The Art and Etiquette of Tipping
Tipping customs vary dramatically around the world. What is generous in one country can be offensive in another. This guide covers standard tipping practices across major regions and services so you never find yourself uncertain at the end of a meal or service.
Tipping in the United States
The US has one of the strongest tipping cultures in the world, largely because many service workers earn below minimum wage and depend on tips.
Standard US tipping rates:
- Restaurants (sit-down): 18–20% of the pre-tax bill. 15% for adequate service, 25%+ for exceptional
- Bartenders: $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the tab
- Food delivery: 15–20% with a $3 minimum
- Coffee shops: $1–2 or 15–20% for specialty drinks
- Hotel housekeeping: $2–5 per night, left daily
- Taxi/rideshare: 15–20%
- Hair stylists: 15–20%
- Movers: $20–50 per mover for a full move
Tipping in Europe
European customs vary significantly by country.
United Kingdom: Service charge of 10–12.5% is often included. If not, 10–15% is appropriate. Tipping in pubs is not expected for drinks at the bar.
France: Service is included in the bill by law (service compris). Rounding up or leaving a few euros for exceptional service is appreciated but not required.
Germany: Round up to the nearest euro or add 5–10%. Tell the server the total amount you want to pay rather than leaving money on the table.
Italy: A coperto (cover charge) of 1–3 euros per person is common. Additional tipping is not expected, though rounding up is a nice gesture.
Spain: Tipping is not expected in casual settings. For fine dining, 5–10% is generous.
Tipping in Asia
Japan: Do not tip. It can be considered rude or confusing. Exceptional service is simply the cultural standard.
China: Tipping is not customary and may be refused. High-end international hotels are the exception.
South Korea: Not expected. Some upscale restaurants add a service charge.
Thailand: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Rounding up or leaving 10% at restaurants is common among tourists.
India: 10% at restaurants if service charge is not included. Small tips for hotel staff and drivers are appreciated.
Tips for Better Tipping
- Always check the bill first for included service charges or gratuity to avoid double-tipping
- Tip on the pre-tax amount unless you choose to be extra generous
- Carry small bills when traveling — breaking large notes for tips can be awkward
- Tip in local currency whenever possible rather than your home currency
- When splitting the bill among a group, make sure the tip does not get short-changed — this is the most common way service workers lose out
When Not to Tip
- When a service charge is already included (unless you want to add extra)
- At fast food restaurants or counter-service establishments where there is no table service
- In countries where tipping is culturally inappropriate, like Japan
Calculate the Right Tip Instantly
Use our tip calculator to quickly figure out the right gratuity for any situation. Enter your bill amount, select a tip percentage, and even split the total among your group with one click.