Tipping in America has never been more confusing. With digital payment prompts popping up everywhere from coffee shops to self-checkout kiosks, many of us are feeling tip fatigue. In fact, according to a 2023 Bankrate survey, 66% of U.S. adults view tipping as more of an obligation than a reward, and nearly 1 in 3 are tipping less due to inflation.
Still, etiquette experts say there are some situations where tipping isn’t just appreciated—it’s expected. Whether you’re dining out, ordering delivery, or getting your hair cut, there are key moments where skipping a tip could be seen as disrespectful or even unethical. So where should you always tip? Ahead, we break down the five places you should never skip the gratuity—plus how much to tip and why it can lead to better service.
RELATED: 8 Places You Should Never Tip, According to Etiquette Experts
1 | At your favorite restaurant
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How much to tip:15–20% of the total bill (before tax); more for exceptional service.
Why: It’s common knowledge that you should tip after a meal at a restaurant. But if you’re a regular looking to make a good impression, going a little above and beyond can pay some serious dividends on future dining experiences.
“In the restaurant industry, sitting at the bar on date night or requesting to be seated in a particular server’s section each time will give you the opportunity to build rapport with servers,” says Bob Vergidis, chief visionary officer for restaurant software company Point of Sale Cloud. “By developing a relationship and demonstrating generous tipping, the waitstaff will be happy to see you and deliver top-notch service each time, guaranteeing a win-win situation.”
2 | At the hair salon or barber
2 | When someone washes your hair before a haircut.Shutterstock
How much to tip: 15–25% depending on the complexity of the service and quality.
Why: Hairstylists often rent their own space, pay out of pocket for supplies, and rely on tips to supplement their small base earnings. Meaning: Tips make up the majority of their income. Plus, as Diane Gottsman, founder of The Protocol School of Texas, has said, these pros put significant time and effort into making sure you look your best. A solid tip acknowledges that work.
3 | Food delivery drivers
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How much to tip: $3–$5 minimum or 15–20% of the total order, whichever is higher.
Why: Drivers pay for their own gas and car maintenance, and many work as independent contractors for companies like DoorDash and UberEats, which pay minimum wage (in certain cities, like New York and Los Angeles, they may earn higher). Still, a generous tip can go a long way for their travel and service to hand-deliver your food fast.
4 | At the valet
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How much to tip: $2 to $5 per car retrieval; more for special treatment.
Why: The employees who park and fetch your car at classy venues are typically accustomed to getting a little something for their trouble. But if you want to stick out in their minds, consider tipping generously as soon as you hand them your keys.
“Many drivers will tip the valet when they drop off their car—especially drivers who want their cars handled with extra care,” says Jules Hirst, etiquette expert and founder at Etiquette Consulting.
It can also help you get back on the road faster. “You may also tip and request that the valet keeps your car up front so you don’t have to wait [later],” she explains.
5 | At a hotel’s concierge desk
How much to tip: $5-10 is appropriate; more for bigger asks or exceptional service.
Why: At their very core, hotels operate thanks to the diligence of hard-working employees who ensure that your stay is a pleasant one. But there’s one service in the hotel where leaving a little something extra can help smooth out your trip in many ways.
“Depending on the length of your stay and the number of times you will need their service, tip the hotel concierge after the first recommendation or service is arranged,” says Hirst.
“People are more motivated to help when their work is appreciated. The tip shows appreciation, so your next request may lead to better service.”
6 | At a hotel when you order room service and accept housekeeping
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How much to tip: $2–$5 per night for housekeeping, left daily (especially if different staff clean your room each day); 15-20% for room service.
Why: Tipping the employees who make up your room and bring you breakfast in bed is a nice gesture that shouldn’t be ignored.
“The generous tip can prompt the staff to be more attentive to your needs and prioritize your future orders, providing you with a better experience,” Hirst says.
7 | Before a tour when you’re on vacation
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How much to tip: 10-20% of the total tour cost.
Why: Even the most seasoned travelers need a local expert to get to know a new destination. And if you want the best experience, you should tip your tour guide before any action even starts.
“Tipping beforehand can lead to an overall better tour experience,” says Hirst. “The tour guide may be more forthcoming with their knowledge, which will lead to a better, more personalized experience than if you had waited until the end of the tour.”
Paying a little extra for a unique, VIP experience? That’s money well spent.
RELATED: 7 “Polite” Tipping Habits That Are Actually Offensive
8 | A taxi or rideshare driver
10 Uber One Benefits, and How to Make the Most of ThemDiego Thomazini/Shutterstock
How much to tip: 10–20% of the fare, depending on service.
Why: Like food delivery workers, many rideshare drivers are gig workers who pay for their own car expenses and maintenance. If the driver arrives in a timely manner, keeps their car clean, and gets you where you need to go safely and professionally, that experience deserves a tip. Plus, experts say these gig workers benefit significantly from tipping to offset their low base earnings. If your pickup time was in the early or late hours, or you had a long ride, tipping closer to 20% is recommended.
Content shared from bestlifeonline.com.