Tipping culture in America has gotten out of hand.
Traditionally, tipping was seen as a reward for good service, but now there are options to tip at almost every sale. However, there are clear situations where it’s unnecessary or even unwarranted. Knowing when it’s better to save your money can help you avoid wasting time overthinking your gratuity obligations.
Here are the instances when not tipping is totally acceptable.
Quick Coffee Runs
When you grab a coffee to go, tipping might seem unnecessary, and in many cases, it is. Most baristas do not expect a tip for a simple transaction. In 2019, a survey showed that only about 16% of customers tip at coffee shops when just purchasing a drink.
Self-Service Buffets
At self-service buffets, where you do the work of selecting and plating your food, leaving a tip isn’t expected. These establishments usually do not offer table service, which fundamentally changes the dynamics of tipping.
When Service is Subpar
If the service you receive is noticeably poor, withholding a tip can be a justified decision. It’s a direct way for diners to express dissatisfaction. Consumer surveys suggest that approximately 20% of Americans feel no obligation to tip if the service is unsatisfactory.
Ride-Sharing Apps
When using Uber or Lyft, tipping remains optional, though appreciated. Many users aren’t aware that tips are not included in the fare shown on ride share apps. A study in 2020 found that around 35% of rideshare passengers regularly tip their drivers.
Paid Tour Guides
If the tour price is explicitly stated to include gratuity, additional tips are not necessary. This practice is common in package deals where service fees are bundled into the overall cost.
Fast Food Restaurants
Tipping at fast food restaurants is not customary due to the quick service and lack of table service. Employees at these establishments are typically paid an hourly wage that does not assume additional tips.
When Picking Up Takeout
Collecting your own takeout order does not require a tip. Since there is minimal service involved beyond handing over the food, most customers skip the tip. Surveys show that only about 12% of takeout customers leave a tip at the counter.
Prepaid Services
For services that are paid for upfront, where tipping is typically included in the total fee, no additional tip is expected. This often applies to event packages or prepaid spa treatments. Industry standards suggest that transparency about tipping policies helps in maintaining trust.
Hotel Housekeeping
In budget accommodations, where minimal interaction with staff occurs, tipping housekeeping is not expected. However, leaving a small gratuity for housekeepers can be a kind gesture if the service was notable.
When Using a Voucher
Using a discount voucher might reduce the expectation of a tip, especially if the voucher covers the full cost of the service. This is often the case in promotional or introductory offers where businesses are trying to attract new clients.
Complimentary Services
For complimentary services like a free car wash at a dealership or a no-cost hotel shuttle, tips are appreciated but not required. These services are typically offered as a courtesy to enhance customer experience.
Mechanical Car Washes
When you drive through a mechanical car wash, there’s little human interaction, which generally eliminates the need for a tip. These facilities are designed for efficiency and convenience, not personalized service.
Airport Shuttle Drivers
Tipping airport shuttle drivers is often seen as a kind gesture, especially if they assist with luggage, but it is not mandatory. These drivers usually provide a quick, straightforward service. Studies show that about 25% of passengers tip their shuttle drivers.
Salon Service Packages
When a salon service is part of a larger package deal, additional tips are generally not expected. This might include spa retreats or bridal packages where various services are bundled together.
Art Installations
Visiting art installations often does not necessitate a tip, as the focus is on the experience rather than the service. Many installations are meant to be self-guided without direct service from staff. Tipping is unusual in these settings.
Large Group Events
In large group settings where service is mass-produced, such as conference catering, individual tips are uncommon. The logistics of such events typically include gratuity in the overall cost.
When a Service Fee is Added
If a bill includes a service charge, additional tipping is not required. This is common in many European countries where service charges are legally included in the hospitality industry.
Taxis in Certain Cities
In some cities, taxi drivers do not expect tips because fares are calibrated to include a reasonable wage. This policy is often regulated by local government to ensure fair compensation. In these cases, passengers rarely add a tip to their fare.
Free Samples
When you receive a free sample at a grocery store or during a promotional event, there’s no need to tip. These interactions are brief and meant to introduce a product, not provide a service.
Educational Workshops
Tipping at educational workshops, especially those offered for free or at a low cost, is not common practice. These events are generally focused on the transfer of knowledge rather than personal service.
After Experiencing a Hard Sell
If you feel pressured by an overly aggressive sales tactic, tipping can feel like endorsing that behavior. This is especially true in retail or timeshare presentations. Consumer rights advocates advise against tipping in situations where the sales approach is uncomfortably forceful.
