Some people think American tipping culture is getting out of hand. From coffee shops to ice cream trucks, fast food to retail stores, there always seems to be an opportunity to tip on self-pay screens. Knowing when it’s okay to skip the tip can save you money and stress. Let’s look at the new tipping norms and identify when you can confidently say ‘no’ to tipping.
Self-Service Kiosks
At many fast-food restaurants, customers now use self-service kiosks to place their orders. Since there’s minimal staff interaction, tipping is generally unnecessary. Paying a tip here defeats the purpose of self-service efficiency.
Coffee Shops with Pre-Tipped Screens
You might have noticed the tip prompts on digital payment screens at your local coffee shop. When you’re simply ordering a regular coffee, tipping isn’t obligatory. Baristas receive a fair wage, and a tip should reflect exceptional service, not a basic transaction.
Takeout from Restaurants
When ordering takeout from a restaurant, tipping isn’t required as no table service is provided. The kitchen staff prepares your meal, and the front-of-house staff hands it over. A small tip might be nice, but it isn’t necessary.
Retail Checkout Counters
Some retail stores now have tip jars at checkout counters, which can feel unnecessary. Store employees are generally paid an hourly wage and don’t rely on tips. Save your tips for service workers in roles traditionally reliant on gratuities.
Grocery Store Bagging
While grocery store baggers appreciate tips, they aren’t expected. These employees receive hourly wages, and bagging groceries is part of their job description. A simple thank-you suffices for their assistance.
Counter Service Bakeries
At bakeries where you order at the counter, tipping isn’t customary. The interaction is typically brief and straightforward, not warranting a gratuity. Exceptional service might deserve a tip, but it’s not obligatory for standard service.
Food Trucks
Food trucks offer convenient, quick meals with minimal service interaction. While tipping is appreciated, it’s not mandatory for basic orders. Consider tipping if the service or food quality exceeds your expectations.
Fast-Food Drive-Thrus
Fast-food drive-thrus are designed for quick, efficient service with minimal interaction. The employees are typically paid above minimum wage, making tipping optional. Unless the service goes above and beyond, it’s okay to skip the tip here.
Airport Shuttle Drivers
Airport shuttle drivers often receive a wage that doesn’t rely on tips. If the service is standard, such as driving a set route without handling luggage, tipping is optional. Exceptional assistance with heavy bags might warrant a small tip.
Salon and Spa Receptionists
Receptionists at salons and spas handle appointments and transactions but don’t provide direct services. Tipping them isn’t customary since they are usually paid a standard wage. Focus your tips on the service providers like hairstylists or massage therapists.
Hotel Front Desk Staff
Hotel front desk staff assist with check-in and administrative tasks as part of their job. Tipping them isn’t a widespread practice. Save your tips for bellhops and housekeeping staff who go the extra mile.
Taxi or Rideshare with Prepaid Tip
When booking a taxi or rideshare that includes a prepaid tip, there’s no need to tip again. The app or service has already factored in the gratuity. Confirm the tip inclusion on your receipt before deciding on extra tipping.
Concert or Event Venues
At concerts or event venues, bartenders and staff are usually paid fair wages. Tipping isn’t expected for basic drink orders unless the service is exceptional. Focus on enjoying the event without tipping pressure.
Casual Cafés with Tip Jars
Casual cafés often have tip jars at the counter, but tipping is voluntary. The staff usually earns hourly wages, making tips a bonus rather than a necessity. Consider tipping for exceptional service, but don’t feel obligated.
Gym and Fitness Instructors
Gym and fitness instructors typically earn a salary or hourly wage for their classes. Tipping them isn’t a standard practice. Instead, show your appreciation by attending classes regularly and providing positive feedback.
Delivery Apps with High Service Fees
Some delivery apps charge high service fees, making tipping feel redundant. The fees often include compensation for the delivery personnel. Assess the service quality before deciding if an additional tip is warranted.
Subscription Box Deliveries
Subscription box deliveries, like meal kits or beauty products, don’t require tipping. The delivery service is part of the subscription cost, and no direct service is provided. Enjoy your delivery without feeling the need to tip.
Online Orders with Service Charges
Online food orders sometimes come with built-in service charges. These fees often cover the staff’s efforts, reducing the need for extra tipping. Double-check the bill to see if a tip is already included.
Automated Car Washes
At an automated car wash, machines do all the work of cleaning your vehicle. Since there’s no human labor involved, tipping isn’t necessary. The cost of the wash covers the entire service provided by the automated system.
