Flying SW out of PVD first timers

[kteesmumma]

We will be flying out of PVD for the first time in May. We are flying Southwest. Can we check our baggage at the curb? If so how do we do this, what documents do we need?

Any tips on how this airport operates?

TIA

 

[Big Willie]

Skycaps are normally available although they don't see much action since the new Ground Transportation Garage opened. All you need is your ID. The skycap will look up your flight and tag your bags. Tipping expected. If you use offsite parking with a shuttle they will drop you off in front of the Skycaps.

Inside Terminal
If you choose to go inside the line rarely has more the 10 people except on Friday afternoons. Again, you just need your ID. Your confirmation number will speed the process inside. Southwest has the kiosk but the agents usually ask you for your name and destination before you can punch it in.

Security
You will be greeted by the snaking back-n-forth lines at security. Providence now has a scanner. Dependent on the time of day and how many lanes they have open you may be directed through the scanner. IT IS SLOW! This on top of Providence being one of the airports that always seems to be slow with security checks.

Southwest Gates
At the end of the Terminal (gates 17-21). Lines are clearly marked with Group (A,B,C) Monitors

Shops
Johnny Rockets (yum)
Starbucks
Dunkin Donuts (Longest Lines in Airport)

 

[kteesmumma]

Thank you so much. What is a good tipfor the skycap?

 

[goofy4tink]

About $1-2 a bag is a good amount. Or, you can be like my dh and hand over $10 for 3 bags and have the skycap tell him that he will deliver the bags to the plane personally!! My dh tends to overtip..hugely.

If you are driving yourselves to TF Green, look into PreFlight Parking. Pretty inexpensive with a very good shuttle from the lot to the terminal. We use it a lot when we fly out of Green. You can go to their website and print out a coupon as well.