Knowing the tipping customs when you travel can be tricky. If you’re American, you’re used to tipping for almost every service. But, you may travel to a country where tipping can offend locals.
This guide will help you navigate tipping customs in different countries with the ultimate goal of practicing responsible travel.
The History of Tipping in the U.S.
The practice of tipping in America has roots far darker than the simple gesture of appreciation it’s often perceived as today. The custom gained widespread adoption in the United States during the aftermath of the Civil War, when formerly enslaved people made up a significant portion of the service industry workforce. Restaurant and railroad companies, particularly in the South, seized upon tipping as a way to employ newly freed Black Americans without having to pay them actual wages, instead forcing them to rely on the generosity of customers for their livelihood. The Pullman Company, which employed Black porters on its railroad cars, became notorious for this practice, essentially using tips as a substitute for fair compensation.
This exploitative system was a direct extension of slavery’s economic legacy, allowing businesses to minimize labor costs while keeping workers in a position of financial uncertainty and dependence. Railroad titan George Pullman explicitly defended this practice, arguing that tipping would teach formerly enslaved people the value of “personal service.” The practice spread rapidly across the hospitality industry, becoming deeply embedded in American culture despite early opposition from labor reformers who recognized it as a tool for maintaining racial and economic hierarchies.
This history helps explain why the United States, unlike many other nations, normalized an economic model where service workers’ basic wages could legally fall far below the standard minimum wage, with the expectation that customer tips would make up the difference. Today, the federal tipped minimum wage remains just $2.13 per hour in many states, a direct descendant of these post-Civil War labor practices. While the racial dynamics have evolved, the fundamental structure – where businesses transfer their labor costs directly to consumers through expected tips – continues to shape America’s service industry and influence tipping cultures around the world.
Tipping Standards in North America
Tipping in North America follows unique customs. You’ll find specific percentages and services where gratuities are expected. There is actually an active conversation in the zeitgeist about the tipping culture and how it is a bit out of control with some services requesting up to 35%. For the purpose of being a traveler, let’s walk through some standard and fair gratuity expectations and travel tipping tips.
Common tipping percentages
Tipping percentages vary widely across North America. You’ll encounter different expectations depending on the service and location. Here’s a quick guide to common tipping rates in the region:
| Service | Typical Tip Percentage |
|---|---|
| Restaurants | 15-20% |
| Taxis | 15-20% |
| Hotel Housekeeping | $2-5 per night |
| Bartenders | $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of total bill |
| Food Delivery | 10-15% |
| Hair Stylists | 15-20% |
In the U.S. and Canada, a 15-20% tip is standard for restaurant service and taxi rides. This rate applies to the pre-tax amount of your bill. For other services, like food delivery or haircuts, 10-15% is often enough. Hotel staff usually get a flat rate per night rather than a percentage. These are general guidelines. You can adjust based on the quality of service you receive.
Services where tipping is expected
Tipping customs vary widely across North America. You’ll find many services where gratuities are expected, especially in the hospitality industry.
- Restaurants: Wait staff often rely on tips as a significant part of their income. The standard range is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill.
- Bars: Bartenders typically receive $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the total tab.
- Hotels: Bellhops usually get $1-2 per bag, while housekeeping staff appreciate $2-5 per night.
- Taxis and rideshares: Drivers commonly receive 15-20% of the fare.
- Tour guides: A gratuity of $10-25 per person per day is customary for their expertise and service.
- Hairdressers and barbers: 15-20% of the service cost is standard for these professionals.
- Food delivery: Drivers often expect 10-15% of the order total or a flat $3-5 tip.
- Valet parking: $2-5 when you pick up your car is a common practice.
- Spa services: Massage therapists and estheticians usually receive 15-20% of the service price.
- Concierge services: $5-10 for special requests or reservations shows appreciation for their help.
Guide to Tipping in Europe
Understanding tipping in Europe can be tricky since practices vary significantly by country. The key is knowing whether service charges are already included in your bill. Here’s what you need to know:
Understanding Service Charges
Before leaving a tip in Europe, always check your bill for these common terms:
- “Service compris” (France)
- “Coperto” (Italy)
- “IVA incluido” (Spain)
- “Service charge” or “Cover charge” (various countries)
If you see these charges, know that basic service is already covered in your bill.
Country-by-Country Guide
Countries Where Service is Included in Bills
France
- Service charge (“service compris”) is legally required
- Additional tipping: 5% for exceptional service, in cash
- Look for: “Service compris” on your bill
Italy
- “Coperto” charge covers basic table service
- Additional tipping: 5-10% for outstanding service
- Note: The coperto is for bread/table settings, not service staff
Spain
- Service included in menu prices (“IVA incluido”)
- Additional tipping: Rounding up or 5% for excellent service
- Common practice: Leave small change for drinks at bars
Switzerland
- All service charges are included by law
- Additional tipping: Rounding up is common
- Example: Round 98 CHF to 100 CHF
Countries Where Tipping is Expected
Germany
- Standard tip: 5-10%
- Method: Tell server final amount when paying
- Example: For €45.50, say “fifty” to include tip
United Kingdom
- Restaurants: 10-15% if no service charge
- Pubs: Not expected for drinks
- Check bill carefully – some places add service charge
Ireland
- Restaurants: 10% standard
- Taxis: Round up to nearest euro
- Pubs: Not expected for drinks
To tip or not to tip, that is the question in Europe.
Pro Tips for European Tipping
- Cash is preferred for tips in most countries
- Always check your bill for included service charges
- Tipping protocols may differ in tourist areas versus local spots
- When in doubt, ask your server about local customs
- Credit card tips may not reach service staff in some countries
This structure ensures you’re neither over-tipping nor under-tipping while respecting local customs and service workers.
Tipping Guide: Asia and the Pacific
Understanding the No-Tipping Culture
Many Asian countries have a strong cultural emphasis on service without expectation of tips. In fact, tipping can sometimes be considered rude or inappropriate. Here’s a detailed breakdown so you can understand the cultural tipping differences:
East Asia
Japan
- Tipping is actively discouraged
- May cause confusion or embarrassment
- Exceptional service is considered standard
- Polite refusal is common if you try to tip
China
- No tipping culture in local establishments
- Exception: High-end international hotels
- Service charges often included in bills
- Key phrase: “Xiaofei” (service charge) on bills
South Korea
- Tipping not expected or common
- Workers receive regulated wages
- Exception: International hotels in Seoul
- Tourist areas may be more accepting of tips
Southeast Asia
Singapore
- Tipping discouraged by government policy
- Service charge (10%) typically included
- Look for “+++” on bills (GST + service charge)
- High-end hotels may accept tips
Taiwan
- No tipping culture
- Service charge common in restaurants (10-15%)
- Taxi drivers don’t expect tips
- Exception: Tour guides may accept tips
Pacific Region
Australia
- No tipping culture historically
- Workers receive high minimum wages
- Optional: Round up for exceptional service
- Upscale restaurants may add service charge
New Zealand
- Similar to Australia – tipping not expected
- Living wage policies in place
- Rounding up is appreciated but not required
- Tourist areas more accepting of tips
Emerging Tipping Trends in Asia
Areas Seeing Changes
Thailand
- Traditional: No tipping
- Now: 5-10% appreciated in tourist areas
- Hotels: 20-50 baht for porters
- Spas: 10% becoming common
Vietnam
- Growing expectation in tourist zones
- Hotels: $1-2 for porters
- Restaurants: 5-10% in urban areas
- Tour guides: $5-10 per day
Indonesia
- Tourist areas: 5-10% common
- Local areas: No tipping expected
- Hotels: 10,000-20,000 IDR for service
- Taxis: Round up the fare
Pro Tips for Travelers to Asia
- Research specific locations – customs vary by city
- Carry small local currency for optional tipping
- In doubt, ask your hotel concierge about local practices
- Be discreet when tipping is appropriate
- Respect refusals graciously
This guide emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting local customs while acknowledging the evolving nature of tipping practices in tourist-heavy areas.
Tipping in the Middle East and Africa
Tipping customs in the Middle East and Africa vary widely. You’ll find different rules for gratuities in places like Dubai compared to Cairo or Nairobi. But, here’s a quick guide to help you navigate tipping in these regions:
Middle East
United Arab Emirates
- Hotels: 10-20 AED per bag for porters
- Restaurants: 10-15% if no service charge
- Taxis: Round up or 5-10 AED
- Key note: Many Dubai restaurants include service charge; check bill
Egypt
- Hotels: 10-20 EGP per bag, 20-30 EGP per day for housekeeping
- Restaurants: 10% even when service charge exists
- Tour guides: 100-150 EGP per day
- Local insight: Small tips (baksheesh) expected for many services
Jordan
- Hotels: 1-2 JD per bag, 2 JD per day for housekeeping
- Restaurants: 10% standard
- Taxi drivers: Round up fare
- Note: At historic sites, guides expect tips
Israel
- Restaurants: 12-15% standard
- Taxis: Round up to nearest 5 NIS
- Tour guides: 70-100 NIS per day
- Important: Many establishments closed on Shabbat
Africa
South Africa
- Restaurants: 10-15% standard
- Hotels: 20-50 ZAR per bag
- Tour guides: 100-200 ZAR per day
- Parking attendants: 10-20 ZAR (unique to SA)
Morocco
- Restaurants: 10% in tourist areas
- Hotels: 20 MAD per bag, 20-30 MAD per day for housekeeping
- Guides: 100-150 MAD per day
- Cultural note: Offer tips with right hand
Kenya
- Hotels: 100-200 KSH per bag
- Restaurants: 10% in urban areas
- Safari guides: $10-20 per day
- Camp staff: $5-10 per day per guest
Tanzania
- Safari guides: $20-30 per day
- Porter on Kilimanjaro: $20-30 per day
- Restaurants: 5-10% in tourist areas
- Hotels: $1-2 per bag
Essential Tips for Regional Tipping
- Carry Local Currency
- Always keep small denominations
- Some countries prefer new, clean bills
- Exchange money at official locations
- Service Staff Expectations
- Hotels: Tip daily for housekeeping
- Restaurants: Check bill for service charges
- Tours: Tip at end of service
- Porters: Tip immediately after service
- Cultural Considerations
- Middle East: Use right hand to give tips
- Some regions: Discreet tipping preferred
- Religious sites: Different rules may apply
- Tourist vs local areas: Expectations vary
- Safari-Specific Guidelines
- Tip guides at trip’s end
- Separate tips for different staff roles
- Pool tips for camp staff
- Consider length and quality of service
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t tip with coins in most Middle Eastern countries
- Avoid pooling tips in restaurants – give directly to server
- Don’t skip tipping safari staff – it’s a significant part of their income
- Never tip with left hand in Muslim countries
- Don’t forget to tip bathroom attendants (common in both regions)
This structure provides clear, practical guidance while respecting regional differences and cultural sensitivities.
Global Tipping: Quick Reference
| Region/Country | Standard Practice | Unique Cultural Note | Key Thing to Remember |
| United States | 15-20% standard | Tipping is essential part of service workers’ wages | Tips expected for nearly all services |
| France | Service compris included | Additional 5% for exceptional service | Look for “service compris” on bill |
| Italy | Coperto on bill | Coperto is for table setting, not service | Cash tips preferred over credit card |
| Japan | No tipping | Can be considered offensive | Politely refuse to accept if tip is returned |
| China | No tipping in local spots | Only tip at international hotels | Look for “Xiaofei” (service charge) on bills |
| UAE (Dubai) | 10% service charge + 10-15% tip | Service charges mandatory by law | Use right hand when giving tips |
| Egypt | Baksheesh expected | Small tips for most services | Clean, new bills preferred |
| South Africa | 10-15% standard | Unique: Tip parking attendants | Tipping more common than rest of Africa |
| Morocco | Part of daily life | All tips with right hand | Tip bathroom attendants |
| Thailand | Evolving customs | Traditional no-tip culture changing | 5-10% now common in tourist areas |
| Singapore | Government discourages | Look for “+++” on bills | High-end hotels exception to no-tip rule |
| Australia | Not expected | Workers receive high wages | Optional rounding up sufficient |
| Germany | 5-10% standard | Tell final amount including tip | Don’t leave tip on table |
| UK | 10-15% restaurants | Not expected in pubs | Check bill for service charge first |
Pro Tips for International Tipping Etiquette:
- Always carry local currency in small denominations
- Check bills for included service charges
- When in doubt, ask hotel concierge
- Respect cultural customs and refusals
- Tourist areas often have different expectations than local areas
Final Tips for Your Global Tipping Guide
Understanding global tipping customs is an essential part of responsible travel. Here are the key principles to remember:
Before Your Trip
- Research your destination’s tipping culture
- Download a currency converter app
- Get small denominations in local currency
- Save the Quick Reference Table for offline access
- Check if your destination uses digital payment apps for tipping
Universal Guidelines
- Always check bills for existing service charges
- Carry small bills in local currency
- Remember tourist areas often have different expectations
- When in doubt, ask your hotel concierge
- Be respectful of no-tipping cultures
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Don’t assume US tipping standards apply globally
- Avoid tipping with coins in Middle Eastern countries
- Never tip with the left hand in Muslim countries
- Don’t insist on tipping where it’s discouraged
- Beware of double-tipping when service is included
Remember: Tipping isn’t just about money—it’s about respecting local customs and showing appreciation for service. When you’re unsure, it’s better to ask politely than make assumptions. The most important thing is to approach tipping with cultural awareness and genuine respect for local practices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Global Tipping
Essential Tipping Questions
Q: When should I tip in cash vs. card?
- Cash is preferred in most countries
- Some reasons why:
- Ensures staff receives tips directly
- Helps avoid credit card fees
- Many places lack digital tipping systems
- Some countries are primarily cash-based
Q: What if I don’t have the right currency or small bills?
- Ask your hotel for small bills when exchanging currency
- Visit ATMs early in your trip for local currency
- In emergencies, major currencies (USD, EUR) are often accepted
- Tip in local currency whenever possible
Q: How do I handle group tours and multi-day services?
- Tours: $10-20 per person per day for guides
- Safaris: Tip at end of trip, not daily
- Cruise ships: Check gratuity policies beforehand
- Multi-day tours: Consider tipping support staff separately
Cultural Considerations
Q: How do I avoid cultural faux pas when tipping?
- Research country-specific customs
- Note religious considerations (e.g., using right hand in Muslim countries)
- Watch for service charges on bills
- Respect if tips are refused
Q: Which countries have strict no-tipping policies?
- Japan: Service included, tipping can offend
- China: Only tip in international hotels
- South Korea: Service charge common in high-end places
- Singapore: Government discourages tipping
- New Zealand: Not expected due to fair wages
Practical Tips
Q: What’s the best way to prepare for tipping before a trip?
- Download currency converter app
- Get small bills from your bank
- Research standard percentages
- Learn key phrases about service charges
- Save offline guide for reference
Q: How do service charges affect tipping?
- Check bill for terms like:
- “Service compris” (France)
- “Coperto” (Italy)
- “IVA incluido” (Spain)
- “+++” (Singapore)
- Additional tips optional but appreciated for exceptional service
Digital Era Questions
Q: How do I handle digital tipping platforms?
- Check if local payment apps are common
- Be aware of digital service fees
- Carry cash as backup
- Ask about preferred payment methods
Q: What about new tipping technologies and expectations?
- Some regions adopting digital payments
- Tourist areas may have different systems
- Review digital receipt carefully for charges
- Consider local digital payment customs
Emergency Situations
Q: What if I run out of cash for tips?
- Ask hotel concierge for nearest ATM
- See if credit card tips are accepted
- Explain situation to service provider
- Make note to tip extra next time
Q: How do I handle tipping disputes?
- Check bill carefully
- Ask for clarification on charges
- Speak with management if necessary
- Keep small bills to avoid change issues
