When traveling around the globe, knowing when and where to tip can be quite complicated and confusing. Tipping is a reward for good service. Some countries expect it, others don’t. What you did last time you visited may have completely changed since then. Is there a service charge included? Does that include tips? What is the routine in the local area? What percentage? Should you leave your spare change or tack on 20 percent? Leave a few euros on the table? All these questions can be overwhelming. Find out more about international tipping customs around the world.

A Historical Perspective on Tipping

Tipping, as we know it today, has roots in Europe. The practice is believed to have originated in the Middle Ages when wealthy patrons would give small sums of money to their servants as a token of appreciation. By the 17th century, tipping had become more formalized in England, where it was common to tip service workers in coffeehouses and inns.

When European immigrants brought the custom to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, tipping became more ingrained in American culture. Understanding this historical context can help travelers appreciate why tipping practices vary so widely across the globe. There are approximately 195 countries in the world, and they all have different tipping practices. In some countries, like Australia, tipping isn’t customary, except for fine restaurants. In China, tipping isn’t generally practiced, but leaving 10% in major cities for exceptional service is customary. In Japan, tipping at all is insulting and a definite no-no.

Cash or Credit Card: How Should You Tip?

As a general rule of thumb, tipping with cash is often the preferred method. Always keep small bills on hand for this purpose and ensure that your tips are in the local currency of the country you’re visiting. If you plan to tip with your credit card, be aware that your server may not receive the whole tip. Some restaurants abroad may not even accept gratuities via credit cards.

Deciding How Much to Tip International Tipping customs

In the United States, tipping 20% is now considered average. In most countries, however, tipping that much may be unheard of, or tipping at all may be frowned upon completely. In fact, the United States is on the very high end of customary tipping etiquette. In the end, it comes down to knowing the customs of where you are and if the custom is to leave a tip, the value is up to you.

If you see a service charge on the bill, don’t automatically assume the tip is included. The service charge may not go to the waiter at all, leaving you with the decision of whether to tip with cash. Service charges vary widely from place to place. For example, in Greece, Guatemala, Italy, and Hong Kong, you should leave a tip in addition to a service charge.

There are many resources online to do your research, but for an excellent starting point, check out this Tipping Etiquette Guide. Simply download the pdf, find the country you’re traveling to, and see more information on best tipping practices in that area.

Who Should You Tip?

Remember that restaurants aren’t the only places where it may be customary to leave a tip. For instance, a tour guide in Italy may not expect a tip, but the common practice is to give 5-10 euros depending on the length of the tour.

Services that may require tipping

Check into these other service areas before you travel:

When in Doubt, Observe

If you find yourself in a situation where you’re not sure, resist the urge to ask. This puts your service person in a difficult and awkward position, and they may say no out of sheer embarrassment or politeness. Rather, look around and see what others are doing. Are other visitors tipping? If so, follow suit. If that doesn’t work, your backup plan could be to give a base of 5-10% if you’re visiting a country where tipping is generally acceptable.

Digital Tipping and Modern Trends

In recent years, the rise of digital technology has transformed the way we tip. With the increasing use of apps for taxis, food delivery, and other services, tipping practices are evolving. In some countries, app-based services like Uber, Lyft, or food delivery platforms include a tipping option, allowing customers to add a gratuity with just a few taps on their smartphone. This has made tipping more convenient, especially for travelers who may not carry cash.

However, the preference for digital tipping varies by region. In countries like the United States, where tipping is deeply ingrained in the culture, digital tipping is widely accepted and even encouraged. In contrast, in countries where cash is still king, such as Japan or Germany, tipping via apps may be less common, and cash remains the preferred method.

The post-pandemic world has also seen a rise in contactless payments, including tipping. Many establishments now prefer tips to be added digitally rather than in cash, as it reduces physical contact and streamlines transactions. For travelers, this means being prepared to tip both ways—carrying small bills for cash tips while also being ready to add a gratuity digitally when the option is available.

In Conclusion International Tipping customs

Let’s recap: Do advance research on best practices for your chosen country, prepare with small cash bills in local currency, and watch what others are doing. With a little knowledge, you can travel anywhere in the world and feel comfortable leaving gratuity. International tipping etiquette doesn’t have to be difficult with a bit of preparation. Ladies and gentlemen, go see the world!