Here’s How Much to Tip in Every Situation, According to Experts

How much to tip at a restaurant

Tipping in the United States and Canada is simple, so long as you stick to some general rules of thumb. When eating out at a sit-down restaurant, for instance, aim to tip "15 to 20 percent of the pre-tax total," says etiquette expert Bonnie Tsai, founder of etiquette consulting agency Beyond Etiquette. At buffets, she says that 10 percent is more than enough to thank the waitstaff "for helping with drink orders and clearing the table."

How much to tip for food delivery

You don't have to go crazy when tipping the pizza delivery guy. According to etiquette consultant Daniella Rousal, anywhere from $2 to $5 for a cheaper food delivery will suffice.

How much to tip at a bar

It's never easy figuring out how much extra money to leave the bartender. Generally, though, Tsai says that you should tip $1-$2 per drink or 15 to 20 percent of your entire tab.

How much to tip at a café

Do you need to tip the person who takes your coffee order and makes your latté? According to Tsai, the answer is no.

"[There is] no obligation" to tip, she says. She does recommend tipping, however, "if you are a regular or if the barista does something special for you."

How much to tip hospitality workers

Housekeepers, doormen, valet drivers, bellhops—they all need to be tipped. But what is an acceptable amount to give them? For valet drivers, Tsai says to aim for anywhere from $2 to $5 once they retrieve your vehicle. For housekeepers at hotels, she suggests tipping up to $5 nightly "since the staff can change daily." For bellhops, her ideal amount is $2 for the first bag and $1 for each additional bag. And finally, for doormen, she says to aim for up to $4 for carrying luggage and up to $2 for hailing a cab.

How much to tip movers

How much are you supposed to tip each mover when they are done lugging your stuff up several flights of stairs? According to Rousal, you should try to tip each mover around $25, though you are never obligated to do so. "Tipping shows appreciation for a job well done," she says.

How much to tip taxi drivers

Tipping taxi drivers can be tricky, especially when the fare is already so high. Generally speaking, though, Tsai says you should try to give 15 to 20 percent of the total fare, plus "an extra $1 or $2 if you have luggage they helped with."

With Uber drivers, the tipping protocol is the same. Rousal notes that you should typically be tipping your rideshare drivers around 15 percent.

How much to tip at a salon or spa

Tipping after a haircut or manicure is arguably one of the most confusing and nerve-racking experiences. However, it doesn't have to be. Tsai says that whether you're getting a haircut, a manicure, or a massage, you should simply be tipping anywhere from 15 to 20 percent.

How much to tip in Europe

Europeans have a different stance on tipping. And according to elegance expert Jennifer Lynn of Elegant Living Everyday, you only have to "leave the rest of the change as a tip" when you dine out in European cities. Though "we are used to tipping over 10 percent, there it's not expected," she explains. "If you are getting a coffee and croissant that is €3.64, giving €4 is perfectly acceptable."

How much to tip in the Middle East

"In the Middle East, [tipping is] a bit complex," says Tsai. "In places like Egypt, Israel, and Jordan, tip is always included as a service charge at restaurants." On the other hand, "tip isn't included in your restaurant bill in Qatar and Saudi Arabia." Before you travel to the Middle East, do some research on the country you're visiting and find out if a service charge is included.

How much to tip in Asia

When traveling in Asia, you don't need to worry about tipping. "Asian countries generally include a service charge when you're dining at a restaurant, so there is no need to tip," explains Tsai.