Hi Wendy!
Welcome to planDisney.
It's always a pleasure to answer questions from my fellow UK guests, and I know that tipping can be so confusing. I take many solo trips, and this is what I do. (
Please note this is all my own opinion, as tipping is discretionary.)
When I travel to my Disney Resort Hotel from Orlando International Airport I often use Mears Connect. I always tip the driver. My luggage is usually (always!) heavy, so for that reason alone, I will give a tip. If the driver has been especially friendly, entertaining, helpful, informative etc. I will give a little more. They provide a great service. The general rule of thumb is $1 per bag, but I round it up to a minimum of $5 or $10 depending on how many bags they have to heave around for me.
If I use Lyft to take me to my hotel, I prepay the fee on the app, but there's a facility to add a tip after your journey. Again, I am grateful they've been lifting my luggage for me so I never forget to add the tip afterwards.
Once at my hotel, Bell Services will store my luggage or deliver it to my room, and I will always tip them. All that heavy lifting and carrying is something that wouldn't be easy for me to do. I consider their services to be worth a minimum of $5 each time I use them.
If I use a rental car, I will tip if I use valet parking anywhere, at any Disney Resort hotel or at Disney Springs. Something around $5 seems reasonable.
When dining at
table-service restaurants, a suggested gratuity will be shown on your bill (suggested 18%, 20% and 22% amounts). It is
suggested, and it is up to you to decide how much you want to pay. If you settle your bill using your Disney band or credit card, you can add your gratuity to that amount, or pay it separately in cash.
I always remember to bring some US Dollars in small denominations of cash - $1, $5, and $10 for this purpose.
This planDisney answer is helpful, written by my friend and panelist Jenna. She explains all about tourist tax at Walt Disney World.
Please come back and visit us if you have any further questions - we will be happy to help you plan your magical holiday at Walt Disney World!
Sue