How much should I tip when I travel?

Even seasoned travelers can find the ins and outs of tipping while abroad to be daunting and stressful.

We all want to show appreciation to those who provide excellent service and support underpaid workers who rely on tips. However, we also want to avoid unintentionally tipping twice for charges already included or causing offense in a foreign culture.

So, who should you tip and in what situations? And how much is appropriate?

Tipping customs differ by location and travel type. In hotels, how much you tip can hinge on factors like the room rate, the service level, and your specific stay details (Did you decline housekeeping? Or host a wild party in your room?)

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you determine appropriate tipping amounts in various travel scenarios, from hotels to tours and all-inclusive resorts.

Tipping Tour Guides

First, let’s discuss tipping tour guides. Similar to dining out, it’s customary to tip tour guides based on the level of service you encounter.

A good guideline is to tip between 10% and 20% of the total tour cost. You’re always welcome to increase the amount for outstanding service. If you’re part of a group, consider tipping the driver and any local guides you meet along the way—usually a few dollars each day.

Whom to Tip at Hotels

During the pandemic, many hotels reduced housekeeping services, leading some travelers, like myself, to stop carrying cash earmarked for tipping. However, if there’s anyone to tip in hotels, it’s the housekeeping staff. It’s generally recommended to tip $3 to $5 daily, based on the duration of your stay, room rate, and service quality.

“Housekeeping staff are among the hardest workers in hotels and often least recognized,” stated Tom Waithe, manager of the Alexis Hotel Seattle.

A good practice is to tip luggage attendants $1 to $5 per bag, especially if there are multiple items or fragile possessions involved.

For valet services, a couple of dollars is standard, though you might tip more for expedited service. If you’ll be using the valet frequently, start with a larger initial tip (around $10) to encourage better service.

For butlers and concierges at luxury hotels, tip based on the services received during your stay.

However, there’s generally no need to tip room service if a hefty service charge is already included, although you’re free to do so for exceptional service.

Tipping Around the World

If you’ve traveled internationally, you may have encountered varying attitudes towards tipping. In countries like Australia, Japan, and China, it’s either uncommon or frowned upon. “Tipping is a complex cultural issue,” cautions Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury travel company Black Tomato.

In most of Europe, tourist-friendly areas of Mexico and the Caribbean, and Canada, tipping aligns more closely with U.S. norms. Conversely, small change is appreciated in Central and South America, while in Africa, it depends on the context—safari versus urban stay.

If uncertain about local customs, ask around or lean towards being generous.

Tipping on All-Inclusive Vacations

At all-inclusive resorts or cruises, daily service charges typically appear on your bill, so always review your folio to know what’s included. Most traditional all-inclusives, like Sandals in the Caribbean, incorporate gratuities into the cost.

If tips are not included, reference hotel tipping guidelines: $1 to $5 for bellhops, $5 daily for housekeeping, and adjust for concierges based on task complexity. Remember to tip guides and drivers during excursions as well.

Tipping Staff During a Cruise

Cruise lines often charge daily service fees to passengers, meant to replace individual tipping. This system alleviates concerns about when and how to give tips while ensuring crew members benefit from these fees, which extend beyond just waitstaff and cabin stewards.

If you wish to recognize an exceptional crew member, submit their name in your post-cruise survey for long-term recognition. If cash tipping is allowed, it’s advisable to bring cash or utilize tip boxes located at reception.

Tipping Flight Attendants and Airport Employees

Typically, flight attendants cannot accept tips, while airport staff can. One exception is Frontier Airlines, which has a tipping program. Unions often resist allowing flight attendants to accept gratuities to maintain their pay structure.

To show appreciation for stellar service, gifts like snacks or coffee shop gift cards are acceptable.