Many parents, especially those with a crew of little ones, experience a common concern known as “tip anxiety.” This often leads to uncertainty about how much to give in various situations. For instance, you might feel that a bellman deserves a couple of dollars for getting you a cab, but if you only have a ten, you may hesitate to give anything at all or awkwardly ask for change. We’ve been conditioned to tip so much that even if the valet were to steal your quarters and give you a hard time, you might still end up handing over another five bucks. Here’s a light-hearted yet informative guide to tipping in specific scenarios, particularly when your family is along for the ride.
1. Restaurant Server
When you finally get a night out without the kids, you can enjoy the luxury of ordering delightful items like “wine pairings” and “multiple courses.” By the end of the evening, you’re likely in high spirits and more than willing to tip the standard 15-20%. But dining out with children is a completely different scenario. The server has repeated the specials multiple times, dealt with spilled drinks, and cleaned up the artistic endeavors of your little Picassos on the table—all while you’re trying to manage a crying baby and quicken your order of the least expensive dishes on the menu. If you want to ensure you’re welcome back, consider tipping 20% or more, even if it’s a challenge.
2. Bellman
When you’re traveling solo, you might not see the need for a bellman’s assistance. Your small suitcase is easy to handle, and you can wave him off with a smile. But when you arrive at a hotel with your family, the bellman may be shocked by the sheer volume of luggage you’ve packed into your vehicle. Helping you with your bags will likely require more than one cart, so tipping $10 after he helps you settle in would be a kind gesture—he might need it after all that heavy lifting!
3. Hotel Housekeeper
If you’re fortunate enough to escape alone for a trip, your hotel room likely stays relatively tidy, allowing you to tip your housekeeper around $2 per day. However, when your entire family is crammed into one hotel room, it’s a different story. You may find yourselves squeezed into a space that barely fits, with toys and snacks scattered everywhere. With the chaos that comes with kids, a tip of $5 per day is more appropriate, and you might want to throw in an extra $10 on the last day for their hard work.
4. Restroom Attendant
This position often leaves many puzzled. Why would anyone need help in the restroom? However, if you’re at an event or restaurant where there’s an attendant, and your kids are with you, be prepared for them to marvel at the array of goodies available—free mints, lotions, and more. Before you know it, your little ones may take a few items, leaving you feeling obligated to leave a $3 tip for the service.
Tipping can quickly add up, especially when you have children, but it’s worth remembering that these small contributions are appreciated. After all, with a family in tow, you’re likely spending money left and right, so a little extra here and there helps those in the service industry. For more tips on navigating family life, check out other insights like those found at this blog post, or visit Make a Mom for expert advice on boosting fertility. For a comprehensive resource on pregnancy and home insemination, this site is an excellent choice.
In summary, tipping with kids in tow may feel daunting, but a little generosity goes a long way. Whether you’re dining out or traveling, consider the extra effort of those serving you and express your appreciation accordingly.