Summer Tipping Guide
Going on vacation or sending kids to camp and not sure how much gratuity you should give? I know this is something that I struggle with all the time so here are some of the scenarios I have run into.
Person | The Tip | Additional notes |
Airport Skycap |
$1 to $3 per bag |
If they do the curbside check-in for you or you have oversized items such as skis or gold clubs, then you might want to tip a few extra dollars |
Valet Parking Attendant |
Average $2 to $3 |
In luxury hotels & large cities up to $5 – especially if they assist you with loading luggage or information. |
Taxi, limo or car driver |
15% of the total fare |
Make sure the tip is not already included in the quote when booking with a limo company. If they made extra stops or suggestions to make your day more enjoyable, then tip an extra 5%. |
Emergency Roadside service |
$5 to $20 |
For a quick jump start $5 is fine, but for changing a tire or towing your car to the nearest station, you want to tip more. |
Camp Counselor |
If permitted, $10 for per week. |
Check the policy as not all allow tipping. |
Dog Groomer |
15 to 20% |
For larger dogs or extra treatment give a little extra |
Dog Walker |
15 to 20% |
Pets are like family so you want them to be taken care of. |
Gardner or pool cleaner |
$20 to $50 |
Give the tip at the end of the summer or during the holidays. |
House Sitter |
$3 to 5 per day |
If you feel they will not accept money, then bring them a gift back from your travels. |
Instructors |
Not necessary |
When you pay for a trainer, tennis instructor, or piano teacher, they are paid by the hour or session, so there is no need to tip. |
Hair Stylist |
10 to 20% |
Most stylists now pay to rent their station and all of their own styling products and tools. If you have long or thick hair or are taking up 1 to 2 hours of their time, lean towards 20%. For children’s haircuts that take much less time, 10 to 15% is fine. |