EndTippingCulture

Category: International Travel

International Travel Articles

Global Tipping Customs: A Country-by-Country Guide

February 8, 2026

Tipping customs vary widely across the globe, influenced by cultural norms, economic structures, and local expectations. While some countries view tipping as a generous gesture, others may see it as unnecessary or even inappropriate. This guide offers a regional breakdown of tipping practices to help travelers navigate gratuity etiquette worldwide.

🇺🇸 North America

United States

Restaurants: Tipping is customary, with 15–20% of the pre-tax bill expected for table service.

Other Services: Tips are common for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and hairdressers. Note: Tipping is considered a significant part of service workers’ income.

Canada

Restaurants: A tip of 15–20% is standard. Other Services: Tipping is customary for various services, including taxis and salons.

Note: While tipping is widespread, there is growing discussion about “tipping fatigue” among consumers.

Mexico

Restaurants: A 10–15% tip is customary if not already included in the bill.

Other Services: Small tips are appreciated for services like hotel staff and taxi drivers.

🇪🇺 Europe

France

Restaurants: A service charge is typically included; however, leaving an additional 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated. Note: Be cautious of establishments that may pressure tourists into tipping more than customary.

Germany

Restaurants: Tipping is customary, usually rounding up the bill or adding 5–10%.

Other Services: Tips are appreciated for services like taxis and hairdressers.

United Kingdom

Restaurants: A 10–15% tip is customary if a service charge isn’t included.

Other Services: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory for services like taxis and hotel staff.

Italy

Restaurants: A service charge (coperto) is often included; additional tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service.

Other Services: Tipping is not customary but appreciated in tourist areas.

Scandinavia (Sweden, Norway, Denmark)

Restaurants: Tipping is not expected; rounding up the bill is sufficient.

Other Services: Tipping is rare due to higher service wages.

🌏 Asia

Japan

Restaurants: Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude.

Other Services: Exceptional service may be acknowledged with a small gift rather than cash. Note: Tipping is generally discouraged in Japanese culture.

China

Restaurants: Tipping is not customary and may be refused. Other Services: Tipping is uncommon, except in tourist areas where it may be accepted.

India

Restaurants: A 5–10% tip is customary.

Other Services: Tipping is common for services like hotel staff and drivers.

Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia)

Restaurants: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; small amounts or rounding up the bill is common.

Other Services: Tipping is appreciated for services like hotel staff and tour guides.

🌍 Africa

South Africa

Restaurants: A 10–15% tip is customary.

Other Services: Tipping is expected for services like taxi drivers and hotel staff.

Morocco

Restaurants: Tipping is customary; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Other Services: Tipping is appreciated for services like guides and hotel staff.

🌎 South America

Brazil

Restaurants: A 10% service charge is often included; additional tipping is not expected.

Other Services: Tipping is appreciated for services like hotel staff and taxi drivers.

Argentina

Restaurants: A 10% tip is customary.

Other Services: Tipping is common for services like hotel staff and taxi drivers.

🌐 Middle East

United Arab Emirates

Restaurants: A 10–15% tip is customary if a service charge isn’t included.

Other Services: Tipping is expected for services like hotel staff and taxi drivers.

Egypt

Restaurants: A 10% tip is customary.

Other Services: Tipping is common for various services, often referred to as “baksheesh.”

🇦🇺 Oceania

Australia

Restaurants: Tipping is not customary; rounding up the bill is appreciated in fine dining establishments.

Other Services: Tipping is not expected due to higher service wages.

New Zealand

Restaurants: Tipping is not customary; appreciated for exceptional service.

Other Services: Tipping is not expected.

Tipping practices can vary within countries and regions. It’s advisable to research local customs or ask locals when in doubt.

February 7, 2026
Tipping in Top Travel Destinations for Americans: What You Should Know Before You Go

February 8, 2026

Tipping Abroad: What Americans Get Wrong

Many U.S. travelers carry their tipping habits overseas—leaving 20% tips in countries where it’s unnecessary or even awkward. But tipping norms around the world differ greatly. In some places, tipping is welcome. In others, it’s included—or considered unnecessary. Here’s what to expect in the most popular international travel spots for Americans.

🇲🇽 Mexico

Tipping Expected: Yes Restaurants: 10–20%, especially in tourist areas Resorts: Tips appreciated—even at all-inclusives Hotel Staff: $1–$3 per service

🇨🇦 Canada

Tipping Expected: Yes Restaurants: 15–20% Taxis: 10% or round up Hotels: $2–$5 per service

🇫🇷 France

Tipping Expected: No (Service Included) Restaurants: 15% is already on the bill Cafés & Casual Dining: Round up or leave change Taxis/Hotels: Not required, but €1–€2 is polite

🇮🇹 Italy

Tipping Expected: No Restaurants: A coperto (cover charge) is often added Leave: €1–€2 only if service was exceptional Taxis/Hotels: Rounding up is fine

🇯🇵 Japan

Tipping Expected: No Restaurants/Hotels: Tipping is seen as confusing or even rude Alternative: Show appreciation with a bow or a small gift

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Tipping Expected: Sometimes Restaurants: 10–12.5% if not already included Pubs: No tipping Hotels/Taxis: Rounding up is polite

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

Tipping Expected: Yes (especially in resorts) Restaurants: 10% service charge is added, but more is expected Hotels/Resorts: $1–$5 per service Tours: $5–$10 per person

🇯🇲 Jamaica

Tipping Expected: Yes Resorts/Hotels: Bring $1 bills; tips expected throughout Restaurants: 10–15% Tours: $5+ per guest

🇹🇭 Thailand

Tipping Expected: Sometimes Restaurants: Round up or leave loose change Hotels/Drivers: $1–$2 for good service Tours: $5–$10 per person

Why This Matters

When Americans overtip abroad, they can unintentionally contribute to tip creep—raising expectations in cultures where tips were once symbolic or nonexistent. Knowing the local customs protects both your wallet and cultural balance.

Traveler Tip: When in doubt, ask your hotel concierge or a local guide what’s appropriate—and always check if service is already included on your bill.

Related Articles:

Tipping While Traveling Internationally

October 15, 2025
Tipping in Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean: Expectations, Exceptions, and Tourist Traps

February 8, 2026

North American Neighbors, Different Expectations

Tipping norms shift quickly across borders. In Canada, tipping culture mirrors the U.S.—though not as intense. Mexico blends local hospitality with tourist expectations, while the Caribbean often includes automatic service charges that visitors still end up tipping on top of.

🇨🇦 Canada: U.S.-Lite Tipping Culture

Restaurants: Tipping 15–20% is expected. Servers rely on tips as part of their income. Cafés/Takeout: 10% or spare change is common. Digital tip prompts are now widespread. Taxis: Round up or 10%. Hotels: $2–$5 per service (bellhops, cleaning staff). Salons/Spas: 15–20% is standard.

💡 Canadians are polite—but that doesn’t mean they like tip creep. Tip fatigue is growing, especially with pre-set digital options.

🇲🇽 Mexico: Blending Tradition with Tourist Tipping

Restaurants: Locals typically tip 10–15%. In tourist areas, staff expect up to 20%. All-Inclusive Resorts: Tips may be “included” but are still heavily expected in practice. Taxis: Not expected. Round up if they help with luggage. Hotels: Tip bellhops and housekeeping ($1–$3 USD). Street Vendors: No tipping expected.

💡 Tipping in U.S. dollars is widely accepted and often preferred, especially in tourist zones.

🇧🇸🇯🇲🇩🇴 The Caribbean: Built-In Gratuities and Double-Tipping Pressure

Restaurants: A 10–15% service charge is often included—but many guests don’t notice. Additional tips may be expected on top. All-Inclusive Resorts: Tipping is technically optional, but heavily encouraged for bartenders, servers, and bellhops. Many tourists bring stacks of $1 bills. Tours & Activities: Tip $5–$10 per person for guides or boat crews. Taxis: Not required, but rounding up is appreciated. Hotels: Expectation for $1–$5 per service.

💡 Workers often rely on tourist tips, but resort marketing may mislead guests into thinking “all-inclusive” means no gratuities.

Takeaway: Know Before You Go

Travelers often over-tip out of habit or guilt. But understanding local tipping customs ensures you don’t contribute to global tip creep or double-tipping scams. Ask if gratuity is included—and don’t feel pressured to tip twice unless you truly want to.

Related Article:

Tipping While Traveling Internationally

September 30, 2025
Tipping in Australia and New Zealand: No Expectations, Just Fair Wages

February 8, 2026

Tipping Down Under: Australia and New Zealand Say No Thanks

In both Australia and New Zealand, tipping culture is almost non-existent. While it’s not illegal or offensive, tips are neither expected nor relied upon by workers. Instead, fair wages, transparent pricing, and a strong work ethic shape service in both countries. If you’re used to being nudged by pre-set tip screens in the U.S., these countries offer a refreshing contrast.

🇦🇺 Australia

Restaurants & Cafés: Tipping is rare. Upscale venues may accept 5–10%, but locals don’t expect it. Coffee Shops: Spare change is appreciated but not assumed. Taxis & Ubers: Rounding up is nice but unnecessary. Hotels: $2–$5 tips for porters at luxury hotels only. Salons: Tipping is not part of the culture.

🇳🇿 New Zealand

Restaurants & Cafés: Tipping is not expected. At high-end places, you may leave 5–10% for exceptional service, but staff are paid full wages. Coffee Shops: No expectation to tip. Rounding up is fine but rare. Taxis & Ubers: Rounding up is courteous but uncommon. Hotels: Luxury hotels might accept a small tip ($2–$5), but it’s not standard practice. Salons & Spas: No tipping expectation. A thank-you goes a long way.

Why Tipping Isn’t a Thing Here

Living Wages: Both countries have strong labor laws and minimum wages that eliminate reliance on tips. Cultural Norms: Tipping can feel awkward or unnecessary in a culture that values equality and fairness. Simple, Transparent Pricing: The price you see is the price you pay—no math, no pressure.

Related Article:

Tipping While Traveling Internationally

September 25, 2025
Tipping in Africa: What’s Expected, Where It’s Optional, and Why It Varies So Widely

February 8, 2026

Tipping in Africa: Tourist-Driven or Culturally Grounded?

Tipping in Africa varies significantly across regions and sectors. In some countries, it’s rare among locals but expected in tourist industries. In others, it’s an essential part of workers’ income. Unlike the U.S., however, tipping across Africa is less standardized—and often tied to whether you’re a visitor or a local.

Where Tipping Is Expected (Especially from Tourists)

🇿🇦 South Africa:

Tipping is expected in restaurants (10–15%), for hotel staff, and safari guides. Tourists are the primary tippers; locals tip less frequently. Service workers often rely on tips to supplement low wages.

🇪🇬 Egypt:

Tips—called baksheesh—are customary in nearly every setting. Locals and tourists alike are expected to tip everyone from waiters to bathroom attendants. Small amounts ($1–$2 USD equivalent) are common.

🇰🇪 Kenya:

In safari and tourist industries, tipping is expected. Drivers, porters, and guides often receive pooled or per-day tips. In cities, a 10% tip in restaurants is appreciated but not obligatory.

Where Tipping Is Appreciated but Not Mandatory

🇲🇦 Morocco:

In restaurants and hotels, tipping 5–10% is appreciated. Many workers depend on tips to supplement modest wages. However, locals tend to tip smaller amounts than tourists.

🇳🇬 Nigeria:

Tipping is informal and varies by situation. Hotel porters or service staff may expect a small gratuity, but there’s no strict tipping norm.

🇹🇿 Tanzania:

Tipping is a major part of income in safari tourism. Lodge staff, drivers, and guides often rely on pooled tips. In local eateries or taxis, tipping is rare and informal.

Where Tipping Is Rare or Symbolic

🇬🇭 Ghana:

Tipping is not expected from locals, but tourists may tip small amounts. Hotel and upscale restaurant staff might expect something modest (around 5%).

🇸🇳 Senegal:

Tipping is more common in tourist hubs like Dakar but rare elsewhere. Small coins or rounding up are considered polite but optional.

🇺🇬 Uganda:

Similar to Kenya and Tanzania—tipping is significant in tourist services, but informal or unnecessary in local life.

Takeaway: When in Doubt, Ask or Observe

In many African countries, tips aren’t mandatory—but in tourism-heavy sectors, they’re expected. When traveling, ask guides or hotel staff for advice on local norms. Tip fairly without overdoing it, and avoid spreading excessive U.S.-style tipping habits.

A Word on Baksheesh and Fair Wages

In North Africa, “baksheesh” blends the ideas of charity, gratuity, and social obligation. While modest, the frequency of tipping can feel overwhelming to tourists. But rather than resisting, use it as an opportunity to give thoughtfully—while pushing for wage fairness wherever possible.

Related Article:

The Hidden Cost of Tipping

September 17, 2025
Tipping in South America: Customs, Exceptions, and Traveler Tips

February 8, 2026

Tipping in South America: A Patchwork of Traditions

Tipping in South America is neither universally expected nor completely rejected—it falls somewhere in between. Most countries include service charges or expect modest tips in certain industries. However, unlike in the U.S., there is no pressure to tip large percentages or tip for every service interaction.

Where Tipping Is Expected (Modestly)

🇧🇷 Brazil:

A 10% service charge is often added to the bill. Additional tips are not expected, though you can round up or give extra in touristy areas. Tipping taxi drivers isn’t customary, but rounding up fares is polite.

🇨🇱 Chile:

A 10% propina (tip) is typically added to restaurant bills, though you can decline it. It’s also common to tip hotel porters and guides a small amount.

🇦🇷 Argentina:

Tipping is expected in restaurants (around 10%), but it’s often done in cash, even if paying the bill by card. Tips are also given to hotel staff and taxi drivers (round up).

Where Tipping Is Appreciated but Optional

🇨🇴 Colombia:

A 10% tip may be included on restaurant bills. If not, leaving one is appreciated but not mandatory. For taxis and other services, rounding up is fine.

🇵🇪 Peru:

A tip of 10% is standard in restaurants if not included. Tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff may expect tips, especially in tourist regions.

🇪🇨 Ecuador:

Restaurants often include a 10% service charge. You may leave a little extra for excellent service, but it’s not required.

Where Tipping Is Minimal

🇧🇴 Bolivia:

Tipping is not common, especially among locals. Tourists may leave small tips in restaurants or for guides, but it’s more of a bonus than an expectation.

🇵🇾 Paraguay:

Some upscale restaurants may include a service charge. Rounding up or tipping 5–10% is appreciated but not widespread.

🇺🇾 Uruguay:

Tipping is common in urban restaurants—usually 10%. In smaller towns, less is expected, and locals may not tip at all.

Why South America Stays Grounded on Tipping

In many South American countries, tipping is a gesture of gratitude, not a wage replacement. Service fees are often built into pricing, and there’s no expectation of 15–25% gratuities like in the U.S. For consumers, this reduces anxiety and lets you focus on the experience—not the math.

Tip Creep Warning for Tourists

Tourists often bring U.S. tipping habits abroad. While it’s generous, it can alter expectations and lead to increased reliance on tips in places where workers should be fairly paid. When in South America, follow local norms—and resist the pressure to overtip.

Related Article:

Tipping While Traveling Internationally

September 11, 2025
Tipping in Europe: Customs, Confusion, and Changing Norms

February 8, 2026

Tipping in Europe: What Travelers Need to Know

Tipping in Europe isn’t as clear-cut as it is in the U.S.—and that’s a good thing. In most European countries, tipping is modest, optional, and often already included in the price. For travelers frustrated by rising tipping expectations in the U.S., Europe offers a refreshing reminder that fair wages and good service don’t need extra cash.

Where Tipping Is Minimal or Included

🇫🇷 France:

Restaurants typically include a 15% service compris in the bill. You can round up or leave some coins, but it’s not expected. Service workers are paid living wages.

🇮🇹 Italy:

A coperto (cover charge) is often included, especially in touristy areas. Tipping a few euros for great service is fine, but never required.

🇪🇸 Spain:

Tipping isn’t customary among locals. Small change or rounding up is polite in cafes or bars, but full percentages like in the U.S. aren’t expected.

Where Tipping Is Common but Modest

🇩🇪 Germany:

Tipping around 5–10% is typical in restaurants, but always hand it directly to the server—it’s not customary to leave it on the table. Wages are higher, so tipping is more of a thank-you than a requirement.

🇦🇹 Austria:

Like Germany, tipping is appreciated but not excessive. Round up or give 5–10%, especially in sit-down restaurants.

🇨🇭Switzerland:

Tips are technically included, but rounding up or leaving 5% is common for good service. The cost of living and wages are high—tipping is optional and symbolic.

Where Tipping Is Expected (Somewhat)

🇬🇧 United Kingdom:

Tipping 10–12.5% is normal in restaurants—if it’s not already added. No need to tip in pubs. Hotel staff and taxi drivers may expect a small gratuity.

🇮🇪 Ireland:

Similar to the UK. Restaurants may include a service charge; if not, leave 10%. Bartenders and cab drivers don’t expect tips, but rounding up is common.

🇬🇷 Greece:

Tips aren’t required but appreciated. Locals often round up or leave 5–10% in tourist areas. In smaller towns, a smile and a thank-you go just as far.

Europe vs. U.S. Tipping: What’s the Difference?

Service Charges: Many European countries include service fees in the price or bill, avoiding the awkwardness of tipping math. Wages: European workers are paid fair wages and don’t rely on tips for survival. Cultural Attitudes: Tipping is seen as appreciation—not obligation.

Don’t Spread Tip Creep Abroad

While American tourists often overtip out of habit, locals generally don’t. Over-tipping in Europe can contribute to rising expectations that mirror problematic U.S. tipping culture. Respect local customs—and avoid fueling global tip creep.

For more information on tipping when traveling internationally:

https://endtippingculture.org/tipping-while-traveling-internationally

September 4, 2025
Tipping Culture in Asia: When, Where, and Why It’s Often Not Expected

February 8, 2026

Tipping in Asia: A Culture of Respect Over Reward

Tipping may be expected in the U.S., but in many parts of Asia, leaving extra money on the table can feel strange—or even offensive. Asian tipping culture is shaped by centuries of social customs, economic structure, and views on service. For travelers, knowing when to tip (and when not to) is essential to respecting local norms and avoiding awkward moments.

Where Tipping Is Discouraged (Or Refused)

🇯🇵 Japan:

Japan is famous for its no-tipping culture. Great service is seen as standard, not something that deserves extra cash. Attempting to tip can confuse or even insult staff. If you want to show gratitude, small gifts or handwritten notes are more appropriate.

🇰🇷 South Korea:

Tipping isn’t expected in most places, including restaurants and taxis. High-end hotels or tourist services may occasionally accept tips, but it’s never required.

🇨🇳 China:

Tipping is not traditional in mainland China, especially among locals. However, in major tourist cities like Beijing or Shanghai, tips might be quietly accepted in hotels or by guides—but again, not expected.

Where Tipping Is Optional but Becoming Common

🇹🇭 Thailand:

Tipping is appreciated, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Bangkok or Phuket. A small tip (10–20 baht) in restaurants or for hotel staff is seen as generous but not obligatory.

🇻🇳 Vietnam:

Tipping has gained traction in tourist zones. Locals rarely tip, but visitors are encouraged to leave small gratuities for waiters or drivers. Round up taxi fares or offer a few dollars for good service.

🇮🇩 Indonesia:

While tipping isn’t part of traditional culture, it’s now common in cities and resorts. Restaurants may include a service charge (5–10%), so check your bill before tipping extra.

Where Tipping Is Expected (but Minimal)

🇮🇳 India:

Tipping is a widespread practice. While the amounts are modest, tips are expected for hotel porters, drivers, and restaurant servers. A 5–10% tip is typical.

🇵🇭 Philippines:

Tipping is customary but informal. Many locals round up the bill or leave 20–50 pesos. Upscale restaurants might add a 10% service charge, but a small cash tip is still welcomed.

Why Tipping Culture Differs in Asia

Asian countries often take pride in service being part of one’s job—not an upsell. In some places, tipping can feel like a judgment on someone’s performance or a disruption of equality. Additionally, many workers in Asia receive salaries that aren’t built around gratuities like in the U.S., where servers rely on tips to make minimum wage.

Takeaway for Travelers

If you’re visiting Asia, don’t assume tipping is necessary. Look up the local norms and when in doubt, ask a local or concierge. Respecting tipping customs abroad shows cultural awareness—and avoids the spread of American-style tip creep into places where it doesn’t belong.

For more information on tipping when traveling internationally:

https://endtippingculture.org/tipping-while-traveling-internationally

August 28, 2025
Tipping Abroad: What to Know Before You Travel

February 8, 2026

Tipping isn’t just a national debate—it’s an international one. As more Americans travel abroad, many are surprised to find that tipping practices vary widely across countries—and in many places, they don’t exist at all.

While tipping may feel second nature in the U.S., where it’s expected nearly everywhere, the rules change once you leave the country. Understanding local customs not only helps you be a respectful traveler—it can also reveal how broken the American tipping system truly is.

Tipping Culture Around the World

Europe

In much of Western Europe, tipping is modest and often already included in the bill.

France, Italy, Spain: A “service charge” is usually built into restaurant prices. Leaving small change is appreciated but not expected. Germany, UK: A 5–10% tip is customary if not already included, but it’s not mandatory. Scandinavia: Tipping is minimal or not practiced—workers are paid livable wages.

Asia

Tipping varies widely across Asia, and in many countries, it’s not part of the culture at all.

Japan: Tipping is seen as disrespectful. Good service is the standard, and tips may be refused. China: Tipping is not expected in most places, though it may be accepted in tourist-heavy areas. Thailand and Vietnam: Small tips are appreciated but not obligatory.

Australia & New Zealand

No tipping culture exists. Workers are paid fairly, and prices reflect service costs. Leaving extra is optional and seen as a gesture, not an expectation.

Latin America

Practices vary, but tipping is generally modest:

Mexico and Brazil: 10% is standard at restaurants, but workers are also paid a base wage. Argentina: Tips are common but small.

Tipping on Cruises and at All-Inclusive Resorts

Cruises

Even though you may pay thousands for your cruise, tipping expectations are often layered on top—sometimes in ways that feel confusing or hidden.

Automatic Gratuities: Most cruise lines (e.g., Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian) add $14–$20 per person per day in automatic tips to your bill—whether or not you interact with the staff. Additional Tips: You may be encouraged to tip for spa services, bartenders, and shore excursions. Can You Opt Out? In many cases, you can request to have these charges removed at guest services, but it’s often discouraged.

Cruise takeaway: You’re tipping for a service you’ve already paid for—and often without clear communication about where the money is going.

All-Inclusive Resorts

The name suggests it’s all covered—but tipping still creeps in.

Some resorts explicitly include tips in the price, but many staff still expect or subtly request extra cash. Tipping in places like Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Dominican Republic is informal but expected, especially for housekeeping, bartenders, and bell staff. If you don’t tip, service may suffer—creating a two-tier system at a “prepaid” resort.

Resort takeaway: “All-inclusive” often doesn’t mean what it says. And it pressures guests to carry cash and navigate unspoken rules.

What This Tells Us About Tipping in the U.S.

American travelers are often shocked by how little tipping is expected—or accepted—abroad. In many countries, hospitality workers are treated as professionals and paid accordingly. They don’t rely on the generosity of strangers to survive.

The contrast reveals just how deeply flawed our system is:

Tipping inflates costs without transparency. It creates confusion and inconsistency. It unfairly shifts the burden of wages onto the customer.

How to Travel Smarter—and Fairer

Research local customs before tipping abroad. In some places, it’s a compliment. In others, it’s an insult. Be respectful, but don’t overtip based on American guilt. Tip where it makes sense, not where it’s assumed. Let fairness, not fear, guide your decisions.

Tipping culture isn’t global. It’s American. And when we see how the rest of the world does things, it’s clear: there’s a better way.

Join the movement to rethink tipping at EndTippingCulture.org

May 24, 2025