Posts: 622
From: Pittsburgh, PA
Registered: Dec 2000

posted 05-30-2005 19:39               

---

Under another post the discussion centers on the security of our checked luggage in today's airports since TSA must now go through the bags to check items. The consensus seems to be that things "just ain't what they used to be," and that we are vulnerable to having items stolen from checked luggage.

My question relates to the Space Bags. These large zip bags compress clothing down and can be reused. I just got some of these and wondered how it works when TSA goes through your luggage. Obviously they have to open the compressed zippered bag, but then do they reseal it and compress the air out of the bag? Or do they open it up for the search and then just stuff everything back into the suitcase?

Has anyone had any experience with the use of these bags?
thanks

------------------
Sandy

IP: Logged

Posts: 356
From: Colorado OWN: Dikhololo, SA; Sanbonani, SA
Registered: Dec 2000

posted 05-30-2005 21:21               

---

Sandy,
Spring break we went to D.C./Williamsburg. I used the space bags and when we got home saw the TSA letter saying they had inspected my suitcase. My space bags were still (or re-compressed) when I opened the suitcase. Not sure if they just hand inspect or scan the bags?? They probably couldn't get my suitcase closed again unless the space bags were compressed...I pack to the brim!!

IP: Logged

Posts: 1670
From: Ocala, FL;, Mt. Amanzi, Place on the Bay, Seapointer, Strand Pavilion
Registered: Dec 2000

posted 05-31-2005 04:02               

---

I use the space bags regularly, and am not aware that any of them have ever been opened...but who knows?
Connie

IP: Logged

Posts: 719
From: Southeast Missouri
Registered: Mar 2004

posted 05-31-2005 04:55               

---

Where do you get space bags? Also, I guess one of the key would be to only pack stuff that is soft in the space bags so that when they are inspected, they don't fell anything hard, correct?

IP: Logged

Posts: 2391
From: Clinton TN
Registered: Jan 2003

posted 05-31-2005 05:48               

---

We got space bags from the Samsonite outlet store and the Coleman outlet store. No major difference in price, but they had different sizes.

Sheila

IP: Logged

Posts: 622
From: Pittsburgh, PA
Registered: Dec 2000

posted 05-31-2005 06:28               

---

Thanks, this is just what I needed to know.
I will use these bags to pack accordingly.

------------------
Sandy

IP: Logged

Posts: 561
From: Wisconsin
Registered: Apr 2001

posted 05-31-2005 07:12               

---

Big ziploc bags work well too, especially the 2 gallon size. In both you're just squeezing out the air.

IP: Logged

Posts: 92
From: Virginia Owner: Marriott's Grande Vista, Marriott's Ocean Pointe
Registered: Mar 2005

posted 05-31-2005 07:21            

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by needavacation:
Big ziploc bags work well too, especially the 2 gallon size. In both you're just squeezing out the air.

---

I agree!! I like the 2 gallon Hefty One-Zip's myself! Just put your stuff in, zip up part of the way, lay on it to squeeze the air out and finish the zip!

------------------
MAW - Hawaii/Kauai Photos

IP: Logged

Posts: 906
From: Malibu, CA-Sweetwater @ Park City, UT-Desert Breezes, Palm Desert, CA-Always looking for a good T/S rental!
Registered: Dec 2000

posted 05-31-2005 15:48            

---

I got mine from QVC! Don't laugh, I was channel surfing, saw them and always wanted them, they are great and the prices are good also.

http://www.qvc.com/asp/frameset.asp? nest=%2Fasp%2FIsItemNumberRedirect.asp&search=SQ&frames=y&referrer=QVC&txtDesc=space+bags&SearchClass=

------------------
Elyse

[This message has been edited by Malibu Sky (edited 05-31-2005).]

IP: Logged

Posts: 435
From: Orlando, FL Own:2 Marriott Harbor Point
Registered: Dec 2000

posted 06-01-2005 02:17               

---

They're wonderful for ski equipment, which is so filled with air. Just my jacket and pants would take a suitcase if not compressed.

I also purchased mine through QVC. However, your local Linen N Things or Bed Bath and Beyond type stores carry these.

------------------
Kaye
Tug Cruise #1 Participant

IP: Logged

Posts: 719
From: Southeast Missouri
Registered: Mar 2004

posted 06-01-2005 04:29               

---

Thanks, going to try them.

IP: Logged

Posts: 1576
From: Dallas, TX, VIP Gold Fairfield Points(4 units), HGVC Elite (Bay Club, Seaworld), Tradewinds Cruise Club + 4 others
Registered: Dec 2000

posted 06-03-2005 08:17               

---

Costco sells them if there is one near you and you are a member.

IP: Logged

Posts: 78
From:
Registered: Dec 2000

posted 06-04-2005 20:38            

---

Walmart sells them, but I found that the largest Ziplocs(without the zipper) work the best. I sit them on a hard chair and then sit on them and wiggle around until I get the air all out! The Walmart ones seem to leak a little air after you think they are all sealed.

IP: Logged

Posts: 1670
From: Ocala, FL;, Mt. Amanzi, Place on the Bay, Seapointer, Strand Pavilion
Registered: Dec 2000

posted 06-05-2005 05:29               

---

Mary Anne,
You gave me a bit of a laugh today...I could visualize someone wiggling around on that hard chair...didn't know these bags could also be a source of exercise! Thanks for the giggle.
Connie

IP: Logged