However, it's always kind to offer something to shuttle drivers. They work long hours driving frustrated travelers back and forth from parking to terminals. Rain or shine, heat or cold, they help people get where they need to be. An acceptable tipping standard for these drivers is one dollar per bag.

Tipping a shuttle bus driver—whether for an airport transfer, a hotel shuttle, or a parking lot run—is generally considered a polite gesture in the United States, though it is not strictly mandatory. The standard rule of thumb is to tip $1 to $2 per bag if the driver assists you with your luggage, or a flat $2 to $5 for a standard group trip where no heavy lifting is involved. If the driver is particularly friendly, provides local recommendations, or navigates through exceptionally difficult traffic to get you to your terminal on time, a slightly higher tip of $5 or $10 is often appreciated. In 2026, while many shuttle services are complimentary "amenities," the drivers themselves often rely on tips to supplement their base wages. For long-distance shuttle services or private transfers, a tip of 10% to 15% of the total fare is the more appropriate benchmark. If the shuttle is provided by a government agency (like some airport-run transit), tipping may be restricted, so always look for a "tips accepted" sign or a jar near the driver's seat.