Scales are used in different fields, and whether you are taking a scale to maintain your health, for cooking or wanted to bring one from your destintion, I’m sure you are wondering whether you can bring a scale on a plane?
But fear not, I’ve done the research for you.
The good news is that all types of scales, whether it is digital or manual, are allowed on planes in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, larger scales may not fit as a carry-on and will need to be transported as checked baggage.
keep reading to know more about traveling with scales on both domestic and international flights.
Let’s dive right into the details.
| Scales | Allowed in carry-on | Allowed in Checked Baggage |
|---|---|---|
| Bathroom scale (Weighing Scale) | Yes | Yes |
| Digital hanging scale | Yes | Yes |
| Luggage scale | Yes | Yes |
| Kitchen scales | Yes | Yes |
| Heavy Duty Platform Scales | Will not fit as carry-on | Yes |
What Do The TSA Say?
Knowing whether an item is allowed or not on board the airplane is best answered by the clerks who search items at the security checkpoint the TSA.
But It is impossible for the Transportation Security Administration to cover every item on their website.
So they didn’t have any info about scales on their website but I found some answers on their social media.
Ashley asked if she could bring a weight scale onto the plane.
The TSA replied that weight scales are good to go in carry-on bags.
The TSA didn’t mention it but you will need to remove any personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your bag and place them in a separated bin for X-ray screening
Any type of scales with batteries are permitted in carry-on and checked bags.
Linnea is confused whether this Soehnle kitchen scale will be allowed in checked baggage if the batteries are removed.
Maybe she doesn’t have enough space in her carry-on bag, that is why she thought about taking the scale in checked baggage.
The TSA customer service replied that kitchen scales with batteries are good to go in both carry-on and checked bags
Please note that the final decision whether an item is permitted or not is for the TSA agent inspecting your luggage at the security checkpoint, if the scale triggers the alarm it may be subject for additional screening or even transferring it to checked baggage.
Important
Can You Bring a Scale In Your Carry-on?
The TSA and most airlines do permit taking scales on carry-on bags.
But the only thing to keep in mind is your airline’s maximum weight and size limits.
If you are traveling with a small portable scale you don’t need to worry about the size or weight, you can just toss it inside your bag and you are good to go.
On the other hand if you wanted to travel with a large scale that won’t fit inside your bag then ensure that you know your airline luggage rules, a stand and carry-on size is usually 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high in most US domestic flights.
And a personal item is anything that can fit under the seat in front of you, ( usually 17 inches long, 10 inches wide and 9 inches high ).
A typical scale size is 10″ long, 10″ wide, 0.87″ high and will fit inside both carry-on and personal item.
Can I Bring a Scale In My Checked Bag?
You can take almost any type of scales in checked baggage.
If you are taking a scale with a removable lithium battery, remove the battery and place it in your carry-on bag.
Its only uninstalled lithium batteries that are prohibited in checked baggage.
If you send your scale in checked baggage ensure that it is well protected and packed to avoid any damage.
Here are some tips to protected your scale in checked baggage:
- Use a solid cardboard box: Use a sturdy cardboard box to pack your scale, if you have the original packaging it will be enough otherwise you can use any other type of cardboard box.
- Wrap the scale in bubble wrap: before placing the scale in the box, wrapping it in bubble wrap this will add some extra protection.
- Label your scale: Label the box as fragile to ensure that it is handled with care even if you secure it inside a bag ( This is not necessary if you feel that the scale is well protected and secured ).
- Include your contact information: Attach your contact information to the scale in case the box or the bag is lost or damaged during transit.
Tip: Check out this Travelpro Platinum Elite 21” Carry-On Spinner, a sleek and versatile carry-on that is designed to fit within the limits of most airlines, to save you from the hassle of the airports and the pesky airline fees.
How Many Scales Can You Take On a Plane?
There are no limits to the number of scales you can bring on a plane, however there are limits to the airline sized and weight.
So you should consider that, if you want to bring several scales, it is best to contact your airline beforehand, and ask them if there are any further instructions.
Final Thoughts On Flying With Scales.
You can bring your scale in both domestic and international flights without any issues, as long as it fits within your airline luggage size and weight.
Ensure that you neatly pack your scale and label it so it will remain protected throughout your travels.
Take any removable batteries with you on board the airplane.
We hope this helps
Happy travels
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