Traveling to new destinations is an exciting way to broaden your horizons, immerse yourself in different cultures, and create unforgettable memories. But there’s one question every traveler has probably pondered upon landing in a new country or after a delicious meal abroad: How much should I tip?

Tipping customs vary wildly around the globe. A tip that is considered generous in one country might be seen as absurd or even insulting in another. A U.S.-based traveler, accustomed to tipping 15-25% at restaurants, might find the approach in Japan, where tipping is often unnecessary, surprising or even confusing (it’s actually insulting!). Misunderstanding tipping etiquette can cause awkward interactions or even leave a bad impression with locals. That’s why knowing what’s expected before you go is a small but crucial detail that can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.

In this guide, we’ll unpack the nuances of tipping across the continents, offering money-saving tips, clarifying misunderstandings, and equipping you with the knowledge you need to feel confident when tipping wherever you go.

Why Tipping Matters: A Quick Overview

Before delving into the specifics of tipping rules around the globe, let’s discuss why tipping customs exist in the first place.

Tipping often reflects culture, economic norms, and service expectations in a country. In places like the U.S., tips serve as a major part of earnings in industries such as hospitality and food service, where wages are often set low in anticipation of gratuity. In contrast, many European and Asian countries prioritize inclusive service charges or higher fixed wages, meaning tipping can become optional rather than mandatory.

Understanding these cultural and economic factors not only makes for good travel etiquette but also demonstrates respect for local customs. And as a bonus, tipping correctly can help you budget appropriately for your trip.

Tipping Etiquette by Region

1. North America: Generosity Expected

North America—especially the U.S. and Canada—is infamous for its tipping culture, where gratuities are a significant portion of the expense in all service-related industries.

• Restaurants: In the U.S., tipping 15-25% of the pre-tax bill is standard. In Canada, where the service wage gap isn’t as stark, 15-18% is appropriate. Pro Tip: Always check your bill for an automatic gratuity, especially for larger groups. In fact, with recent inflation, many restaurants are adding service charges automatically for every customer.
• Transportation:
  For taxi or rideshare drivers, tipping 10-15% of the fare is common. Airport shuttle drivers usually expect around $2 per bag.
• Hotels: Bellhops typically receive $1-2 per bag, while housekeeping staff should be tipped $3-5 per day, left in an envelope or with a short thank-you note.
• Other Services: Hairdressers, spa professionals, and tour guides also expect a 15-20% tip.

Even within a tipping-heavy region like North America, opinions vary. According to research by Statista, around 19% of travelers in the U.S. overtip out of fear of being perceived as stingy, while another 10% feel tipping expectations are excessive. To avoid overextending your budget, it’s a good idea to plan for tips ahead of time and factor gratuities into your expenses. (You can see the typical price breakdowns for destinations here at Budget Your Trip.)

2. Europe: The Service Charge Zone

Europe offers a mixed bag of tipping standards because countries fall into different cultural categories when it comes to service. The key is to check whether a service charge is included on your bill—this is common in Western and Southern Europe—and tip lightly beyond that if you received exceptional service.

• Western Europe:
  In countries like France, Belgium, and Germany, a 10% tip is appreciated but not mandatory, as restaurant staff are usually paid fair wages. In France, look for the phrase service compris on your bill; it indicates the tip is already included. In the Netherlands, tipping is rare (or just add a bit to the bill or leave a few coins).

• United Kingdom:
  Adding 10-12% is standard at restaurants, though pub staff don’t usually expect tips. Instead, you can “buy the bartender a drink,” which means adding an extra pound or two to their tip jar.

• Eastern Europe:
  In Hungary, Poland, and the Czech Republic, rounding up your bill or leaving 10% is the norm.

Money-Saving Strategy: Avoid overtipping in countries where service is included, as locals rarely do so. It’s also wise to carry small bills or coins; rounding up is often more practical than calculating percentages.

3. Asia: Where Tipping Is Rare

Asia’s tipping customs can be a major shock for Western travelers, as the norm in much of the region leans toward no tip at all. In places like Japan, tipping can even be interpreted as disrespectful, as great service is seen as honorable and expected rather than something requiring extra acknowledgement.

• Japan:
  Tipping is virtually unheard of and can be viewed as impolite. If you absolutely want to show appreciation, offer a small gift rather than cash.

• China:
  Tipping is becoming more acceptable in urban areas, particularly in tourist-heavy cities like Shanghai and Beijing, but it’s not a widespread practice. Rounding up a bill or leaving a modest 5% is sufficient at hotels or fine-dining restaurants.

• Southeast Asia:
  In countries like Thailand and Vietnam, tipping has become more common due to tourism. Leaving 10-15% in restaurants or giving $1-2 to porters and guides is appreciated but not always expected. Note that in rural areas, tips are often unnecessary.

Insider Tip: If you’re unsure whether tipping is appropriate, observe what locals do or ask your hotel concierge for advice.

4. Latin America: Follow Local Norms

Latin America generally embraces tipping but to varying degrees.

• Mexico:
  Tipping is akin to the U.S.; 10-15% in restaurants is standard, and $1-2 for taxi drivers and hotel staff is expected.

• Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia:
  A 10% tip at restaurants is appreciated but not always mandatory. Some establishments automatically include a service charge. Transportation workers and street vendors, however, generally don’t expect tips.

• Peru and Ecuador:
  When trekking with tour guides or porters on multi-day hikes (think Machu Picchu), tipping is an integral part of the process. Plan to tip around $10 per day for guides and smaller amounts ($5) for support staff such as cooks.

Common Tipping Dilemmas (and How to Solve Them)

Here are answers to some common questions you might encounter when traveling:

• What if I don’t have cash on hand?
  Increasingly, digital payment options like Venmo, PayPal, and contactless tipping are available, especially in North America and Europe. However, in cash-reliant regions, try to plan ahead and carry smaller bills to make tipping more convenient.

• Can I tip in foreign currency?
  Tipping in local currency is always preferred. (Also, your bank or credit card will likely charge you a conversion fee if you tip in your own currency.) Carry small denominations of local cash for smaller tips.

• What if I’m dissatisfied with the service?
  In countries where tipping is expected, consider reducing (but not entirely eliminating) the tip if the service didn’t meet your expectations. In regions like Japan, where tipping isn’t the norm, feel no pressure to tip regardless of service quality. Also, feel free to let the server or their manager know if there is a problem.

Final Thoughts: Tipping Your Way Around the World

Tipping doesn’t have to be a source of stress for travelers. By researching and understanding customs in advance, you can skip the awkward guesswork, budget accordingly, and leave a positive impression wherever you go. Whether you’re rounding up the bill in a Parisian café, leaving 15% at a New York diner, or politely declining to tip in Tokyo, cultural awareness will always set you apart as a thoughtful traveler.

Ready to hit the road? Bookmark this guide and refer back to it on your next adventure! It’s like having a trusted travel companion who always has your back (and your wallet!).

Start planning your next trip and see tipping data and travel expense breakdowns at Budget Your Trip.