Valet Parking Tips: How Much Should I Tip?

When it comes to tipping a valet for parking services, especially at a hotel, the amount can vary based on the level of service provided. While there are no strict regulations, it’s common to leave a tip of between $2.00 and $5.00, but some might suggest a range from $1.00 to $10.00 depending on the extent of the service.

How Much Is Considerate?

The first thing to consider is the effort and service provided. A minimum tip of $5.00 might be expected for parking and retrieving your vehicle. However, if the valet carries your bags, provides room service, or assists with other requests, the tip should certainly reflect additional effort. Personally, I tend to tip $1.00 to $2.00 if the valet brings my car up to my room. Some of my friends, however, choose to tip when the valet picks up their car and when it's brought back. This can be a more thorough way to appreciate their service.

Service-Related Tips for Valets

Here are some additional tips to consider for valets:

Per Bag: A dollar per bag if the valet brings them to your room. Extra Requests: Another dollar whenever they bring you something you asked for, such as room service or dry cleaning.

A valet like myself, who worked at a nice hotel that also handled events, noticed that tips ranged from $1.00 to $100. We were particularly careful with vehicles that brought additional services and nice touches like ice and sodas when guests arrived in their rooms.

Best Practices for Valet Tips

Here are some best practices for tipping a valet:

Leave a minimum tip of $5.00 for parking and retrieving your car. Increase the tip if the valet carries your bags, provides room service, or assists with other requests. Trip the valet $1.00 to $10.00 in total per day for your convenience. Be generous with $1.00 to $2.00 per bag if they bring them to your room. Provide additional tips ($1.00) for room service, dry cleaning, and other services.

Tipping a valet is a helpful way to show appreciation for their service, and it can make their job much more enjoyable and rewarding. Remember, tipping is a personal choice and should reflect the level of service you receive. By doing so, you are not only ensuring a better service experience but also encouraging good performance and professionalism.