Necessary or not expected? Depends on the country
Mexico
Tips are a big part of Mexican culture: Keep small change on hand to give to restroom attendants, parking attendants and gas station employees. For metered taxis, round up the fare, but if you’ve agreed to an amount at the start of your ride, just pay that.
Tour guides $6–$12 per person, per day
Restaurants 10–15%
Housekeeping $1–$3 a day
Sources: Mexperience, USA Today, Condé Nast Traveler
Heading to an all-inclusive resort?
Tips may be one of the things included in the price. Check with yours to be sure. Of course, even when tips aren’t expected, they’ll still be appreciated. It’s usually okay to offer a gratuity, though don’t feel hurt if it’s waved off.
Canada
While Canada’s minimum wage is higher than in most parts of the U.S., tipping customs north of the border are comparable to those stateside.
Taxi drivers 10–15%
Restaurants 15–20%
Housekeeping $5 a day
Sources: Condé Nast Traveler, Investopedia
United Kingdom
Tipping in the U.K. is confusing even to locals. Service workers receive a decent minimum wage, but the country’s high cost of living means they also depend on tips. At restaurants, your bill may have a service charge, which may or may not go to your server: Ask who pockets this amount. Cash tips are always appreciated.
Taxi drivers 10–15%
Restaurants 10% (check for service charge)
Bartender Not expected
Source: The Guardian
France
In France, tipping is seldom mandatory but not uncommon. Don’t leave exorbitant tips, but it’s always appropriate to tip for really good service. And bring some cash if you go to the theater, where ushers expect tips.
Bellhops $1 per bag
Restaurants 5–10%
Ushers, museum tour guides $1
Source: Atout France
Italy
Locals rarely leave tips, but service workers may expect them from foreigners, especially at establishments popular with tourists. In any case, large tips are never expected, and service costs are often included in your restaurant bill.
Restaurants Up to 10%
Hairdresser 5–10%
Taxi drivers Not expected
Sources: USA Today, Budget Travel
By following tipping rules when you travel, you show respect to your local hosts and signal that you’re in the know.
