How to Know When and How Much to Tip

Observe proper etiquette when tipping for service.

Many people depend on tips as a primary source of income. Service workers' paychecks tend to be low since they're expected to get a decent amount in tips. It can be confusing trying to figure out how much to tip, so try to commit a few general rules to memory when traveling.

Instructions

1. Tip the bell hop and van driver who handles and lifts your bags into and out of the van when you're staying at hotels. Give them $1 a bag. The doorman or valet should be tipped $1 to $2 if they help hail you a cab. Some people like to tip the maid $2 to $5 a day. The concierge can go the extra mile with the many tasks he accomplishes for a guest, so $5 to $20 is acceptable depending on the task.

2. Examine the hotel room service menu before deciding to tip for that service. If you see that a service charge of 18 percent to 20 percent is listed on the room service menu, that means the tip is already included. There is usually a delivery service charge of $3 to $4 added for the service. If there is only a room service charge, delivery fee or delivery charge on the room service menu but no service charge, you still need to tip. The service charge is usually the same as it is at a restaurant -- 15 percent to 20 percent.

3. Understand that on a cruise, the tips are either included in the ticket price or expected to be paid at the end of the cruise. The dining room services are $3 to $4 per person. Busers get $1 to $3. Cabin stewards receive $3 to $4 per person each day, and butlers get about $4 a day.

4. Tip airport skycaps $1 to $2 per bag. Taxi or limo drivers usually get 10 percent to 20 percent of the fare, and valet attendants get $1 to $2. Tour guides generally receive $2 to $5, and more if it is a private guide.

5. Don't forget to tip your hair stylist. It's appropriate to tip her 20 percent. For furniture delivery, tipping $3 to $5 is appreciated, and more if the furniture is exceptionally heavy or awkward. For flower or pizza delivery, shell out $2 to $5. Movers usually get $10 to $20 a person.

6. Don't worry about leaving a tip at a coffee shop -- unless the server was exceptionally pleasant.

Tips & Warnings

• It's customary to leave 10 percent at a buffet because there are wait staff and busers who remove your plates or deliver beverages.

References

• Travel Sense: Tips on Tipping - Tipping Etiquette