Travel

Travel Tipping Guide

Look up tipping customs by country. Never over-tip or under-tip again.

Quick Answer

Tipping norms vary dramatically. The US expects 15-20% at restaurants. Japan considers tipping rude. Most of Europe includes service in the bill. Select your destination below for specific guidelines.

Restaurants15-20%
Taxis / Rideshare15-20%
Hotel (housekeeping)$2-5/night
Tour Guides15-20%
Bars$1-2/drink
Hair / Spa15-20%
Local Notes: Tipping is expected and a significant part of workers' income.

Quick Reference: All Countries

CountryRestaurantTaxi
United States15-20%15-20%
Canada15-20%15%
United Kingdom10-15%Round up
FranceRound up (service included)Round up
Germany5-10%Round up
ItalyRound up (coperto charged)Round up
SpainRound up to nearest €Round up
JapanDo NOT tipDo NOT tip
South KoreaDo NOT tipNot expected
ChinaNot expectedNot expected
ThailandRound up or 10%Round up
Mexico10-15%Round up
AustraliaNot expected (10% for great service)Round up
Brazil10% (often included)Round up
India10%Round up

About This Tool

The Travel Tipping Guide covers tipping customs for 15 popular travel destinations. Select your country and see recommended tip amounts for restaurants, taxis, hotels, tours, bars, and personal services. Local context notes explain the cultural nuances.

Why Tipping Varies So Much

Tipping culture reflects how workers are compensated. In the US, servers earn a low base wage and rely on tips. In Japan and Australia, service workers earn competitive wages and tips are unnecessary. European countries fall in between, often including a service charge in the bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I tip in countries where it's not expected?
Generally, follow local customs. In Japan, tipping can be considered insulting. In Australia, it's not expected but won't offend. When in doubt, observe what locals do. Over-tipping in non-tipping countries can create awkward expectations for future tourists.
How do I handle tipping in cash vs. card?
Cash tips are preferred in most countries — the money goes directly to the worker. When tipping on a credit card, not all of it may reach the server. In Europe, hand cash directly to the server rather than leaving it on the table.
What is a service charge?
A service charge (servizio in Italy, service compris in France, gorjeta in Brazil) is a percentage automatically added to your bill. It replaces the tip. Check your receipt — if included, additional tipping is optional (a few coins for great service).
Should I tip tour guides?
Tour guides rely heavily on tips in most countries. For a half-day tour, $5-10 per person is standard. For full-day tours, $10-20 per person. Private tour guides warrant the higher end. Free walking tours expect $5-10 per person.
How do I tip with foreign currency?
Tip in local currency whenever possible. US dollars are accepted in some tourist areas but may give a poor exchange rate. Withdraw local cash from ATMs (usually the best exchange rate) and keep small bills handy for tips.