Consider the topological spaces $X$ with the following property: 

>For every compact $K\subseteq X$ there is a compact set $L$ such that $K\subseteq L\subseteq X$ and $L$ is a [retract][1] of $X$. 

Let us call this property RBC (Retract to a Bigger Compact). This property seems natural and useful, but I have been unable to find anything directly on it. 

Using certain [known results][2], it is not hard to see that every closed topological subspace of a locally convex metrizable topological vector space has the RBC property. 

It is also clear that the RBC property is topological and thus invariant with respect to homeomorphisms. Trvially, any compact topological space has the RBC property. 

> **Question:** Can one characterize the RBC property? 

That is, can one give a usable necessary and sufficient condition for it? Or a usable sufficient condition somewhat close to necessity? By "usable", I mean without the quantifier "there is" in the definition of the RBC property. 

I do not know the answer even to this **question:** Is there an example of a topological space without the RBC property? 

Thinking about the latter question, I have in mind the "non-retract" example of the $(n-1)$-sphere, which is compact but not a retract of the corresponding closed ball, whereas the ball is compact as well and of course is a retract of itself and of the corresponding $n$-space. 

(I have no experience in this field and apologize in advance if these questions have obvious answers.)

  [1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retraction_(topology)#Retract
  [2]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retraction_(topology)#Absolute_neighborhood_retract_(ANR)