Christmas is less than a week away, which means it’s time to finish that holiday shopping. Another thing to consider is your holiday tipping. Many people offer small gifts or monetary tips to the service people who regularly make our lives easier: a cleaner, hairstylist, doorman, lawn care professional, etc.
I’ve read online that, because our society is increasingly becoming a cashless one, it’s easy to overlook tipping. Many of us only use our credit or debit cards, and rarely have a few bucks stashed in our wallets to pass on to, say, a delivery person, bellhop, or the person who shampooed our hair at the salon. Some businesses offer the option of tipping with a card, or automatically fold gratuity into your total cost, but many don’t. Not long ago I had to dash out to an ATM so I could tip my waiter, as the restaurant didn’t allow diners to tip by credit card. It was a hassle, but the alternative (not leaving a tip at all) was unacceptable.
I think it’s worthwhile to carry a little bit of cash so you’re not stuck if situations like this occur. I hate the feeling of letting someone down and not being able to tip because I’m so dependent on my card.
Even if cash seems like a novelty these days, don’t let it stop you from making a quick bank or ATM run and taking out what you need to make those holiday tips. It’s a lovely gesture to show that you appreciate the hard work others put in for your benefit.
Have a wonderful holiday!