Packing a suitcase with vacuum bags

Vacuum bags turn a full suitcase into a half-full one. A few habits keep them sealed and your clothes presentable.

Size to the suitcase

Use the 20 and 24 inch bags in a carry-on and the 26 and 30 inch bags in a checked case. In the 15-pack, Small and Medium fit 20–24 in cases, Large fits 26–28 in.

Fill and seal

Fill to about three-quarters, flatten the clothes, then close the double zip with the slider — twice. Open the valve cap, set the pump on it and let it run for 10–15 seconds.

Keep wrinkles down

Fold shirts and trousers flat instead of rolling them, and put soft knits and jackets in their own bag. Hang things up as soon as you arrive.

Mind the weight

Compression saves space, not weight. Weigh the suitcase before you leave — a bag full of jeans can push a case over the airline limit.