Traveling and tipping—-the two seem to go hand-in-hand. These days tips are so customary (and expected by those in the service industry) that many people don’t realize that tipping is technically voluntary.
When traveling it almost goes without saying that you should stuff your pockets full of cash and be ready to dole it out to practically every person who touches your bags, opens a door, or gives you half a grimace in the hall. The problem for me is figuring out whom to tip, how much to tip, when to tip and how to deliver a tip.
The following is a simple guide I use when I’m on the road:
TAXI
I am a frequent cab rider and traditionally I tip a driver 10 to 15 percent of the fare (more if he helps load my luggage into the car). You could also tip $1-$2 per person (especially if you take the airport shuttle). If the driver really goes the “extra mile” to make help you out, tip accordingly. I once gave a driver a $20 tip after he not only loaded all of my bags into his car, but also waited while I stood in line at the service desk and filled out paperwork for a missing box. He welcomed me back to the van with a smile and even drove to a side entrance to help me retrieve the “missing” box.
VALET
It’s customary to tip the valet staff at least $2 each time they bring your car around. I would recommend adding a dollar if your car is waiting for you when you come down from your room.
BELLHOP
Traditionally, a bellhop expects at least $1 per bag (that’s according to my brother who was a bellhop in college). These days, though, I would say $2 a bag is more the norm, especially if your bags are heavy and the bellhop doesn’t throw them on the bed once you get inside the room.
For more tips on tipping check out my next blog: “Tips on Tipping—Part 2.”
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