Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of New York City or adventuring across the scenic landscapes of Thailand, knowing the ins and outs of tipping etiquette can make a world of difference in your travel experience. From tipping waitstaff to hotel porters, navigating the world of gratuity can be a complex endeavor. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to tipping etiquette to help you understand when and how much to tip in various regions around the globe. So sit back, relax, and let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
Guide to Tipping Etiquette Across the Globe
North America
United States
In the United States, tipping is an integral part of the service industry. It is customary to tip waitstaff in restaurants around 15-20% of the total meal cost. Bartenders are usually tipped 15-20% as well. When paying for a taxi, rounding up to the nearest dollar or adding a couple of dollars as a tip is common practice. Hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, are typically tipped $1-2 per bag or per night, respectively.
Canada
In Canada, tipping practices are similar to those in the United States. The standard tipping rate for waitstaff in restaurants is around 15-20%. Bartenders are typically tipped 10-15% of the total bill. As for taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest dollar or adding a few extra dollars is considered polite. It is also customary to tip hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around $2-5 per bag or per night.
Mexico
In Mexico, tipping, or “propina” is expected in many service establishments. Restaurants typically add a 10-15% service charge to the bill, but it is customary to leave an additional 5-10% as a tip for the waitstaff. In taxis, tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare or giving a small tip is appreciated. When it comes to hotels, it is common to tip bellhops $1-2 per bag, and housekeeping staff $1-2 per night.
Europe
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, tipping practices may differ slightly from other countries. In restaurants, a service charge of around 10-15% is often included in the bill. If a service charge is not included, it is customary to leave a tip of 10-15% for the waitstaff. Tipping in bars is not as common but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount as a tip is appreciated. It is also customary to tip hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around £1-2 per bag or per night.
France
In France, a service charge of around 15% is usually included in the bill at restaurants. However, it is customary to leave a little extra as a tip, especially if you received excellent service. This can range from a few euros to 10% of the total bill. In bars, it is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a tip. When it comes to hotels, tipping bellhops around €1-2 per bag and housekeeping staff €1-2 per night is the norm.
Italy
In Italy, a service charge known as “coperto” is often included in the bill at restaurants, usually around €1-3 per person. However, it is customary to leave an additional 5-10% as a tip for the waitstaff, especially if the service was exceptional. In bars, rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount as a tip is appreciated. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops €1-2 per bag and housekeeping staff €1-2 per night is customary.
Germany
In Germany, tipping is not as common as in some other countries, but it is still expected in certain situations. In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary, but you can simply round up the total bill if you prefer. Bars usually don’t require tipping, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around €1-2 per bag and leaving a small tip for housekeeping staff is a polite gesture.
Spain
In Spain, tipping practices vary depending on the region. In restaurants, a service charge of around 10-15% is often included in the bill, but leaving some loose change or rounding up the bill as a tip is appreciated. In bars, it is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a tip. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around €1-2 per bag and housekeeping staff €1-2 per night is the norm.
Asia
Japan
In Japan, tipping is generally not expected and can even be seen as rude in some situations. The Japanese take pride in providing excellent service without the expectation of extra compensation. Instead, expressing gratitude by saying “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you very much) is the preferred way to show appreciation.
China
In China, tipping is not a common practice, especially in local establishments. However, in tourist areas or high-end restaurants, a service charge of 10-15% may be added to the bill. It is not customary to leave an additional tip in these cases, but rounding up the bill is still appreciated.
India
In India, tipping customs can vary depending on the region and establishment. In some restaurants, a service charge may be added to the bill, in which case an additional tip is not necessary. However, if a service charge is not included, leaving 10-15% of the total bill as a tip is appreciated. When it comes to hotels, tipping bellhops ₹50-100 per bag and housekeeping staff ₹50-100 per night is customary.
Thailand
In Thailand, tipping is not traditional, but it is becoming more common in tourist areas. In restaurants, a service charge is rarely included, so leaving a 10% tip for the waitstaff is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers is not required, but rounding up the fare is commonly done. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around 20-50 Thai Baht per bag and housekeeping staff 50-100 Thai Baht per night is customary.
South Korea
In South Korea, tipping is not a common practice. In fact, tipping can be seen as offensive in some situations. Excellent service is expected, and showing appreciation through your words and gestures is more valued than leaving a tip.
Latin America
Brazil
In Brazil, tipping, known as “gorjeta” is customary in most service establishments. In restaurants, a service charge of 10% is often included in the bill, but leaving an additional 5-10% as a tip for the waitstaff is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers around 10% of the fare is common, and tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around R$2-5 per bag or per night is expected.
Argentina
In Argentina, tipping, or “propina” is customary in restaurants and bars. It is common to leave around 10% of the total bill as a tip for the waitstaff. Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare or giving a small amount is appreciated. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around ARS10-20 per bag and housekeeping staff ARS10-20 per night is customary.
Chile
In Chile, tipping practices are similar to those in other Latin American countries. In restaurants, a service charge of around 10% may be included in the bill, but leaving an additional 5-10% as a tip for the waitstaff is customary. Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare or giving a small amount is common. It is also customary to tip hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around CLP500-1000 per bag or per night.
Peru
In Peru, tipping, or “propina” is expected but not always mandatory. In restaurants, a service charge of around 10% is often included in the bill, but leaving an additional 5-10% as a tip for the waitstaff is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare or giving a small amount is common. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around PEN2-5 per bag and housekeeping staff PEN2-5 per night is customary.
Colombia
In Colombia, tipping, known as “propina” is customary in most service establishments. In restaurants, a service charge of around 10% may be included in the bill, but leaving an additional 5-10% as a tip for the waitstaff is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare or giving a small amount is common. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around COP2000-5000 per bag and housekeeping staff COP2000-5000 per night is expected.
Middle East
United Arab Emirates
In the United Arab Emirates, tipping is not mandatory but is a common practice. In restaurants, a service charge of around 10-15% may be included in the bill, but leaving an additional 5-10% as a tip for the waitstaff is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers around 10% of the fare is the norm, and tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around AED5-10 per bag or per night is customary.
Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, tipping is not customary and is often discouraged. However, in upscale establishments, a service charge of around 10-15% may be added to the bill. It is not expected to leave an additional tip in these cases.
Israel
In Israel, tipping is customary in most service establishments. In restaurants, a service charge of around 12% may be included in the bill, but leaving an additional 5-10% as a tip for the waitstaff is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers around 10% of the fare is common, and tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around ILS5-10 per bag or per night is expected.
Turkey
In Turkey, tipping, or “bahşiş” is common in many service establishments. In restaurants, a service charge of around 10-12% may be included in the bill, but leaving an additional 5-10% as a tip for the waitstaff is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers around 10% of the fare is common, and tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around TRY5-10 per bag or per night is customary.
Qatar
In Qatar, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in many service establishments. In restaurants, a service charge of around 10% may be included in the bill, but leaving an additional 5-10% as a tip for the waitstaff is common. Tipping taxi drivers is not required, but rounding up the fare or giving a small amount is appreciated. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around QAR5-10 per bag and housekeeping staff QAR5-10 per night is customary.
Africa
South Africa
In South Africa, tipping practices are similar to those in many Western countries. In restaurants, a standard tip of 10-15% of the total bill is customary for good service. Tipping taxi drivers around 10% of the fare is common, and tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around ZAR5-10 per bag or per night is expected.
Morocco
In Morocco, tipping, known as “baksheesh” is a common practice. In restaurants, leaving a 10-15% tip for the waitstaff is customary. Tipping taxi drivers around 10% of the fare is common, and tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around MAD5-10 per bag or per night is expected.
Egypt
In Egypt, tipping, known as “baksheesh” is an essential part of everyday life. In restaurants, leaving a 10-15% tip for the waitstaff is customary. Tipping taxi drivers around 10% of the fare is common, and tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around EGP5-10 per bag or per night is expected.
Kenya
In Kenya, tipping is not mandatory but is greatly appreciated. In restaurants, leaving a 10% tip for the waitstaff is common. Tipping taxi drivers around 10% of the fare is appreciated, and tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around KES50-100 per bag or per night is customary.
Tanzania
In Tanzania, tipping is not mandatory but is a common practice. In restaurants, leaving a 5-10% tip for the waitstaff is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers around 10% of the fare is common, and tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around TZS1000-5000 per bag or per night is expected.
Oceania
Australia
In Australia, tipping is not as common as in some other countries. In restaurants, a service charge is rarely added to the bill, so leaving a 10% tip for good service is appreciated but not expected. Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare is common. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around AUD1-2 per bag and leaving a small amount as a tip for housekeeping staff is a polite gesture.
New Zealand
In New Zealand, tipping is not a common practice, but it is becoming more common in tourist areas. In restaurants, leaving a 10% tip for excellent service is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers is not required, but rounding up the fare or giving a small amount is commonly done. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around NZD1-2 per bag and leaving a small tip for housekeeping staff is customary.
Fiji
In Fiji, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in tourist areas. In restaurants, a service charge of around 10% may be included in the bill, but leaving an additional 10% as a tip for the waitstaff is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers around 10% of the fare is common, and tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around FJD2-5 per bag or per night is expected.
Vanuatu
In Vanuatu, tipping is not a common practice, but it is becoming more common in tourist areas. In restaurants, leaving a small tip of around 5-10% for the waitstaff is appreciated for good service. Tipping taxi drivers is not required, but rounding up the fare or giving a small amount is common. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around VUV100-200 per bag and leaving a small tip for housekeeping staff is customary.
Samoa
In Samoa, tipping is not customary, but it is appreciated in tourist areas. In restaurants, leaving a small tip of around 5-10% for the waitstaff is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers is not required, but rounding up the fare or giving a small amount is common. For hotel staff, tipping bellhops around WST1-2 per bag and leaving a small tip for housekeeping staff is customary.
Understanding Cultural Differences
Importance of Researching Tipping Customs
When traveling internationally, it is crucial to research the tipping customs of your destination country. Tipping practices vary significantly from one country to another, and what may be customary in your home country could be considered inappropriate or offensive elsewhere. By understanding the local customs and norms, you can navigate tipping situations appropriately and show respect for the local culture.
Appreciating Local Customs and Norms
It is important to remember that tipping customs are deeply rooted in the culture and economy of each country. By appreciating and respecting these customs, you can enhance your overall travel experience. Tipping is often seen as a way to reward good service and support individuals working in the service industry. By following the local practices, you can contribute positively to the local economy and show appreciation for the hard work of those who serve you during your travels.
Factors to Consider
Service Quality
The quality of service you receive plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate tip amount. Exceptional service deserves a higher tip, while subpar service may warrant a smaller or no tip at all. It is essential to assess the level of service provided and tip accordingly.
Local Cost of Living
The cost of living varies significantly from one country to another. What may seem like a small amount to you could be a substantial tip for someone in a different financial situation. Consider the local cost of living when determining the appropriate tip amount to ensure fairness and respect for the local economy.
Restaurant Policies
Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, while others may leave tipping entirely up to the customer. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the restaurant’s policies to avoid double-tipping or unintentionally leaving without tipping when it is expected.
Country-Specific Tipping Percentages
Research the country-specific tipping percentages for different service industries to ensure you are tipping appropriately. While there are general guidelines, it is always best to be aware of any specific customs or expectations around tipping in each country you visit.
Tipping in Different Situations
Restaurants and Cafes
In restaurants and cafes, tipping practices often involve leaving a percentage of the total bill as a gratuity for the waitstaff. The specific tipping percentage may vary from country to country, so it is important to research the customary percentage for each destination.
Hotels and Accommodations
Tipping in hotels and accommodations usually involves tipping bellhops for carrying your luggage and housekeeping staff for cleaning your room. The amount can vary depending on the country and the level of service received. It is customary to tip bellhops a few units of the local currency per bag and housekeeping staff per night of your stay.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services
Tipping taxi drivers and ride-sharing service providers is a common practice in many countries. The customary tipping percentage can vary, but rounding up the fare or adding a small amount as a tip is generally appreciated.
Tour Guides and Sightseeing
When taking guided tours or engaging the services of tour guides, tipping is often customary. The recommended amount can vary, but tipping around 10-20% of the cost of the tour is a common practice to show appreciation for the guide’s knowledge and service.
Spas and Salons
In spas and salons, tipping is often expected as a way to show appreciation for the service received. As with other tipping situations, the customary amount can vary, but leaving a tip of around 10-20% of the total service cost is a common practice.
Porters and Bellhops
When using porters or bellhops to assist with your luggage, it is customary to tip a few units of the local currency per bag. This gesture of appreciation is a way to acknowledge their hard work and assistance during your stay.
By understanding and respecting the tipping customs in different regions, you can navigate tipping situations with confidence and show appreciation for the service provided. Remember to research the specific customs of each country you visit to ensure you are being respectful and considerate of local traditions and norms.
