FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - Avoiding tipping in the U.S. -altogether!
Old Oct 30, 2009 | 11:22 am
  #23  
djk7
20 Years on Site
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Orlando, FL, US
Programs: DL-Dirt Medallion;US-Cast Iron Preferred
Posts: 3,617
Originally Posted by tsastor
planning another trip to the U.S. (California) and this time I would like to try not having to tip anyone during the entire trip.

Next time:
- will use airport shuttle / public transportation
- stay at HI Express, do I have to tip at breakfast?
- no need to tip housekeeping?
- eat only at fast food places (no table service) - no tip
- use minibar to take drinks down to the lounge - no tips
- fly an European airline, no need to tip for drinks in the lounge

How about that strategy ?
To start with, ignore the bashing that some posters seem to think is needed here, it doesn't appear that you are trying to stiff anyone who would normally expect a tip, but are looking for strategies to avoid situations where tipping would be expected. I use many of these myself to save money. One note, as previously mentioned, airport shuttle drivers are typically tipped if they help with luggage, otherwise there is nothing on your "next" list that would require tipping.

A couple of other comments:
1) For non table service, you are not limited to McDonalds and KFC level of fast food. Panera, Chipotle, Panda Express, Crispers, Baja Express, Atlanta Bread Company, Qdoba, and lots of other places provide tasty food at reasonable prices and don't require tipping. Take out pizza is another option.

2) I avoid the mini bar since prices are high and the selection is low. I typically find a local liquor store where I can get some good microbrews or a small bottle of whatever. I usually either drink in the room or by the pool, taking your own to the lounge could be against the rules, or at least considered tacky.
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