Luggage scale can help you avoid excess-weight baggage fees

Ronnie Gill

June 15, 2008

Balanzza digital luggage scale

HOW MUCH: $24.95

DOES IT WORK? If travelers have learned one thing from rising oil prices, it is that weight matters, especially to airlines. For example, American Airlines recently announced passengers will be charged $15 for the first piece of checked baggage and $25 for the second. But don't even consider overstuffing one piece. American's weight limit is 50 pounds a suitcase. Exceed that and it will cost you an extra $50. Know your luggage weight before you go - or return - with Balanzza, a sturdy digital scale with a 100-pound capacity.

Strap it to your suitcase and lift it off the ground with Balanzza's handle. Wait a few seconds for a beep, then check the device's digital readout to get the bag's weight.

Prone to vacation overshopping? Carry Balanzza with you (it's less than 8 ounces) to determine if it's cheaper to ship stuff home or carry an overweight bag.

Available at balanzza.com, magellans.com and other retailers.

WHAT: Balanzza digital luggage scale

HOW MUCH: $24.95

DOES IT WORK? If travelers have learned one thing from rising oil prices, it is that weight matters, especially to airlines. For example, American Airlines recently announced passengers will be charged $15 for the first piece of checked baggage and $25 for the second. But don't even consider overstuffing one piece. American's weight limit is 50 pounds a suitcase. Exceed that and it will cost you an extra $50. Know your luggage weight before you go - or return - with Balanzza, a sturdy digital scale with a 100-pound capacity.

Strap it to your suitcase and lift it off the ground with Balanzza's handle. Wait a few seconds for a beep, then check the device's digital readout to get the bag's weight.

Prone to vacation overshopping? Carry Balanzza with you (it's less than 8 ounces) to determine if it's cheaper to ship stuff home or carry an overweight bag.

It's available at balanzza.com, magellans.com and other retailers.