I generally avoid the whole mess when I travel. Even traveling with family, I don't bring so much stuff that I can't take it inside and use the airline's check-in facilities. The whole skycap culture really has become one of shakedown and demanding tips. Not too far behind are cab drivers, valets, and they guys who hang around places like Grand Central Terminal and ask if you need a cab (entrepreneurs, if you will). I am not really sure when this happened -- the move from service to self interest above all.

That being said, I generally tip unless there is a reason not to do so. But, sorry dudes, if you don't make enought money get another job -- like most people have to do. I would be laughed out of my office and then fired if I even suggested that I should get a tip because my income isn't enough to suit me. Being in a lower paid profession is not an excuse -- do a good job and advance out of being low paid. Being low paid used to promote working hard and advancing to a better position. Now it only encourages aggressive tip panhandling. Sad . . . .