Do you tip at the end of a hotel stay?

The Unspoken Etiquette: Navigating the World of Hotel Tipping

The crisp white sheets, the fluffy towels, the perfectly made bed – a hotel stay is often a welcome respite from the everyday. But as you pack your bags and prepare to check out, a question often lingers: Should I tip? And if so, who, and how much?

The truth is, hotel tipping isn’t as cut-and-dried as restaurant tipping. There’s no mandatory percentage staring back at you from a bill. However, recognizing and rewarding excellent service is a gracious gesture and contributes to a positive experience for everyone.

Whom to Tip, and Why:

While the obvious choice is the housekeeping staff, they aren’t the only individuals who can contribute to a memorable stay. Consider these roles:

• Housekeeping: These hardworking individuals are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and comfort of your room. They ensure you have fresh linens, restocked amenities, and a tidy space to return to each day.
• Bellhops/Porters: If someone helps you with your luggage upon arrival or departure, a tip is customary.
• Concierge: Did the concierge secure hard-to-get reservations or offer invaluable local recommendations? Showing your appreciation is appropriate.
• Valet Parking: The valet who carefully parks and retrieves your car deserves a tip.
• Room Service: While a gratuity is often already included on the room service bill, a small extra tip for exceptional service is always welcome.

Navigating the “No Daily Housekeeping” Scenario:

In recent years, many hotels have adopted policies where daily housekeeping is not standard and requires explicit request. Even if your room wasn’t cleaned daily, it doesn’t necessarily absolve you of the tipping responsibility, especially for longer stays. At the end of your stay, consider leaving a tip based on the overall length and cleanliness you experienced. Many hotels thoughtfully provide envelopes specifically for this purpose, allowing you to clearly designate the tip for the housekeeping staff.

How Much is Appropriate?

The appropriate amount to tip depends on various factors, including the level of service provided, the hotel’s location (tipping norms can vary geographically), and your personal budget. However, here’s a general guideline:

• Housekeeping: $2-$5 per night, per person staying in the room, is a good starting point. Adjust upwards for exceptional service or if you made a significant mess.
• Bellhops/Porters: $1-$2 per bag.
• Concierge: Varies greatly depending on the service provided. $5-$20 for securing reservations or offering significant assistance is appropriate.
• Valet Parking: $2-$5 when they return your car.
• Room Service: If a gratuity isn’t already included, 15-20% of the bill is standard.

The Power of a Thank You Note:

While cash is certainly appreciated, a heartfelt thank you note adds a personal touch that can go a long way. A few sincere words acknowledging the individual’s effort can make their day and leave a lasting positive impression. You can mention specific instances where their service exceeded your expectations.

In Conclusion:

Tipping in hotels is not mandatory, but it’s a customary and thoughtful way to acknowledge excellent service. By understanding whom to tip and how much, you can ensure your gratitude is appropriately expressed and contribute to a positive experience for both you and the hardworking individuals who make your hotel stay comfortable and memorable. Don’t underestimate the power of a genuine “thank you” alongside your gratuity; it’s a small gesture that can make a big difference.