If you’re planning a trip to Disney World, you’re likely to be thinking about all the fun you’ll have. However, one important aspect that you might overlook is tipping. Tipping is a customary practice in the United States and Disney World is no exception. This in-depth guide will help you navigate who to tip at Disney World and how much.
When visiting Disney World, it’s customary to tip your servers at table-service restaurants, bars, and lounges around 15-25% of your total bill. For quick service restaurants and food carts, tipping is optional. Luggage handlers should be tipped $1-$2 per bag, and housekeeping, or “Mousekeeping,” should receive $1-$2 per person, per day. For other services like spa treatments, childcare services, and private guided tours, tipping is also customary. Some exceptions to tipping include employees at counter service or snack locations, and some special shows and dining experiences that include gratuity in their fixed price.
Table-Service Restaurants, Bars, and Lounges
One of the primary service providers you’ll encounter at Disney World are the servers at table-service restaurants, bars, and lounges. These are the staff members who serve your food and drinks at sit-down or buffet restaurants. It is customary to tip around 15-25% of your total bill.
For example, if you’re dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table and your bill comes to $100, a 20% tip would be $20.
Keep in mind that for parties of six or more, an 18% gratuity will automatically be added to your bill at table-service dining locations.
Quick Service Restaurants and Food Carts
At quick service restaurants and food carts, where you order at a counter or window, tipping is not expected. However, if there is a tip jar on the counter, you’re welcome to leave a tip if you wish.
Luggage Handlers
During your stay at Disney World, you might need assistance with your luggage. If you use the services of luggage handlers, it is customary to tip them $1-$2 per bag. So, if you have five bags and choose to tip $2 per bag, your total tip would be $10.
Housekeeping (Mousekeeping)
Housekeeping staff, affectionately known as “Mousekeeping” at Disney World, provide an essential service during your stay at the resort. It is customary to tip them $1-$2 per person, per day.
For instance, if you have a family of four staying for five days, you might leave a tip of $40 ($2 per person * 4 people * 5 days) at the end of your stay.
Other Services
For other services such as spa treatments, childcare services, and private guided tours, tipping is also customary. At larger spas, an 18% gratuity is usually included in the price, but you can tip an additional 20% for exceptional service. For private VIP tour guides, tipping can range from $100-$200 per day or 15-20% of the cost of the tour.
Exceptions to Tipping
There are some exceptions to the tipping policy at Disney World. Employees working at counter service or snack locations, for example, typically do not accept tips. Additionally, some special shows and dining experiences include tax and gratuity in their fixed price.
Convenient Ways to Carry and Distribute Tips
When it comes to carrying and distributing tips at Disney World, there are several convenient methods. These include tip envelopes, lanyards, Disney gift cards, and cash.
Tip envelopes are a great way to ensure your tips are easily identifiable and appreciated by the staff. Lanyards can be used to carry your resort key, cash, and credit cards, making it easy to access your money for tipping purposes. Disney gift cards can be used to pay for tips at restaurants if you’re on the dining plan. Lastly, carrying cash is always a reliable option for tipping.
Conclusion
Tipping at Disney World is a personal choice and can vary based on the quality of service received. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash for tipping purposes, as some service providers may not accept other forms of payment for tips. We hope this guide helps you navigate who to tip at Disney World and how much, making your magical vacation even more worry-free!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to tip the characters at Disney World?
No, you do not need to tip the characters at Disney World. They are there to entertain and interact with guests and do not accept tips.
Can I add a tip to my bill when using the Disney Dining Plan?
Yes, you can add a tip to your bill when using the Disney Dining Plan. However, gratuities are not included in the plan and will need to be paid separately.
Do I need to tip if I’m not happy with the service?
Tipping at Disney World, like anywhere else, is a personal choice and can vary based on the quality of service received. If you’re not happy with the service, you can choose not to tip or to leave a smaller tip.
Do I need to tip for room service?
Yes, it is customary to tip for room service at Disney World. A good rule of thumb is to tip 15-20% of the total bill.
Should I tip the bus drivers at Disney World?
No, it’s not customary to tip the bus drivers at Disney World. They do not expect or accept tips.
