Tipping Guide for Travelers

If you’ve ever wondered whether you should leave cash for a waiter, a housekeeper, or a tour guide, you’re not alone. Tipping can feel confusing, especially when you’re hopping between countries or staying at an all‑inclusive resort. The good news is you don’t need a PhD to get it right. Below you’ll find clear, down‑to‑earth advice on when to tip, how much to tip, and a few tricks to keep it simple.

Common Situations and Suggested Amounts

Restaurants and cafés: In the UK, a 10‑15% tip is standard if service isn’t already included in the bill. In the US, aim for 15‑20%. If the bill says “service charge”, you can skip an extra tip unless you feel the staff went above and beyond.

All‑inclusive resorts: Many guests think everything’s covered, but a small daily tip for staff who clean your room or bring drinks can boost service quality. A good rule of thumb is £1‑£2 per day for housekeeping and £1‑£2 for wait staff. Hand the cash directly or leave it in an envelope with a note.

Hotels (outside resorts): For bellhop help with luggage, £1‑£2 per bag is fair. Housekeeping usually gets £1‑£3 per night, left in a clearly marked spot. If you get a special request fulfilled, feel free to add a little extra.

Tour guides: Group guides often rely on tips. Around £5‑£10 per person for a half‑day tour is typical. For private guides, £10‑£20 per hour is appreciated. If the guide shares insider stories or adjusts the itinerary for you, bump it up a bit.

Taxis and rideshares: In most European cities, rounding up to the nearest pound or adding 10% works fine. In the US, a 15% tip is common. If the driver helps with luggage or offers a smooth ride in heavy traffic, a little extra goes a long way.

Spas and salons: Treat spa therapists like restaurant staff—10‑15% of the service cost. If you’re getting a massage, a nice round £5‑£10 tip shows appreciation.

Tips to Make Tipping Easy

Carry a small stash of local currency. It’s easier than hunting for change later, and most staff prefer cash. If you travel to several countries, a mixed bag of £1, £5, and £10 notes works for most places.

Use apps where they’re accepted. Some ride‑share services let you add a tip in the app, which saves you from fumbling with cash.

Keep a tip envelope in your suitcase. Write “Housekeeping” or “Restaurant” on the flap so you can drop cash in without thinking too much.

When in doubt, ask the front desk or a local friend. Most hotels have a standard tipping guide for their area, and they’re happy to share.

Remember, tipping isn’t a rule you must obey blindly. If service was bad, you can adjust or skip the tip. The goal is to reward good service, not to punish staff for a slip‑up.

By keeping these basics in mind, you’ll feel confident wherever you go. A little foresight prevents awkward moments, and a quick tip often earns you a friend for life. Happy travels, and don’t forget to tip wisely!