Guidelines for Proper Tipping

Tipping—giving cash for services provided—used to be an acknowledgement only of exceptional service, but in the United States it’s become an everyday practice. In fact, it’s rude not to tip workers in many service industries, even if the service is only mediocre.

Category	Serviceperson	Tip
Restaurants and bars	Server	20% in major cities; 15% elsewhere
	Sommelier	15% of wine bill
	Coat check	$1–2 per item
	Maitre d’	$10–20 for special service
	Bartender	$1–2 per drink or 15–20%
Salons and spas	Hairstylist	15–20%
	Shampooer	$5
	Coat check	$2 per coat
	Facialist	15–20%
	Manicurist/pedicurist	15–20%
	Waxer	15–20%
	Masseur/masseuse	15–20%
Travel	Baggage handler	$1–2 per bag
	Shuttle bus driver	$1 per bag
	Bellhop	$1–2 per bag
	Maid	$3–5 per person per night
	Doorman	$1–4 (depending on the hotel’s fanciness)
	Room service	15–20% if not included in bill
	Concierge	$5–10; $15 in big cities
Deliveries	Food	10–15%
	Newspapers	$10–30 annually during the holidays
	Groceries	At least $2
	Flowers	At least $2
Miscellaneous	Movers	Head mover: $25–50; others: $15–30
	Building superintendent	$20–80 during the holidays
	Doorman	$35–80 during the holidays
	Handyman	$15–40 during the holidays
	Shoe shiner	$1–2
	Taxi driver	20%, or at least $1 for low fares
	Restroom attendant	$1–2

Tipping in Foreign Countries

Tipping customs vary greatly from country to country. In Japan, for instance, tipping is unnecessary. In Singapore, it is actually illegal. In South Africa, though, gas pump attendants will take offense if not tipped. In much of Europe, service is included in restaurant meals, but servers still expect extra. The going rate in South American countries is around 10% for restaurant services and taxis.

Before traveling to a new country, research its tipping customs to avoid offending local service workers.

Acknowledgments & Disclaimer