Few things trip up travellers like tipping. Culture varies enormously between countries — from the near-obligatory percentages of the United States to places where tipping simply isn't part of the culture at all. A clear sense of what's normal lets you tip correctly and confidently.
The three tipping cultures
Most countries fall into one of three groups, and recognising which one you're in solves most tipping confusion.
Staff rely on tips as income. Not tipping is seen as a real insult. Budget 15–20% on restaurant and bar bills, plus tips for taxis, hotel staff and tours.
A small tip or rounding up is welcome for good service but not required. Always check whether a service charge is already on the bill before adding more.
Tipping isn't part of the culture and can confuse or even offend. Excellent service is simply the standard — a polite thank-you is the right gesture.
Restaurant norms by region
| Region | Restaurant norm | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USA & Canada | 15–20%+ | Expected; staff wages depend on it |
| UK & Ireland | 10–12.5% | Check if service charge already added |
| Europe (most) | Round up to ~5–10% | Appreciated, not obligatory |
| Australia & NZ | Optional, ~10% for great service | Not expected; staff paid properly |
| Japan & South Korea | No tipping | Can cause confusion or offence |
| SE Asia | Small tip / round up | Common in tourist areas, not required |
Customs vary within regions and change over time — treat this as a general guide and observe what locals do.
Look up your destination
Pick a country for a quick breakdown of restaurants, cafés, taxis and hotels, plus the local nuance.
Tipping by country → venue-by-venue
Getting it right
- Check the bill first — a service charge may already be included, especially in the UK and tourist restaurants.
- Carry small notes/coins — tips are easier in cash, and card machines don't always have a tip option abroad.
- When unsure, watch the locals — or discreetly ask. Observing real behaviour beats any guidebook rule.
- Don't over-tip in no-tip cultures — it's not generous, just confusing, and can undercut local norms.
Go deeper
Questions
How much should I tip in the USA?
In restaurants and bars, 15–20% is standard and effectively expected, since staff wages depend on it. Also tip taxi drivers, hotel housekeeping and porters, and tour guides. Under-tipping in the US is considered genuinely rude.
Is it rude to tip in Japan?
Tipping isn't customary in Japan and can cause confusion or be politely refused. Excellent service is the norm and is already included in the price. A sincere thank-you is the appropriate gesture rather than money.
How do I know if service is already included?
Look for a line on the bill labelled "service charge" or "service compris" (or the local equivalent). If it's there, you generally don't need to add more. When in doubt, ask the staff — it's a normal question.
Should I tip taxi drivers and hotel staff?
It depends on the country's culture. In tipping-expected countries like the US, yes — round up taxis and tip porters and housekeeping. In no-tip cultures, it's not necessary. In appreciated-tip countries, rounding up a taxi fare is a kind touch but optional.
Cash or card for tipping?
Cash is safest — it reaches staff directly and works everywhere, and many overseas card machines don't offer a tip line. Keep some small notes and coins handy in tipping cultures so you're never caught short.
What if I can't tell the local custom?
Observe what locals do, or quietly ask a hotel receptionist or your guide. As a safe default, rounding up the bill for good service is rarely wrong in appreciated-tip countries, while you can skip it entirely in clear no-tip cultures.
Tipping customs vary within countries and change over time. This is general guidance only — when in doubt, observe local practice or ask.