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As a chronic overpacker, I’ve lugged around my fair share of stuffed suitcases. Even when using packing cubes, I often end up sitting on top of my luggage to zip it closed, or struggling with all my might to lift a heftier bag into an overhead bin. Thus, I’m always on the lookout for tips, tricks and products to make packing more efficient—which is why I was curious about the Ekster TravelPack Vacuum Kit. This handy bag uses vacuum suction to compress your belongings; after using it on four trips this year, I was impressed by how it significantly saves on packing space. After using the Ekster TravelPack Vacuum Kit on four trips this year, I was blown away by how it significantly saves on packing space. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: Ekster Ekster is known for its best-selling smart wallet (featured in our roundup of the best travel wallets), so it’s no surprise that the TravelPack Vacuum Kit has been engineered with the same level of care. After seeing how it streamlines what I’m packing, I can’t imagine ever traveling without it. If you’re a frequent flier, this might just become your next go-to travel essential. RECOMMENDED BY FORBES VETTED The Best Checked Luggage Of 2025, Tested On Flights Around The World By Whitney Bruno We Traveled Near And Far With 22 Suitcases To Find The Best Luggage Of 2025 By Astrid Taran Ekster TravelPack Vacuum Kit Given my history of overfilling suitcases, I was skeptical when I first used the kit back in March. In preparation for a work trip to Cancun, I delicately folded a variety of sundresses and workwear—about ten outfits—into the bag as I would with any other packing cube. The pile just barely breached its opening. Per the kit’s instructions, I zipped the bag closed, plugged the rechargeable pump into its outer nozzle and pushed the button on top. I watched with fascination as the pack “shrank” around my clothes. The Ekster TravelPack Vacuum Kit shrinks around my clothes. Whitney Bruno For Forbes Once the bag was compressed, I was able to fit other items on top of it with room to spare. Later at my destination when I unzipped it, I enjoyed watching it instantly expand as it filled with air, revealing my now-compact stack of clothes. The air pump charges via USB-C port, so you can plug it in before you go—but since one charge generates enough power for 20 uses, you probably won’t have to do that for your next several trips. And in a pinch, you can use a vacuum cleaner if the charge on the device ever runs out. The Ekster TravelPack Vacuum Kit's air pump charges via USB-C port, so you can plug it in before you go. Whitney Bruno For Forbes On subsequent trips, I’ve found even more to appreciate about the kit. When a toiletry spill soaked the inside of my suitcase during a trip to Spain, I marveled at how the bag’s waterproof nylon lining kept my clothes untouched. On a wedding trip in July, I worried about wrinkles my formalwear might get from being compressed—only to discover it looking as smooth as when I had packed it. Through each trip, the pack protected my clothes, fit perfectly into my small carry-ons and saved an incredible amount of space. Of course, as holiday travel rolls around, the real test will be how well the TravelPack tackles my bulky sweaters and outerwear. But from my experiences traveling with it so far, gone are the days when I snag zippers on overflowing luggage or fret over unexpected checked bag fees. I can attest that it’s a game-changer for packing—especially if you tend to overpack. Become An Arhaus Trade Member To Earn Commissions And Special Rewards Explore Arhaus Coupon Open An Archarge Credit Card To Earn $100 In Rewards For Every $1,500 Spent Explore Arhaus Coupon Get 20% Off During Your Birthday Month As A Timberland Member Explore Timberland Coupon Save Up To 60% By Shopping The Sale Section Explore Timberland Coupon Earn Free Shipping On Select Items Explore Arhaus Coupon Got a tip? Share confidential information with Forbes. Editorial StandardsReprints & Permissions
