BOSTON (WBZ-AM) -- Tipping often intimidates me. At times I am not sure if I should tip or if it’s expected. Do I insult someone if I do or don’t? And worse, how much should I tip?
The food and travel industry is where most of us tip. The norm for restaurants is 15-20%.
Come in with a large party and a restaurant will add 18-20% to your bill automatically. That is not unreasonable. The waitress may share her tips with the bartender, busboy and sometimes the wine steward.
This is a tough way to earn a living and I do wish there was a better system for them to get compensated for taking care of us.
If you are eating at a buffet, you should leave a tip, 5-10% for someone is still cleaning up after you. Leave the bartender at least a $1 per drink or 15-20%. Don’t forget the coat room attendant. $1 per coat.
These folks work long hours. And those trays are heavy!
Here is a list of other tipping suggestions for travel:
- Limo driver for airport service 15-20% of bill, some bills include the tip
- Cab or Uber Driver – 15% or $1 minimum
- Shuttle drivers if they help with your luggage, $1 per bag
- Sky Cap at the airport – At least a $1 a bag, $2 if they are heavy or awkward
- Bellman- $1-$2 per bag and more if they set up your room and get you ice
- Hotel maid - $2-$5 a night depending on how messy you are – leave tip every night for the maids change shifts. Oftentimes there are envelopes in your room.
- Doorman - $1 for each taxi hailed
- Valet parking - $2-4, if you want them to take good care of your car, tip when you drop it off as well as picking it up. Some of these guys are only paid $4 an hour and rely on the tips heavily.
- Cruises: some cruise lines include the tipping in the price of the cruise, others give you a suggested list.
You can hear Dee Lee’s expert financial advice on WBZ NewsRadio 1030 each weekday at 1:55 p.m. and 3:55 p.m.