Baggage Porters and Bellhops

Employment for baggage porters and bellhops is expected to grow faster than the average for all careers from 2022 through 2032, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Job openings will be created as workers leave due to retirement, job transfers, or for other reasons. Bellhops often have a high turnover rate. Large hotels and those focusing on customer comfort will always have a need for the bellstand department and bellhops. Part of a four-star hotel's appeal rests in the sense of luxury and guest service provided. Bellhops and baggage porters at such lodging establishments are as much an expectation as they are a necessity. Baggage porters will continue to work at other travel venues such as train or bus depots. Baggage service at airports, also known as skycap service, is also popular.

Employment in the hospitality and transportation industries, however, is greatly influenced by economic conditions, national events, and international events. During times of recession, fewer people spend money traveling for pleasure and businesses cut back on travel expenditures for employees. Additionally, events such as terrorist attacks (or the threat of attacks), civil unrest, and pandemics have a powerful, adverse effect on this industry. In addition to these negative factors on employment for bell attendants, many motels and smaller hotels increasingly are offering discounted sleeping rooms but very little service. Guests are expected to locate their rooms and carry their luggage. Some travelers, especially those on limited budgets, prefer to stay at these types of establishments. If this trend continues, there will be fewer jobs available for bellhops.