How To Tip When Traveling Around The World

Tipping customs can vary significantly from one country to another. What’s considered generous in one country might be offensive or unnecessary in another. It is essential to be aware of the local tipping etiquette to ensure you navigate these situations appropriately and respectfully. 

With over 180 countries in the world, figuring out how much you need to tip when traveling can seem overwhelming. Below we have outlined how much to tip depending on what region of the world you're in.  

Most importantly, cash is the most common way to tip so make sure you order your currency with CXI's Home Delivery. 

When Is the Best Time to Tip?

In taxis: In regions like England and North America, tipping about 10-15% of the price is considered normal for taxi rides. However, in Singapore, Vietnam, South Korea, and Japan you would pay the exact fare, no tip.  

In the restaurant: Many employees in the restaurant industry in other countries are still financially dependent on their tips. 15-20% of the total bill is a good tip if you feel that the service met your expectations. On the other hand, in China giving tips is considered rude.  

At the hotel: A rule of thumb for some travelers in European countries is to have a euro per carried bag. Having small denominations in cash is perfect for instances like this to ensure you have the amount you need. In some countries, it may be challenging to add it to a credit card payment, so having cash is essential.  

North America 

United States & Canada

In the U.S. and Canada, tipping is customary, with 15-20% standard in restaurants and bars. For services like taxis, 10-15% is typical, while hotel bellhops and valets expect $2 per service. 

Mexico & Caribbean 

In Mexico and most Caribbean islands, tipping between 10-15% in restaurants is common. Hotels often add a service charge; however, additional small tips to housekeeping ($1-2 per day) are appreciated. 

Europe

Western Europe (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK) 

In France and Italy, a service charge is usually included in the restaurant bill. However, adding a small tip of 5-10% directly to your waiter for excellent service is common. In Germany, Spain, and the UK, tipping around 10% is typical if a service fee isn’t already included. For taxis, the best practice is to round up the fare, and small tips for hotel staff like housekeeping is standard. 

Eastern Europe (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania) 

In Eastern European countries, tipping 10% at restaurants is customary. Taxi drivers usually expect you to round up the fare to the nearest convenient amount, while small gratuities for hotel services are common. 

Northern Europe (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland) 

Tipping is typically minimal in Northern Europe as service charges are often added to the bill. Rounding up to the nearest whole amount or giving up to a 10% tip for extraordinary service is acceptable and appreciated but not expected. 

Asia 

East Asia (Japan, China, South Korea) 

In Japan, tipping is not customary and may be considered rude as exceptional service is a cultural expectation. Similarly, in China and South Korea, tipping isn’t standard practice and can cause confusion or embarrassment. 

Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines) 

Modest tipping is widely appreciated in Southeast Asia. In restaurants, a gratuity of 5-10% is appropriate. Tips of $1-5 for guides, taxi drivers, and hotel staff are expected and warmly received. 

South Asia (India, Sri Lanka) 

Restaurants in India and Sri Lanka often include a service charge, but an additional 5-10% tip is customary if service is exemplary. Small tips are generally expected by tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff, recognizing good service. 

Africa 

North Africa (Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia) 

Tipping is widely expected in North Africa for virtually all services. Restaurants typically warrant a 10% gratuity, and giving small denominations to guides, porters, and taxi drivers is a common gesture that enhances your interaction and service quality. 

Sub-Saharan Africa (South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania) 

In Sub-Saharan countries like South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania, a 10% tip is standard in restaurants. Safari guides, lodge staff, and tour guides generally rely on tips, so daily gratuities of 10% or higher are expected and highly valued. 

Oceania 

Australia & New Zealand 

Tipping in Australia and New Zealand is not obligatory, but a 10% tip for excellent service in restaurants is becoming increasingly common. While tipping hotel staff or taxi drivers isn’t generally expected, small tips for exemplary service are always appreciated. 

South America 

Brazil, Argentina, Chile 

A service charge is commonly included in restaurants across Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. If no charge is indicated, tipping about 10% is expected. Taxi drivers don’t usually anticipate tips, but rounding up fares as a gesture of appreciation is a friendly and common practice. 

Peru, Colombia, Ecuador 

In Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador, tipping around 10% in restaurants is customary. Providing small gratuities to tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff demonstrates gratitude and enhances your service experience. 

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