Worried about whether you have over-packed for a trip ahead? Then, the best way to get rid of that stress is by getting your luggage weighed because airport authorities are quite strict about the amount of luggage (carry on or check-in) that passengers bring along with them, irrespective of where they are headed to.
Here are a few quick ways to get your luggage weighed before your trip:
- Buy a luggage weighing scale which has a hook attached to one end. Simply place the handle of your bag on that end and lift the scale up in the air.
- Visit any showroom that sells luggage. They usually have a floor standing weighing machine on which the bag can be placed and weight read.
- Weigh yourself on a bathroom scale. After that carry your luggage in hand and stand on the weighing scale again. The difference between both readings is the actual weight of the luggage.
Still have more questions about weighing luggage Then, read on because we’ve covered all the information that you should know.
What is the Most Accurate Luggage Scale?
You’ll find that there are plenty of great brands available online which have wonderful user reviews. Here are a few points to keep in mind while purchasing a luggage scale for your personal use:
Weight Capacity– Don’t buy a luggage scale that has a low weight capacity. The difference that even a single pound of extra weight can make is a lot, so choose a scale which can give you a higher reading.
Accuracy- An accurate reading is everything when you’re weighing luggage so if you are able to test one out before buying it, do so by all means.
Durable– Since you are likely to take your luggage scale along with you when you travel, it is important to invest in a good brand and scale. I suggest skipping unbelievable discounts and choosing a luggage scale that will last you for years.
Easy To Use- Luggage scales need to be held in the air with the other end carrying the luggage by the handle. Go for a scale that has a wide, big and comfortable grip so that it does not fall from your hand by mistake while you are trying to weigh the luggage.
Display- Should you opt for one that has a digital display or a dial one? That depends on what you are comfortable with but I do suggest purchasing one that can display the weight in multiple units of measurements. This way, you won’t find it confusing to weigh the luggage properly irrespective of which country you are in.
Weight Lock– A good brand will have a weight lock on the scale so that you have more time to read the weight that is displayed, properly. If the weight lock is not sturdy enough, the luggage could fall on your feet and injure you.
Low Battery Warning- Get a luggage scale that gives you a low battery warning so that you aren’t stuck with a faulty luggage scale when you need one the most.
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Weight Requirements for Checked Bags
The weight limit for a checked in bag is 50 pounds and there is a size restriction per bag which is 27″ x 21″ x 14″. All airlines allow luggage that are slightly oversize or overweight and they will charge extra for the same. It’s important to check with the respective airline you plan to fly with for any changes with regard to luggage weight allowances , before your journey.
Weight Requirements for Carry-On Luggage
All passengers are allowed to carry just one carry on luggage and one personal item in flight. The term ‘personal item’ refers to a handbag, duffle bag, laptop bag, a briefcase or a backpack. In addition to these two items of luggage, a passenger can also carry a wheelchair, a book, snacks or an item of clothing. The size of a carry-on luggage should be 22″x 14″x 9″ and the weight limit is pounds.
What Happens if My Bag is Overweight?
Any checked in luggage that weighs above 50 pounds will carry an additional fee which usually starts at $50. The fees for overweight bags changes if the flight is an international one. Most airlines also charge extra handling fees for checking sports equipment, hiking poles etc.
The best way to stay informed about the latest extra baggage rates is by visiting the website of the airline carrier you plan to fly on, before your trip.
Top 3 Most Accurate Luggage Scales
We reviewed many brands and the features of their luggage scales before settling on these top 3:
Etekcity Luggage Scale
The Etekcity luggage scale packs in plenty of great features like a high accuracy sensor and the capacity to weigh luggage weighing up to 110 lb. Its rubber textured handle offers you a good strong grip and it even has a temperature sensor. The built-in auto-off functions help to preserve time and save battery. It also has a low battery and weight overload feature too.
FREETOO Luggage Scale
The FREETOO luggage scale has a backlit LCD display which makes reading the display in the dark easier. The scale can weigh luggage weighing up to 110 lb and locks in any weigh result. Energy saving is the most important feature in this scale because it switches off automatically within one minute. It is highly reliable thanks to its low battery and luggage overload indicators.
We liked that this scale was so compact that it could easily fit into one’s pockets. Plus, with a lacquer finish and anti-scratch properties, this scale is guaranteed to last you for many years.
RENPHO Digital Weight Scale
Looking for a digital scale that’s worth investing in? The RENPHO has a smart app which shows 13 essential body measurements including body fat percentage and BMI. Best of all, the app also works with other fitness apps including Fitbit. With auto calibration features and high precision sensors, this floor scale also has in-built Bluetooth features. With such spot-on weight measurement abilities, this digital weight scale can also weigh your luggage effortlessly and accurately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes you can, but we don’t recommend placing your luggage directly on the scale. The best way to get an ideas as to how much your luggage weighs is to first weigh yourself. Then carry your luggage and stand on the scale again. The difference in the reading gives you an estimate about the luggage weight.
You need to pay an extra fee if your check in luggage is found to be overweight. The fee usually starts at $50 per extra pound of weight and increases if the flight is an international one. Extra fees may also apply to specially packed luggage and sports equipment.
As long as you have invested in a quality brand and a good pair of luggage scales, you shouldn’t have a problem with getting an accurate reading.
It is advisable to recheck the luggage weight before checking in the luggage. I suggest buying a portable pair of scales so that they fit easily in your pocket or carry on bag and you can use them on your return flight as well.
