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Where to buy Ziploc Freezer Bags:
packed clothes with ziplock

If you are on a tight budget or don’t have access to packing cubes, you might have a cheap packing cube alternative hiding in your kitchen cabinet somewhere. Large Ziploc Freezer bags can be used to organize your belongings. But you might wonder exactly how well these bags work. You should also know if they are at all effective at compressing your clothes and keeping moisture out.

In general, freezer bags tend to be thicker and more durable than typical Ziploc bags. While this thicker material is designed to keep food fresh for longer, it also makes this bag a safer and more secure option when you use them for packing items in your luggage.

Things we like:
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    Very waterproof
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    Low price and easy to get
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Things we don't like:
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    Not an environmentally friendly choice - plastic and disposable
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    Not the most durable
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    Can’t fit large items
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packed clothes with ziplock
Specs & Features
  • Volume: 1 Gallon
  • Dimensions: 12.2 inches H x 15.7 inces W
  • Zippers: 2 Grip n’ Seal Plastic ziplocs
  • Materials: Plastic

Ways That Ziploc Freezer Bags Work Well As Packing Cubes

In testing, Ziploc Freezer Bags worked well at packing smaller items, like undergarments, shirts, and other belongings, but not nearly as well as actually packing cubes.

On the plus side, on the initial use of a freezer bag, there is a strong seal that protects your belongings from unwanted moisture better than many packing cubes do. This is good to know if you happen to be traveling somewhere with lots of rain. They also seal tightly, allowing you to push unwanted air out. This makes some compression possible.

See the complete list of the best Packing Cubes here!
packed clothes with ziplock

Where Ziploc Freezer Bags Fall Short As A Packing Cube Alternative

Where these cubes fall short is their longevity. Freezer bags might be more durable than normal Ziploc bags, but they don’t have a long lifespan when used as packing cubes. After a few uses the seams are likely to tear, and the material, even though it’s thick plastic, is bound to rip or puncture. This is especially true when you try to use Ziploc bags to compress your belongings, as it tends to add some added pressure to the seams and the zipper. As a rule, the more you stuff a Ziploc freezer bag, the shorter its lifespan tends to be.

While freezer bags can be great at organizing and slightly compressing your belongings when you have no packing cubes, it is important you know that not all freezer bags are equally effective.

What To Look For In A Ziploc Bag For Packing Luggage

A Reliable Seal And Quality Zipper

Sealed View

Related Reviews

Ziploc bags come in various designs and have many zipper mechanisms. The freezer bag zippers that work best for packing cube purposes tend to have multiple sealing methods. Instead of just one sealant, multiple lines lock and protect the bag from opening.  These have a firm grip and seal keeps bags sealed. They also tend to last after several uses, while single-seal bags become less reliable quickly.

Thick And Stong Plastic

When Its Packed

The strength of the plastic is also important. Freezer bags usually have thicker plastic than other Ziploc bags, but you should look for bags with extra-thick plastic. This will help prevent punctures and breakage.

Extra Layers Of Protection – The Top And Seal Of The Ziploc Bag

Some Ziploc Freezer Bags even have extra layers of protection near the top and bottom of the bag. This helps prevent the seals from busting open. This is great for those looking to get multiple packing trips out of a single bag.

The Design Of The Ziploc Bag Itself

Freezer bags also have multiple designs. Opt for freezer bags designed to stay open and propped up while packing. This will help you situate and tightly pack your belongings without too much trouble. It will also help you organize and unpack them later on.

Things we like:
  • check-mark
    Very waterproof
  • check-mark
    Low price and easy to get
Click to see more
Things we don't like:
  • check-mark
    Not an environmentally friendly choice - plastic and disposable
  • check-mark
    Not the most durable
  • check-mark
    Can’t fit large items
Click to see more
Click to see more

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