Tipping can sometimes be confusing and complicated. Most people understand that tipping at least 20% for excellent restaurant service is customary. However, today it seems that tip jars appear everywhere, from coffee shops and bakeries to salons and even retail counters.
The expansion of tipping opportunities can leave one uncertain about the appropriate times and amounts to tip. Everyone seems to want a tip, but is it always necessary? In this article, I’ll clarify the nuances of tipping, and discuss why, how much, and to whom you should offer tips.
The practice of tipping is essential for certain service-related professions. For instance, in the United States restaurant servers primarily depend on their tips to earn a living. Although servers do receive some basic compensation from their employers, the hourly pay rate is typically well below minimum wage, especially in states allowing a "tip credit." Under this law, an employer can pay employees a low wage with the expectation that tips will make up the difference and ensure the employee is paid earnings equal to or greater than minimum wage. As a result, servers end up relying heavily on tips from customers to supplement their earnings.
Moreover, tipping incentivizes service workers to deliver exceptional service. When guests tip generously, servers often feel encouraged to provide attentive, friendly, and efficient service. Additionally, restaurant tips are often shared among other service staff, including hosts, bartenders, bussers, and kitchen staff. This shared gratuity ensures everyone who contributes to your dining experience receives recognition for their efforts.
When dining in restaurants, the general guideline for tipping is around 20% of the pre-tax total of your bill for good or excellent service. While some diners choose to calculate tips based on the total amount after tax, it is perfectly acceptable to use the pre-tax subtotal.
For large groups of eight or more people, restaurants often apply an automatic gratuity, typically around 18% to 20%. When an automatic gratuity is added, you're not required to tip beyond this amount. However, considering the extra effort required by servers to manage large parties, additional tips to recognize exceptional service are always appreciated.
Tipping customs vary by service. Below are some general guidelines for other common tipping scenarios:
Bartenders: Typically receive $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the total bar tab.
Taxi or Rideshare Drivers (Uber, Lyft): Generally tipped around 15-20% of the fare, depending on service quality.
Bellhops: Usually tipped $1-3 per bag they handle. Feel free to tip more for exceptional service or if you’re traveling with a large group.
Coat Check Steward: $1 per coat upon pick up.
Valet Parking Attendants: Customarily tipped $2-5 each time they retrieve your vehicle. While some people choose to tip when dropping off and picking up their car, it is more common to tip upon retrieval.
Hotel Housekeepers: A suggested tip is between $2-5 per night, left daily because different housekeepers may service your room each day. If you experienced exceptional service or your room requires extra cleaning, you may want to tip more. If your hotel also offers a turndown service, a tip of $1-2 per night is recommended.
Hair Stylists and Barbers: Often tipped 15-20% of the total bill.
Food Delivery Drivers: Recommended tip is usually 15-20% of the order total. You can also give a flat tip of $3-5 for shorter distances.
Shoe Shine: A tip of 20-30% is common practice but keep in mind many shoe shiners live solely on tips. A higher tip of 30-40% should be considered for exceptional service.
Masseuse: 15-20% of the total service cost is expected and appreciated.
While tipping is widespread today, there are instances when it’s neither expected nor appropriate:
Professional Services: Doctors, lawyers, accountants, and other professionals generally do not expect tips.
Retail Employees: Typically not tipped, although exceptional personal assistance may warrant a kind gesture or thank you.
Government Employees: Postal workers, DMV clerks, and other government officials should not receive tips. In fact, tipping government employees can sometimes violate their ethical guidelines.
It's important to recognize that tipping practices vary significantly worldwide, so when traveling internationally, familiarize yourself with local customs:
Asia: In many Asian countries, such as Japan and South Korea, tipping is generally not customary. In some places, it may even be perceived as rude. However, in other countries like Thailand and the Philippines, tipping is appreciated, especially in tourist areas. The tips are often in smaller amounts compared to Western standards.
Europe: Tipping varies by country. In many European countries, restaurant bills often include a service charge. Small tips or rounding up the bill are common practices. For example, in Italy or France leaving small additional tips is appreciated, but not always required. If you receive excellent service, it is common to show your appreciation by tipping a few euros.
South America: Tipping customs vary, but generally, a 10-15% tip in restaurants is common practice. Always check your bill to see if a service charge has already been included.
Before traveling, it is helpful to do a little research on tipping norms in the country you're visiting. This will help to avoid misunderstandings or awkward situations, and ensure you can properly show your appreciation for excellent service.
Tipping etiquette can indeed be complicated in today’s society. However, knowing basic guidelines helps you navigate these situations with confidence. Remember, tipping should primarily reflect the quality and value of the service you received. Do not feel obligated to tip someone just because they have a tip jar in front of the register or it’s an option upon checkout.
Keep in mind the standard practices discussed above and adjust according to your own experiences and the local culture. Tipping generously not only acknowledges great service but also supports workers who depend on gratuities for their livelihood. While many people almost exclusively pay with credit cards, always carry small bills to ensure you can show your appreciation at the right time.
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