Disney World Planning 101 – Don’t Forget the Tips

While there is a consensus in some parts of the world (and unfortunately in some places in the United States) that tipping is optional there are some situations you should be prepared for and budget for in your planning.  First and foremost when dining.  Most of the college age students are interns and while working in the World does pay small wages, like waitstaff throughout the country the pay is low here as well.  I know not everyone is aware of this but because of tipping minimum wage laws don’t always apply to waitstaff which means that the waiters and waitresses you encounter may be counting on tips for their livelihood.  Don’t skimp, especially on Disney Dining Plan.

While gratuity is included at some places on large bills or large groups ALWAYS CHECK YOUR CHECK! Make sure that even if you have a large party the gratuity was added and if you felt your service was exceptional add a bit more.  15%-20% is typical for a great sit down restaurant meal and should be added even if your family is on the Dining plan as tips have not been included in your plan price in a few years. Since I have never had anything but exceptional dining situation in Disney World I plan for roughly 20% on all meals to make sure we have enough money in our budget.

Also, don’t forget your mousekeeper! I was once talking to some Disney friends who asked how in the world my husband and I always end up getting approved for late checkout whether it be an hour or a half day and the question of tipping came up.  We always leave about $2 per person in a cute decorated “Thank you, Mousekeeping!” envelope when we head out for the day, and on our first or last day we usually leave a couple dollars more. We always leave chock full of toiletries and having used fresh towels daily.  I have always felt because we take care of our mousekeeper they are always taking extra special care of us.  We appreciate them and since we often don’t cross paths we like to show it to them with a tip!

Don’t forget the tips in your planning as Disney does everything a cut above and the staff deserve that little extra to say “Thanks!”

Related articles

• Disney World Quick Tip – Pack Less Clothes (chipandco.com)
• Disney World Quick Tips – Mousekeeping (chipandco.com)

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