Your Friendly Guide to Tipping at Disney World
Trying to figure out when you should tip at Disney World? You’ve come to the right place! This friendly guide to tipping at Disney World will walk you through all areas of your trip!
Hey there, Disney vacationers! Are you gearing up for an unforgettable adventure at Walt Disney World but feeling a tad puzzled about the ins and outs of tipping at Disney World? Worry not! I’m here to sprinkle some pixie dust on this often confusing topic and make your Disney trip as magical and hassle-free as possible.
Tipping at Disney World
Luggage Handling
- Airports & Hotels: A standard $2-$3 per bag is a kind gesture for those handling your luggage. Got a particularly heavy bag (over 50 lbs)? Feel free to tip a bit more!
- Self-Service Option: Traveling light? You can skip the tipping by handling your bags yourself. It’s a great way to save a few dollars, especially if you’re able to manage your luggage easily.
Transportation
- Airport Buses: No need to tip for a quick hop on and off. But if the driver assists with your bags, $2-$3 per bag is the norm. This would include services like Mears Connect.
- Limo and Town Car Drivers: Generally, 15% of the fare is appreciated. If they go the extra mile (like helping with lots of luggage), consider tipping more.
- Taxis: About 15-20% of the fare is standard. For exceptional service, feel free to add a bit extra.
- Ride Sharing (Uber/Lyft): Tipping has become more common here. You can tip through the app or in cash, based on your comfort.
- Minnie Vans: While not required, a few dollars for excellent service is a nice gesture.
Dining Delights
- Table Service: An 18-20% tip is standard for the delightful service at Disney’s table service restaurants. At the bottom of your receipt, you’ll recommended tip amounts already calculated for you. Please note if you are a party of 6 or more guests it is standard that an 18% gratuity be automatically added to your bill.
- Buffet Service: Buffet servers work hard too! The same 18-20% tip as table service is a good rule of thumb.
- Lounges or Bars: Usually a $1 to $2 tip per drink is about right. If you get food as well, defer to the 18% to 20% of the check.
- Room Service: Tips for room service or in-room dining are traditionally included in the total, but be sure to confirm. If the server is extra nice consider adding a little extra on top.
- Disney Dining Plan: Remember, tips aren’t included in the Disney Dining Plan so keep some cash or cards handy for this.
Valet Parking
- A $2-$5 tip each time you drop off and retrieve your car is typical at Disney’s deluxe resorts and other properties offering valet services.
Housekeeping
- A daily tip of about $1 per person in your party is a thoughtful way to thank those who keep your room cozy and clean.
Other Services
- Salon/Spa Services: A 15-20% tip is customary for personal care services. Including experiences like Bibbidi, Bobbidi Boutique, Pirates League, or the Harmony Barber Shop.
- Recreation: Tip at least 15% for special recreational services like boat rides or tennis lessons.
- Childcare: A $10-$20 tip is a nice thank you for babysitters, especially if they’ve made your little ones’ experience magical.
- Concierge Services: For basic requests, there is no need to tip. However, if you find a concierge member extra helpful or going above and beyond to resolve your problem, consider showing your appreciation with a small tip.
- Concierge Suite Level: If you’re staying in a concierge room at a Disney resort and using the lounge, consider tipping based on the length of your stay and the number of people.
When No Tip is Needed: Relax and Enjoy
Disney Transportation
It’s a Free Ride
Bus, boat, and monorail drivers and Skyliner operators at Disney World don’t expect tips.
Counter Service Restaurants
Quick and Easy Meal
Enjoy your meal without worrying about tipping here.
In-Park Cast Members
Adding the Pixie Dust
While they can’t accept tips, a heartfelt thank you or a #CastCompliment via the My Disney Experience app is a great way to show appreciation.
A Little Extra Magic: Saying Thanks in Special Ways
Thank You Cards
Something Extra Special
These are lovely ways to express gratitude to a cast member who made your day, and either doesn’t accept tips or that little something extra for the ones that do.
Guest Comments
Let Mickey Know
Share your positive experiences at Guest Relations or via email to [email protected]. Your feedback can make a real difference in a cast member’s day!
To Carry Cash or Not
In Disney World, carrying cash in smaller denominations is a practical fairy godmother in your pocket! Whether it’s tipping the friendly luggage handlers, showing appreciation to the dedicated housekeeping staff, or ensuring a smooth transaction with taxi drivers, having a stash of $1s and $5s is incredibly handy. It simplifies the process of tipping for various services, allowing you to spread gratitude without the hassle of seeking change. Plus, it’s a small but meaningful way to acknowledge the hardworking individuals who add magic to your Disney experience. So, before you set off on your magical adventure, remember to equip your wallet with these smaller bills – they’re as valuable as pixie dust in maintaining the joy and ease of your Disney vacation!
Ready, Set, Show Your Gratitude
So there you have it, folks! Tipping at Disney World doesn’t have to be a puzzle. With these tips (pun intended!), you’re all set to navigate the world of gratuities with ease and keep the magic alive throughout your stay. Remember, every tip and thank you adds a little sparkle to the day of those working hard to make your Disney experience truly enchanting. Enjoy your magical journey!
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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
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