Hotel Room Service Tipping Guide
Hotel room service staff deliver meals and beverages to your room with care. Understanding proper tipping ensures continued excellent service.
Quick Reference
Standard Room Service Tipping
- 15-20% - Of total bill before tax
- $5 minimum - Even for small orders
- 18-20% - If gratuity not included
- $10-20 - Large orders or breakfast spreads
- Extra $5 - For setup or special requests
- Gratuity included: May show "service charge" 15-20%
- Delivery fee: Not the same as tip
- Additional tip: $2-5 if service charge included
- No auto-gratuity: Tip full 18-20%
- Late night service: After 10 PM
- Early morning: Before 6 AM
- Special requests: Allergies, preferences accommodated
- Multiple trips: Forgot items, brought extras
- Exceptional presentation: Beautiful setup
- Weather: Delivery in rain/snow
- Large groups: Room party orders
- Hand to server when they deliver
- Leave on tray if you can't answer door
- Envelope with note if large amount
- Add when ordering by phone
- Sign receipt with tip line
- Cash still more appreciated
Check Your Bill
When to Tip More
Tipping Methods
Cash preferred:
Credit card:
Bottom Line
Tip 18-20% of room service bill before tax, minimum $5. Check if gratuity is already included (look for "service charge"). If included, add $2-5 extra for exceptional service. Cash is preferred—hand it directly to the delivery person!