We all know the struggle: you’re trying to pack for a trip, and suddenly your suitcase is bursting at the seams. You’ve wrestled with zippers, sat on your luggage to try and close it, and maybe even considered leaving behind those extra shoes you love. Instead of making tough choices or paying for extra baggage fees, there’s a smart travel solution to maximize your packing space: Vacuum Travel Bags With Pumps.
These ingenious bags work by removing excess air around your clothes, compressing them down to a fraction of their original size. This not only creates significantly more room in your suitcase, but it’s also a fantastic way to organize your belongings both while traveling and at home in your closet. And the best part? While some traditional vacuum bags require a bulky home vacuum cleaner, travel-specific vacuum bags are designed for portability and convenience. Many come with their own hand pumps, and some even feature electric or USB-powered pumps for effortless compression on the go.
To find the best options available, the Travel + Leisure team put 12 different vacuum travel bags to the test over two days. Our rigorous testing process evaluated each bag based on ease of use, performance, capacity, design, durability, and overall value. We packed each bag with a variety of clothing items, used the recommended pump method to remove air, and measured the compressed bags to check for air leakage overnight. We’re continuing to test these bags over six months of real-world travel to ensure they stand up to the rigors of travel. Here are our top recommendations for the best vacuum travel bags with pumps to revolutionize your packing.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Hibag Space Saver Bags at Amazon $20
Best Size Variety: Cozy Essential Vacuum Storage Bags at Amazon $23
Best USB Pump: VMSTR Vacuum Storage Bags at Amazon $30
Most Durable: Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0 at Amazon $50
Best Hanging Bags: Velmade Hanging Vacuum Storage Bags With Electric Pump at Amazon $35
Best Roll-up Bags: KFYM Vacuum Travel Storage Bag at Amazon $12
Best Overall
Hibag Space Saver Bags
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PHOTO: Amazon
Why We Love It: The diverse range of sizes makes this set incredibly versatile for personal items, carry-ons, and checked luggage.
What to Consider: The jumbo-size bag may be too large for practical airplane travel.
The Hibag Space Saver Bags earned our “Best Overall” title because they strike the perfect balance in all categories. This set of 10 bags comes in five different sizes – small, medium, large, jumbo, and carry-on – making it easy to organize any type of suitcase and handle any packing need. Whether you’re packing everyday clothes or bulky winter items, there’s a size for you. The included manual hand pump is compact and effective, removing air from the bags in approximately 90 seconds during our tests. Its small size ensures it won’t take up valuable luggage space and will be readily available for repacking on your return journey. Importantly, after packing and compressing, the bags maintained their compressed state overnight with minimal air leakage.
“What I really appreciated about the Hibag set was how well the manual pump and valve worked to extract air,” commented T+L editor Erin Cavoto. “I can definitely see myself using these for a cold-weather trip when I need to pack bulky items like sweaters, jeans, and coats, 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) | Includes hand pump.
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Using a hand pump to remove air from a Hibag vacuum travel bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-hibag-space-saver-jthompson-0636-7699894733974399a10dfe57fd3a86f6.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Close-up of hand pump attached to a Hibag vacuum bag valve, extracting air. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-hibag-space-saver-jthompson-0600-42da0a61df854403a52e2948ad8dcf1a.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Holding a filled Hibag vacuum travel bag before compression. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-hibag-space-saver-jthompson-0614-82b7c73cccd04428bdd339dae72c379c.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Packing clothes inside a Hibag space saver bag for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-hibag-space-saver-jthompson-0639-fdc5b42627c142329319c21d78757b65.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Securing the valve cap after using the pump on a Hibag bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-aug-24-test-hibag-space-saver-after-jkim-0024-5614d3ab565d42db847fdee3306c4efb.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Compressed clothing inside a Hibag vacuum travel bag, showing space saving. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-hibag-space-saver-jthompson-0641-ebed9caea285442c80d0d6a4c359655a.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Measuring the compressed thickness of a Hibag vacuum bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-hibag-space-saver-jthompson-0654-33e1435a96c3426089415a57b18dcab5.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Fitting a compressed Hibag vacuum bag into a suitcase. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-hibag-space-saver-jthompson-0650-8753d9b4d0e9441f8c2718277b918919.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Compressed Hibag vacuum bag neatly packed inside luggage.
Best Size Variety
Cozy Essential Vacuum Storage Bags
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PHOTO: Amazon
Why We Love It: This set offers an exceptional range of sizes and includes more bags than any other set we tested, providing ultimate packing versatility.
What to Consider: The travel-size bags in this set are roll-up compression bags and do not feature vacuum seals.
For travelers needing a comprehensive vacuum bag solution, the Cozy Essential Vacuum Storage Bags are an excellent choice, boasting the best size variety. This set includes a generous 16 vacuum bags in five different sizes: two jumbo, two large, three medium, and three small, plus an additional six smaller roll-up compression bags without vacuum seals. The jumbo bags are truly impressive, large enough to fit both a winter coat and a comforter, showcasing their substantial capacity. While the smaller roll-up bags don’t have vacuum features, they are perfect for organizing smaller items like socks and underwear, adding an extra layer of organization without taking up excessive space.
The set includes a manual hand pump that effectively compresses the bags. However, during testing, we found that compressing the largest bags required a bit more effort, suggesting that an electric pump might be more convenient for those who frequently pack very bulky items. Once compressed, these bags performed admirably, maintaining their compact size and minimizing air leakage.
The Details: 16 vacuum bags included, plus 6 roll-up bags | 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) | Includes hand pump.
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Using a hand pump to compress a Cozy Essential vacuum travel bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-cozy-essential-storage-jthompson-0713-972e2958e91642c7afca8afd71cc96a8.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Unrolling a Cozy Essential vacuum bag before packing. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-cozy-essential-storage-jthompson-0722-fc02f2ccac0849fbbee732b8ed408e51.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Packing clothes into a Cozy Essential vacuum storage bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-cozy-essential-storage-jthompson-0732-a5a213d460504ea8b452ff3f855c43b0.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Closing the zipper seal of a filled Cozy Essential vacuum bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-cozy-essential-storage-jthompson-0759-e86d33c119bf4e8b945e57f0e3d042f2.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Placing the valve cap on a Cozy Essential bag after pumping. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-cozy-essential-storage-jthompson-0743-07abd5f82c784a3e9586a466a5982dba.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Another view of using the hand pump on a Cozy Essential bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-aug-24-test-cozy-essential-storage-after-jkim-0012-cb9ecbaef35d4b34aceeda0e6d3822a3.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Compressed clothes inside a Cozy Essential vacuum bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-cozy-essential-storage-jthompson-0771-4af5b906580648c8bb964ec612f03e57.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Packing a Cozy Essential compressed bag into luggage. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-cozy-essential-storage-jthompson-0765-75c57a27b9d7427eba43585ec3f26157.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Measuring the thickness of a compressed Cozy Essential vacuum bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-cozy-essential-storage-jthompson-0736-ac4f19ddaf71402c97ce76f3c839ec7b.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Measuring the width of a Cozy Essential vacuum bag.
Best USB Pump
VMSTR Vacuum Storage Bags
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PHOTO: Amazon
Why We Love It: The included mini USB vacuum pump provides fast and effortless compression of the bags, making packing a breeze.
What to Consider: The bags’ material may not be as robust as some other options, requiring care to avoid punctures.
The VMSTR Vacuum Storage Bags stand out for their convenience, earning our “Best USB Pump” award. This set includes eight bags in three sizes – small, medium, and large – although it’s marketed as having four sizes, which is slightly misleading. While the largest size isn’t as expansive as others on our list (not suitable for comforters or long parkas), it comfortably accommodates everyday clothing like jeans, sweatshirts, and dresses. The highlight of this set is the mini USB vacuum pump. This pump easily plugs into any USB port, whether on a laptop or a wall adapter (wall unit not included), providing powered, push-button compression.
In our tests, the USB pump extracted air from the largest bag in about 90 seconds, leaving clothes tightly compressed with minimal effort. We found the pump incredibly user-friendly. However, the bag material felt somewhat thin, suggesting it might be less durable than heavier-duty options. It’s advisable to keep sharp objects away from these bags to prevent tears.
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) | Includes USB-powered pump.
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Organizing a set of VMSTR vacuum travel bags and pump. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-vmstr-storage-jthompson-0098-82c1d55bd97f480ab76c4f0c963dd49f.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Holding a VMSTR vacuum bag open ready for packing. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-vmstr-storage-jthompson-0109-6ba2a0f152aa42f5bbd7d77a0cb4a2f8.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Putting clothes inside a VMSTR vacuum travel bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-vmstr-storage-jthompson-0133-aabdefab63fa47eaa72efbb626fa692d.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Using the USB pump to remove air from a VMSTR bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-vmstr-storage-jthompson-0159-9a702e8e2f584e49913d3499119a7016.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Placing a compressed VMSTR bag into a suitcase. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-vmstr-storage-jthompson-0082-b0bcadc5d6bc49308f1cefc175166f06.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Showing the compact electric USB pump included with VMSTR bags. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-vmstr-storage-jthompson-0137-e745c0f44d73425d8b72358e8138e2ea.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Close-up of the electric pump in action on a VMSTR bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-vmstr-storage-jthompson-0155-23d5f5938850490fa9d2904c6a3c2514.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Another view of placing a VMSTR compressed bag into luggage. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-vmstr-storage-jthompson-0146-942fdde1d9a44f84a471541b0fbf9727.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Measuring the width of a compressed VMSTR vacuum bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-vmstr-storage-jthompson-0095-7da73764f0ae43acb593b0f0061668dc.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Closing the zipper seal on a VMSTR vacuum travel bag.
The 7 Best Travel Hanging Organizers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Most Durable
Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0
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PHOTO: Nomatic
$50 at Amazon $50 at Walmart View on Nomatic.com
Why We Love It: Constructed from premium, heavy-duty materials, this bag is the most durable option among those tested, ensuring long-lasting performance.
What to Consider: This is sold as a single bag, not a set.
The Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0 is not just stylish; it’s built to endure, earning our “Most Durable” recommendation. Its robust design and sporty aesthetic make it suitable for both suitcase packing and tossing into a backpack for outdoor adventures. The material feels exceptionally strong and tear-resistant, offering confidence that it can withstand the demands of travel without falling apart. We successfully packed a week’s worth of clothing inside this single bag, highlighting its generous capacity. It’s also incredibly user-friendly, featuring a simple twist valve that clearly indicates how to seal and release air, making manual deflation straightforward and pump-free.
While it’s one of the pricier vacuum bag choices, especially since it’s sold individually, the Nomatic bag felt significantly sturdier and more durable than all the other plastic bags we tested, and it eliminates the need for a separate pump.
The Details: 1 bag included | Dimensions: 30 x 16 inches | No pump needed.
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Holding the Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0 by its carry straps. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-nomatic-2-xl-jthompson-0389-534175b547434c5cbe08b70f50db4551.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Packing clothes into the durable Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-nomatic-2-xl-jthompson-0375-311a997a8f094c94abd822247b6f0c99.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Closing the snap closures on the Nomatic bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-nomatic-2-xl-jthompson-0404-4e4d47b9c5ff4005a8f706dbafce9176.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Manually removing air from the Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-nomatic-2-xl-jthompson-0411-a51c49a2dd3d4bf2af1593035b525dc0.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Another view of manual air removal from the Nomatic bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-nomatic-2-xl-jthompson-0413-e249eac43d8d4771bbc08987b1482216.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Measuring the compressed width of the Nomatic bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-nomatic-2-xl-jthompson-0415-5810ffa1f9eb40aa8d2f651deff54930.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Measuring the overall dimensions of the Nomatic vacuum bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-aug-24-test-nomatic-2-xl-after-jkim-0029-10d6a1b632a64c058903cec86e48469c.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Compressed Nomatic Vacuum Bag 2.0 on a rug. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-nomatic-2-xl-jthompson-0423-3a2afc3cd03e4ba0b2734c27bed1043a.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Packing the Nomatic vacuum bag into a suitcase.
Best Hanging Bags
Velmade Hanging Vacuum Storage Bags With Electric Pump
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PHOTO: Amazon
Why We Love It: Each bag is exceptionally spacious, making them ideal for seasonal clothing storage or trips requiring formal wear.
What to Consider: These are designed for storage and compression, not as garment bags for protecting delicate clothing during transit.
The Velmade Hanging Vacuum Storage Bags with Electric Pump are perfect for those needing to pack or store suits and dresses, earning our “Best Hanging Bags” title. Their impressive length and five-ring hanger system allow for easy organization and upright storage of multiple garments, similar in concept to a garment bag. “This bag is enormous and would be perfect for storing suits or long jackets at home due to its 53-inch length,” noted T+L associate editor Anna Popp, who tested this bag in our lab. These bags are particularly useful for destination weddings, business trips, or anyone needing to travel with formal attire.
Each waterproof bag features a zip clip for a tight seal and includes a plug-in electric pump for compression. While the electric pump took slightly longer than expected to remove air in our testing, it ultimately did a satisfactory job. However, we did observe some air seepage overnight, suggesting compression might not be as airtight as other bags on this list. Although the material feels somewhat thin, these bags remain a reliable option for closet storage or for use within checked luggage. Priced at $40 for four bags, it’s a solid value, with variations available offering more bags and different size configurations.
The Details: 4 bags included | Dimensions: 53 x 28 inches each | Includes electric pump.
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Hanging a shirt inside a Velmade hanging vacuum bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-velmade-hanging-storage-electric-pump-jthompson-0803-12ac1c21c8a649e28d74493f69a70abc.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Close-up of the hanger strap inside a Velmade hanging bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-velmade-hanging-storage-electric-pump-jthompson-0812-64caaf5ec7e941b7abffdbb326f71927.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Packing garments into a Velmade hanging vacuum bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-velmade-hanging-storage-electric-pump-jthompson-0815-abe0987520a14a8fbd670e7b32230d40.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Sealing the zipper on a Velmade hanging bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-velmade-hanging-storage-electric-pump-jthompson-0836-690d0bc3eafe4a328479a4d7268fcfbb.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Using the electric pump to remove air from a Velmade hanging bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-velmade-hanging-storage-electric-pump-jthompson-0840-21fbd62859624d4d89537cfe59904303.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Measuring the length of a compressed Velmade hanging bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-velmade-hanging-storage-electric-pump-jthompson-0844-cf5ac2bd69fd47eda5e592b2ddb37b7a.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Measuring the compressed thickness of a Velmade hanging bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-velmade-hanging-storage-electric-pump-jthompson-0828-cc64e87a6f5c4a6ab0c9feee4a79cc8e.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Removing the valve cap after pumping air from a Velmade bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-aug-24-test-velmade-hanging-storage-electric-pump-after-jkim-0043-447a1d482cb14837982fe01de41b5982.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Vacuum-sealed clothing inside a Velmade hanging vacuum bag.
Best Roll-up Bags
KFYM Vacuum Travel Storage Bag
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PHOTO: Amazon
Why We Love It: Pump-free compression makes this set incredibly convenient and travel-friendly, eliminating the need for extra accessories.
What to Consider: Compression may not be as tight as vacuum bags using pumps, and it can be harder to remove all the air.
For ultimate ease of use, the KFYM Vacuum Travel Storage Bag set stands out as our “Best Roll-up Bags” pick. The pump-free design makes these bags incredibly travel-friendly, perfect for those who prioritize simplicity and speed. Ideal for weekend getaways or extended trips alike, the set includes 10 bags in three sizes. Using these bags is straightforward: pack your clothes, seal the zipper, and then simply roll the bag to expel air. No pump is needed at all.
Packing is quick and easy, though the compression achieved isn’t as extreme as with pump-operated vacuum bags. However, in our overnight tests, the bags maintained their compressed state without any air leakage, keeping clothes neatly packed.
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.
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Rolling a KFYM vacuum travel bag to remove air. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-kfym-space-saver-10-pack-jthompson-0346-9e4f3ec2220849749538f91e0059533d.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Demonstrating air being expelled from a KFYM roll-up bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-aug-24-test-kfym-space-saver-10-pack–after-jkim-0027-e04ca7cf6b9143fc9f85ee5bf8c33329.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Compressed clothing inside a KFYM roll-up vacuum bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-kfym-space-saver-10-pack-jthompson-0317-f46d02c78cdb4316bba8ed9f3a4038c4.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Opening a KFYM roll-up vacuum travel bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-kfym-space-saver-10-pack-jthompson-0327-ce2f2e31bca44b88bf9f69c8d1613050.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Placing clothes inside a KFYM roll-up bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-kfym-space-saver-10-pack-jthompson-0328-6dfb39b6343349778b5194272ab72ee0.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Arranging clothes for compression in a KFYM bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-kfym-space-saver-10-pack-jthompson-0360-af549a30e99640d5945a10a9ff71f67f.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Measuring the thickness of a filled KFYM roll-up bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-kfym-space-saver-10-pack-jthompson-0356-84ce9c3c4efb4559b0ee5765b08ea8e6.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Measuring the dimensions of a KFYM vacuum bag. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-travel-vacuum-bags-july-24-test-kfym-space-saver-10-pack-jthompson-0366-bdaf17613d4e4ad987494fd546cdd7ae.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. Packing a KFYM compressed roll-up bag into luggage.
Other Vacuum Travel Bags We Liked
Beyond our top picks, we tested other vacuum bags for travel that, while not making our main list due to minor drawbacks, still offer notable features that might suit specific traveler needs.
Relime Vacuum Bags for Travel with Wireless Vacuum Pump, 2 Pack: Impressively durable and waterproof, these bags are excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. The wireless portable pump is intuitive and provides easy compression on the go. However, the higher price point and somewhat difficult zipper closure might be drawbacks for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking quick packing solutions.
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Travel + Leisure. The Relime vacuum travel bag with wireless pump.
Samsonite Compression Packing Bags, 12-piece Kit: This set is appreciated for its wide variety of sizes and substantial capacity, particularly 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 make deflation and sealing less convenient compared to vacuum options with pumps.
Our Testing Process
The Travel + Leisure team rigorously tested 12 vacuum bags designed for travel over two days in our dedicated testing lab. Our evaluation focused on ease of use, capacity, performance, design, durability, and value. On day one, 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 manufacturer’s indicated fill line, recording 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 closure – whether a zipper-lock or valve system. Next, we compressed the bags using the provided method (hand pump, electric pump, or manual roll-up), timing the process for air removal. Post-compression dimensions were recorded to quantify space saving, and we tested bag fit within both carry-on and checked luggage. Leaving the bags overnight, we remeasured them the following day, inspecting for air leakage, material damage, and the condition of the packed clothing.
Our ongoing testing plan includes six months of continued evaluation during real-world travel to monitor long-term performance and durability. We will update our recommendations as needed based on these extended use findings.
Tips for Buying Vacuum Travel Bags
Choose Your Preferred Compression Method
Begin by determining which compression method best suits your travel style and needs: manual roll-up, hand pump, or electric pump. Each method has advantages and disadvantages depending on your priorities. For frequent, light travel, roll-up bags may be sufficient. For longer trips where maximizing every inch of space is crucial, an electric pump can save considerable time and effort. Consider your typical travel scenarios to decide which pump type, or pump-free option, aligns best with your packing preferences.
Check if a Pump is Included
Confirm whether a vacuum pump is included with the bag set, and if it’s a manual or electric pump. A pump significantly simplifies the packing process by making air removal easier. If a pump isn’t included, you’ll need to purchase one separately or rely on manual rolling, which is less effective at air removal and more labor-intensive. Knowing what’s included upfront avoids surprises and ensures you have the necessary tools for efficient compression.
Get the Right Size Range
Consider the types of clothing you usually pack, your destinations, and trip lengths. If you often pack bulky outerwear or numerous outfits, opt for sets with larger bags. Minimalist travelers or those taking short trips may find smaller bags sufficient. Having a suitable range of sizes allows for efficient packing for everything from weekend trips to long vacations, optimizing luggage space while keeping items organized.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How should I pack my clothing inside the vacuum bag?
To minimize wrinkles and maximize space, roll or neatly fold your clothes. Start with bulkier items like jackets or sweaters at the bottom, as they tend to occupy the most space. Avoid overfilling the bag; ensure everything fits comfortably without stressing the zipper seal. Once packed, seal the bag following the manufacturer’s instructions (zipping, clipping, or valve closure), then use your chosen method to vacuum out the air.
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Can I bring vacuum bags in a suitcase?
Yes, vacuum bags are perfectly acceptable to bring in suitcases, similar to packing cubes. Most airlines do not restrict vacuum bags, but it’s always wise to check specific airline policies, especially for carry-on luggage, just to be certain.
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Are there any items that should not be vacuum-sealed?
Yes, avoid vacuum-sealing certain delicate items. Delicate fabrics like silk or lace can be crushed and lose shape under compression, so it’s best to pack these separately. Similarly, items with embellishments like sequins or beads can be damaged in the vacuuming process. Also, avoid vacuum-sealing anything you’ll need to access quickly during your travels, as unpacking tightly sealed bags can take time.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Maddie Michalik, an expert in shopping trends and a frequent traveler, has been professionally reviewing products for a decade and organizing everything around her for even longer. For this article, she channeled her inner Marie Kondo, ensuring every recommended item sparks organizational joy and simplifies travel. She thoroughly analyzed Travel + Leisure’s detailed vacuum bag testing insights, reviewing feedback for each product, and combined this with product descriptions and further research to compile this comprehensive guide to the best travel vacuum bags available today.
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Edited by Jackie Cucco
Jackie Cucco
Jackie Cucco is a testing editor at Travel + Leisure, where she plans product tests and writes/edits travel-related product reviews based on in-depth product testing. She previously worked as a travel agent, holds a journalism degree, and has over eight years of experience covering consumer products and gift guides. She has appeared on TV over 100 times discussing consumer products and shopping trends.
