Use compression bags to shrink bulky clothing by up to 80%

Compression bags remove excess air from bulky items like sweaters and puffy jackets, reducing their volume by 50-80%. They are especially useful for winter travel or trips where heavy layers must fit into a small bag.

Steps

1. Choose roll-up compression bags with one-way air vents. These only need hand pressure, unlike vacuum-seal bags that require a vacuum cleaner.
2. Fill each bag with bulky, compressible items such as sweaters, fleece jackets, or down coats.
3. Seal and roll from the bottom toward the valve end, forcing air out through the one-way vent.
4. Pack the flattened bags against the bottom or sides of your suitcase for a stable base.

Tips

• Roll-up bags are more practical for travel since you will not have a vacuum at your destination for repacking.
• Compression bags work best on wrinkle-resistant fabrics. Dress shirts and delicates will crease heavily.
• Reserve compression bags for genuinely bulky items -- the bags themselves add a small amount of weight.