This past winter I went on a girls’ trip with my former college roommates. I showed up with my large suitcase — it’s too big to carry on, but is always a safe bet for fitting everything. I overpack for a few reasons: partially because it’s overwhelming not knowing what I might need, and I also because I like to throw fitness gear into my luggage, in case the opportunity to sneak in a workout presents itself during my travels.My roommate, however, showed up with a carry-on that weighed four pounds more than my bag despite having significantly smaller dimensions. I was intrigued — how was she packing more into a lower-volume suitcase? Turns out her secret weapon was a small rechargeable pump to vacuum seal multiple bags of clothing in her carry-on. I later watched in amazement when we checked into the resort and she began pulling dress after dress out of her little carry-on, all of which were previously neatly sealed up.Jennifer Samson-AckerI was able to fit so much more into my carry-on.Fast forward to this summer, when I decided to give the vacuum sealing technique a try on a trip to the UK. Since I’d be traveling around Scotland for 10 days hopping trains and busses, I thought committing to a standard carry-on could make my life a lot easier. I wasn’t disappointed! My travels were light and effortless thanks to this little rechargeable pump and just two of the medium sized bags, which helped me pack more clothes in a tighter space, and also helped to keep my wardrobe fresh and varied for various weather conditions for ten days abroad. In each bag I stored one pair of jeans and one sleeveless sweater on the bottom of one side of the suitcase. On top of the bags I then was able to comfortably fit five T-shirts, one light sweater, one pair of shorts, and two pairs of leggings. (You could probably even squeeze a little more in if you wanted.) The other side of my suitcase held toiletries, a pair of sandals, pajamas, and a few other miscellaneous items. Thanks to these space savers, I could then comfortably pack socks, bras, and underwear in the other sections of my suitcase.Another great aspect of these space saving bags? You don’t need to limit them for traveling. I decided to give the largest bag in the set a try for storing a queen sized fleece blanket. It doesn’t lay flat once sealed, (unless you’re a professional blanket folder maybe) but definitely takes up much less space in my linen closet once sealed, and perhaps the most important aspect — when I’m reaching for towels and sheets around the sealed up blanket, it doesn’t unfold or fall down the shelf waterfall style. Next up: tackling my teenagers’ growing hoodie collections with these space savers — if they’ll let me. Ahead, you can see what some reviewers had to say about these small-space miracles, or just keep scrolling to add these to your Amazon cart:“These vacuum bags are very easy to use and save a lot of space in my suitcase. The rechargeable pump works well and makes packing quick and effortless. The bags are durable, seal tightly, and keep clothes compressed throughout the trip. Great quality and very convenient. Highly recommend!” — Nataliia Kaplenko “These vacuum storage bags are a game changer for traveling! They helped me fit so much more into my suitcase while keeping everything organized. The rechargeable electric pump is easy to use and removes the air quickly, making the bags compact without much effort. I also like that the bags come in different sizes, which is perfect for clothes, jackets, and smaller items. They sealed well and stayed compressed throughout my trip. If you’re trying to save luggage space, I definitely recommend these!” — Veronica Aleman “Genuinely happy and impressed! I was packing for trip to Europe for 4 people for 2 weeks. Didn’t want to bring too many bags but have to have plenty of things for 2 weeks.. I used small bags for my kids and large and medium for adults. These bags are definitely working and are worth it!! I saved significant space and was able to pack everything I needed in I full size luggage and one carry on! The pump is small yet powerful. My vacuum bags stayed sealed without any problems. Just love it! Considering in investing in some more for seasonal storage.” — Simply_ausraTrending In ShoppingMore In Shopping