How to Tip a Parking Attendant

The word tip comes from the phrase "to insure promptness," but it has evolved into a cultural norm that is often confusing and stressful. Instead of stressing out, educate yourself on tipping etiquette so you are knowledgeable and fair in thanking service providers. When you park at your high rise complex, at an event or for a hotel stay, be prepared to tip the parking attendant to thank her for taking care of something as valuable as your vehicle.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Be prepared. Carry cash with you if you plan to have an attendant park your car. Get larger bills changed for a stack of $1 notes.

2. Tip $1 each time your car is taken and retrieved if you're a regular at an apartment complex or workplace lot. If you are out of cash occasionally, that's OK. Thank the attendant, and let her know you'll catch her next time. Just don't stiff her too often, as tipping is good motivation to ensure extra care when she's driving and parking your car.

3. Get in the holiday spirit. Give your apartment valet an extra Christmas tip to spread the joy and keep you atop the good customer list. If you can afford it, $50 to $75 cash is a great way to reward him for providing an important service that makes your life easier. If money is a sticking point, consider a platter of baked goods or an inexpensive gift card to a nearby restaurant or coffee shop. Don't forget a verbalized "thanks" when you pass off your gift.

4. Plan to tip $2 when an event or hotel attendant parks your car, and $2 when he delivers it to you. If you don't have cash or forget to tip him when he takes the car, $5 upon return is appropriate. If you're staying at a hotel or resort, it is also good etiquette to tip the parking attendant 15 to 20 percent of the parking bill at the end of your stay, so remember to figure that into your travel budget.

5. Do not worry about tipping a public parking attendant, since you typically park your own car in public lots. If you're feeling extra generous or she has gone above and beyond your expectations, a $1 to $2 tip is sufficient.

Tips & Warnings

• Educate your driving-aged children about tipping, as well, and ensure they keep some cash with them if they frequent restaurants or valet parking lots. Tipping is not only expected in many situations, but demonstrates good manners and an understanding of the importance of service-related jobs.