Posted inUS_1

Maximize Luggage Space with the Best Travel Vacuum Sealer Bags

No Comments

Are you tired of struggling to fit everything into your suitcase? We’ve all faced the challenge of an overflowing suitcase, especially when trying to pack for a long trip or a family vacation. Instead of leaving behind your favorite items or paying for extra baggage fees, there’s a travel hack that can revolutionize your packing: Travel Vacuum Sealer Bags.

These ingenious bags work by removing excess air, compressing your clothes and significantly reducing their volume. This maximizes space in your luggage, allowing you to pack more without needing a bigger suitcase. The beauty of travel vacuum sealer bags is their versatility – they’re not just for travel; use them at home to save space in your closet too!

The best part? You don’t need a bulky vacuum cleaner to use them. Many travel vacuum sealer bags are designed for convenience on the go, with options including hand pumps, USB-powered pumps, and even roll-up bags that require no pump at all.

To help you find the best options, the Travel + Leisure team put 12 different travel vacuum bag sets to the test. Over two days, we evaluated each bag for ease of use, performance, capacity, design, durability, and overall value. We packed them with various clothing items, used the recommended air removal method, and measured the bags to check for air leakage overnight. Our testing is ongoing, and we will continue to assess their long-term durability over six months of travel use. Here are our top recommendations for the best travel vacuum sealer bags:

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Hibag Space Saver Bags at Amazon $20

Best Size Variety: Cozy Essential Vacuum Storage Bags at Amazon $23 $19

Best USB Pump: VMSTR Vacuum Storage Bags at Amazon $36 $30

Most Durable: Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0 at Amazon $50

Best Hanging Bags: Velmade Hanging Vacuum Storage Bags With Electric Pump at Amazon $39

Best Roll-up Bags: KFYM Vacuum Travel Storage Bag at Amazon $12

Best Overall

Hibag Space Saver Bags

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hibag-space-saver-bags-c2e839e3bedd416e81c6cd1a49cf5139.jpg)

PHOTO: Amazon

$20 at Amazon

Why We Love It: The Hibag Space Saver Bags stand out for their versatile size range, making them ideal for everything from personal items to large checked luggage.

What to Consider: The jumbo size bag in this set may be too large for practical airplane travel, especially for carry-on restrictions.

The Hibag Space Saver Bags emerged as the top performer in our tests, earning the title of “Best Overall”. This set truly hits the sweet spot, excelling in all key areas. You’ll find 10 bags in five different sizes: small, medium, large, jumbo, and carry-on. This comprehensive variety ensures you have the perfect bag for any suitcase type and packing scenario, whether it’s everyday clothing or bulkier seasonal items.

The included manual hand pump is remarkably efficient and compact. In our tests, it took approximately just 90 seconds to remove the air from a bag. The pump’s small size is a significant advantage for travelers; it packs easily without taking up valuable luggage space and is ready to use for repacking on your return journey. After compressing the bags and leaving them overnight, we observed minimal air leakage, confirming their excellent performance in maintaining compression.

“What impressed me most about the Hibag set was the effectiveness of the manual pump and valve system in removing air,” noted T+L editor Erin Cavoto. “I can definitely see myself relying on these for winter vacations when packing bulky sweaters, jeans, and coats is essential, knowing they will remain compact throughout my travels.”

The Details: 10 bags included | Dimensions: 15.7 x 19.7 inches (carry-on), 15.7 x 23.6 inches (small), 19.7 x 27.5 inches (medium), 21.7 x 33.5 inches (large), 27.5 x 39.4 inches (jumbo) | Hand pump included

Best Size Variety

Cozy Essential Vacuum Storage Bags

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cozy-essential-24-pack-travel-roll-up-compression-bags-34a47761920a4ecd902c5334a0f48d3d.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon

$23 $19 at Amazon $30 $25 at Walmart

Why We Love It: The Cozy Essential Vacuum Storage Bags set excels with an impressive range of sizes and a generous number of bags, more than any other set we tested.

What to Consider: The travel-size bags in this set are roll-up compression bags and do not feature vacuum seals, requiring manual rolling to remove air.

For travelers seeking a comprehensive vacuum bag solution that addresses every packing need, the Cozy Essential Vacuum Storage Bags are an excellent choice. This set truly shines in size variety, providing an extensive collection of 16 vacuum seal bags in five distinct sizes. You get two jumbo bags, large enough to accommodate a winter coat and even a comforter, alongside two large, three medium, and three small vacuum bags. Additionally, the set includes six smaller roll-up compression bags without vacuum seals. These smaller bags are perfect for organizing smaller items like socks, undergarments, and accessories, keeping your luggage tidy and maximizing space utilization even for non-vacuumed items.

While the included manual pump is functional, our testing team found it required a significant amount of effort, particularly when compressing the largest bags. For maximum convenience, especially with larger bags, an electric pump would be preferable. However, once the air is removed, these bags maintain their compressed state effectively.

The Details: 16 bags included | Dimensions: 23.5 x 15.7 inches (travel roll up), 23.5 x 15.7 inches (small), 27.5 x 19.5 inches (medium), 33.5 x 21.65 inches (large), 39.35 x 27.5 inches (jumbo) | Hand pump included

Best USB Pump

VMSTR Vacuum Storage Bags

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/VSTR-Travel-Vacuum-Storage-Bags-e8965674b06c404a99415e285b804a2d.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon

$36 $30 at Amazon

Why We Love It: The VMSTR Vacuum Storage Bags stand out because of their included mini USB vacuum pump, which makes compressing the bags quick and effortless.

What to Consider: The material of these bags may be less durable compared to other options we tested.

The VMSTR Vacuum Storage Bags are our top pick for those prioritizing ease and speed. This set includes eight bags: three small, three medium, and two large. While the product description mentions four sizes, the largest size is not as expansive as some competitors. You might not be able to fit exceptionally bulky items like comforters or long parkas, but the bags are well-suited for everyday clothing such as jeans, sweatshirts, and dresses.

The key highlight of the VMSTR set is the mini USB vacuum pump. This convenient pump can be plugged into any USB port, whether on a laptop or a wall adapter (note: wall unit not included).

In our tests, the USB pump efficiently removed air from even the largest bag in approximately 90 seconds. The process was simple and required minimal physical effort, making it incredibly user-friendly. However, we noted that the bag material felt somewhat thin and less robust than other bags. It’s advisable to be cautious of sharp objects like high heels when packing to prevent punctures.

The Details: 8 bags included | Dimensions: 11 x 8.6 inches (small), 12.6 x 10 inches (medium), 14.1 x 12.6 inches (large) | USB-powered pump included

The 7 Best Travel Hanging Organizers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Most Durable

Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/nomatic-0fb063e4aa8b4f8aa7854f3da669f536.jpg)
PHOTO: Nomatic

$50 at Amazon $50 at Walmart View on Nomatic.com

Why We Love It: The Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0 is crafted from the highest quality materials among all the travel vacuum bags we tested, ensuring exceptional durability.

What to Consider: This option includes only one bag per purchase, unlike sets that offer multiple bags.

The Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0 isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s built for resilience and longevity. Its sporty, rugged design means it can easily be tossed into your suitcase or even a backpack, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and demanding travel conditions. The material feels exceptionally heavy-duty and tear-resistant, inspiring confidence that it can withstand the rigors of travel without failing. We successfully packed a week’s worth of clothing inside this single bag, highlighting its generous capacity.

The Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0 is also remarkably user-friendly. It features a simple twist valve that clearly indicates how to close it for sealing and open it for air release, making manual deflation straightforward and efficient. No pump is required for this bag, adding to its ease of use.

While it’s one of the pricier vacuum bag options, especially considering it’s sold individually, the Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0 felt significantly sturdier and more durable than all other plastic bags we tested. Its robust construction justifies the investment for travelers who prioritize durability and reliability.

The Details: 1 bag included | Dimensions: 30 x 16 inches | No pump needed

Best Hanging Bags

Velmade Hanging Vacuum Storage Bags With Electric Pump

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/VELMADE-Hanging-Vacuum-Storage-Bags-With-Electric-Pump-3f715e41e6534d2e9163ff3e3d9bf7bc.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon

$39 $35 at Amazon

Why We Love It: The Velmade Hanging Vacuum Storage Bags are exceptionally spacious, ideal for seasonal clothing storage or trips requiring formal wear.

What to Consider: These are storage bags, not garment bags designed for garment protection during travel.

The Velmade Hanging Vacuum Storage Bags are designed for those who need to pack suits, dresses, or other garments that benefit from hanging. Each bag is impressively long and features a five-ring hanger system, keeping your clothes upright and organized. Similar to a garment bag in function, but with the added benefit of vacuum compression, you can easily fit multiple suits and dresses inside. Upon arrival at your hotel, simply hang the entire bag in the closet for wrinkle-free storage.

“This bag is massive and would be perfect for storing suits or long jackets at home because of its 53-inch length,” commented T+L associate editor Anna Popp, who tested this bag in our lab. These bags are especially useful for destination weddings, business trips, or any travel where maintaining garment appearance is a priority.

Each waterproof bag features a zip clip for a tight seal and includes a plug-in electric pump for compression. While air removal took slightly longer than expected in our tests, the pump ultimately performed effectively. However, we did observe some air leakage overnight, which is worth considering if maximum compression is critical. Although the material feels somewhat thin, these bags are a reliable option for closet storage or within checked luggage. Priced at $40 for a set of four, it’s a great value, and variations with more bags and size options are also available.

The Details: 4 bags included | Dimensions: 53 x 28 inches each | Electric pump included

Best Roll-up Bags

KFYM Vacuum Travel Storage Bag

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/KFYM-Vacuum-Travel-Storage-Bag-01164f601cb04488b72f455821c6a874.jpg)
PHOTO: Amazon

$12 at Amazon

Why We Love It: The KFYM Vacuum Travel Storage Bags offer pump-free compression, making them exceptionally convenient for travel.

What to Consider: These roll-up bags may not achieve the same level of compression as vacuum sealed bags with pumps.

For ultimate travel convenience, the KFYM Vacuum Travel Storage Bag set stands out in ease of use thanks to its pump-free design. This set is an ideal choice for everything from quick weekend trips to extended vacations, offering versatility with three sizes. Using these bags is incredibly simple: pack your clothes, seal the zipper, and roll the bag to expel air. No pump is needed, making them perfect for travelers who prioritize simplicity and speed.

While packing is quick and easy, the compression achieved with roll-up bags is not as tight as with vacuum sealed bags using pumps. However, in our overnight tests, the compressed bags maintained their reduced size without any air leakage, proving their effectiveness for space saving.

The Details: 10 bags included | Dimensions: 20 x 14 inches (small), 24 x 16 inches (large), 28 x 20 inches (extra large) | No pump needed

Other Vacuum Travel Bags We Liked

While the following bags didn’t make our top picks, they possess notable features that might appeal to specific travelers.

Relime Vacuum Bags for Travel with Wireless Vacuum Pump, 2 Pack: These bags are exceptionally durable and waterproof, making them ideal for outdoor activities. The included portable wireless pump is intuitive and provides easy compression on the go. However, the higher price point and somewhat difficult zipper closure might be drawbacks for travelers seeking a more budget-friendly and effortless option.

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-aug-24-test-relime-wireless-pump-after-jkim-0032-9ab1746c983e4b8c9afacfee670d3e75.jpeg)
Travel + Leisure

Samsonite Compression Packing Bags, 12-piece Kit: We appreciate this set for its diverse size range and impressive capacity, especially the large bag, which easily accommodates bulky items like jackets and jeans. However, the absence of a vacuum or pump and a somewhat flimsy zipper clip can make deflation and sealing less convenient compared to vacuum sealed options.

Our Testing Process

The Travel + Leisure team rigorously tested 12 travel vacuum bag sets over two days in our lab, evaluating them based on ease of use, capacity, performance, design, durability, and value. On the first day, we assessed the material thickness and functionality of each bag size within each set. We then packed one bag from each set with clothing and outerwear up to the indicated maximum fill line, noting the specific items packed to evaluate capacity for different trip durations.

After sealing each bag, we measured its initial dimensions and assessed the ease of securing the seal, whether it was a zipper-lock or valve design. Next, we compressed the bags using the recommended method and recorded the time taken to remove air. Post-compression, we remeasured the bags to quantify the space reduction and tested their fit in both carry-on and checked luggage. Finally, after leaving the bags compressed overnight, we measured them again and inspected for air leakage, material damage, and the condition of the packed clothing.

Our testing is ongoing, and we have a six-month plan to further assess the long-term performance and durability of each vacuum bag set through real-world travel use. We will update our recommendations as needed based on these continued findings.

Tips for Buying Vacuum Travel Bags

Choose your preferred compression method

Consider which compression method best suits your travel style and needs: manual roll-up, hand pump, or electric pump. Each has advantages and disadvantages depending on your priorities and travel frequency. For frequent, lightweight travel, manual roll-up bags might suffice. For longer trips where maximizing every inch of space is crucial, an electric pump can save significant time and effort.

Check if a pump is included

Some vacuum bag sets include a manual or electric pump, which greatly simplifies the packing process by facilitating air removal. If a pump isn’t included, you’ll need to purchase one separately or rely on manual rolling, which is less effective at removing air and requires more physical effort. Confirm what’s included before purchasing to avoid any surprises and ensure you have the necessary tools for efficient compression.

Get the size range that will benefit you most

Think about your typical clothing types, travel destinations, and trip lengths. If you often pack bulky outerwear or multiple outfits, prioritize sets with larger bags. Minimalist travelers or those taking short trips may only need smaller bags. Having a suitable size range ensures efficient packing for various trips, maximizing luggage space while keeping your items organized, whether for weekend getaways or extended vacations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I pack my clothing inside the vacuum bag?

To minimize wrinkles and maximize space, roll or fold your clothes neatly before placing them in the vacuum bag. Start with bulkier items like jackets or sweaters at the bottom, as they tend to occupy the most space. Avoid overstuffing to ensure comfortable closure and prevent stress on the zipper seal. Once packed, securely seal the bag according to the manufacturer’s instructions (zipping, clipping, or valve closure), and then use your chosen air removal method to vacuum out the air.

Can I bring vacuum bags in a suitcase?

Yes, travel vacuum bags are perfectly acceptable to pack in your suitcase, similar to packing cubes. Most airlines do not restrict vacuum bags, but it’s always wise to check specific airline policies, especially concerning carry-on luggage, just to be certain and avoid any unexpected issues at the airport.

Are there any items that should not be vacuum-sealed?

Yes, certain clothing items are not suitable for vacuum sealing. Delicate fabrics like silk or lace can be crushed and lose their shape under compression, so avoid vacuum sealing them. Similarly, items with embellishments such as sequins or beads can be damaged. It’s also advisable to avoid vacuum-sealing anything you anticipate needing quickly during your travels, as removing items from tightly sealed bags can take time and re-packing might be necessary.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Maddie Michalik, a shopping trends expert and frequent traveler, has a decade of professional product reviewing experience and a lifelong passion for organization. For this article, she combined her expertise with a focus on practical travel solutions, ensuring each recommended item enhances packing efficiency and brings organizational satisfaction. She thoroughly analyzed Travel + Leisure’s detailed testing insights for various travel vacuum bags, reviewed tester feedback, and consulted product descriptions and additional research to create a comprehensive guide to the best travel vacuum bags available today.

Edited by Jackie Cucco, a testing editor at Travel + Leisure with extensive experience in product testing and travel-related reviews. Jackie plans and oversees product tests and writes and edits reviews based on in-depth evaluations. Her background as a travel agent and journalism degree, combined with over eight years of product coverage, including over 100 TV appearances discussing consumer products and shopping trends, ensures the reliability and expertise of Travel + Leisure’s product recommendations.

The Best Travel Organizers for Shoes, Jewelry, Tech, and More — Tested and Reviewed

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

learn more

Comments

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *