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Airlines across the world have increasingly strict weight limits on baggage. Luggage scales can be used for both checked and carry-on luggage, as well as any other bags you have laying around the house. Knowing that your luggage is within an airline's restrictions will not only give you peace of mind, but will save you money as well.
Carry-on baggage restrictions
Luggage scales vary in the way that you use them. The three most common types of scale are:
No matter which type of scale you use, be sure to check that it reads 00.00 before you weigh your bag. This will ensure the greatest accuracy possible.
Entry-level luggage scales can be found for around $10. More advanced models with extra features can reach up to $50. When choosing a luggage scale, remember to consider:
Airlines have rigid luggage weight restrictions. If you're weighing your bag at home, you want to get an accurate reading. There are both digital and mechanical luggage scales for purchase, and most models will advertise the range they are accurate to. For example, "accurate to 50 grams". The lower the number, the better.
Strap and hook luggage scales require you to lift and hold your bag, at least for a few seconds. Try the handle shape to see if it is comfortable and imagine having a 20kg bag on the end of it. If you think you'll struggle to lift and hold such weight, maybe opt for a floor scale.
Is the weight display easy to read? This might mean that the numbers are large, or that the reader has a backlit display. You don't want to be lifting a heavy bag and struggling to decipher the weight readout.
Most strap and hook scales advertise maximum weight loads of between 30kg and 50kg. This should be enough for travel luggage. If you're weighing a heavier bag for a different purpose, be sure to check that your scale can handle the load.
This is an additional feature that some scales offer. It allows you to weigh one bag and then add another. Scales with tare will give you the weight of each bag, as well as the combined weight.
Dedicated luggage scales are the quickest and easiest way to weigh your bag. If for some reason you can't find one, or you desperately need a one-time weight reading, there are a couple of other tricks you can try. These include:
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