While cash may seem like a thing of the past these days you still need some for your Disney vacation. So what items are you going to need cash for? And who should you expect to tip over the course of your vacation? Let’s cover in detail the cash you will need for tipping at Disney World.
The Bell Hop Tipping at Disney World
Anyone who handles your luggage at Disney you should tips them $1/$3 a bag for all their assistance. Places where this regularly occurs is first at the Magical Express, your bus driver will help you load and unload your luggage. When you arrive at your resort most likely you will come across a bell hop willing to help you bring your luggage to your room. This is a great idea if you have lots of luggage and your room is not near the lobby of your hotel. Lastly, you may need to check your luggage. This typically comes into play when you have a late in the day departure and you need to check out of your hotel in the morning. Disney hotels offer checked luggage as a complementary service but it’s recommended you tip the people when you go back and pick up your bags. You will need cash to tips these people as there is no way to charge it or bill to your room.
Disney Dining What to Tip
At any restaurant here in the states, it’s customary to tip 18-20% at all Table Service restaurants. Also, note that if you are a party of six or more you will automatically be charged an 18% gratuity. For some reason, if you don’t feel this is appropriate after the service you received, know that you can always ask to speak with a manager and get it adjusted. If you dine at Cinderella’s Royal Table, Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue, Spirit of Aloha Luau, and Mickey’s Backyard BBQ a gratuity is already included in the price. When dining at a Disney restaurant the great thing is you have many options for paying for your tip. Tipping can be paid, including those with the Disney Dining Plan, with cash, credit card, or by charging to your MagicBand.
If you are looking for the best places to eat read Best Disney World Restaurants.
What to Tip Mousekeeping
If you are staying a hotel during your stay it’s customary to tip housekeeping. These are the magical people that come in and pick up your mess every day while you are off having fun in the parks. They make sure you have towels and plenty of soap to keep squeaky clean. The guideline for tipping housekeeping is $1/day per person staying in the room.
Salon Services
Just as you would back home it’s also recommended to tip any cast member that provide you a salon or spa service. There are several fantastic spas across the property that I recommend checking out if you can. As well, if you take your little ones to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Harmony Barber Shop, and Pirate’s League, they also accept tips.
Important Note: With the exception of the Cast Members listed above, other Cast Members can’t accept tips. In its place, you can always feel free to give them thank-you notes and stop by guest relations to leave a compliment there. Positive guest feedback is rewarded by the Disney company so it will help them get a promotion in the future.
I have been visiting the parks annually since my parents first brought me at just a year old. Recently I was able to fulfill my life long dream of being a Florida local and moved from the wintery Northeast to the sunshine and fun of central Florida. Now I am hoping to share my Disney knowledge with you so you can have the best vacation possible!
