Tip Etiquette Made Simple: When, Where, and How Much to Tip

Ever felt unsure about the right amount to tip? You’re not alone. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, staying at a hotel, or crashing at a glamping site, a quick tip can go a long way. Below you’ll find clear, no‑fluff advice that works in most places you’ll visit.

Common Situations and Suggested Amounts

Restaurants are the most obvious spot. In the UK, 10‑15% of the bill is standard if service isn’t included. If you’re in the US, aim for 15‑20% and round up. For take‑out, a couple of pounds or a small dollar amount is enough – you’re just saying thanks for the quick service.

Hotels have several staff members who can earn a tip. Housekeeping usually gets £2‑£5 per night left in a sealed envelope. If the bellhop helps with luggage, £1‑£2 per bag is a good rule. When you use the hotel’s concierge for bookings or advice, a £5‑£10 tip shows appreciation.

Bars and coffee shops follow a similar pattern. In a bar, a £1‑£2 tip for each round is polite. For a coffee, rounding up to the nearest pound or leaving small change works fine. The idea is to acknowledge the effort without overthinking it.

Special Cases: Glamping, Yurts, and Eco‑Friendly Stays

Glamping sites often blend camping vibes with hotel‑like service. If you get a private bathroom or a dedicated host, a £3‑£5 tip per night is courteous. Yurts run by local families deserve a little extra if they provide meals or cleaning – think £5‑£10 for the whole stay.

Eco‑friendly accommodations sometimes have lower staff numbers, so tipping can feel tricky. If a solar‑powered lodge has a caretaker who handles everything, a £5‑£10 tip at checkout is a nice way to say thanks. For self‑catered cabins, you typically don’t need to tip unless someone goes out of their way to help you.

Airport lounges and sleeping pods are another gray area. Most lounges have a flat fee, so you don’t need to tip. If you use a paid sleeping pod and the staff assists with luggage, a £2‑£3 tip is appreciated but not required.

Remember, tip culture changes by country. In Japan and South Korea, tipping can be seen as rude, so skip it. In Australia and New Zealand, tips are optional and usually small. When in doubt, a quick look at the bill for a service charge or a short chat with staff clears things up.

Bottom line: tip where you feel the service deserves it, keep amounts modest, and adjust for local customs. A little gratitude goes a long way, and the right tip can make your travel experience smoother and more friendly.