We use skycaps at O'hare frequently , and most people know that you should tip at least $1.00 a bag. The skycaps are usually very friendly and helpful.

Although my plane travel is typically of short distance and I use carry-on's only, I read this posting last week with interest and made a mental note. Sure enough, on my return home from July 4 weekend, unexpected traffic delays had me arriving at the Ft. Lauderdale airport 7 minutes before departure. The skycap dropped all that he was doing, ran inside and began making calls in an effort to get me on the plane. As it turns out, there was no way for me to board the plane but I was able to get on another on short order. His efforts were commendable and he received a very healthy tip for trying. As a former bartender, I can suggest that in a pinch, it doesn't hurt to have the appropriate amount of tip you've selected showing discreetly in your hand when you're in a pinch and really need prompt assistance - these folks work hard and deserve our support! <BR>

Kitty, I've never had a bad experience with a skycap either!! That's why I'd like to bring this up and hope that someone from Fodor's will pay attention to it. Michael, the sister of a friend of mine will be flying out of Manchester in about 2 weeks----I'll make SURE she tips!!! Good luck to you----this is something everyone should know. P.S. Happen to have a copy of Fodor's San Diego----no mention of tipping although a lot of other stuff about luggage. LISTEN TO US, FODORS!!!!!! <BR>

To J. Rainey, there is no such thing as an ignorant question. Ilisao's answer was correct, the bags would go all the way. Also, if you are changing airlines and have two sets of tickets make sure whoever checks your bags knows this. Look at the bag tags and make sure they are checked to the right destination and never walk away until you see the airline agent or skycap tag all your luggage. When it's busy mistakes can happen. If you are looking for a skycap you can usually find one in the baggage claim area or outside on the curb. A skycap will be dressed in a uniform of some sort (usually dark blue with white shirts) which varies depending on which company. Most will be wearing a hat similar to a pilot, although some may be wearing baseball caps. At most small airports they usually work for one company. At a big airport there may be more than one company. Many big airports have skycap call buttons you can use, but I don't know how well they work. If you can't find one ask someone at the car rental counters, security, airline counter etc… to page one for you. Everyone should pay close attention to Owen O'Neill's tip about what to do when you are in a pinch. If the skycap you are asking for help has just gotten burned by the last person they spent 20, 30, or 40 minutes helping they are going to be in no mood to get burned again. When you work for tips you spend a lot of time looking at peoples hands. Kitty I have never been to an airport outside of the US so I do not know how it works in other countries. What I can tell you is that if the person is from Canada, England, Ireland, Israel, India, Philippines or Indonesia, I have a 30 to 40% chance of getting a tip, otherwise I can forget it. At least this has been my experience. Thanks everyone!