As you can tell, I like to travel (usually with Sharon). However, for all of my advance planning and packing lists, there is one thing that I forget to bring almost every time. I’m not talking about a razor (like on our trip to Chicago) but something you always need at one point or another during a trip.
Of course, I am talking about cash, whether you call them dollar bills, singles, ones, or, as my dad says, “smooch money.” You know, tip money for the bellman, taxi (or Uber/Lyft) driver, housekeeping, or any other place you wish you had a few bucks with you to leave as thanks for excellent service.
I don’t usually carry cash with me because I don’t get points when paying with cash. However, there are some instances where cash is necessary. I can’t leave my credit card on the pillow of my room and tell housekeeping to charge me $3-5 for their time. I can’t add $10 to my room charge to give the bellman for bringing two bags and two cases of wine to the room in Portland after visiting Willamette Valley.
Have you ever had to ask a bellman to break a twenty? I have. It’s kinda awkward. I know they don’t mind since it means they’re getting a tip. But how much change should you ask for back? If you have a bunch of luggage, they might just think that you’re a good tipper. Possibly an uncomfortable situation.
I’ve occasionally made an early morning trip to the front desk asking the staff to break a $20 so I have money to leave for housekeeping. I’ve also found that hotels don’t even have a great deal of cash on hand anymore. And a trip to the 7-11 to get a Coke Zero just to get change isn’t a good start to any day. I have occasionally left a dollar or two in loose change in the room (and a note to let housekeeping know it is for them) because it’s all I have.
It’s somewhat easier now that Uber, Lyft, and even taxis will allow you to add a tip to your bill (although giving cash might help your Uber rating).
Hotels have gotten smart and allow guests to tip housekeeping via a QR code. This is becoming more prevalent, but it’s not available everywhere.
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