h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I worked for 20 years as a coach driver in the UK. The work involved both Private Hire work (day trips, taking people to shows, weddings, discos, etc) and Extended Tour work (7 - 10 day holiday trips in UK and Europe).

Coach drivers wages are generally very close to the Minimum Wage level and, therefore, they expect to be tipped every time the coach leaves the depot. Most times you get something - occasionally you don't. Strangely those who can least afford it (eg pensioners on a day trip) always give something to the driver.

On Tour work you can usually expect an average of 50p per person per day assuming that you are good at the job and everyone has a good tour. A one day Private Hire will usually be worth a tip of £10-£25.

Another area where Tour drivers augment there income is to take the group to a "Woollen Mill", "Freeport" or a "pay to get in" attraction. Most of these organisations pay a commission on money spent by passengers.

As with most areas of tipping, the more you put in - the more you get out. If you turn up with a clean coach and a friendly attitude you are more likely to go home with a pocketful of appreciation.