The Straw Trick

So I was watching Food Network the other day with Mayumi (how can I not with her in the house) and Allen Brown was talking about how you don't need a vacuum sealer or freezer bags. All you need is a cheap zip-top bag and a straw. The theory is you suck out all the air with a straw and that will prevent freezer burn. I used to have a FoodSaver but after 10 years it gave out and it was too expensive to replace. So I've been buying the Ziploc brand freezer bags and also using the new Reynolds Handi-Vac Vacuum Sealer - which is one of my new favorite items. The catch is you have to buy the bags. Has anybody used the straw method successfully? If so, please leave a comment. Also, what are the cheapest zip-top or slider bags and where do you buy them? Thanks!!