Could someone explain luggage gratuities?

[Christy729]

We're going to fly Airtran on our next trip to WDW. For our last trip, my parents went along and my Dad did the necessary tipping.

I'm not sure what our options are. Curbside check-in, self check-in, I'm confused. What does, doesn't require tipping? I would like to avoid tipping if it is something I can do myself, but I don't want to stiff someone because I didn't know either.

Could someone give a tutorial? We're flying Airtran and taking Magical Express.

Thanks!

 

[MHSweb79]

You should definitely tip the porters at curbside check-in. Last time we flew, the couple in front of us had a ton of luggage plus multiple other problems, which the check-in folks handled for them, They then sailed off without a tip or backwards glance. We shared an "are you kidding me?" look with the check-in guy, who looked totally ticked off. I mean, he really went the extra mile, and with a smile (at least until they stiffed him). Even a thank-you would have been something! We thanked him AND tipped him. Usually we tip $1-2 per bag, depending how heavy or troublesome they are (like bulky skis or something).

For self check-in or checking in at the regular counter inside, no tip is necessary.

If someone helps you with your luggage, say at Magical Express or the bell services folks at the hotel, then it is nice to tip them as well. If they help a lot, then $2 bag. If it's just a quick thing, then $1 per bag. But it's also OK to say, "No I'm fine, I can get these myself" and not tip them.

Hope this helped!

 

[Jestocost]

As noted, you should tip the porters at curbside check in, the DME driver if they store any luggage under the bus for you, bell/luggage services at the resort if they bring the bags from your room to the lobby on your way home, and the staff at the RAC desk if you use that service on the way home.

One thing you don't need to tip for is the luggage delivery to your room if you use DME to transport your bags. DME provides tips to bell/luggage services CMs so you don't have to worry about that.

 

[seashoreCM]

Tip the skycap (curbside guy) and the RAC guy (checking baggage at the resort) when he gives you the claim check.

Tip the DME driver and the bellhop when you get back your bag.

The ticket counter guy in the airport does not need a tip.

For changing resorts in the middle of your vacation (split stay), you need to call the bellhop when you are in your room at the second resort so you can tip him as he brings your bags. For DME automagical baggage delivery you do not need to go to or be in the room.

Disney hints: http://www.cockam.com/disney.htm