Many mothers, especially those wrangling multiple little ones, experience a common concern known as “tipping anxiety.” This phenomenon leads us to second-guess how much to tip in various scenarios. For instance, if you think a bellman deserves a couple of dollars for flagging a cab but only have a ten on you, it can be a bit of a dilemma. Should you give him the whole bill, just a part, or request change (awkward, right?)? We’ve become so accustomed to tipping that even a rude valet could rob you of your quarters, and you’d still leave feeling obligated to hand over another five dollars. Here’s a straightforward guide on tipping in specific situations, particularly when you have your family in tow.
1. Restaurant Server
When you manage a rare night out sans kids, dining becomes a delightful experience where you can indulge in wine pairings and exquisite dishes. In such moments, tipping a standard 15-20% feels effortless. However, dining with your children transforms the experience entirely. Your server may repeat the specials multiple times while cleaning up spills and managing chaos at your table. Realizing your kid has moved from coloring on the provided paper to doodling on the table makes you reconsider your dining choices. To ensure a return visit to this restaurant, consider tipping generously—20% or more is a good rule of thumb, especially for the patience they’ve shown.
2. Bellman
Traveling alone often means a simple wave to the bellman as you handle your manageable suitcase without issue. However, when you travel as a family, you may find yourself in need of assistance. The bellman, upon opening your trunk, may be taken aback by the sheer amount of luggage you’ve packed into your vehicle. A generous tip of $10 is advisable after he helps you get settled into your room; he’ll likely deserve it after tackling that mountain of bags.
3. Hotel Housekeeper
If you’re lucky enough to travel solo, your hotel room is merely a place to rest and shower. A $2 tip per day is typically sufficient. However, when your entire family is crammed into one small room, the situation is drastically different. With suitcases seemingly exploded across the floor and children creating chaos, it’s clear that housekeeping faces quite the challenge. A tip of $5 per day is recommended, with perhaps $10 on the last day for their hard work managing the aftermath of your stay.
4. Restroom Attendant
While I often question the need for restroom attendants, attending a wedding or an upscale restaurant with kids can quickly change the narrative. Children are naturally drawn to the assortment of goodies in the restroom, and before you know it, your little ones have snatched enough items to justify a $3 tip for the attendant.
In countless situations where a tip is expected, you might find yourself giving away a significant portion of your income as gratuities—especially when you have more children. However, a few extra dollars here and there is just a drop in the bucket considering the expenses of raising a family. Your generosity is both appreciated and anticipated!
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Summary
Tipping can be a stressful task for moms, especially in situations involving children. Understanding how much to tip for various services—from restaurant servers to bellmen—can help ease the anxiety surrounding gratuities. Remember, your generosity contributes to the overall experience and service quality.