Balanzzza Digital Luggage Scale

Cool Yule Rating: 3 stars

Price: $24.95

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Cool Yule Rating: 3 stars

Price: $24.95

Product Web site

Description: Apart from the indignity of having to wait in long lines, partially disrobe, unpack one's luggage, and remember everything in all those tubs at the security checkpoint, flying is always a joy. Now some airlines are charging for checked bags, or even bags that are, um, overweight. Lovely.

If this concerns you, try the Balanzza Digital Luggage Scale. We tested the Ergo model, which is easier to hold in a hand than the original. It's quite accurate (as verified by my official "bathroom scale technique", anyway), and it's a lot more portable than a bathroom scale. Readout is available in metric or that obsolete system.

This might be a good gift for the frequent traveler, but we suspect those people already pack pretty light. But keep in mind that you can weigh almost anything up to 44 KG with this product, so it might be something you want to keep around the house regardless – or at least to make sure Aunt Bertha's suitcase isn't too heavy for the airlines once loaded down with all those gifts that you're going to give her over the holidays when she visits.

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