How Much Should You Tip Your Driver
How much is the appropriate amount to tip an airport taxi service or driver? Well, truth be told, it varies. This short yet concise guide will help you from giving either too much or too little.
Hourly versus Fixed Rate
One of the first things you need to consider when deciding how much you need to tip your driver is to find out how they are paid. Hourly drivers are paid on how many hours they work, whereas fixed-rate drivers are paid at a preset amount that is usually based on how long the trip lasts. If a driver is paid this way, tips are generally determined and then put in the final price, so check to see if the tip is already included before you determine how much to give.
Off the Clock
Also, it is important to consider that, although the driver is paid for the time they drive, much more is included in their job than just driving. For example, they often have to wait while their clients are at events, especially if they were hired to be part of transportation. The driver may be also responsible for the cleaning and prepping of the vehicle. Despite all this, driving is the only time they are paid. So bear this in mind when it comes to tipping. If the driver is spending more time transporting a client from destination to destination, it is appropriate to tip them just out of consideration for the time they spend waiting.
Duration of the Trip
It is not appropriate to tip the driver the same money for driving 30 miles as for driving 5 miles. The longer the trip is, the more you should tip the driver. A short drive from the airport generally calls for a tip anywhere from $5-$10, whereas drivers that drive for more than 1 hour should be tipped at least $20. To make it easier, remember to use 10% of the total bill when considering a tip.
If you would like to make an appointment with our airport taxi service, please contact Maui Airport Cab Company at (808) 353-8135 now, if you live in the Kahului, HI region.