Herbie Murray
Compression sacks are a great way to condense the contents of your luggage or backpack into a smaller, denser bundle. They are especially useful for compressing bulky items like sleeping bags, pillows, and clothing, making them ideal for camping, backpacking, or travel. These sacks are designed to squeeze out all the air, optimising the space in your bag and allowing you to pack more efficiently. They typically come in various sizes, from small bags for accessories to larger options for sleeping bags, and are often made from waterproof or water-resistant materials to protect your gear in different weather conditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To compress items such as sleeping bags, clothing, and pillows to make more space in your bag |
| Function | Squeezes out all the air to reduce the volume of contents by one-half to one-third |
| Uses | Camping, backpacking, bikepacking, flying, kayaking |
| Types of sacks | One-way purge valve, permeable fabrics, compression straps |
| Typical sizes | 3L, 5L, 6L, 10L, 13L, 14L, 20L, 30L, 35L |
| Materials | eVent, Ultra-Sil fabric, ripstop fabric, Dyneema Composite Fabrics, woven Ultra-PE face material |
| Additional features | Waterproof, semi-translucent, lightweight, abrasion-resistant, weather-resistant |
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What You'll Learn
How compression sacks work
Compression sacks are a great way to save space when packing a sleeping bag. They are stuff sacks with straps that can be pulled to squeeze a larger sack into a smaller compressed size. They can reduce the volume of a sleeping bag by up to two-thirds, making it easier to fit into a backpack. They also protect the sleeping bag from moisture, dirt, and wear.
When choosing a compression sack, it is important to consider the size, style, weight, and brand. It is recommended to get a bag with a looser fit and to choose a size based on the uncompressed size of the sleeping bag and the desired level of compression. Compression sacks come in various sizes, such as small (6L to 10L), medium (10L to 20L), and large (20L to 30L), depending on the type of sleeping bag and the level of compression needed.
To use a compression sack for a sleeping bag, simply stuff the sleeping bag into the sack instead of folding it. Folding a sleeping bag can create creases that can lead to cold spots and wear out the insulation over time. Once the sleeping bag is inside the compression sack, hold the drawstring tight and pull the loose straps evenly over the ends. It is also recommended to place the sack on the ground and press it with your knee while pulling the straps to distribute the stress evenly.
In addition to sleeping bags, compression sacks can also be used for other soft and bulky items such as clothes, pillows, and jackets. They are handy for travellers who want to maximize space in their luggage and for outdoor enthusiasts who need to haul gear efficiently. Some compression sacks are also waterproof or water-resistant, providing additional protection from the elements.
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Benefits of using a compression sack
Compression sacks are a specialised version of the ubiquitous "stuff sack", designed to compress lofty items such as sleeping bags, clothing, pillows, and jackets into the smallest, most dense bundle possible. They are particularly useful for outdoor activities such as camping, backpacking, hiking, and bikepacking, where space is limited.
Space Efficiency
The primary benefit of using a compression sack is to reduce the volume of bulky items, such as sleeping bags, by half to one-third, freeing up valuable space in your backpack. This is especially useful for large, expedition-grade sleeping bags, which would otherwise be impossible to fit into a backpack.
Protection
Many compression sacks offer additional protection from moisture, dirt, and wear. Waterproof compression sacks, for example, ensure that items stay dry in wet conditions. Some compression sacks also feature unique designs that evenly distribute the stress of compression, preventing bulging and potential damage to the contents.
Organisation
Compression sacks allow you to keep your belongings organised within your backpack. Separating items into smaller compression sacks makes it easier to locate specific items without having to decompress the entire bag.
Cost-Effectiveness
Some sleeping bags come with a compression sack included as part of the package. This offers better value than purchasing them separately, and the included sack is optimised for the specific sleeping bag, ensuring maximum compression without causing damage.
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Compression sack sizes
Compression sacks are a specialised version of the ubiquitous "stuff sack", designed to compress bulky items such as sleeping bags, clothing, and pillows into a smaller, denser bundle. They are particularly useful for camping, backpacking, and bikepacking trips, where space is limited.
The size of the compression sack you need depends on the volume of the items you intend to pack. Manufacturers typically measure the capacity of compression sacks in litres (L) and cubic inches, with sizes ranging from 3-litre bags for small personal items to 35-litre bags for larger items like sleeping bags. It's worth noting that sleeping bags vary in their packed volume depending on factors such as the type of insulation (down or synthetic) and the shell and liner fabrics used. Therefore, it can be challenging to determine the exact compression sack size required without considering the specific sleeping bag.
For example, Sea to Summit offers a range of lightweight "Ultra-Sil" compression sacks in various sizes. Their smallest bag, at 3.3L, is suitable for small clothing items like socks, hats, and gloves. The 6L size can accommodate additional layers and a puffy coat, while the 10L bag is recommended for protecting a sleeping bag from getting wet. They also offer larger options for those seeking a backpack liner.
When choosing a compression sack size, it's generally advisable to select a larger size if the items you intend to pack are at the upper limit of the volume specified for a particular sack, especially if you plan to use it in cold weather. This is because insulation for colder temperatures tends to be bulkier and requires more space. Additionally, consider the compressibility of the items; down insulation, for instance, is more compressible than synthetic insulation and requires a smaller volume stuff sack.
While compression sacks are designed to maximise space, some people argue that they limit the ability to utilise the entire capacity of a backpack. This is because a sleeping bag can fill in small gaps between solid items, whereas a compression sack turns it into a solid item that requires a designated space. As an alternative, some people prefer to separate the contents of their backpack into multiple smaller compression sacks, making it easier to organise and access specific items without decompressing the entire bag.
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Compression sack fabrics
Compression sacks are a specialised version of stuff sacks, designed to compress bulky items such as sleeping bags, clothing, and pillows into a compact bundle. They are commonly used by hikers, backpackers, and bikepackers to maximise space in their bags. The choice of fabric for a compression sack depends on its intended use and the desired features.
Some compression sacks are made from permeable fabrics like eVent, which allow air to escape while preventing water from entering. These fabrics are ideal for keeping gear dry in wet conditions. Sea to Summit's Ultra-Sil fabric is another example of a permeable fabric that is semi-translucent, allowing users to see the contents inside.
For outdoor adventures where the sack may come into contact with sharp objects or rough terrain, a more durable fabric is recommended. Heavier fabrics can better withstand the elements and direct contact with sharp sticks and rocks. REI's compression sacks, for example, are made from strong and durable ripstop nylon, making them lightweight yet sturdy.
Waterproof compression sacks are also available for activities such as kayaking or camping near water. Hyperlite's compressible stuff sacks, made from 100% waterproof DCF Dyneema fabrics, offer an extremely lightweight storage solution. UltraliteSack's Ultralight Compression Sack is another option made from Dyneema Composite Fabrics (DCF), featuring a roll-top closure with adjustable webbing straps.
When choosing a compression sack fabric, it is important to consider the desired features such as durability, weight, water resistance, and visibility of the contents. The intended activity and environmental conditions will also influence the type of fabric that is most suitable.
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Compression sack care
Compression sacks are handy for compressing bulky items such as sleeping bags, clothing, and pillows, allowing you to save space in your luggage or backpack. They are made of various materials, including nylon, and some are designed to be waterproof or water-resistant. To care for your compression sack and ensure its longevity, follow these guidelines:
- Washing: Hand wash your compression sack using mild soap and rinse it thoroughly. Avoid machine washing as it may damage the fabric or compromise the waterproof capabilities.
- Drying: Do not dry the compression sack in a dryer. Instead, allow it to air dry completely before storing it.
- Storage: Store the compression sack in a cool, well-ventilated, and dry place when not in use. Ensure that it is completely dry before storing to prevent the growth of mildew or mould.
- Usage: While compression sacks are convenient for saving space, avoid storing your sleeping bag or down jackets in them for extended periods. The compression can damage the delicate filling of these items over time.
- Waterproofing: If your compression sack is not waterproof, consider using waterproof bags inside it to protect your items from moisture. Alternatively, opt for a waterproof compression sack if you anticipate exposure to wet conditions.
- Size: Choose the appropriate size of the compression sack for your sleeping bag. Sleeping bags vary in packed volume, so select a size that accommodates your bag without compromising its condition.
- Compression: To achieve maximum compression, use the compression straps effectively to extract air from inside the sack. Ensure the sack is not overfilled, as this can affect its performance and durability.
- Delicate Items: Compression sacks are ideal for compressible items. Avoid using them for fragile or delicate items that may be damaged by compression.
- Maintenance: Inspect your compression sack regularly for any wear and tear. Address any issues promptly, such as repairing seams or reinforcing straps, to prolong the life of the sack.
- Organisation: Utilise multiple compression sacks of various sizes to organise your gear efficiently. Separate items based on their purpose or frequency of use, making it easier to access what you need without decompressing the entire sack.
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Frequently asked questions
A compression sack is a specialised stuff sack that helps compress lofty items such as sleeping bags to make them more compact and optimise space.
Compression sacks work by squeezing out all the air inside them. This can be done in two ways: using a one-way purge valve or permeable fabrics.
Manufacturers usually measure the capacity of compression sacks in liters (L) and cubic inches. A 10L compression sack is suitable for a summer down sleeping bag, while a 3-season down bag would require a 13L sack. A 3-season synthetic bag would require a 13-20L sack, and a 4-season down bag would need a 20L sack. A larger 30L sack is recommended for a 4-season synthetic bag.
Compression sacks help maximise space in your backpack or luggage by reducing the volume of the sleeping bag. They also help keep your gear organised and can provide protection from the elements, especially if you opt for a waterproof or water-resistant sack.
Some recommended brands for compression sacks include Granite Gear, Sea to Summit, Hyperlite, and Stone Glacier. These brands offer lightweight, durable, and water-resistant compression sacks specifically designed for sleeping bags and outdoor adventures.
