Tipping While Travelling: What to Know Before You Go

When I travel, one of the things that can make me second-guess myself isn’t navigating airports or learning a few words of the local language. It’s understanding the tipping culture. What’s expected? What’s generous? What’s rude?

I still remember arriving at the Alila Hotel in Ubud after nearly twenty-four hours of travel, only to discover our luggage hadn’t made it. The hotel team couldn’t have been more thoughtful. They found clothes for us to wear that evening and even offered a complimentary dinner to make us feel at home, even though the missing bags weren’t their fault at all.

But then came the question, should we tip the bellhops who brought us fresh fruit and new clothes? We genuinely didn’t know.

A few days later, we met an incredible taxi driver who completely changed how we experienced Bali. He took us into town, recommended a local restaurant (the “Dirty Duck” truly the best roast duck I’ve ever had), and even waited for us while we ate. I tipped him a small amount, about £2. The next day he spent the entire day showing us around Ubud to the rice terraces, the volcano, art galleries, and fabric shops. When I handed him an extra £5 note at the end, he refused, saying I’d already tipped him yesterday. When I explained it was a gift for his children, he smiled politely, but I could tell I’d made a cultural misstep.

That moment stuck with me. It made me realise how different tipping customs are across the world. What feels generous in one country can feel inappropriate in another. So, whether you’re off to Asia, Africa, Europe, or the Americas, here’s a quick guide to help you navigate tipping with confidence.

Asia: Subtle Gratitude Goes a Long Way

Japan Tipping is not expected and can even be seen as rude. Great service is part of the culture, so a simple thank you is enough.

Sri Lanka A small tip is appreciated, around 10% in restaurants or a few hundred rupees for drivers and hotel staff.

Thailand Not compulsory, but always welcomed. Round up in cafés and leave 10% for good service in restaurants.

China Tipping is uncommon outside tourist areas. In luxury hotels or tours, 10% is becoming more accepted.

Bali and Indonesia Tipping is not required but always appreciated, especially in Bali where tourism is a large part of local income. Many hotels and restaurants already include a 10% tax and a 5–10% service charge, so there’s no need to add much more unless the service goes above and beyond. If you wish to show thanks, round up the bill or leave around 5–10% in cash. For drivers, guides, or spa staff, a small note of 20,000–50,000 IDR (about £1–£3) is considered generous and warmly received.

North and South America: Service with a Smile Deserves Recognition

United States Tipping is essential, it forms part of workers’ income. Leave 15–20% in restaurants and a few dollars for taxis and hotel staff.

Mexico It’s customary to leave 10–15% in restaurants. Small cash tips are appreciated for porters and housekeeping.

Brazil and Argentina A 10% service charge is usually added to your bill. Add a little extra in cash if the service was excellent.

Europe: Check the Bill Before You Tip

United Kingdom Tipping is discretionary. If service isn’t included, 10–12.5% in restaurants is standard. Round up in pubs or taxis.

Italy Service is often included (“coperto” or “servizio”). Locals may leave a few coins or up to 10% for great service.

France A 15% service charge is typically included, but rounding up or leaving small change is still appreciated.

Africa and the Middle East: Appreciation Is Part of the Experience

South Africa Tipping is expected, usually 10–15% in restaurants and small notes for guides and porters.

Morocco Tipping is modest but important. Round up bills or give 5–10% in restaurants and small change for good service.

Kenya and Tanzania On safari, tips are a key part of hospitality. Allow 10% in restaurants and a daily amount for guides and lodge staff.

UAE Not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving around 10% in restaurants is a nice gesture.

Cruise Lines: Gratuities at Sea

Most cruise lines automatically add gratuities to your onboard account, usually between $15 and $20 per person per day. You can adjust this or add extra for exceptional service.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to tipping abroad. Customs differ, expectations vary, and generosity is often better shown through kindness and respect than the amount of cash exchanged. My advice? Always check the local etiquette before you travel, carry small notes in local currency, and tip discreetly.

A heartfelt thank you and genuine smile go just as far, sometimes even further.