FoodSaver

“Does anyone use a FoodSaver?

They are on sale and I was thinking of getting one but don't know which model.

The small one looks like it should be fine for dehydrated and backpacking food but won't work with gallon bags.
Another model will work with gallon bags, but both of these require two hands holding the top closed while the vacuum and sealing are being done.
The last model locks closed while sealing, will work with gallon bags and costs more.

Is the lock down feature worth it or should I just keep the compact one, I don't know if I would use the gallon bags much anyway.”

“pepsi,

I have the Tilia Foodsaver. I like it alot and use it quite often for backpacking meals as well as repackaging foods to throw in the freezer. The model I have has tabs on both sides that you click down to look the bag into place as it runs the vacuum and then heat seals the bag. I have used the quart and gallon bags frequently and I also purchased the continuous roll that you can cut to any size bag you need. The bags are not exactly cheap but can be reused if you leave enough space to trim the opening after you've cleaned the bag, so it can be resealed. You can freeze and boil the bag and I definately give it two bobo thumbs up if you're into preparing your own trail meals. I also got a marinating contianer with the package where you throw marinade and the marinadee into and pull a vaccuum on the container, it helps the marinade work faster and is pretty decent to use.”

“Capn,

Thanks. After reading that I am thinking I will probably keep the model 1075 and return the others instead.(yes, I bought them all while the sale was on because I couldn't decide.)

The gallons might come in handy and the lock on the top instead of holding it down sounds better.”

“pepsi,

One tip I learned is that if your meals are especially moist or waterey and you try to seal them right away, the liquids may suck out of the bag during the vacuum process and make a mess of the Foodsaver machine, it's best to place your meals in the bags and then place the food bags in the fridge or freezer for alittle while to let the juices solidify before you seal the bags.”

“I have a foodsaver as well, not sure what model...ditto everything Bobo said. :)
except I don't use it for my backpacking meals cause I like to mix 'em up on the trail.”