After careful planning, paying, and packing for your upcoming holiday, the last thing you want to face is an unpleasant surprise at the airport. Nothing ruins travel excitement like facing an overweight luggage fee at check-in. Beyond the added cost, it may derail any shopping plans and create doubt about bringing home souvenirs. While your home bathroom scales might only be slightly off, they can’t come with you. A better solution? A luggage scale. Compact and portable, luggage scales make weighing bags at home a breeze, can go with you anywhere, and provide added peace of mind. I have tested a handful of luggage scales to determine which are the best travel companions.
How I Tested:
Using each scale, I packed a carry-on and a checked case as if I were embarking on a summer trip. My packing list included essentials such as blue jeans, sneakers, swimsuits, electronics, and various chargers. Weighing both bags resulted in a 7kg carry-on and a 25kg checked bag. I assessed each scale for accuracy, ease of use, and portability. After multiple trials, I identified four of the best luggage scales to ensure that more of your money is directed towards the joy of travel rather than pesky fees.
Luggage Scales I Recommend:
The design of Amazon’s digital luggage scale is simple yet efficient. This scale features a strap with a hook that circles around the luggage handle and connects to the base of the scale. It can weigh up to 50kg and is powered by a CR2032 battery (not included). I found the Amazon Basics scale to be accurate; however, the only drawback is the display screen, which can be dark and hard to read at times. Its compact size makes it easy to fit in a carry-on, tote bag, or crossbody.
Portable: Yes
Accurate: Yes
The Shanje option features a sleek hanging design that can weigh up to 50kg and is powered by an included CR2032 battery. With a nylon strap and a large hook, it wraps around luggage handles, making it easier to lift and weigh. This scale is versatile, useful not only for checked luggage but also for fishing trips or grocery runs. Its LCD display screen has a stronger green light, enhancing readability.
Portable: Yes
Accurate: Yes
With over 100 years of experience in handling luggage, Samsonite offers a reliable electronic luggage scale that can capture weight up to 40kg. Equipped with a hook, travelers can weigh their baggage in various orientations. My experience indicated that this scale is highly accurate. However, a minor drawback is the small hook, which may not fit all suitcase handles.
Portable: Yes
Accurate: Yes
The Skeap Digital Fish scale offers a weight capacity of 50kg, and I found it to be extremely accurate. This scale features high-precision sensors capable of capturing weight from 0.01 ounces to 50kg, proving useful for various applications like luggage, boxes, fruits, and vegetables. Its soft, rubber-coated, extra-wide handle provides a comfortable grip. The digital scale operates on two AAA batteries, which are included in the package.
Portable: Yes
Accurate: Yes
The Final Verdict:
After testing these scales, I strongly recommend travelers consider the Shanje Digital Hanging luggage scale. Its portability, exceptional accuracy, and user-friendly design, highlighted by the lit LCD screen, make it my top pick for any traveler looking to avoid overweight luggage fees.