What is a SkyCap?

[Savin4Disney]

Okay I have not been on a plane since I was 11 years old. So this is all so new to me. But I saw tipping a skycap and now I need to know what they are.

Thanks oh and throw in any other info you think I need to know too.

 

[DVC California]

Skycaps are the "curbside" baggage handlers who check in your luggage. They work for the individual airlines and are employees. They often are able to issue boarding passes as well, saving a stop at the ticket counter. $1 or 2 or so per bag is customary.

HTH, Steve

 

[Savin4Disney]

Thanks. Now another question. I think I will have to go to the counter because I bought my tickets online. Or do I show the Skycap something and he would still be able to give me a boarding pass?

 

[valeriekc]

If you purchased your tickets online you should be able to print your own boarding passes at home (online at airline website) and bring them to show the skycap.
However if you don't or can't, no worries just bring your drivers license or suitable photo ID (for anyone over 18 traveling) and the skycap can issue you boarding passes right at the curb when you check your luggage. You can then proceed calmy right to your gate and relax.
We have not lugged bags around or checked in at the counter in probably 10 years anywhere in the US.
Reminder these folks do work for tips and we usually tip at least $2.00 per bag, more if they are really nice or super busy.
Have fun!

 

[NotUrsula]

They work for the individual airlines and are employees.

Actually, most of them are NOT airline employees. At many airports, they are independent contractors who must pay the airline for the privilege of handling that airline's passenger baggage. Tip income is usually their only income. At other airports (including MCO) they work for contractors who pay them less than minimum wage, so the tips make up the difference.

At my airport (where they are self-employed), being a SkyCap is a very coveted position; there are not many slots, and if you if you are willing to hustle, it can pay VERY well, though it's pretty backbreaking work. Most SkyCaps here clear nearly $200K most years, and when they retire they usually pass their "spot" to one of their children. We have several in STL who are 4th generation.

 

[Savin4Disney]

Thanks for the info. I will make sure I have money to tip them. Thanks for explaining this to me. I would hate to stiff someone.

We have an early flight 7:25 so I do plan on getting there early since I have no clue what I am doing. And I know the Starbucks will be open. So I will get one of those to go too.

 

[Bedknobs/Broomsticks]

Thanks for that clear description, NotUrsula. I thought they were just baggage porters. I didn't realize that you could pass right by the ticket desk if a skycap helped you.

Question: do the skycaps weigh your bags? We're flying SWA on Sunday, which dropped its max weight per bag to 50 lbs. recently. My bags will be very close to that.

 

[safetymom]

Sometimes there is an advantage to using the skycaps if your bags are heavier. A nice tip will help speed your bag along without any additonal charge for a heavy bag.

The only problem with a heavy bag is when you are forced to use inside check in. They will charge for an overweight bag.