The Ultimate Tipping Guide for College Students

Just because you’re a broke college student doesn’t mean you should be cheap. Not knowing how much to tip isn’t an excuse for not tipping at all, especially now that I’ve put together the ultimate guide on how to tip for college students.

Personal Services

• Haircut. Tip 15% of the cost of the haircut.
• Manicure. 10-15% is a nice tip.
• Tattoos/Body Piercings. 15% of the total cost. Tip extra if the tattoo artist does an extraordinary job.
• Massage Therapist. Give 10-20% of the total cost.

Dining

• Wait staff. 15 to 20% of the total bill. Tip extra for great service.
• Bartenders. 15 to 20%. Again, tip more if they do an exceptional job.
• Coffee/smoothie/ice cream shops. Most of these places have tip jars, so spare change is always appreciated. If you get exceptional service, tip a little extra.
• Pizza/Meal delivery. Tip at least $1. Give 15% for normal service. Tip more during rain, snow, or other difficult weather.

Transportation

• Taxi. 15% is standard. If they get you there faster than expected, tip extra.

Auto Services

• Car wash. For a basic car wash, $3 is good. If they take extra time in your detailing, give 10% of the cost of the wash.
• Valet parking. $2 for your car and make sure you tip the person who brings you the car, not the person who parks it.
• Tow truck. If they jump your car or change your tire, tip around $4. If they tow your car, $5 is good tip.

Traveling

• Housekeeping at the hotel. $2-5 is a good tip for housekeeping. Leave the tip in an envelope marked for housekeeping, so they know it’s for them and not just cash you accidentally left behind.

Am I missing something? Help me make this the ultimate guide by letting me know, and I’ll add it to the list.

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