I have had the worst luggage delivery experiences while at POP. Not sure why that is, but there it is. I have had to wait over 5 hrs for my bags to arrive in my room there. We arrived and checked in by 11:30am, but our bags didn't get to us until past 5pm!!! And it wasn't just us...we saw many others having the same issue that had been in the checkin line with us. It may be that it is because it's a value resort and they handle luggage differently but it was the worst luggage service to date. In fact, I won't even have them pick up luggage to move it to another resort anymore...I'll lug it to them myself. It's so much better than waiting 2 hrs for them to get to my room. And no, I am not leaving it standing there, unattended, hoping they pick it up and move it.
So, yes, you can grab your own bags at baggage claim. Do not tag them with the yellow tags though. They will be handed off to you when you reach your resort. The other thing to remember is that not only will the bus driver be looking for a tip, the person that brings your stored luggage (if your room isn't ready for you) to you will be looking for one as well. Tips are only included if you use the DME delivery service.