If you already have a backpack you like carrying, separate compression bags may be enough to organise your clothing. If you also need a new backpack, compare the complete set: compression system, compartments, pump and external dimensions. Vacuum compression can reduce the bulk of soft clothing; it does not reduce your luggage's weight.
This guide is written by MOVO BAGS, a vacuum compression backpack brand. It explains what to check before choosing and is not a comparative performance test.
Compression bags do not all work the same way
A vacuum bag with a valve needs a compatible method of extracting air. Some travel bags release air when rolled, without a pump; Eagle Creek describes this approach for its compression sack system. Before buying, read how that particular model works and which accessories it needs. The word “compression” does not mean a pump is included.
In a backpack with a vacuum compartment, the system is part of how the luggage is organised. With MOVO, you close the compression pouch and use the included pump to remove air through the valve. A laptop and delicate items are stored separately.
Which option suits the way you travel?
Keeping your existing luggage
Separate bags: Check that the filled bag fits inside and still allows the backpack or suitcase to close.
Integrated backpack: You are choosing a backpack too: check its dimensions, straps and compartments.
Separating clothing and a laptop
Separate bags: Device storage depends on the compartments in your existing luggage.
Integrated backpack: Check whether the model has a separate laptop compartment.
Compressing again during the trip
Separate bags: Check whether it works by rolling, with a pump or another device, and what you will have available for the return trip.
Integrated backpack: If it uses a pump, check whether it is included and allow room to carry it.
Comparing costs
Separate bags: Include the bags and any necessary accessories.
Integrated backpack: Compare the contents of the complete set, rather than relying on a photograph.
Three checks before deciding
- What you will actually pack. Separate clothing, devices and rigid items. A vacuum system is intended to reduce the bulk of clothing and other soft items; it does not make a laptop smaller.
- Your packed luggage. Measure and weigh the filled backpack, including the pump if you carry it. “Travel backpack” does not establish cabin acceptance: check your airline and ticket's size and weight limits.
- Access while travelling. Keep frequently needed items outside the compressed pouch. After opening it, you will need to close and compress it again to regain the reduced volume.
When to consider MOVO
If you want a new backpack with the system and pump included, the MOVO vacuum compression backpack kit costs €129. It includes the backpack, backpack cover, air pump and pump cover, with a separate padded laptop compartment. Its dimensions are 49 × 32 × 15 cm, expandable to 20 cm deep.
If your current backpack already meets your carrying needs and you only want to reduce clothing bulk, first consider whether compatible separate bags will do the job. Choosing compression does not necessarily mean replacing all your luggage.
Check the purchase terms too
MOVO offers free shipping to all 27 EU countries. Preparation takes 3 business days, followed by 2 business days in transit in Spain or 3–5 in other EU countries. Estimated total delivery is around 5 business days in Spain and 6–8 elsewhere in the EU, excluding weekends and public holidays.
You have 30 days after delivery to request a return under our returns policy. MOVO covers return shipping and supplies a prepaid label after accepting the return, with no restocking fee. Check the required condition of the item before buying.
See the MOVO kit, dimensions and availability. If you have already chosen your backpack, our Spanish packing guide explains how to organise and compress clothing for a short trip.