Ever question how much you should put in the tip jar at your favorite coffee
shop? A good rule of thumb is $1 per item ordered.
Bartender
It’s been said the acronym ‘TIP’ stands for ‘To Insure Promptness.’
Pre-tipping in a crowded bar ensures the bartender will respond promptly. If
you’re in an upscale bar, a pre-tip of $10 is standard. However, for a bar less
‘posh’, a $5 tip is sufficient. Pre-tipping is especially beneficial in a bar
teeming with patrons. Afterwards, an ample tip is $1 for every two drinks. If
you prefer to tip as-you-go, $1 for every two drinks is satisfactory with a
larger tip at the end of your stay. During your time, you definitely want to
keep the bartender’s interest to insure good service throughout the evening.
Remember a bartender, as well as other service people, depend on tips to
supplement their incomes.
Pizza Delivery Person
Ummm! The aroma of a pizza, delivered hot to your door! Tipping for your
delivery driver should be 10% of the bill before sales tax or a minimum of two
dollars.
Gas Station Attendant
While most of us pump our own gas these days, there are a few gas stations
out there that employ gas station attendants. Generally, if you have your tank
filled up, you will want to tip the attendant at least $2. However, if he
provides any other services, such as washing your windshield, checking your oil
or air pressure in your tires, you’ll want to double that figure.
Train Attendants
When traveling by train, you may receive services from several different
people during your trip. You should tip your dining car waiter 15% of your
dining bill. For stewards and/or bar car waiters, give 15% of your bar bill. If
you’ll be using a sleeper, the sleeping car attendant should receive $3-$5 per
passenger daily.
Airline Attendants
If traveling on an airliner, no tips are required for in-flight personnel.
However, for those that attend to handling your bags, your wheelchair, or
provide electric cart transports, $1-$5 is adequate.