Some travelers are unsure of exactly how much to tip when on vacation. Though tipping is not mandatory, it is a sign of appreciation for receiving good service. So as a general rule, tip when you are pleased with the service, because other than that, there are no rules stating you have to tip a certain amount.
The biggest question asked is: “If I receive good service, how much should I tip?” Well, as mentioned above, there are no rules, but there are some guidelines many use when leaving a tip for good service. Here are some of those guidelines:
Airport
- Skycap, aka your baggage handler – $1 per bag (or $2 per bag if they are heavy)
- Airport parking shuttle driver: $1 per person
Transportation
- Limo driver: 10 percent of total bill for each leg of your trip. (General idea is to tip 20 percent of total transportation costs, however you might have a different driver to and from the airport.) Also, tip an additional $1 per bag if the driver handles your bags for you.
- Taxi: 15 percent of total fare
- Shuttle van or bus: $2 per person
Accommodations
- Valet parking: $1-2 when you pick up your car
- Bell services, aka your hotel baggage handler: $1 per bag (or $2 per bag if they are heavy).
- *If you have to store your bags, you should tip twice – once when dropping off and again when picking up
- Mousekeeping: $1 per day per person and $1 per item requested to be delivered to the room (Not expected at Disney, but many still like leaving a little something during their stay.)
- Room service: 15 percent of food bill (check to make sure it is not automatically included)
- Concierge: $5-10 per visit
Dining
- Counter-service: Nothing
- Buffet dining: 10-15 percent of bill
- Table-service: 15-20 percent of bill
- Wine steward: 15 percent if wine bill if services are used
- Bartender: 10-15 percent of bill if services are used or $1 for beers and $2 for mixed drinks
Miscellaneous
- Spa treatments: 15-20 percent for full-service treatments or 10 percent for self-service treatments
- Main Street Barber Shop, Pirate’s League and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique services: 15 percent of bill
Additional tipping notes
- Free dining: Free dining does not include a tip for your server, so keep in mind to tip your server for the amount the meal would have been if you had to pay for it.
- Disney Dining Plan: Just like with free dining, the Disney Dining Plan does not include tips. Make sure to leave a tip with your server based on the amount the meal would have cost.
- Large parties: For parties of six or more guests, Disney will automatically add an 18 percent gratuity to your bill. Feel free to add more based on your experience with the server.
Keep in mind that many Disney Cast Members are prohibited from accepting tips from guests. So, do not be offended when a Cast Member says “Thank you, but no that is not necessary.” If your tip is politely declined and you still want to recognize the Cast Member for outstanding service you can send a letter to Disney. A letter will do more for the Cast Member’s Disney career than any amount of tip can.
Send you letters to:
Guest Communications
Walt Disney World Co., Inc.
PO Box 10040
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-0040
e-mail: wdw.guest.communications@disney.com
Hopefully this guide will help you determine how much to tip during your next Walt Disney World vacation.
Happy vacationing!!
