Last updated: June 2025

How Much to Tip: Complete Guide by Service Type

Tipping can feel awkward, especially when you are unsure of the expected amount. Whether you are sitting down at a full-service restaurant, grabbing a coffee at the counter, checking into a hotel, or stepping out of a taxi, the "right" tip varies by service, region, and context. This guide breaks down tipping norms across all the most common situations so you can tip with confidence — without overpaying or under-tipping.

How to Use Our Tip Calculator

Before diving into the specifics, you can quickly calculate any tip using our free tip calculator. Enter your bill amount, select a preset percentage, and see the tip amount, total, and per-person split instantly. You can also switch to reverse mode to work backwards from the total you paid.

Restaurant Tipping

In the United States, 18–25% is the standard range for sit-down restaurant meals. For counter service or takeaway, 10–15% is typical. In the UK, 10–15% is standard, but always check whether a service charge has already been added to the bill — a growing number of restaurants include a 12.5% discretionary service charge automatically. In most of continental Europe, a small tip of 5–10% is appreciated, and in many Asian countries, tipping at restaurants is either not expected or considered unusual.

When dining with a large group, many restaurants add an automatic gratuity of 18–20%. If this applies, check your bill carefully before adding extra. Our guide on large group meals with service charges walks through this in detail.

Bar and Pub Tipping

In the US, $1–2 per drink is standard at bars, or 15–20% of the total tab. In the UK, tipping at pubs is less formal — offering to "buy the bartender a drink" is a traditional alternative to cash tips. In Europe, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is sufficient. In most Asian countries, tipping at bars is not customary.

Hotel Tipping

Hotel tipping covers a range of staff. In the US, $2–5 per bag for bell staff, $2–5 per night for housekeeping, and $1–2 for concierge services is standard. In the UK, £1–2 per bag and £1–2 per night for housekeeping is typical. Many European hotels include service in the room rate, so additional tipping is optional. In Asia, the expectation varies significantly by country — tipping in Japan is generally not expected, while in Hong Kong and Singapore, small tips are appreciated.

Taxi and Rideshare Tipping

In the US, 15–20% is standard for taxis and rideshares. In the UK, rounding up to the nearest pound is the most common approach. In Europe, 5–10% or rounding up is typical. For rideshare apps, in-app tipping has made the process easier, though the expected amount varies by market.

Food Delivery Tipping

Delivery tipping has become more important as the gig economy has grown. In the US, 15–20% with a minimum of $3–5 is standard. In the UK, 10–15% is common. Consider tipping more for large orders, difficult deliveries (such as during bad weather or to upper-floor flats), or when delivery is particularly fast.

Hair Salon and Spa Tipping

In the US, 18–25% is standard for hair stylists, barbers, and spa therapists. In the UK, 10–15% is typical. Some salons pool tips among all staff, so ask if you want to tip a specific person. In Europe, 5–15% is common, while in many Asian countries, tipping at spas is often included in the price.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Double-tipping when service charge is included. Always check the bill for a discretionary or mandatory service charge before adding your own tip. Our UK tipping guide explains the difference.
• Tipping on tax. In the US, you can choose to tip on the pre-tax subtotal. Our calculator has a toggle for this — switch on "Tip on pre-tax amount" and enter your local tax rate.
• Forgetting to tip for delivery. Many people tip generously at restaurants but forget that delivery drivers rely on tips as well.
• Assuming all countries have the same customs. Tipping norms vary widely. Check our country-by-country guide before travelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to tip if the service was poor?

In the US, leaving a small tip (10%) is generally expected even for mediocre service, as servers often earn below minimum wage and rely on tips. If the service was truly poor, consider speaking to a manager rather than leaving no tip. In other countries, tipping for poor service is less expected.

Should I tip on the total after discounts or coupons?

It is considered good practice to tip on the original bill amount before discounts, coupons, or gift cards. The server provided the same level of service regardless of any discount you received.

Is it better to tip in cash or on card?

Cash tips go directly to the server and may be preferred. Card tips are processed through the establishment and may take longer to reach the staff. However, card tipping is increasingly common and perfectly acceptable.

How much should I tip for takeaway orders?

For simple takeaway orders, a small tip of $1–2 or 10% is appreciated but not always expected. For large or complex orders that required significant preparation, 15% is a generous gesture.

For guidance only. Tipping customs vary by region and establishment.