How Much to Tip at Coat Check
$1–2 per coat
Tip $1–2 per coat at coat check, given when you collect your things. Tip even when the coat check itself is free, and add a little for heavy items, bags or umbrellas. If there is a paid coat check fee, a dollar on top is still common.
Tip$2.00
Within the usual $1–$2 per coat.
How much to tip, situation by situation
| Situation | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Free coat check | $1–2 per coat |
| Paid coat check | $1 on top is common |
| Bags, umbrellas or bulky items | +$1 per item |
| Coat check at a wedding (host paid) | Optional |
Worth knowing
- Carry a few single dollar bills for nights out; many coat checks are cash only.
Working it out by hand? See how to calculate a tip. Travelling? Customs differ abroad: tipping by country.
Questions people ask
Do you tip coat check when you drop off or pick up?
Usually at pick-up. Some people tip at drop-off at a busy venue; either is fine.
Do I tip if the coat check is free?
Yes, $1–2 per coat is the norm, since staff often rely on tips.