Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist and editor who has traveled across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, and spent more than a decade reviewing hotel room.

Vacuum sealing was pioneered by a German inventor ... more items and can be bought in tandem with a handy sealed laundry bag to keep your clean clothes fresh during long trips away.

When you're ready to vacuum seal, you simply place the open end of the bag into the vacuum channel, and it starts suctioning, no buttons required. One great feature is the indicator lights.