When staying at a hotel, tipping the staff appropriately is a sign of appreciation for their services. From housekeeping to the concierge, each team member plays a role in ensuring a comfortable stay. Here’s a breakdown of how much to tip hotel staff and when to do it.
Housekeepers
Housekeeping staff work behind the scenes, ensuring your room stays clean and stocked with fresh towels and toiletries.
- How much to tip: $2 to $5 per night
- When to tip: Daily, as housekeeping staff may rotate, and the person cleaning your room on the last day may not be the same throughout your stay.
- How to tip: Leave cash in an envelope or a visible spot (like the nightstand) with a note indicating it’s for housekeeping.
Bellhops/Porters
Bellhops assist with carrying your luggage and may also guide you to your room.
- How much to tip: $2 to $5 per bag, with a minimum of $5 if they provide extra service (e.g., room orientation, adjusting the thermostat, or handling oversized luggage).
- When to tip: Upon delivery of your bags to your room.
- How to tip: Hand cash directly to the bellhop.
Concierge
The concierge helps with restaurant reservations, transportation arrangements, event tickets, and special requests.
- How much to tip: $5 to $20 depending on the complexity of the request. Basic directions or recommendations may not require a tip, but securing hard-to-get reservations should be rewarded.
- When to tip: After the service is provided.
- How to tip: Hand cash directly to the concierge or place it in a thank-you card for significant services.
Doormen
Doormen assist with calling cabs, carrying bags, and opening doors.
- How much to tip: $1 to $2 per bag if they help with luggage, $1 to $5 if they secure a cab in bad weather.
- When to tip: After assistance is provided.
- How to tip: Hand cash directly.
Valet Valet Parking Attendants
Valets park and retrieve your car efficiently.
- How much to tip: $3 to $5 each time your car is brought to you.
- When to tip: When your car is delivered.
- How to tip: Hand cash directly to the valet.
Room Service
If room service isn’t included in your bill, tipping is customary.
- How much to tip: 15-20% of the bill unless a gratuity is already included.
- When to tip: Upon delivery of the meal.
- How to tip: Add the tip to the bill or hand cash directly.
Spa Staff (if applicable)
If you use hotel spa services, tipping is similar to a regular spa.
- How much to tip: 15-20% of the service cost.
- When to tip: After your treatment.
- How to tip: Hand cash directly or include it in the bill if permitted.
Final Tips for Tipping at Hotels
- Carry small bills to make tipping easier.
- If staying at an all-inclusive resort, check if tips are included in your package.
- Express gratitude verbally along with your tip—it goes a long way!
Tipping ensures hotel staff feel appreciated and often enhances the quality of service you receive. A little generosity can make a big difference in making your stay enjoyable!