🧳 Compression Bags or Vacuum Bags for Packing?

Why Gadget Girl Uses Both

I get asked this question all the time:“Do you prefer compression bags or vacuum bags for packing?”

My honest answer? Both. 🙋‍♀️Each one has a purpose, and once you know when to use each, packing becomes faster, lighter, and way more organized.

❄️ When I Use Vacuum Bags

For trips to colder climates, vacuum bags are my go-to. When I’m packing:

• A puffer jacket

• Bulky sweaters

• Lots of layers

vacuum bags are absolute lifesavers.

Why I Love Them:

• They dramatically reduce bulk without adding weight

• The small vacuum included with most sets is surprisingly powerful

• USB charging makes it easy to recharge before heading home

Gadget Girl tip:I prefer using several smaller vacuum bags instead of one large one. I only put a few items in each bag. That way, if I need to grab something mid-trip, I don’t have to unseal everything—especially helpful when changing hotels or packing in a hurry. Here are the ones I use https://amzn.to/4t1rIyj

🏃‍♀️ When I Use Compression Packing Cubes

Compression bags shine when we’re in adventure mode and moving hotels frequently.

These are all about organization and efficiency, which is very much my vibe. These are the ones I like, they have breathable mesh and sturdy zippers https://amzn.to/4pLBSQy

How I Use Them:

• One bag per clothing category (socks, shirts, etc.)

• Or one bag per day or two of outfits

This system makes mornings easier and keeps me from unpacking my entire suitcase just to find one thing.

My Favorites:

• Small and medium sizes work best for me

• I’ve bought multiple sets just to get the sizes I actually use

• Larger bags sound tempting, but I find them harder to pack efficiently—and efficiency is everything

✨ The Bottom Line

Vacuum bags = maximum space savings. Compression bags = easy organization and quick access

Using both means I can adapt my packing style to the trip, the climate, and how often we’re moving. And that’s the real packing win.

“Compression Bags vs. Vacuum Bags at a Glance”.

Feature	Compression Bags	Vacuum Bags
Best For	Frequent hotel changes, organized packing	Bulky clothing, cold-weather trips
Tools Needed	None	Small vacuum or pump
Ease of Use	Very easy	Easy, but requires sealing
Space Saving	Moderate	Maximum
Ideal Clothing	Daily outfits, tops, socks	Coats, sweaters, layers
Repacking on the Go	Super convenient	Less convenient mid-trip
Gadget Girl Verdict	Best for organization	Best for space-saving

Gadget Girl Tip:Use both on longer trips—vacuum bags for bulky items at the bottom of your suitcase and compression bags on top for daily outfits.