Tipping culture has evolved into a distinct phenomenon, expanding into areas it once did not occupy. Suddenly, we’re prompted to tip at coffee stands, retail counters, even on pre-packaged snacks. It’s no longer about rewarding service; it’s about navigating guilt-laced screens and awkward social cues.
This article isn’t about being stingy; it’s about drawing a line. Here’s a breakdown of situations where I don’t tip, and why it’s okay if you don’t either.
Grab-And-Go Coffee
If you’re simply picking up a bottled drink or ordering a basic black coffee, tipping isn’t obligatory. These transactions involve minimal interaction. They don’t reflect the kind of personalized service that tips are meant to reward. Tip jars might be everywhere, but that doesn’t mean every purchase calls for one.
Buying Retail Goods
Tipping while buying retail goods, whether at a clothing store, grocery, or hardware shop, is largely unnecessary. You’re paying for products, not personalized service. Unless someone goes above and beyond, like offering expert advice or tailoring assistance, there’s no expectation to add a tip at checkout, especially not at self-checkout stations where you’re doing all the work yourself.
Restroom Attendant
Restroom attendants are often hired in upscale venues to maintain cleanliness and offer optional amenities. While their presence can feel like a signal to tip, it’s important to remember that tipping is a gesture of appreciation for a service, not a response to social pressure. You don’t have to tip if you’ve received no assistance and didn’t request any extras.
Self-Service Restaurants
In self-service restaurants, you’re doing most of the legwork. You order at the counter, collect your own food, and buss your own table. Since there’s little to no traditional service involved, tipping isn’t expected. You’re paying for convenience and speed, not full-service dining.
When Service Charge Is Included
When a service charge is already included in your bill, there’s no need to tip extra. This built-in fee is meant to compensate the staff and is often shared among them. Leaving an additional tip on top of that can be redundant, and in group settings, it adds up fast. Always check your receipt so you don’t end up tipping twice for the same service.
Food Trucks
Food trucks usually operate with lean teams—often just the owners themselves—so tipping isn’t expected. You’re paying a premium for a quick, handcrafted meal, not a full-service experience. Unless someone goes out of their way to make your visit memorable, it’s okay to skip the tip guilt-free.
Bartenders At Weddings
At weddings and catered events, the hosts usually pay bartenders in advance, including gratuity. While they might still display tip jars, you’re under no obligation to contribute. If in doubt, check with the event host to avoid double tipping.
Flight Attendants
Tipping flight attendants isn’t just unnecessary—it’s often discouraged or outright prohibited. Their responsibilities extend far beyond serving snacks, including ensuring passenger safety and handling emergencies. With competitive pay and strict airline policies, tipping simply isn’t part of the in-flight experience.
Plumbing Or Engineering Services
Plumbers and engineers typically set their own rates, and the price reflects their expertise and labor, so tipping isn’t expected. That said, if someone comes out during off-hours or handles a last-minute emergency, a small tip or token of appreciation can be a kind gesture, though it’s entirely optional.
Gas Station Attendant
In full-service gas stations, attendants are paid hourly, and tipping isn’t part of the custom. While offering a few extra bucks might feel polite, it’s by no means expected. A simple “thank you” goes a long way without making things awkward.
Museum Staff
Museum staff—from ticket counters to expert docents—are salaried professionals dedicated to enriching public understanding of culture and history. Tipping isn’t part of the equation. If you’d like to show appreciation, supporting the museum through memberships or donations is a more meaningful and lasting way to contribute.
Self-Checkout Kiosks
At self-checkout kiosks, you’re the cashier, bagger, and customer all in one, so tipping simply doesn’t make sense. Machines don’t provide service, and you’re already doing all the labor. If a screen insists on a tip, don’t hesitate to flag it for store staff. You’re not being difficult—you’re just being reasonable.
Postal Workers
Postal workers may go the extra mile, but tipping them could land them in hot water. As government employees, USPS mail carriers aren’t allowed to accept cash—it’s a hard rule, not just a suggestion. If you’re feeling festive around the holidays, a small, non-cash gift, such as snacks or a modest gift card, is a thoughtful way to say thanks without crossing any lines.
Furniture Delivery
Furniture delivery teams are typically paid hourly, and the cost of delivery and setup is already factored into your bill. While tipping isn’t expected for standard services, it’s a nice gesture if the crew goes out of their way, like helping move old furniture or tackling tricky installations. Just remember, you’re not obligated to pay extra for work you’ve already covered.
Personal Trainers
Personal trainers charge by the hour and are compensated for their time and expertise upfront—tipping isn’t part of the equation. Offering a tip might feel out of place in a professional coaching relationship. If you want to show appreciation, show consistent commitment, or write a kind review.
Car Mechanics
Mechanics are skilled professionals who set their rates based on expertise, parts, and labor—tipping isn’t typically part of the transaction. Whether they own the shop or work for someone else, they’re fairly compensated for their work. Considering how expensive car repairs already are, you’re not expected to tack on extra.
