(Last Updated On: February 2, 2023)
Most travelers who enjoy a relaxed trip without bulky luggage may come to learn the benefits of utilizing compression bags. Whetheryou’re taking a month-longtrip with your wife or best friend,you want to make the most of everysingle space. Backpackers traveling around the globe, in particular, would enjoy a reliable compressionbag because they are continually going from location to location in order to move easily and compactly as possible with a bag.
Packing light is ideal for flying. If it’s a quick break or a month-long visit, seasoned travelers know how to hold it all to a bare minimum. Put in exactly what’s needed. Recycle clothes and practice mixing and matching. Most do laundry while traveling, though some will resort to buying as the need appears. The less you carry, the easier you can proceed. Despite the utility of these travel packing ideas, there is still a great number of peoplethat would still overpack. This is where having the best compression bags for travel becomes handy for you.
In a Hurry? The test winners after 9 hrs of research
TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes for Travel – Best Value
Why is it better?
- The ballistic nylon seems very good
- The compression zip alleviates the back from adverse strain during the zipping process
- The positioning of where the handle is stitched into, as well as the size of the handle make a big difference down the line
- Durable and packable
Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack – Premium Pick
Why is it better?
- The compression straps are tough
- There is clasp in which you can fold down the top of the bag so it will be watertight
- There is extra room just in case you want to pack anything else you may want to compress
- The stitching is strong and seems well constructed
Best Compression Bags for Travel – Overview
There are threecommontypes of compression bags. There arezip-top bags, simple drawstring sacks, and buckled nylon bags. The first type — thick zip-topplastic bags work by either rolling the packed bag in such a way that the remaining air flows through a one-way valve or using a vacuum to remove trapped air. The most common compression bags, the drawstring pack are perfect for sleeping bags but do not have the bestclothes compression. And then there are nylonplastic bags with buckles — one of the better carrying choices for clothes. They are square or rectangular form andis ideal for clothes packing, and their buckles essentially allow you to compress your clothes best.
Compression Bags for Travel Reviews
1. Osprey Packs StraightJacket Compression Sack
Backpacks are just the beginning of the journey. Osprey makes gear-carrying solutions – big and small. Before your gear ends up in a pack, these smartly designed accessories allow you to pack more efficiently, stay better organized, and find and grab the gear you need when you need it.
Keep your gear dry and secure with the Osprey Packs StraightJacket Compression Sack. Compressible design makes this easy to pack away when not in use. There is a water-resistant fabrication with a waterproof coating at seams. It also has a spacious main compartment with zip closure and compression straps. Lastly, webbing grab handle is added for easy carry.
Key Features:
- Compressible nylon wings and buckles can be utilized for maximum compression to fit extra gear
- Rectangular shape assists with efficient packing
- Water-resistant coating helps keep gear and clothing dry and protected
Specifications:
- Brand: Osprey
- Dimensions: 2″ H x 9″ W x 12″ D
- Weight: 0.2 lbs
Pros
- The buckles are small and made of plastic but they do not feel cheap
- Has a wide opening so everything fits easily inside
- It’s a wonderfully simplistic way to compress your clothes to make room for all the other materials
- It’s also good for backpacking
Cons
- A lift handle on one end for future designs as this would make it easier to remove from top loading backpacks
2. Sea to Summit Ultra-SIL Compression Sack
When you need to compress volume without significantly adding weight, the Sea to Summit Ultra-SIL Compression Sack is an excellent solution. Made from a 30D diamond rip-stop siliconized CORDURA fabric, these bags can be compressed to one-third of the original volume. Ideal for use inside your pack or travel bag when you need to compress clothing or bulky soft items to allow space for other essentials.
The 4 extra long straps allow for max capacity and even compression around the bag. Bar tack reinforced stress points for durability. Pull handle on the bottom for easy loading and unloading. Slippery finish for easy packing inside a backpack or bag. Note: seams are not tape-sealed; therefore this product is not waterproof – only water-resistant.
Key Features:
- 30d diamond ripstop siliconized Cordura
- Internal pack organization
- 4 extra long straps
- Bottom pull handle on the bottom
Specifications:
- Brand: Sea to Summit
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 14.4″ H x 11.2″ W x 1.2″ D
- Weight: 0.22 lbs
Pros
- Its ultralight
- Very compressible
- The fabric is very thin and light, but it’s also tough
- The tightening straps are easy to work with and adjustable
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
3. TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes for Travel – Best Value
The search for the perfect compression packing cubes set ends here. TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes for Travel are the perfect blend of high quality and affordable to make this the ultimate travel accessory- whether you’re looking for a backpacking organizer or a way to organize your carry-on suitcase.
These are not your typical vacuum bags-these expandable cubes use a two zipper system to help eliminate the extra bulk when packing your luggage. The ripstop Polyurethane fabric stands up to nonstop travel. It is ultra-lightweight and durable and as well as being more reliable than even nylon alternatives for packing cubes. Additionally, polyurethane fabric is water-resistant to help keep moisture out of your clothes wherever they’re packed. Zipper on the packing cubes all have reinforced zipper stops. We also made a guide on some great luggage sets for international travel.
Key Features:
- 2 PC set
- Water-resistant
- Ripstop Polyurethane fabric
- Smooth zippers
Specifications:
- Brand: TRIPPED Travel Gear
- Dimensions: 14″ H x 10″ W x 4″ D
- Weight: 0.22 lbs
Pros
- The ballistic nylon seems very good
- The compression zip alleviates the back from adverse strain during the zipping process
- The positioning of where the handle is stitched into, as well as the size of the handle make a big difference down the line
- Durable and packable
Cons
- Smaller than regular packing cubes so cannot hold as much
4. ALPS Mountaineering Compression Stuff Sack
Clothing, sleeping bags, towels, and bedding take up a lot of space when traveling, but they don’t have too! Available in four different sizes, the ALPS Mountaineering Compression Stuff Sack will help you to maximize space in your pack, trunk or backseat!
There is a top lid with a zippered pocket to keep small items easily accessible. Zippered pocket reverses to become a storage pouch. Bottom webbing grab handles with d-rings allow easy carrying and multiple attachment options. Its also made of lightweight polyester ripstop with bartacked stress points.
Key Features:
- Top lid with zippered pocket
- Bottom handle with d-ring clips
- Bartacked stress points
- Lightweight polyester ripstop fabric
Specifications:
- Brand: ALPS Mountaineering
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 9″ H x 9″ W x 20″ D
- Weight: 0.62 lbs
Pros
- Four cinch straps
- Very well constructed
- The set came with the compression sack itself as well as a small black mesh bag for storing the empty compression sack
- The seams are also double-stitched with bar-tacked stress points
Cons
- End caps could be a little smaller to allow for more compression
5. Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack – Premium Pick
The Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack is made from a sturdy 70D Nylon waterproof fabric in the body and lid, with an eVent® waterproof but air-permeable base that allows air to be pushed out of the sack. No need for a purge valve, making these lighter and simpler. The four compression straps, use hypalon roll-top non-wicking closure. These dry sacks are the epitome of durability, versatility, and compression.
The eVent Compression Dry Sacs are rated to 10,000mm hydrostatic head – more than sufficient water protection for paddle use (avoid full submersion.) There is no need to worry about your contents getting wet, so when you get to camp, you can get into a cozy jacket, blanket, or sleeping bag. Super tough, super pliable, high thread-count 70 Denier fabrics and it’s white visible color make it easy to find in your bag. Feel free to check out our guide on some great lightweight luggage for international travel.
Key Features:
- Air permeable eVent fabric baseallows air to be pushed out but water can’t get in
- Rugged 70D Nylon body
- Waterproof seams – double stitched and tape sealed
- Reinforced stitching on all stress points
- Pull handle on the bottom
Specifications:
- Brand: Sea to Summit
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 9″ H x 9″ W x 20″ D
- Weight: 0.33 lbs
Pros
- The compression straps are tough
- There is clasp in which you can fold down the top of the bag so it will be watertight
- There is extra room just in case you want to pack anything else you may want to compress
- The stitching is strong and seems well constructed
Cons
- It can take some practice to put the straps on correctly in the dark
6. SUITEDNOMAD Compression Packing Cubes Set
While other travel packing cubes are way too small, rip after a few trips or their zippers are impossible to close, the SUITEDNOMAD Compression Packing Cubes Set come with 2 large and 1 medium size well-made bags. The reinforced seams are extra durable to ensure that you don’t get stuck with ripped bags in the middle of your travels. Our premium zipper slides smoothly even when the cubes are full.
Made of 100% ripstop and water-resistant nylon which fully protects your clothing during any adventure. The sleek design will fit perfectly any luggage without wasting space and a sturdy handle allows for incredible portability. The unique double zipper compression system removes all the air from the bag and makes it incredibly compact
Key Features:
- Reinforced seams
- Smooth zippers
- Ripstop fabric
- Sturdy handle
Specifications:
- Brand: SUITEDNOMAD
- Dimensions: 10.24″ H x 2.36″ W x 0.87″ D
- Weight: 0.43 lbs
Pros
- The compression zipper is very nice
- This set is a 6-pack, so it has basically everything that you would need to stay organized
- The quality of the fabric and zippers is absolutely top-notch
- Its ripstop fabric
Cons
- The zippers could be larger
7. REDCAMP Nylon Compression Bag for Travel
The REDCAMP Nylon Compression Bag for Travel is made of lightweight nylon material, high quality, water-resistant, durable fabric, and steady for a longer lifespan. Adjustable and sturdy widen strap can compact the bag to minimum condition for you to store it in your car, shoulder, backpack. It saves space. It is convenient for you to take it anywhere you go.
Features include a top lid with a zippered pocket to keep small items easily accessible, 4 adjustable straps that allow you to remove extra air inside your belongings, without unsightly bulging. The bottom handle strap is comfortable to carry
Key Features:
- Side adjustable buckle
- Top lid with zippered pocket
- Made of lightweight Nylon material
- Comes with 4 adjustable straps
Specifications:
- Brand: REDCAMP
- Capacity: 27L
- Dimensions: 22.1″ H x 9.8″ W x 9.8″ D
- Weight: 0.28 lbs
Pros
- The material of the bag is very thin, but it is sewn together very well and feels pretty strong
- The straps are nice and easy to use too compress your item
- Half of the straps have a buckle to easily remove your item when you need it
- Compresses well
Cons
- Smaller than advertised
8. Hibag 12 Travel Compression Bags
Hibag 12 Travel Compression Bags are perfect for traveling, saving 80% space for your home and suitcases, providing you the best storage solution. Every bag at Hibag is uniquely designed with extremely thick material, smart zipper, specially designed valve, and stay-one slider, to ensure air-tightness.
Stay-one clips prevent clips from falling off the zipper or missing. The zipper is very smooth to open and close. When you close the zipper, the yellow line will be stuck between the two blue lines, clearly telling you if the zipper is properly closed. No need to use a vacuum cleaner or an electric pump or a hand pump to suck the air out. You only need to roll the bag from the zipper to the bottom and air is all pushed out. It’s perfect on the go.
Key Features:
- Includes 12 bags (6 M size & 6 L size)
- Double zip design
- Stay-on clip
- Simple to use rolling
Specifications:
- Brand: Hibag
- Dimensions: 6.9″ H x 2.3″ W x 10.8″ D
- Weight: 1.35 lbs
Pros
- Very easy to use and hold a lot of clothes
- The compression bag has a thicker plastic that holds up well for many packs
- The zip top was easy to use and easy to see with the two different color zips
- These bags seal tight
Cons
- You really have to listen to the “don’t fill bag past this line” rule or else the bag doesn’t roll like it should
9. GoBackTrail Compression Stuff Sack
Have you ever gone on a trip without everything you needed? Was this due to a lack of room or storage space? If so GoBackTrail has designed the perfect solution! The GoBackTrail Compression Stuff Sack was designed to shrink the size of your belongings up to 30 Percent!
These premium compression bags are made from high quality water-resistant, polyester. Each sack has 4 vertical one-inch wide compression straps with 2 buckles that cinch and two that unclip. This is the best design as it is less complicated and easier to load and unload the sack.
Key Features:
- 4 one-inch wide “compression” straps
- 2 buckles cinches
- Polyester material
- Water-resistance
Specifications:
- Brand: GoBackTrail
- Capacity: 14L
- Dimensions: 15″ H x 9″ W x 9″ D
- Weight: 0.23 lbs
Pros
- The sacks are fairly light
- Compresses clothes well
- The 2 clips are also helpful when opening it up
- Sturdy design
Cons
- The top “flap” isn’t attached to the bag, it’s attached to the bottom if bag with three straps, this makes it difficult to manage
10. AmazonBasics Vacuum Compression Storage Bags
Save space where you need it most with the AmazonBasics Vacuum Compression Storage Bags. This incredible storage solution allows you to easily vacuum-seal clothing, linens, drapery, and much more. Expertly protect your essentials and heirlooms from insects, mold, bad odors, and moisture while saving space at the same time.
Perfect for safely vacuum-sealing seasonal clothing, special linens, or bulky textiles, the AmazonBasics compression bags not only protect your items but shrink them down approximately 80% for compact, stackable storage. Stay organized and effectively store your personal effects for long-term preservation. The AmazonBasics storage bag set comes with a convenient hand pump that allows you to efficiently seal each bag to your desired compression.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty plastic vacuum-seal compression bags
- Compresses clothing, linens, and more down 80%
- Defends against damage from insects, mold, odors, and more
- Hand pump included or connect to vacuum hose for quick compression
- Air tight valve and double zipper closure
Specifications:
- Brand: AmazonBasics
- Dimensions: 11.8″ H x 9″ W x 3.5″ D
- Weight: 1.8 lbs
Pros
- Sizes were good and not hard to use
- The pump provided works like a charm
- Feels very sturdy
- Vacuums down quickly
Cons
- It’s a little difficult to get things settled in without a lot of wrinkles
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnxDb58E9rc
Buying Guide
Weight
Ideally, you want to use a lightweight bag that is around 20%or less of the total weight for packing. Something more than that can leave you concerned about getting it completely packed until it’s checked in under the weight cap. Moreover, because the bag weighs more it places you at a disadvantage for how many things you can carry with you.
Waterproof
Because most compression sacks are made of nylon, they already have some sort of water-resistance. Nevertheless, considering the volatile traveling conditions, it’s better to buy waterproof, particularly if you have a larger compression sack as your main luggage type.
Price
As for everything else, when it comes to compression bags,you get what you pay for. Aside from the reasons listed above, the other aspect you want to remember is when and how much you’ll need a compression pack. If you pay less than $10, you ‘re still going to be able to pack your baggage just as easily as if you were going to invest 10 times that price, but it’s not going to last quite as long. You often run the risk of losing or ripping the bag during your journey and locating a substitute quickly will be challenging depending on your destination.
Materials
Another issue that is mentioned occasionally using compression bagsfor travel is the breaking of the seams. Because you are going to compress and put stress on these stitches, the performance of the stitching is also significant. For a compression block to break mid-journey, it may be a major pain between your travels. Without a functioning compressionbag, you may not be able to fit anything in your bag. Ideally, the material must be durable enough to survive the natural conditions, as well as to resist rips and breaks.
Compression Type
The more common are external adjustable straps that allow you to compress the bagmanually, with air fleeing through the top closure. Alternate solutions often operate for an air purging systemthat uses a fabricthat is waterproof but air-permeable. For the purging method, the permeable content helps air to escape when you packand compress the bag, which probably makes compression more lightweight and effective.
Frequently Ask Questions
What is a compression bag used for?
Compression bags are used to cut bigger items, such as clothes or sleeping bags, on size and weight. Compression bags allow you to cram more stuff into your luggage by eliminating excess air and limiting things to the minimum amount of space available. Compression bags are nice to organize and conserve space, but they are difficult to open in a hurry.
Are compression bags good for travel?
They are very good for travel if you intend on bringing a lot of items like clothes for your travel or backpacking trip. But if you don’t anticipate a lot of bulky items, then a packing cube might be more suited for you.
How do you travel with a compression bag?
To use a standard travel compression bag (those that look like a giant zip loc bag), fold, don’t roll, your clothing. Before closing, roll the bag like a giant toothpaste tube to get all the air out of it. Seal off, flatten, and pack up. Wash them with dish soap and a towel to scrub.
Do compression bags reduce weight?
No, they might compress your bulky clothes but they actually add a bit of weight. Although it won’t be much so this shouldn’t be a concern if you’re trying to save on weight since the weight add would be minimal.
Conclusion
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best compression bags for travel as well as our guide on features to look for in a compression bag for travel. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.
