Karen, I think you've asked a question many want the answer to, if using those bags.

We have space bags and honestly, find them a challenge at times to use. It takes numerous times to roll those bags and squeeze the air out as the "seal" keeps poppping open. Back to square one. Roll and seal pop. Very frustrating. Maybe it's operator error.

Agree about the weight. Things look very compact, which is great when trying to make room for more in your luggage. But, the compactness can be deceiving as far as the weight is concerned.