Additional Coverage:
- 11 Unexpected Places That Have the Audacity To Ask for a Tip (financebuzz.com)
Tipping Fatigue: When and Where You Can Skip the Gratuity
It seems everywhere you turn these days, a digital screen is prompting you to leave a tip. While tipping is certainly appropriate in many situations, the practice seems to be expanding into areas where it feels unnecessary, even absurd.
So, when is it okay to hit “no tip” and save your hard-earned cash? Let’s explore some surprising places now asking for gratuities, and why you shouldn’t feel guilty about declining.
Skip the Tip: Unexpected Places Asking for Gratuities
- Arcades: Paying for an arcade game card? You’re likely already paying a premium for the entertainment, so don’t feel obligated to tip on top of it.
- Self-Checkout: The very idea of tipping at a self-checkout contradicts the purpose. You’re doing the work yourself! It’s perfectly acceptable to decline.
- Food Courts: Similar to self-checkout, food courts are generally self-service. You’re likely bussing your own table and fetching your own condiments, so a tip isn’t required.
- Farmers Markets: Supporting local businesses is great, but a tip isn’t expected when you’re simply buying produce or other goods.
- Stadiums: Long lines and self-checkout at a stadium? You’ve already endured enough. Skip the tip.
- Home Repairs: Contractors and repair professionals charge an hourly rate for their services. Tipping is generally not expected unless they’ve gone above and beyond, such as handling an after-hours emergency.
- Concert Merch Stands: Overpriced t-shirts and now a tip request? You’re already supporting the band with your purchase. Feel free to decline the tip.
- Fast Food: Grabbing a quick, inexpensive meal shouldn’t come with tipping pressure. Skip it.
- Takeout Orders: While tipping is customary for sit-down restaurant service, takeout is a different story. It’s generally acceptable to forgo the tip, especially if you’re simply picking up your order.
- Retail Stores: Browsing and buying clothes or other retail items doesn’t necessitate a tip. Don’t feel pressured to add one.
- Auto Repair Shops: Mechanics are paid for their skilled labor. A tip is not required for routine services like oil changes or tire replacements.
Bottom Line: Tipping is a valuable way to show appreciation for good service, but it’s important to recognize when it’s truly warranted. Don’t feel pressured to tip in situations where it doesn’t make sense. Your budget will thank you.
Read More About This Story:
- 11 Unexpected Places That Have the Audacity To Ask for a Tip (financebuzz.com)