Tipping can be one of the most confusing parts of international travel. What’s considered polite in one country might be awkward or even offensive in another. Getting it wrong can lead to uncomfortable moments—whether you’re accidentally stiffing a server who relies on tips or awkwardly over-tipping where it’s not expected. To help you navigate this cultural minefield, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to tipping customs across the globe.
North America: Where Tipping Is Expected
United States & Canada
Tipping isn’t just customary here—it’s essential. Service workers often earn below minimum wage, relying on tips to make a living.
Forgetting to tip in the U.S. or Canada can lead to dirty looks, so when in doubt, tip.
Restaurants: 15-20% of the bill (20% is standard for good service).
Bars: $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab.
Taxis/Rideshares: 15-20%.
Hotel staff: 1-2 per bag for porters, $2-5 per night for housekeeping.
Europe: A Mixed Bag of Customs
Western Europe (France, Germany, Spain, Italy)
Tipping isn’t as aggressive as in the U.S., but it’s still appreciated.
Restaurants: Round up the bill or leave 5-10%. Some places include a service charge ("servizio incluso").
Bars/Cafés: Small change (€0.50-€1 for coffee).
Taxis: Round up to the nearest euro.
UK & Ireland
Restaurants: 10-12.5% (sometimes added automatically).
Pubs: No need to tip bartenders.
Taxis: Round up or add 10%.
Scandinavia (Sweden, Norway, Denmark)
High wages mean tipping is rare. Rounding up is polite, but no one expects extra.
Eastern Europe (Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary)
Tipping is becoming more common in tourist areas.
Restaurants: 10% is generous.
Taxis: Round up or add 5-10%.
Asia: When Tipping Can Be Offensive
Japan & South Korea
Tipping is not part of the culture and can even be seen as rude. Excellent service is standard, and leaving extra money may confuse staff. If you try to tip, expect them to politely refuse.
China
Tipping isn’t expected, though luxury hotels and Western-style restaurants may accept it.
Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia)
Tipping isn’t mandatory, but small amounts are appreciated.
Restaurants: 5-10% in tourist areas (check if service charge is included).
Taxis: Round up or leave small change.
Tour guides: $5-10/day is generous.
India
Tipping is common but modest.
Restaurants: 5-10% (if no service charge).
Taxis: Round up or add 10-20 rupees.
Hotel staff: 50-100 rupees for porters.
Middle East: Tipping Is Common
UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia
Service workers often rely on tips.
Restaurants: 10-15%.
Taxis: 10% or round up.
Hotel staff: $1-5 for bellboys, housekeeping.
Israel
Restaurants: 10-12% (sometimes included).
Taxis: Not expected, but rounding up is polite.
Latin America: Tipping Varies by Country
Mexico & Brazil
Tipping is expected.
Restaurants: 10-15%.
Taxis: Not required, but rounding up is nice.
Tour guides: $5-10/day.
Argentina & Chile
Restaurants: 10% is standard.
Taxis: Round up.
Africa: A Blend of Customs
South Africa
Restaurants: 10-15%.
Taxis: 10%.
Egypt & Morocco
Restaurants: 5-10%.
Tour guides: $5-10/day.
Australia & New Zealand: Tipping Is Optional
Wages are high, so tipping isn’t expected. If service is exceptional, 5-10% is fine, but no one will chase you down if you don’t tip.
Final Tips for Global Tipping
Always check your bill—some places add a service charge automatically.
Carry small bills for tips in countries where cash is preferred.
When in doubt, ask a local or observe what others do.
Tipping customs reflect cultural values around service and wages. By following local norms, you show respect—and avoid awkward moments.
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