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What is a Baggage Cart?

Felicia Dye
Felicia Dye

A baggage cart is a type of trolley generally used to carry luggage. These are commonly found in use at airports, but they may also be used in other travel settings. A baggage cart typically makes it easier to transport multiple pieces of luggage. In most airports, baggage carts will not be allowed in the boarding area since a person’s load should be reduced to a single piece of carry-on luggage at that point.

Some people choose to purchase a baggage cart. These come in various sizes and typically fold or collapse to make them easy to store when they are not in use. Some include elastic straps with hooks that secure the luggage to the frame of the cart. These are generally convenient and a good investment for people who travel often. Even if a person is not engaged in air travel, he may use it at train or bus stations or when checking into hotels.

Man with hands on his hips
Man with hands on his hips

Resorts and hotels often have baggage carts available for use by guests. These generally have four wheels under a flat surface. All of the sides tend to be open but poles often rise from the corners and connect to form a dome over the baggage cart. A bellhop is often employed to arrange the luggage on this type of trolley and maneuver it to the guest’s room. A tip is usually expected for this service.

At airports, porters can also be found with trolleys for luggage. The model that they use is often bigger than those used by bellhops. They are also generally less attractive. These carts tend to also have four wheels. Two sides are usually open while the other two sides are closed with handles that allow them to be pushed. The porters will usually load and unload the luggage.

In some airports, there is a fee charged per item placed on this type of baggage cart. In other airports, payment is left to the discretion of the users. It is, however, generally understood that this service is not free and that some financial compensation should be awarded if it is used.

There are also self-service baggage carts available at many airports. These usually have two wheels in the back and a single wheel in the front. They also normally have a basket near the handle where smaller items can be placed. The handle may act as a brake that needs to be depressed to allow movement. In some airports, these trolleys may be free but in many airports, users must pay for the usage.

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      Man with hands on his hips