If you travel internationally — or just want to understand why tipping culture feels so different depending on where you are — this guide breaks it all down. Tipping customs vary wildly from country to country. In some places it's deeply expected; in others it's entirely optional; and in a few countries, leaving a tip can actually come across as awkward or even mildly offensive.
Quick Reference by Country
| Country | Tipping Culture | Typical Amount |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Expected | 18–20% at restaurants |
| Canada | Expected | 15–20% |
| Mexico | Expected | 10–15% |
| United Kingdom | Optional | 10–15% if not included |
| France | Optional | Round up or 5–10% |
| Germany | Optional | Round up or 5–10% |
| Italy | Optional | Small change or €1–2 |
| Spain | Optional | Round up or leave coins |
| Japan | Not customary | No tip — it can be refused |
| South Korea | Not customary | No tip expected |
| China | Not customary | Not expected; tourist areas may accept |
| Australia | Optional | 10% for good service |
| New Zealand | Optional | Not expected, appreciated |
| Brazil | Optional | 10% often added automatically |
| Argentina | Expected | 10–15% |
| India | Optional | 10% at restaurants, round up elsewhere |
| UAE / Dubai | Optional | 10–15%, often included in bill |
United States & Canada
Tipping in North America is not optional in most service contexts — it's a deeply embedded cultural and economic norm. In the US, servers typically earn a lower base wage with the expectation that tips will make up the difference. The standard at sit-down restaurants is 18–20%, with 15% considered the minimum for adequate service.
Canada follows similar conventions, with 15–20% being the norm at restaurants. In both countries, you'll encounter tip prompts at coffee shops, takeout counters, and even self-checkout kiosks — these are optional, but tipping 10–15% at counter service is increasingly common.
Europe
Tipping across Europe is much more relaxed than in North America. Service staff in most European countries receive a full living wage and don't rely on tips to survive. That said, leaving something extra for good service is always appreciated.
United Kingdom
In the UK, a 10–15% tip at sit-down restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory. Many restaurants add a "service charge" of 10–12.5% to the bill — check before you tip twice. Pub service at the bar generally doesn't require a tip, though rounding up is common.
France
Service is legally included in French restaurant bills (called "service compris"), so a separate tip isn't required. Locals often leave small change or round up the bill as a gesture of appreciation. Leaving 5–10% for very good service is kind but not expected.
Germany & Austria
Germans typically round up the bill rather than calculating a percentage. If the bill is €23, you might tell the server to keep €25. Handing over cash and saying "stimmt so" (keep the change) is the standard way to tip. About 5–10% is considered generous.
Italy
Most Italian restaurants include a "coperto" (cover charge) per person. Additional tipping is not expected, but leaving a euro or two per person for good service is a welcome gesture. Avoid tipping with a card — cash tips are far more appreciated.
Asia
Tipping norms in Asia vary significantly and it's worth knowing the customs before you travel.
Japan
Japan is probably the most well-known example of a non-tipping culture. Tipping can actually be considered rude — it may imply that the server needs charity, or that you didn't think the price was fair. Service in Japan is a matter of professional pride. The best way to show appreciation is to say thank you sincerely. If you leave money on the table, staff may chase you down the street to return it.
South Korea
Similar to Japan, tipping is not part of Korean culture. Restaurants and cafes do not expect tips, and attempting to leave one can cause confusion. High-end hotels that cater to international tourists may be an exception.
China
Tipping is not traditionally practiced in China and can be refused in many settings. In cities with heavy tourist traffic (Beijing, Shanghai) and at international hotels, tips are becoming more accepted, but they're still far from expected.
India
Tipping is appreciated in India, particularly at restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides. A 10% tip at restaurants is reasonable. For small services like carrying bags or getting a taxi, rounding up is sufficient. Tipping in cash directly to the person you want to thank is preferred.
Australia & New Zealand
Both countries pay hospitality workers a fair minimum wage, so tipping isn't necessary. It's entirely optional and 10% for great service is a generous gesture. Nobody will be offended if you don't tip, and nobody will expect it. Increasingly, tip prompts are showing up on card readers in cities, but there's no social pressure to respond.
Latin America
Tipping customs vary across Latin America. In tourist-heavy areas and major cities, tipping at restaurants is expected. In more local settings it's appreciated but optional.
In Mexico, 10–15% is standard. In Brazil, a 10% service charge is often added automatically — check your bill. In Argentina, 10–15% is customary and much appreciated given the economic context.
Middle East
In countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, a service charge is often included in restaurant bills at upscale venues. Where it isn't, 10–15% is appreciated. Tips are generally given in cash. For hotel staff, drivers, and personal services, tipping is expected and important to workers' income.
The Golden Rule When Traveling
When in doubt, a little research before you travel goes a long way. Trying to follow local customs — even imperfectly — shows respect. And if you're in the US and someone has taken good care of you, our tip calculator makes it easy to figure out exactly what to leave.