What if I am not sure whether to tip?

Watch what local customers do, or check the bill for an included service charge. When genuinely unsure, a small round-up is a safe middle ground in most countries — it is appreciated where tipping is normal and harmlessly refused where it is not.

Should I tip in cash or on the card?

Cash is generally preferred because it reaches the server directly and immediately. Card tips may be pooled, delayed, or subject to deductions. Where possible, leave a cash tip even if you pay the bill by card.

Is it rude not to tip in Japan?

Tipping itself can cause awkwardness in Japan, where attentive service is the standard. Rather than a tip, a polite thank-you and a slight bow are the appropriate acknowledgement of good service.

Do these rules apply to fast food and counter service?

Generally no. Tipping customs apply to table service. Counter service, fast food and takeaway rarely expect a tip anywhere, though a tip jar may be present in tipping cultures for exceptional service.

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Tipping Rules by Country

Tipping is a social custom, not a universal rule, and it varies more than almost any other everyday money habit. In some countries a tip is expected and a failure to tip is an insult; in others it is politely refused or even considered rude. Getting it wrong rarely causes disaster, but it does mark you as a tourist and can short-change someone who relied on the tip. This guide summarises the customary practice in major destinations so you can tip with confidence.

Use it alongside the Tipping Calculator by Country, which loads a typical percentage for each destination and splits the bill across your group. The rates here are general norms — always check the bill first, since a service charge may already be included.

In detail

Where tipping is expected (15–20%+)

In the United States and Canada, tipped staff are often paid a lower minimum wage on the assumption that tips make up the difference, so a tip of 15–20% is effectively part of the price of a sit-down meal. Tipping below 15% signals dissatisfaction with the service. Mexico similarly expects 10–15% in restaurants. In these countries, tipping is not optional for table service, and skipping it is considered rude.

Where a smaller tip is customary (5–12.5%)

Across much of Europe a service charge is often included by law or by custom, and an additional 5–12.5% is a polite top-up rather than the bulk of the server’s pay. The United Kingdom commonly adds 10–12.5%; France typically includes 15% ("service compris") and rounding up or leaving a few euros is enough; Germany and Spain expect around 5–10%; Italy often includes a "coperto" cover charge and a small extra tip is appreciated but not required.

Where tipping is not expected or is refused

In Japan and South Korea, tipping is not part of the culture and can cause confusion or even offence — good service is considered part of the price, and leaving money on the table may result in staff chasing you to return it. In China, tipping is not customary (though some high-end hotels catering to foreigners may accept it). In Australia and New Zealand, service staff are paid a full wage and tipping is optional, usually reserved for exceptional service or rounded-up amounts.

Beyond restaurants: hotels, taxis and tours

Hotel housekeeping commonly receives a small per-night tip in tipping cultures (a dollar or two per day in the US, a euro or two in Europe). Taxi and ride-share drivers are usually tipped 10% or rounded up where tipping is normal, and simply rounded up where it is not. Tour guides in tipping cultures expect 10–15% of the tour price; elsewhere a smaller token or nothing is fine. When in doubt, follow what local customers do.

Check the bill before adding more

In many countries a service charge or cover is already on the bill — "service compris" in France, "servizio" or "coperto" in Italy, a stated percentage in the UK. Where it is included, you do not need to add the full customary tip; rounding up or leaving a small extra amount for good service is enough. Adding a full tip on top of an included charge is generous but unnecessary.

Frequently asked questions

What if I am not sure whether to tip?: Watch what local customers do, or check the bill for an included service charge. When genuinely unsure, a small round-up is a safe middle ground in most countries — it is appreciated where tipping is normal and harmlessly refused where it is not.
Should I tip in cash or on the card?: Cash is generally preferred because it reaches the server directly and immediately. Card tips may be pooled, delayed, or subject to deductions. Where possible, leave a cash tip even if you pay the bill by card.
Is it rude not to tip in Japan?: Tipping itself can cause awkwardness in Japan, where attentive service is the standard. Rather than a tip, a polite thank-you and a slight bow are the appropriate acknowledgement of good service.
Do these rules apply to fast food and counter service?: Generally no. Tipping customs apply to table service. Counter service, fast food and takeaway rarely expect a tip anywhere, though a tip jar may be present in tipping cultures for exceptional service.

Related calculators

Customary tipping ranges compiled from widely cited travel and etiquette references. Rates are general norms and individual establishments may differ. Last updated: September 2026.

These guides are provided for general information only and do not constitute financial advice. Exchange rates, tax rules, customs allowances and tipping customs vary by country, provider and over time. Always confirm critical figures with the relevant authority or a qualified adviser before acting on anything here.