The Ultimate Guide to Using Vacuum Space Saver Bags for Travel

If you’re a frequent traveler like me, packing light is always a priority. A few years ago, we made the switch to exclusively using carry-on luggage, and it has completely transformed the way we travel. However, on a recent trip to Florida, we flew with Spirit Airlines, which charges extra for carry-ons. To avoid those additional fees, we checked in one large bag and packed everything using vacuum-sealed Space Saver bags. The results were impressive, and I got a lot of questions on social media about how they worked and whether they helped with wrinkles. Today, I’m going to share everything you need to know about using Space Saver bags to make your travels easier and more efficient.

Why Use Space Saver Bags?

While vacuum-sealed bags are nothing new, advancements in technology have made them more reliable and easier to use than ever before. These bags are perfect for saving space in your luggage, but they also have other uses, such as storing seasonal clothes, blankets, and even off-season coats. For this post, though, let’s focus on the benefits of using them specifically for travel.

My Favorite Space Saver Bags

I use the Space Saver Variety Pack, which includes 20 bags in various sizes. This set contains 5 small, 5 medium, 5 large, and 5 jumbo bags. The variety of sizes allows us to pack different types of clothes, and it’s convenient to have different options depending on the type of trip we’re taking.

How to Vacuum Seal Your Clothes

Using Space Saver bags is surprisingly easy and very satisfying. The pack I have comes with the bags themselves, a hand pump, and clips to help seal the bags tightly. Here’s how it works:

1. Fill the bag with clothes: Start by placing your clothes inside the bag. You can fit a surprising amount in these bags, even bulky items like jackets and sweaters.
2. Seal the bag: Once everything is inside, zip up the bag and attach the provided screw cap to the valve.
3. Vacuum the air out: Use the hand pump to suck out the air. The bag will shrink down, leaving you with compact clothing that takes up much less space in your suitcase.

I was amazed at how much space we saved, even with relatively bulky clothes. For instance, my son Jake’s 5 outfits were reduced to a fraction of their original size!

What Does It Look Like After Vacuum-Sealing?

To give you a better idea of the results, I took some photos showing how much space we saved. In the first set, you can see how many items I was able to fit in one of the medium bags before and after vacuum sealing. Even though these were dense items like pajama pants and socks, the difference was dramatic.

By the end of the packing process, our suitcase was organized, with four vacuum-sealed bags containing clothing for three family members, while I used my regular compression packing cubes for my own clothes. This method worked out great, and we didn’t exceed Spirit Airlines’ weight limit of 40 lbs. Of course, each airline has different weight restrictions, so always check before you pack.

Space Saver Bags: Common Questions

How do you bring your clothes back home?

Easy! You pack your hand pump, and when it’s time to head home, simply vacuum-seal your dirty clothes. I always bring a couple of extra bags just in case one rips or gets damaged.

Will my clothes be wrinkled?

Yes, they will be a bit wrinkled, but no more so than if you had rolled your clothes into packing cubes. I always travel with a portable garment steamer, which works wonders for quickly removing wrinkles.

Will I exceed the weight limit?

That’s a possibility! The vacuum bags do save space, but they don’t reduce the actual weight of your clothes. Be careful not to overpack, as the compact nature of the bags may tempt you to add more than you can carry. A handheld luggage scale is a great investment to make sure you don’t go over the weight limit.

What happens if my bag rips?

Though the bags are durable, wear and tear is inevitable with repeated use. I recommend packing an extra bag or two, just in case. Be careful when handling the bags to avoid punctures, and always store them properly when not in use.

Best Uses for Space Saver Bags

These bags are most useful when packing bulky clothing like jackets, sweaters, or bedding. They’re perfect for winter trips, like skiing, where you need to bring along lots of layers.

I often don’t use them on the way to my destination, but I’ll use them on the return trip to seal up dirty clothes and make room for any souvenirs.

For road trips where weight isn’t a concern, Space Saver bags also come in handy for packing bedding, beach towels, and other large items. They’re compact and easy to store, especially when you don’t have to worry about weight limits like you do when flying.

Final Thoughts

Space Saver bags are a game changer for anyone looking to save space and stay organized while traveling. They’re easy to use, affordable, and a great tool for maximizing the space in your suitcase. Whether you’re heading out on a family vacation or a solo trip, these bags will help you pack smarter and lighter. Happy packing!