Compression Bags: Travel Packing's Best Friend?

are compression bags good for travel

Compression bags, also known as space bags, are a great way to save space when packing for a trip. They work by removing excess air from your clothing and other items, allowing you to fit more into your suitcase or backpack. This is especially useful if you're travelling with a carry-on suitcase or backpack, as it means you can avoid checking in extra baggage.

There are two types of compression bags: those that use a vacuum seal, and those that don't. Vacuum-sealed bags tend to compress items more effectively, but they can be less convenient if you don't have access to a vacuum during your trip. Non-vacuum bags usually require you to manually squeeze the air out, which can be more hassle, but they're still a good option if you want to save space.

An alternative to compression bags is packing cubes, which are better for organisation than space-saving. They're lightweight and usually made with a mesh fabric top so you can see what's inside each cube. They work well in suitcases, especially checked suitcases where space isn't a concern.

If you want the benefits of both, you could try compression packing cubes, which have a second zip that allows you to compress your clothes by about a third. This means you can save space in your luggage, but the cubes are also easy to use and better quality than flimsy plastic compression bags.

Characteristics Values
Purpose Organising luggage, separating items, fitting more items into luggage
Ease of use Easy to pack, compress and unpack
Suitability for travel More suitable for shorter trips, larger suitcases, and warmer climates
Durability Long-lasting, strong, protective, and made from ripstop nylon or high-denier polyester
Portability Lightweight
Spaciousness Saves space, maximises luggage space, and reduces volume
Cleanliness Water-resistant, washable, and anti-stain
Appearance Stylish, colourful, and patterned
Accessibility Easy to find items

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Compression bags are great for fitting more stuff in your bag

Compression bags are a great way to fit more items into your luggage. They are especially useful for those who tend to overpack or need to bring a variety of clothing options for different climates. By removing excess air from your clothing and other items, compression bags allow you to pack more efficiently and maximise your luggage space.

For example, if you are travelling to a colder destination and need to pack bulkier items like sweaters, jackets, and winter gear, compression bags can help you fit everything into your suitcase. They are also useful for separating dirty laundry from clean clothes, as you can place your dirties in an airtight compression bag to prevent odours from spreading.

Additionally, compression bags can help protect your clothes from wrinkles, moisture, and odours. By compressing your clothing, these bags create a barrier that safeguards your items from potential damage during travel. They are also versatile and can be used for packing other items besides clothing, such as blankets, pillows, or toiletries.

When choosing compression bags for travel, look for options that do not require a vacuum to use, as this can be impractical when you're on the move. Opt for durable bags with airtight seals that will last long-term. Some compression bags have built-in air valves for effortless compression, while others require you to manually roll the air out. Make sure to get the right size bags for your luggage, so they can lie completely flat and stack efficiently.

Overall, compression bags are a fantastic solution for travellers who want to make the most of their luggage space and stay organised on the go.

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They are also useful for separating dirty laundry from clean clothes

Compression bags are a great way to separate dirty laundry from clean clothes while travelling. They are airtight and can keep the odour from dirty laundry from spreading to the rest of your luggage. This is especially useful if you are travelling for a longer duration and will be reusing clothes.

When using compression bags, it is important to fold your clothes instead of rolling them, as this will give you better compression. You can also use compression bags to separate delicate clothing from the rest of your luggage, to avoid snagging.

However, a drawback of using compression bags is that your clothes may get creased or wrinkled. If you are staying in accommodation that does not provide an iron, you may want to consider bringing a clothing steamer or wrinkle release spray to get the creases out.

If you are using vacuum-sealed compression bags, you will need to ensure that your accommodation has a vacuum available, so you can reseal the bags on your way home.

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Vacuum-sealed compression bags may not be practical if you don't have access to a vacuum

Vacuum-sealed compression bags are a great way to maximise space when packing for a trip. However, they may not be practical if you don't have access to a vacuum during your travels. Here are some reasons why:

  • Most vacuum-sealed compression bags require a vacuum to remove the air and compress the contents. Without a vacuum, it can be challenging to achieve the same level of compression.
  • Some vacuum bags come with a hand pump, but this can be cumbersome to carry around during your travels and may not be as effective as a vacuum.
  • If you are travelling to multiple destinations and need to repack often, not having a vacuum can make it difficult to re-compress the bags each time.
  • Vacuum-sealed compression bags can be noisy to open and close, which may be annoying if you are sharing a room with others.
  • Vacuum-sealed bags can be tricky to pack efficiently due to their shape. They may not stack well with other luggage items and can leave awkward gaps.
  • If the vacuum seal is not done properly, or if the bag develops a hole, the compression can be lost, defeating the purpose of using the bags.

If you don't have access to a vacuum during your travels, there are alternative options to consider, such as regular packing cubes or compression bags that don't require a vacuum. These can still help to organise and compress your belongings, although they may not provide the same level of space-saving as vacuum-sealed bags. Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and constraints.

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Compression bags can be manually compressed by squeezing the air out

Compression bags are a great way to save space when packing for a trip. They are especially useful if you are travelling to a colder destination and need to pack bulkier items like sweaters and jackets. They are also a good option if you are an overpacker and want to fit as much as possible into your luggage.

There are two types of compression bags: vacuum-sealed and manual. Vacuum-sealed compression bags require the use of a vacuum to remove the air from the bag, while manual compression bags allow you to squeeze the air out by hand. With manual compression bags, you simply fill the bag, seal it, and then roll it to remove the air. This type of compression bag is more travel-friendly since you don't need any additional tools to compress the bag.

One example of a manual compression bag is the Eagle Creek Pack-It Compression Sac Set. These bags can be manually compressed by rolling and squeezing the air out. However, it is important to be careful not to overstuff them. Sea to Summit also offers a compression sack that can be manually compressed by squeezing and rolling.

Manual compression bags are a convenient option for travellers who want to maximise their luggage space without having to worry about finding a vacuum. They are easy to use and can help you fit more into your suitcase or backpack. However, it is important to note that your clothes may come out wrinkled, so it is recommended to pack a wrinkle release spray or a clothing steamer to remove any creases.

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They are available in a variety of sizes

Compression bags come in a variety of sizes, which is great for accommodating different luggage sizes and trip durations. For instance, the Hibag compression bag combo includes six bags for checked luggage and six for carry-on luggage. The Spacesaver travel compression bag set also comes in two different sizes that are perfect for travel, and can be squeezed into a backpack or personal bag.

The Amazon Basics vacuum compression bag set comes in three different sizes, making it a good option to try out for travel. The Well Traveled compression packing cubes, which are the top pick in a review by Ready Aim Travel, can also be used for compression and organisation.

If you're looking for a variety of sizes at a low price point, the Tooerlen travel compression bags are a great option. They come in three travel-friendly sizes, although the smallest size might be a bit too small for some.

Frequently asked questions

Compression bags are great for long-term travel as they help save space and keep your luggage organised. They are especially useful for cold-weather travel as they can significantly reduce the volume of your clothes, allowing you to fit bulky items like jackets, jumpers, and scarves.

One downsides of compression bags is that your clothes may come out creased or wrinkled. Also, if you are using vacuum-sealed compression bags, you need to ensure you have access to a vacuum to reseal the bags when you repack.

Compression bags work by removing excess air from your clothing and other items, allowing you to pack more efficiently. Most compression bags are simple to use. Just pack your items, seal the bag, and roll out the air.

Packing cubes are a good alternative if you are looking for something to help organise your luggage. They are especially useful if you are not worried about space but want to keep things neat and tidy. However, they don't save much space. Compression packing cubes are another alternative that combines the organisational features of packing cubes with the space-saving benefits of compression bags.

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