The fastest places to buy a luggage scale
You can buy a luggage scale at big-box retailers like Target, Walmart, and Costco; at travel specialty stores like TravelSmith and Bed Bath & Beyond; and online through Amazon, eBay, and the manufacturer websites themselves. Most physical stores stock them in the luggage or travel accessories section, though availability varies by location and season. Online retailers typically have more models in stock and often lower prices, but you wait for shipping.
The choice depends on whether you need the scale today or can wait a few days, and whether you want to see the scale in person before buying. A luggage scale usually costs between $15 and $40, and the price difference between retailers is often small enough that convenience matters more than hunting for the lowest price.
Key Takeaways
- Target, Walmart, and Costco carry luggage scales in their travel sections, and you can check online inventory before driving to the store.
- Amazon and eBay stock dozens of models with customer reviews, and most ship within two to five business days.
- Travel specialty retailers like TravelSmith and REI focus on luggage gear and often have staff who can explain the differences between models.
- Manufacturer websites like Samsonite and American Tourister sometimes offer their own scales at the same price as retailers, with the advantage of knowing the scale matches your luggage brand.
- Luggage scales range from $15 to $40 depending on features like backlit displays and maximum weight capacity.
Big-box retailers: Target, Walmart, and Costco
Target stocks luggage scales year-round in the luggage and travel accessories section, usually near suitcases and packing cubes. You can search their website for "luggage scale" and filter by your nearest store to see whether it is in stock before you go. Prices at Target typically run $20 to $35. Target also offers free shipping on orders over $35 if you prefer to order online.
Walmart carries luggage scales both in stores and online, with prices usually $15 to $30. Their in-store selection is smaller than Target's, so checking the website first saves a trip. Walmart's online orders ship to your home or can be picked up at the store within a day or two.
Costco stocks luggage scales seasonally, usually in spring and early summer when travel picks up. If you have a membership, Costco's prices are competitive, but selection is limited to one or two models at a time. Check the Costco website or call your local warehouse to confirm they have scales in stock.
Online retailers: Amazon and eBay
Amazon has the widest selection of luggage scales, with dozens of brands and models ranging from basic mechanical scales to digital ones with backlit screens and maximum capacities up to 110 pounds. You can read customer reviews, compare features side by side, and see photos of the scale in use. Most scales ship within two to five business days with standard shipping, or next-day with Prime.
eBay also carries new and used luggage scales from multiple sellers. Prices are sometimes lower than Amazon because sellers compete directly, but shipping times vary by seller. Always check the seller's rating and read the item description carefully to confirm the scale is new and not refurbished unless you want a used one.
Both platforms let you filter by price, weight capacity, and features like digital displays or automatic shut-off. If you are unsure which model to buy, reading the one-star and two-star reviews often tells you what breaks or disappoints people most.
Travel specialty stores: REI, TravelSmith, and local shops
REI carries luggage scales in stores and online, with a focus on durable models that work in outdoor and travel settings. REI staff can explain the difference between mechanical and digital scales and help you pick one that fits your travel style. REI members get a discount, and the store has a generous return policy if the scale does not work as expected.
TravelSmith specializes in travel gear and stocks luggage scales online and in their physical locations (found mainly in airports and travel-focused malls). Their selection is curated rather than exhaustive, so you get fewer choices but higher confidence that each model is reliable. Prices are slightly higher than big-box retailers, but the informed is worth it if you are unsure what to buy.
Local luggage repair shops and travel accessory stores often stock scales and can show you how to use them. These shops are worth visiting if you already have a luggage brand you trust — the staff often know which scales work best with that brand's suitcases.
Manufacturer websites: Samsonite, American Tourister, and others
If you own a Samsonite, American Tourister, or other major luggage brand, buying the scale from that brand's website ensures compatibility and often includes a warranty. Samsonite's website sells their own scales at prices comparable to Amazon, usually $20 to $35. American Tourister does the same through their online store.
Buying from the manufacturer also means you can contact them directly if the scale malfunctions, and you have a clear warranty claim. Some manufacturers offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount, so check before you buy elsewhere.
What to compare when choosing where to buy
Price matters, but not as much as availability and return policy. If you need the scale before a trip, buying from a nearby Target or Walmart saves you money on shipping and gets you the scale in hours rather than days. If you have time and want the lowest price, Amazon and eBay often beat physical retailers by $3 to $5.
Return policy is important because luggage scales sometimes arrive broken or do not work as advertised. Target, Walmart, and REI have straightforward return policies — you can bring the scale back within 30 to 90 days for a refund. Amazon also has a reliable return process. eBay returns depend on the seller, so read their policy before buying.
If you want to see the scale in person and hold it before buying, Target and Walmart are your best bet. If you want informed information, REI and TravelSmith staff can answer questions. If you want the most models to choose from, Amazon is unbeatable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a luggage scale at the airport?
Some airports sell luggage scales in their shops, but selection is limited and prices are higher than retail stores — expect to pay $30 to $50. If you forgot your scale and need one before a flight, check the airport's website or call ahead to confirm they have them in stock. Buying online and picking up at a nearby store before you leave home is usually faster and cheaper.
What is the difference between mechanical and digital luggage scales?
Mechanical scales have a dial and no batteries, so they never run out of power, but they are less precise and harder to read. Digital scales show weight on a screen, are more accurate, and often have features like backlit displays, but they need batteries. For most travelers, a digital scale is worth the battery cost because you can read the weight clearly.
Do I need to buy the same brand scale as my luggage?
No. Any luggage scale works with any suitcase. Buying the same brand is optional and mainly useful if you want to contact the manufacturer for support. A $20 scale from Amazon works just as well as a $30 Samsonite scale.
How much should I expect to spend on a luggage scale?
Basic digital scales cost $15 to $25, mid-range models with extra features like backlit screens run $25 to $35, and premium scales with high weight capacity or special designs cost $35 to $50. For most travelers, a $20 to $25 scale is sufficient.
Can I return a luggage scale if I change my mind?
Yes, as long as you buy from a retailer with a return policy. Target, Walmart, Amazon, and REI all accept returns within 30 to 90 days if the scale is unused and in original packaging. eBay returns depend on the seller's policy, so check before you buy. Keep your receipt or order confirmation.