How to Tip a Baggage Checker

Traveling is sometimes challenging, but an airport baggage checker can help you skip long lines and other possible hassles—plus make your trip more enjoyable. Baggage checkers check your luggage onto your flight, confirm your ticket and ID and make sure your flight is on time. Many baggage checkers also provide identification tags, pens, tape for damaged luggage and special packaging for skis and golf clubs.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Hail a baggage checker at curb side when you arrive at your airport. Checkers are usually waiting for passengers, but you may need to raise your arm to signal for one or go inside the airport to search.

2. Give the baggage checker your ticket. He can check your ticket, count your bags and send them directly to your scheduled aircraft.

3. Tip for services rendered. Standard tipping etiquette for checkers is a few dollars per bag. Increase the tip if she takes your bags to your check-in counter or if bags are unusually heavy.

4. Look for baggage checkers at baggage claim as well. They're available with carts and dollies to help move luggage from the carousel to cabs, buses or cars. The same tipping rules apply.

Tips & Warnings

• If the baggage checker helps with something special, like a wheelchair from curb side to your gate, a more substantial tip is required.
• Bus and train baggage checkers receive a salary from their respective transportation companies and aren't allowed to accept tips.