has dropped a huge new travel collection . Their women’s travel capsule alone features 29 pieces (starting at just $28), and their entire travel collection for her has nearly 200 pieces. They cover every category from jackets to jumpsuits. Meanwhile, Lululemon’s men’s travel collection features more than 150 pieces ranging from board shorts to button-down shirts. Accessories-wise, think luggage, organizers, key chains, and packing cubes. 

Feeling overwhelmed by all the options? I’ve got you. While shopping for two upcoming trips to Brisbane and The Big Apple , I recently took inventory of all of Lululemon’s new travel products. It’s almost as if I’m still on their payroll. But I’m not. Lululemon is just one of my love languages. That said, you don’t need to know the difference between the Align jogger and the Adapted State jogger to appreciate a little Lulu on your travels. Whether you’re in the market for a packable backpack or a comfortable pair of white sneakers , see below for the 16 travel-friendly Lululemon pieces I’d prioritize packing. 

Lululemon Dance Studio Relaxed-fit Mid-rise Cargo Pant 

Dance Studio is a misnomer. This lightweight, mid-rise cargo pant is just at home in an airport. For starters, it has a looser fit and adjustable drawstring waist, something I appreciate when I’m bloated or just want to feel comfy (but also look cute). This pant also has more pockets than previous versions — Lululemon has been selling the Dance Studio pant for more than a decade —  and the hems are cinchable for days when you want the jogger look. This new version is available in nine colors, but if you’re okay with the previous iteration, you can get it on sale for just $89 in Belgian Blue . 

“Fabulous for running errands and travel,” is the title of one recent review. Note: most shoppers say these pants run big.

Lululemon Cityverse Women’s Sneaker

What happens when a brand, well-known for its buttery soft fabrics and four-way stretch, designs comfortable footwear? You get this stylish sneaker designed for travel days when you easily hit 10,000 steps before lunch. The Cityverse currently comes in four colors. I’m obsessed with white sneakers that go with every outfit, but I’m also tempted to get a pair in Precocious Pink after having watched Barbie . While these shoes look simple, they boast 3D-molded support and cushioning, and the rubber outsole is cupped. That helps with traction, especially on Europe’s well-worn cobblestone streets. 

“I walked about 18-20kms per day in these shoes and had zero [issues] with sore feet,” wrote one satisfied shopper, who continued to say, “… also, no sock slippage (I find some shoes ‘pull’ socks into them)! I highly recommend these shoes.” 

Lululemon Align Leggings High-rise Pant 

My friends joke that I have more pairs of Align leggings than I do jeans. They’re not wrong. Like the Align joggers I never leave home without , the Align High-rise Pant is made of Lululemon’s signature Nulu fabric. While it’s far from sheer and it holds up for years, it’s so soft and weightless it almost feels like you aren’t even wearing pants! This popular pant is also ideal for travel because it offers just the right amount of stretch, and thanks to the Lycra, it never loses its shape. I hate when I wear leggings multiple days in a row and the butt starts to sag. Currently, it comes in 13 colors and four different lengths. 

In fact, the Align High-rise is such a hit that it has almost 10,000 five-star ratings. “My most comfortable travel leggings,” wrote one shopper who acknowledged that they’re not cheap but deemed them “100 percent worth the price.” 

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

If you haven’t seen Lululemon’s ubiquitous Everywhere Belt Bag on the streets yet, you’re probably living under a rock. Just kidding. But seriously; this game-changing accessory has nearly 19,000 five-star ratings. Currently, it comes in 13 colors (it’s also on sale in True Navy for $29 ). While it’s one-size-fits-all, the hip belt is adjustable. You can even wear it cross-body if you want. Personally, I appreciate the water-repellent fabric and the waist-facing hidden stash pocket I know no one but me has access to. 

“Wish I had bought it sooner,” wrote one shopper who comfortably wore theirs on vacation and spotted at least 10 other people wearing the same bag every day. (When something is this popular, you know it’s worth it.)

Lululemon Softstreme High-rise Midi Skirt

The few times I’ve been fortunate enough to fly business class, I’ve wanted to be comfy but also dressed up. This new midi skirt would have been perfect! It’s made of a ridiculously soft fabric featuring four-way stretch. But the best part? It doesn’t wrinkle easily. Actually, the skirt’s hand pockets (with hidden card sleeves) may be the highlight. And it’s highly versatile. While it’s comfortable enough to lounge in, it’s also classy enough to wear on a dinner date.

“This skirt goes with just about every top and shoe in my wardrobe and can be dressed up or down,” wrote one shopper who says it’s “great for travel.” 

Lululemon Relaxed-fit Twill Blazer

Many travelers have a love/hate relationship with blazers when they’re traveling. They love the look but hate the fit. For that reason, Lululemon designed this relaxed-fit blazer. It’s still tailored — so it looks sleek and has structure — but it’s not as constricting, making it easier to layer over tops and overall comfier to wear. In keeping with the athleisure theme, the twill fabric wicks away sweat, and there’s a back vent for “added mobility” and breathability. There are also four pockets: two interior welt pockets, and two on the front. 

While it looks worthy of the boardroom, several shoppers praise how well this blazer works for travel. One wrote, “It’s lightweight and doesn’t crease,” while another traveler said it’s “a great quality blazer for the price.”  

Lululemon Softstreme High-rise Pant

For economy, I’m more than happy to rock these pants made with the same silky soft material as the skirt above. While I normally wear joggers, this wide-leg look is definitely trending right now. And thanks to the high-rise fit and the way the fabric drapes, these pants are far from frumpy. That said, the drawcord waist and front pockets make them practical. 

“They look nice for almost any occasion,” wrote one shopper who deemed them the most comfortable pants they own. “They will be my travel pants for sure as they don’t show wrinkles, even after being folded up for a few days.”

Lululemon Men’s License to Train Tank Top

It may be designed for training, but this best-selling breathable base layer is also ideal for travel because it’s made for “more wearing, less washing.” Since the moisture-wicking fabric features the brand’s anti-stink Silverescent technology, odor-causing bacteria has an extremely hard time growing. My boyfriend recently wore this on a 17-hour travel day flying home from the tropics, and I swear he smelled as good when we landed back in Montana as he did when we left. 

“I got so many compliments in a few hours,” wrote one shopper who owns it in multiple colors. It’s currently available in five colors, and an older version is on sale in Aero Blue for $49 .

Lululemon Men’s Textured Full-zip Hooded Jacket 

“Travel-friendly” is what the designers of Lululemon’s newest men’s outer layer were going for. Naturally, they made this piece extremely lightweight with plenty of pockets and adjustable vents. Whether you’re on a plane with broken AC or a plane blasting the AC, a little airflow can be major when it comes to regulating temperature. I also like that the hood and hem are cinch-able, which keeps out moisture. However, since this jacket is made of water-resistant nylon, you don’t need to worry too much about getting wet. 

Because it’s so new, the Men’s Textured Full-zip Hooded Jacket, available in black, only has one review. While the shopper wishes it wasn’t so thin, they like other features. “The color of the jacket is almost pitch black which I really like,” they wrote. “The pockets are also very deep, so you won’t have to worry about items falling out of them.”

Lululemon Wunderlust Weekender Bag 48L 

I bow to whoever invented the wheeled carry-on. Still, I find shorter sojourns and road trips are more doable with a duffle bag. With 48 liters of space, the Wunderlust Weekender holds 3 to 4 days’ worth of clothes, and thanks to the adjustable external straps, I can attach extras like my shoes, yoga mat, and jacket to the outside. I also love the exterior padded pocket which is perfect for my laptop, and all the other pockets for smaller valuables. Like most of Lululemon’s products, this bag is made of a water-resistant material that sheds moisture, and it’s versatile, something I appreciate because it’s not cheap. 

“Such an amazing weekender/gym/ travel bag,” declared one shopper. “It’s stylish and functional — couldn’t recommend enough.”  

Lululemon 2-in-1 Travel Duffle Backpack 45L

If you want a duffle that you can also wear on your back, opt for this slightly smaller dual-purpose piece that features hidden backpack straps. Like the Wunderlust Weekender, it’s also made of water-repellent nylon and has a removable shoulder strap. Pocket-wise, it’s similar. There’s a padded pocket large enough for a 16-inch computer, a stash pocket for straps you’re not using, and even an external water bottle pocket, so you have easy access to hydration and don’t need to worry about water leaking in your bag. 

“Easy to run through the airport with it on my back, and happy to fit it into the overhead compartment,” wrote one shopper who says it’s the “only” bag they need for travel. 

Lululemon Travel Packing Cubes 3-pack 

Even though I buy luggage with plenty of pockets, I still rely on packing cubes to keep my clothes organized. This set features three different sizes of cubes. The smallest is great for underwear and socks, the medium is what I keep my tops in, and the largest is perfect for bottoms and bulkier items. Like most of the other packing cubes I’ve tested, these feature mesh, so air can escape (which helps them compress). What sets them apart is the fact they have side handles so they’re easier to carry. They also feature double zippers, a nice added touch that comes in handy if you tend to overpack.

“I travel for work 365 days out of the year and love these cubes,” wrote one shopper. “You can fill them up and zip them down to a smaller size which is very helpful.” Note: most negative reviews say the quality is great, they just wish these bags were bigger. 

Lululemon Travel Laundry Bag

Gone are the days when hotels had disposable plastic laundry bags I could “borrow” for my dirty or damp stuff. These days, most are opting for reusable bags (as they should). But because we can’t take them with us, it’s time we invest in our own. Unlike most heavy-duty canvas bags hotels use, Lululemon’s laundry bag is made of a water-repellent polyester that weighs half as much despite still being able to handle a few days’ worth of clothes. I also love that this bag consists of two big zippered compartments. Use one for really dirty stuff and another for pieces you’ve already worn but may need to wear again. 

“Smart design and compact for traveling,” summed up one shopper who uses theirs for business travel. 

Lululemon Travel Organizer

Picture vertical packing cubes, all attached together, that you can hang in a closet to create floating shelves, and you have this handy travel organizer. In total, all three compartments (two of which are zippered) offer 26 liters of storage. That’s about enough for a few pairs of pants, several shirts, and all of your socks and underwear. Even when it’s filled to the max, it doesn’t take up much space thanks to the compression straps that help pack it down. And when not in use, it folds up, so it’s easy to store. 

“Keeps me organized and makes the packing process a breeze,” found one shopper who called it “the perfect travel buddy.” 

Lululemon Packable Backpack 32L

As much as I adore this $25 foldable backpack I found at Amazon , I can’t deny that Lululemon’s version is much more my style. I love how sleek it looks. Available in black and grey, it goes with pretty much everything. And despite looking professional enough to wear on a business trip, it’s extremely practical. For starters, it has adjustable shoulder straps, a trolley strap that attaches to your suitcase handle, and plenty of pockets including one that turns into a packable pouch for storing the backpack when it’s not in use. Filled to the brim, this bag can hold up to 32 liters. But when it’s packed down, it takes up about as much space as a T-shirt. 

“Slaying it” is the title of a review left by a shopper who wrote, “It’s super stylish, durable, and incredibly convenient.” 

Lululemon Roll-up Travel Toiletries Kit

In a couple of weeks, I’m traveling on New Zealand’s TranzApline Train , where I plan on using this hangable roll-up toiletries kit. Like planes, most trains have limited counter space in their bathrooms. And because this kit is made of a water-repellent fabric, I don’t need to worry about accidentally splashing water on it. While it lays flat when not in use, and you can obviously hang it up to access your items, this kit also features snaps on the end, so you can stand it upright. It has three zippered compartments, and many shoppers say they love it for storing tech accessories, too. 

“It helps keep my items organized and is easy to grab all my items in one swoop as I move around the hotel, or when visiting someone’s house,” wrote one shopper who called it “the perfect travel companion.” 

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How to Get a Refund on Recalled Tide, Gain, Ace and Ariel Laundry Pods

Proctor & Gamble has issued a massive voluntary recall due to risk of serious injury.

How to get a refund

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that Tide Pods, Gain Flings, Ace Pods and Ariel Pods sold in flexible film bags between September 2023 and February 2024 have been recalled.

The CPSC states that the packaging can split open, creating a greater risk of ingestion and/or skin and eye injuries, specifically for children.

So far, there are no confirmed cases directly related to this packaging defect. However, the CPSC states, "the firm has received four reports of children in the United States accessing the liquid laundry packets, three of which reported ingestion during the time period that the recalled lots were sold, but it is not known if these laundry packets came from recalled bags."

According to the CPSC, "ingestion of large amounts of a surfactant-containing household cleaning product may result in death among those who have underlying health issues."

"This recall underscores the importance of keeping laundry detergent packs, and all cleaning products, out of sight and reach of children and pets during use and when you store them," says Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forté .

A full list of recalled products

The products range from bags of 12 to 39 pods, and these items were sold at Big Lots, CVS, Family Dollar, Home Depot, Sam's Club, Target, Walmart, Amazon and more.

• Gain Flings Original
• Tide Simply Pods Plus Oxi Boost
• Gain Flings Moonlight Breeze Scent
• Tide Pods Clean Breeze Scent
• Gain Flings Blissful Breeze Scent
• Tide Pods Free & Gentle Gain Flings Spring Daydream Scent
• Tide Pods Oxi
• Gain Flings Plus Ultra Oxi
• Tide Pods Ultra Oxi
• Gain Flings Plus Odor Defense
• Ace Pods Clean Breeze
• Tide Pods Original
• Ace Pods Spring Meadow
• Tide Pods Spring Meadow Scent
• Ariel Pods Alpine Breeze
• Tide Pods Light

You can go to pg.com/bag to find a full list of recalled lot codes. Compare these codes with the one found on the bottom of your bag to ensure you don't have a recalled product.

If you do have one of the impacted products, you can contact P&G to get a refund, as well as replacement packaging and even a cabinet lock to secure the pods and other laundry products. All you have to do is send them a photo of the product, with the lot of number clearly visible.

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20 Pack Vacuum Storage Bags (4 Jumbo/4 Large/4 Medium/4 Small/4 Roll M) Space Saver Bags, Vacuum Seal Bags with Hand Pump for Comforters, Blankets, Bedding, Pillows and Clothes

($1.50 / Count)

($2.00 / Count)

($1.83 / Count)

20 Combo-New

($0.80 / Count)

($0.95 / Count)

($1.09 / Count)

($0.97 / Count)

($0.78 / Count)

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About this item.

• Package Included: 4 Jumbo (40"x28"); 4 Large (34"x22"); 4 Medium (28"x20"); 4 Small (24"x16"); 4 Roll M (20"x16"), Hand pump is included. The bags can be used with any vacuum cleaner. Each bag comes with a slider to seal easily.
• Save Space: Easily create 80% more space; Store away your comforters, blankets, duvets, towels, clothes, pillows, plush toys, linens, bedding, and more.
• Air Tight Ensurance: The unilaterally air valve ensure tightness, the unique double seal zipper sealing design and the attached sealing scriber to make sure there are no air leaks
• Reusable and Durable: The durable PA+PE material ensures protection against dust, odors, keeping clothes in pristine condition. And create a tidy and organized space, making seasonal clothing and bedding transitions well.
• Multi Use: Perfect for you to vacuum seal large bedding items, queen comforters, heavy blanket, bulky winter coats, seasonal clothes, etc. Saving more space and time for your family.

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We LOVE How Much Space These Vacuum Bags Save Us!!

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Simple Deluxe 20 Pack Vacuum Storage Bags (4 Jumbo/4 Large/4 Medium/4 Small/4 Roll M) Space Saver Bags, Vacuum Seal Bags with Hand Pump for Comforters, Blankets, Bedding, Pillows and Clothes

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