How Much of a Tip Should You Leave?

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Shopping Skills

Tipping can vary depending on the service, but here’s a general guide to help you tip appropriately in different situations.

General Rules for Restaurant Tipping

Standard Tip: 15–20% of the pretax total.
Abysmal Service: Minimum of 10–15%; speak to a manager rather than skipping the tip entirely.
Alcohol: Tip on the total, including drinks, unless extremely high-priced bottles are involved (then tip 10% on the bottle).
Quick Math Tip:
Divide the bill by 10 (move the decimal one place left).
Double it for a 20% tip, or multiply the pretax total by 0.15 or 0.20 using a smartphone calculator.

Apps for Splitting Group Tabs

Avoid awkward group bill-splitting with these apps:
- Tab: Free for Android and iOS.
- Settle Up: $1.99 for Android and iOS, works with foreign currencies.
- Plates by Splitwise: Free for iOS.

Tip Amounts for Common Services

Food & Drink

Restaurant Servers: 15–25% of the bill.
Bartenders: $1–$2 per drink or 15% of the tab.
Food Delivery: 20% of the bill or $3–$5, whichever is higher.

Personal Care

Barber/Hairdresser: 10–20% of the service charge (even if they are the owner).
Shampooer: $2–$5.
Manicurist/Pedicurist: 10–20% of the charge.
Masseuse: 10–20% of the service charge.

Transportation

Taxi, Limo, Ride-Hailing Driver: 10–20% of the fare.
Valet Parking: $1–$5 per vehicle.
Parking Lot Attendant: $1–$2 (or weekly equivalent for daily parking).

Hotels

Housekeeper: $3–$5 per day; leave daily with a note labeled "For Housekeeping."
Bellhop: $1–$2 per bag, or up to $5 for a single bag.
Doorman: $2–$5 for hailing a cab or helping with bags.
Concierge: $5–$10 for reservations; $20+ for special services. No tip for simple tasks like directions.
Room Service: 10–20% of the bill if gratuity isn’t included. No tip is needed for tray pickup.

Travel & Delivery

Airport Skycap/Porter: $1–$3 per bag, up to $5 for a single bag.
Furniture Movers: 5–10% of the moving cost or $10–$20 per person.
Appliance Delivery: $5–$20 per person (check if the tip is already included).

Other Services

Restroom Attendant: $1–$2.
Coat Checker: $1–$2 per coat.
Barista: $1–$3.
Car Wash: $2–$5.

Special Situations

Tour Guides: 15–20% of the tour cost.
Gas Station Attendant (Full Service): $2–$3 if self-service is also available.

By tipping appropriately, you show appreciation for quality service while helping workers who rely on gratuities to supplement their income.