Baggage Porters and Bellhops

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment for baggage porters and bellhops is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all careers through 2028. 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) or civil unrest 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.