Not Just Another Fish Story

Since many airlines have lowered the maximum weight limit on checked baggage, underwater photographers are faced with even more overweight baggage fees than before. We've all gotten very good at juggling gear to keep the checked pieces within the limits, but many times return flight restrictions are different than the outbound flights and this gear we schlep around always seems to weight more after soaking up saltwater and tropical humidity.

Solution: Bring your own scale. The bathroom scale might work at home, but you can't take it with you. So check out this inexpensive, lightweight, very accurate alternative. The "fish scale" is good up to 100# and is only 12" long and weighs 10 ounces, so you can take it with you. Don't forget to pick up an extra hook or nylon strap that will fit around your luggage handles.

Packing your bags to just below the limits will allow you to maximize your baggage capacity and avoid dangerous re-packing at the airport, as well as unexpected overweight fees.

Of course you'll want to double check with your airline ahead of time to see what their current weight and size restrictions are. With the fish scale, you'll have a much better shot at staying within them and avoid those expensive surprises at the ticket counter.

You can pick one up at your local hardware store or on Ebay from the Catfish Supply Company.

<<< SINCE THE WRITING OF THIS ARTICLE MANY YEARS AGO STORES HAVE NOW COME OUT WITH LUGGAGE SCALES SIMILAR TO THIS. SOME ARE EVEN SMALLER. YOU CAN GET THIS ONE ON EBAY FOR ABOUT $10.

<< back to Articles & Ideas

DO YOU HAVE AN ARTICLE OR IDEA THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUBMIT FOR INCLUSION ON OUR SITE? PLEASE CONTACT US!