Tip Calculator

Use this Tip Calculator to instantly choose a tip, split the bill, and see the total with tip included—plus each person’s share. In the U.S., a 15% tip on the pre-tax amount is a common standard.

Where do tips come from?

Many historians trace tipping back to medieval Europe, when wealthy hosts gave extra coins to servants for speed, attention, or special favors. Over time this “thank you” payment turned into a custom.

When tipping reached the United States, it evolved differently. In the late 19th–20th centuries many employers started paying lower base wages and expecting customers to “top up” staff income with tips. That’s why in North America today tips are often a crucial part of service workers’ earnings, not just a bonus.

Tipping around the world: how not to get it wrong

Think of this not as strict law, but as a practical travel cheat sheet. Local habits change and exact percentages vary, so it’s always smart to check what’s common in the place you’re visiting.

USA & Canada – tipping powerhouses

  • Restaurants: usually 15–20% before tax. Not tipping for normal service can be seen as rude.
  • Bars, taxis, delivery, hairdressers, hotel staff: tips are widely expected.
  • Here, tipping is part of the pay structure, not just a friendly gesture.

Latin America

  • In many countries (Mexico, Argentina, Peru, Colombia and others), 10–15% in restaurants is polite; sometimes a service charge is included.
  • Taxis: rounding up is common.
  • Tips show appreciation, but the culture is usually less intense than in the U.S.

Western Europe

  • France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Netherlands and others: service is often included.
  • People usually round up or add about 5–10% for good service.
  • Taxis: rounding up is enough.
  • Tipping is a “nice thank you,” not an obligation. Bad service? You can skip it.

Eastern Europe & the Balkans

  • Many countries (Poland, Czech Republic, Croatia, Ukraine and others): 5–10% is appreciated but not always strictly expected.
  • In touristy areas, tipping is expected more than in very local places.

Middle East & North Africa

  • Turkey, Egypt, UAE, Morocco and others: 5–10% in restaurants is common, sometimes plus small rounding.
  • In hotels, tours and transfers, tipping (baksheesh) is often part of the culture.
  • If everyone around you is tipping, not doing so can feel awkward.

Asia – from “always” to “absolutely not”

  • Japan: no tipping. Staff may return extra money, assuming it’s a mistake.
  • South Korea: usually no tipping; in some places it can feel strange.
  • Mainland China: traditionally no tipping, except in some tourist or international venues.
  • Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and many Southeast Asian resorts: small tips and rounding up are welcome, especially in tourist areas.
  • Golden rule: watch what locals do.

Africa

  • Safari lodges and tourist areas: tipping guides, drivers and porters is standard; amounts depend on the tour.
  • Local cafés and taxis: modest tips or rounding up are common.

Australia & New Zealand

  • Staff are generally paid higher base wages.
  • Tips are not mandatory, but 5–10% for excellent service is appreciated.

Where tipping is not recommended or can be awkward

  • Japan, South Korea, some parts of China: a tip can be misunderstood as pity or an insult.
  • Government officials (police, customs, airport staff, etc.): tipping is often forbidden and may look like a bribe.
  • When in doubt, check the bill for a service charge or ask discreetly.

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