OK, so it might not be the sexiest tech toy, but this $25 gadget might save you some time, money and aggravation. The Balanzza is billed as the first digital luggage scale designed for airline passengers. Its sole purpose is to tell you how much your suitcases weigh before you head to the airport -- so you can avoid that embarrassing clothing transfer exercise between the two bags as other passengers look on.

In fact, the timing couldn't be better now that struggling airlines have imposed a fee -- ranging from $50 to $150 -- for heavier or extra luggage. American Airlines, for example, recently implemented a $15 fee per bag, but it jumps to $50 if the weight is 51 to 70 pounds and $100 if the luggage is 71 to 100 pounds. Similarly, Delta charges $80 if the luggage is 51 to 70 pounds or $150 for luggage 71 to 100 pounds; a $25 fee is charged for a second bag.

Simply attach the 10-ounce Balanzza strap to your luggage, use the handle to lift it up with one or two hands and hold it until you hear a beep. Set it back down and read the LCD screen for the weight of your luggage in pounds or kilograms. This doohickey, which requires two AAA batteries, can hold up to 100 pounds.