10 Things You Should Know About Tipping in the USA
10 Things You Should Know About Tipping in the USA
Tipping in the USA can be a bit of a puzzle if you’re not used to how it works over here. Whether you’re visiting or just never really figured it out, understanding when and how much to tip can save you some awkward moments and ensure the service workers who help you get by day-to-day are fairly compensated for their efforts. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you navigate the tipping culture in the United States.
1. Tipping is expected in most service industries
In the U.S., tipping isn’t just a nice gesture; it’s often expected. This practice is particularly common in service sectors like restaurants, bars, and cafes. Workers in these industries are usually paid lower wages because tips are considered part of their income. So, when you’re dining out or grabbing a drink, remember that your tips help make up a significant part of the staff’s earnings.
2. Standard tip at restaurants is 15-20% of the total bill
When you’re eating at a restaurant, a tip of 15-20% of your total bill before taxes is standard. This amount reflects the quality of service you receive. If the service is exceptional, you might consider tipping more than 20%, while a tip closer to 15% might be appropriate if the service was just okay.
3. Tipping bartenders is typically $1-2 per drink
At bars, the simple rule of thumb is to tip your bartender $1-2 per drink. If you order a more complex cocktail that takes time to prepare, a tip at the higher end of that range (or even a bit more) is a nice way of acknowledging the extra effort.
4. Tip hotel staff a few dollars per service
Whether it’s the person who carries your bags to your room or the housekeeper who keeps your room spotless, tipping a few dollars per service is a common practice. Usually, $1-5 is customary depending on the service and the type of hotel.
5. Taxi and rideshare drivers generally expect a 10-15% tip
For taxi and rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, tipping 10-15% of the fare is typical. If the driver helps with luggage or navigates through tough traffic to get you to your destination on time, tipping towards the higher end can show your appreciation.
6. It’s customary to tip delivery drivers and food couriers 10-20%
Delivery drivers and food couriers often face challenges like traffic and poor weather conditions to bring food right to your door. A tip between 10-20% of the total bill, depending on the difficulty and distance of the delivery, is a good way to say thanks.
7. Tipping tour guides and activity instructors is common, around 10-15%
Whether it’s a city tour or an outdoor adventure, tipping your guide or instructor 10-15% of the cost of the service can be a great way to show your gratitude for their knowledge and expertise.
8. In some cases, tips are automatically added to the bill
Always check your bill, especially in group settings or at high-end services, as a gratuity (tip) might already be included. This is often the case where service charges are applied automatically, so you don’t accidentally tip twice unless the service was extraordinary.
9. Always tip salon and spa staff, typically 15-20%
Services that involve personal care, such as those provided at salons and spas, warrant a 15-20% tip. These professionals offer personalized service to make you look and feel your best, and tipping is a direct way to appreciate that.
10. It’s polite to tip airport shuttle drivers a few dollars per bag
If someone helps you with your bags, especially in the context of airport shuttles, tipping a few dollars per bag is polite and appreciated. This small gesture acknowledges the physical effort involved and the care taken with your belongings.
16 Mistakes To Avoid On A USA Road Trip
16 Mistakes To Avoid On A Usa Road Trip
20 US Road Trips That Are Worth Doing Once In Your Life
20 US Road Trips That Are Worth Doing Once In Your Life
10 Most Deadly National Parks In The USA
10 Most Deadly National Parks In The USA
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.