Understanding when, where, and how much to tip can be a challenge for many travelers. Tipping culture varies significantly between different countries and situations. This guide aims to navigate these questions, providing insights into why, when, where, and how much to tip in different parts of the world and emphasizing the importance of having cash on hand during your trip.
Tipping is a gesture of appreciation for good service. In many countries, tipping is an important part of the income of service staff, such as waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel employees. Tipping is not only a way to show gratitude but also to support employees' finances.
In many countries and cultures, it is a social norm, while in other countries it can be unusual or even impolite. Knowing local tipping cultures will help you show respect and enhance your travel experience
In many countries, cash is still the preferred way to tip. Although card payments are becoming more common, it can be difficult to add tips to card transactions in some regions. Therefore, it is wise to always have some cash on hand for this purpose. It can also be a more personal gesture of appreciation to tip in cash.
The amount varies depending on the country and the type of service. Round up, in many countries it is common to round up to the nearest whole amount. Percentage-based tipping, in some countries, such as the United States, it is standard to tip around 10-15%.
Here are some general guidelines:
Restaurants
In the United States, it is standard to tip at least 15–20%.
Taxi rides
In many European countries, such as Spain and Greece, it is common to round up to the nearest euro.
Hotel staff
For cleaning staff, it is customary to leave 1–2 euros per night, and for porters 1–2 euros per bag.
Tips are usually given in connection with services in the service industry. Here are some specific situations:
Restaurants and cafes
After eating or drinking, especially if the service has been satisfactory.
Taxi
After the end of the trip, especially if the driver has been helpful or driven extra carefully.
Hotel
When helping with luggage or after a long stay as a thank you for good service.
Guides and excursions
After a guided tour or activity, especially if the guide has been informative and engaging.
Hairdressers and spa treatments
In many countries, a tip of 10-15% is expected.
Delivery staff
About 10% or round up the amount for food deliveries and other services.
Tipping at a restaurant is one of the more common places, these tips can be good to keep in mind:
Tipping after a taxi ride is common abroad, especially if the trip has been a little out of the ordinary.
It varies depending on the country and type of service. But the most common ones to tip for in hotels are:
Here are five countries where tipping is a significant part of service culture:
United States
A tip of 15–20% is standard in restaurants and for service staff.
Canada
Similar to the United States, with 15-20% in tips in restaurants and for service.
Mexico
A tip of 10–15% is expected in restaurants.
Egypt
A 5-10% tip is standard in restaurants and bars.
Türkiye
A tip of 10–15% is expected in high-end restaurants.
In the following countries, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated:
United Kingdom (England)
A 10-15% tip is common in restaurants.
France
Often a service fee is included in the bill, but it is still common to give a little extra as a tip.
Italy
A tip of 10–15% is considered appropriate in restaurants.
Spain (and the Canary Islands)
A 5-10% tip is common in restaurants.
Greece
A 5-10% tip is standard in restaurants.
In some countries, tipping is uncommon or may even be considered inappropriate:
Japan
Tipping is not part of the culture and can be perceived as insulting.
China
Tipping is not common and is not expected.
South Korea
Tipping is not part of the culture and is not expected.
Denmark
Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.
Australia
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for exceptional service.
Small purchases and gratuities
Many small shops, taxis, and service staff prefer or accept cash only.
Emergencies
Cards may stop working or not be accepted in some places, so having cash as a backup is important.
Secure the exchange rate
By exchanging to local currency before departure, you can secure a better rate, rather than later by using cards and ATMs abroad.
Drinking culture
In many countries, tipping in cash is easier and more appreciated, especially for service staff who may not be allowed to accept tips via card payments.
Despite the global increase in card payments, cash is still indispensable in many situations, especially when it comes to tipping. Smaller businesses, markets, and service providers often only accept cash.
Having local currency on hand not only facilitates payments but also shows respect for the local culture.
As a customer of FOREX, it is a good idea to plan your travel expenses in advance. Having cash ready for tipping can make your trip smoother and reduce stress when arriving in a new country. By exchanging currency before departure, you can also secure the rate for the day you buy currency in-store or online.
Understanding tipping cultures and cash usage is essential for a smooth travel experience. By being aware of local customs and preparing with enough cash, you can show appreciation for good service and avoid potential cultural misunderstandings.
