How to Tip Properly During Your Travels

Have you ever been confused about whether to tip the doorman at a hotel or how much to leave the cleaning people at your lodging? Here are some tips on determining exactly when to tip and approximately how much is considered a proper amount.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. When it comes to the cleaning people at a hotel/motel, it’s nice to leave at least a few dollars a night, or even more depending on how good they’ve cleaned previously and how much you can afford. It’s nice to do this on a daily basis if possible, as you’re likely to get different crews coming through.

2. As for porters and bellhops, you should come through with at least a couple of dollars for each bag handled. While doormen should be tipped for hailing a cab for you (a couple of dollars is nice), don’t feel you need to tip every time one of them opens a door for you; if you do feel they’ve been courteous and helpful you can always hand them five or ten dollars at the end of your stay.

3. When dining out, base your tip on the effort and attitude of your servers. The general rule is 15 percent for decent service and 20 to 25 percent (or even higher) for exceptional service. If your service was ghastly you shouldn’t feel obligated to leave anything.

4. Read the fine print when possible when it comes to tipping at restaurants, on cruise lines and so on. Many cruise ships have already included a substantial "service" fee on your bill, meaning you’re doubling up if you continue to tip staff on the boat; restaurants as well, often include a service fee, particularly when it comes to groups of six or more.

5. When taking an organized tour or other outing, such as a whitewater rafting jaunt, it’s nice to leave your guide/driver/tour leader a few dollars afterwards--assuming they’ve treated you well and you can afford it.

6. Taxi and limo drivers should get about the same as a waiter: 15 percent for decent service, 20 percent or more for great service. Again, don’t feel obligated to leave a cent more than what is on the meter (or the agreed-upon base fare) if your driver has been rude or incompetent. Give valet parkers a dollar or two minimum, preferably more at a fancy establishment.

7. During a casino visit, it’s nice to tip the blackjack dealer or other table game host a few dollars every hour or so, more if you’re winning big; you can also place a "side bet" next to your own of a dollar or so on behalf of your dealer. And even if drinks are free at the casino, make sure to tip those hard-working servers at least a buck a round. Tipping with casino chips is generally acceptable.

Tips & Warnings

• If in doubt, ask yourself "how good was the service and how much can I afford?"