Complete Tipping Guide
Learn how much to tip for different services and situations. Your comprehensive guide to proper tipping etiquette.
Restaurants & Dining
Standard: 15-20%
- • Full-service restaurants: 18-20% of pre-tax bill
- • Casual dining: 15-18% for standard service
- • Fine dining: 20%+ for exceptional service
- • Buffets: 10% or $1-2 per person
- • Counter service: Tip jar optional, 10-15% appreciated
Food Delivery
Standard: 15-20% + $3 minimum
- • Minimum tip: $3-5 regardless of order size
- • Standard delivery: 15-20% of order total
- • Bad weather: Add 20-25% for rain, snow, or extreme conditions
- • Large orders: 20%+ for orders over $100
- • Long distance: Add extra $2-5 for distances over 5 miles
Bars & Bartenders
Standard: $1-2 per drink or 15-20%
- • Beer/wine: $1-2 per drink
- • Cocktails: $2-3 per drink or 20%
- • Opening a tab: 15-20% of total bill
- • Complex drinks: $3-5 for craft cocktails
Hair Salons & Barbers
Standard: 15-20%
- • Haircut: 15-20% of service cost
- • Color/styling: 18-20% or more for complex work
- • Shampoo assistant: $3-5 separately
- • Salon owner: Still tip 15-20% (etiquette varies)
Taxi & Rideshare
Standard: 10-15%
- • Standard ride: 10-15% of fare
- • Airport rides: 15-20% especially with luggage help
- • Exceptional service: 20%+ for great conversation or extra help
- • Shared rides: Still tip on your portion
Hotels
Varies by service
- • Housekeeping: $2-5 per night, left daily
- • Bellhop: $1-2 per bag
- • Concierge: $5-20 for special arrangements
- • Valet: $2-5 each time car is retrieved
- • Room service: 15-20% if not included in bill
🌟 Special Situations
Large Groups
Parties of 6+ often have 18-20% gratuity automatically added. Check your bill before tipping extra.
Poor Service
Tip 10-15% for subpar service, but speak with a manager about issues. Servers rely on tips for income.
Exceptional Service
Don't hesitate to tip 25-30% for truly outstanding service. It's noticed and appreciated!
Split Bills
When splitting, ensure the tip is calculated on the total original bill, not individual portions.
🌍 Regional Tipping Customs
Tipping practices vary significantly around the world. Here's what you need to know when traveling internationally:
🇺🇸 United States & Canada
Standard: 15-20% for most services
Tipping is expected and crucial for service workers' income. Many servers earn below minimum wage without tips.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Standard: 10-15% in restaurants
Check if service charge is included. Tipping in pubs is uncommon. Round up taxi fares to nearest pound.
🇪🇺 Europe (General)
Standard: 5-10% or round up
Service charge often included. Small tips appreciated but not mandatory. France: 5-10%. Germany: round up. Italy: 1-2 euros.
🇯🇵 Japan
Standard: No tipping expected
Tipping can be considered rude or confusing. Excellent service is standard and included in the price.
🇦🇺 Australia & New Zealand
Standard: Not required, 10% appreciated
Fair wages mean tipping isn't mandatory. Round up or leave 10% for exceptional service at upscale restaurants.
🇲🇽 Mexico & Latin America
Standard: 10-15% in tourist areas
Mexico: 10-15% common. Some resorts include service charges. Always tip in local currency when possible.
🌏 Southeast Asia
Standard: Not customary, but appreciated
Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia: Not expected at local places. Upscale restaurants may add 10% service charge. Small tips welcomed.
🇦🇪 Middle East
Standard: 10-15% becoming common
UAE, Qatar: Service charge often included. Extra 5-10% appreciated for good service. Check bill carefully.
💡 Pro Tip: Always research local customs before traveling. When in doubt, observe locals or ask your hotel concierge about appropriate tipping practices for the region.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Should I tip on tax?
Tip on the pre-tax amount. This is proper etiquette and what most people do.
What if service charge is included?
Service charges may not go to servers. Check with staff or add 5-10% extra for good service.
Is tipping required?
While not legally required in most places, tipping is customary and expected for service workers who often earn below minimum wage.
Can I tip less than 15%?
Only for truly poor service. If you receive bad service, speak with management. Remember servers depend on tips for their livelihood.
Need to Calculate a Tip?
Use our free calculator to instantly calculate tips and split bills.
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