The holidays are the perfect time to show our appreciation for others, but it can be tricky to know how much to tip, how and when to show your appreciation appropriately. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to tipping during the holidays as it depends on who is being tipped and how often you receive a service from them. This article aims to provide guidance and advice on how to navigate the world of holiday tipping so that you can minimise stress and promote a spirit of generosity when dealing with those who serve you throughout the year.
Housekeeping and cleaning staff expect a monetary tip on a periodic basis, especially during the holidays. One to two weeks' pay in the form of a cash bonus or gift card is generally acceptable. Depending on the level of service provided, you may want to give a bit more. For example, if your housekeeper cleans more than weekly or close to holidays, you may want to give an extra bonus such as a cash tip or a gift card.
Nannies and other childcare providers often receive a holiday bonus, especially those who provide extended care beyond what is listed in the contract. This bonus should be equivalent to their expected earnings for two to four weeks' work. If you have a nanny who looks after your children around the clock, it is also a good idea to give them a gift such as a nice piece of jewellery or a spa day.
If you have a dog walker or pet care provider, it is customary to give them a holiday tip in the form of cash or a gift. This should be equivalent to a week's pay or more, depending on the level of service provided. If your dog walker or pet care provider goes above and beyond, it is nice to give them a personal gift, such as a special collar or leash.
If you employ a gardener or landscaper to provide regular lawn maintenance services, it is a thoughtful gesture to give them a monetary tip during the holidays. This should equate to one to two days of their usual rate of pay, although if you feel that the service provided was exceptional, you may want to give a bit more.
Most hairdresser and beauty salon services are tipped on a regular basis, but it is especially important to tip during the holidays, as the salons are often working longer hours. A good rule of thumb is 10-20% of the total cost of the services, depending on the level of service provided.
Delivery services, such as food and postal delivery, should be tipped during the holidays, too. Generally, the tipping amount depends on the individual service provider’s costs, although $5-10 is usually a good guideline. If your meal delivery service includes alcohol, it is expected that you should tip based on the subtotal without the alcohol.
As the holidays approach, it's important to remember to tip those who provide us with services and take care of us. Housekeeping and cleaning staff should receive one to two weeks' worth of pay in the form of a cash bonus or gift card. Nannies and other childcare providers who provide extended care beyond the contract should receive a holiday bonus equivalent to two to four weeks' worth of work. Dog walkers and pet care providers should receive a week's pay or more, with a possible extra gift if they go above and beyond. Gardeners and landscapers should receive one to two days worth of their usual rate. Hairdressers and beauty salons should receive the customary 10-20% tip for services provided. Finally, delivery services should be tipped around $5-10. Tipping the individuals and professionals that help us day-to-day shows our appreciation for the time and care they put into making our lives easier.
The holiday season is fast approaching, and with it come the expected mountains of to-do lists, part...
The holiday season is a time for showing your appreciation to the people who take care of you throug...
The holiday season is a wonderful time of year to express your gratitude for those who have helped...
