Tipping. We’ve all been in a situation where service has been provided to us, but we don’t know how much to tip. When you’re on vacation, are you supposed to tip the bellhop? What’s the appropriate amount to tip your hair stylist? Are you supposed to tip a barista at Starbucks, or the Chinese food delivery person? We want to be frugal, but fair, for the services we receive. Here are some guidelines you can use, the next time you’re in a questionable situation.
Tipping minimums are always up for debate. These are simply suggestions, based on common practices.
Tipping Etiquette
- When in doubt, go ahead and tip. Who doesn’t like to be rewarded?
- Feel free to tip more than the “normal” when you receive exceptional service.
- If you use a coupon, gift certificate or Groupon, base your tip off of the total before the discount.
- Tip discreetly. This can be an uncomfortable and awkward situation for both you and the service provider.
Food Services
Bartender – $1 per drink. If you’re running a tab, tip 15% of your total bill.
Maitre d’ – $5 (usually a five dollar bill, instead of several one dollar bills).
Waiter/Waitress – 15% of your total bill minimum.
Food delivery – tip at least $2, but 10% is a good general rule of thumb.
Barista – tip only if there is a tip jar. You can throw the change from your purchase in there, and it’s completely acceptable.
Holiday Tipping
Nanny or Babysitter – one week’s normal pay should be given to those that care for your children.
Gardener – one week’s pay
Housekeeper – one week’s pay
Parking attendant – $25
Doorman – $25
Personal Trainer – depending on the amount of time you spend with your trainer, tip $30-$50
Newspaper delivery person – $15 – $25
Mail Carrier – $20 (or leave them some baked treats!)
Garbage collector – $15-$25
Handyman/woman – $25
Travel & Hotel Stays
Bellman & Porter – $1 per bag (usually a $2 minimum)
Bus Driver (tours, etc.) $1- $2
Taxi Driver & Chauffeur – 10 – 15% of your ride’s bill
Concierge – minimum $5 if you use their services
Parking Valet – $2 minimum
Room Service – $5, unless it’s automatically included in your bill
Housekeeper – $2 – $5 can be left on the nightstand when you checkout.
Personal Services
Manicurist – 15%
Hair Stylist – 10-20%, depending on your frequency and relationship. $1 – $2 should go to the person shampooing, if it’s different person.
Masseuse – 10 – 15%
Spa services – 10 – 20%
Waxer – 15%
Miscellaneous Services
Coat Checker – $1 per coat
Grocery Bagger – $1 – $3 (if they help you out to your vehicle)
Movers – $10 – $25 per person
Appliance and Furniture Delivery – $5 – $20 per person
How much you should tip depends a lot on the relationship with the person providing the services, as well. Be fair, and always offer more when you are impressed with the service they have given you!
How much do you tip for services?
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