Keep in mind that standard polyethylene bags are somewhat gas permeable and thus a vacuum will not last very long. Nevertheless, some vacuum is better than none.

Hey Glock. I've done this with the old Dazey models. They may still be available in retail stores but I buy mine at thrift shops, use them till they die and throw them away. I've experimented with various blags and plastics and have found that barring the real bags meant for the unit that the heavy clear plastic in big rools from the hardware store works best. Hope this helps.

I've been sealing chemical fire stuff in mylar with good results. Hopefully a few ETS'ers will chime in with some results down the road when they've had a chance to test them.

Phaedrus graciously sent me some of his packages about a month ago. I put two (one containing a block of Esbit and another a chunk of Weber fire starter) in the bag I am carrying daily to work and about. The packaging is absolutely tough; I just dug them out and there is no sign of wear or abrasion. I will probably pass them on to my grandchildren.

Try a couple, then pass the rest along!