We've done the "space bags" and they work pretty well at the compression of the clothes. I haven't ironed anything (at home or vacation) in years. I lay things flat in a stack, put in space bag and roll the air out. However, last vacation I packed a week ahead of time, then when it was time to go home i packed the last day, & the suitcase was jammed! We had won t-shirts and collapsable coolers that I had to give away because I couldn't get them in the suitcase.