Tipping Etiquette: Your Quick Guide to Getting It Right

Ever felt unsure about the right tip? You’re not alone. Tipping can feel like a mystery, especially when you’re in a new city or trying a service you’ve never used before. This guide breaks down the basics so you can tip confidently, avoid awkward silences, and make the people who serve you feel appreciated.

Where to Tip and How Much

Restaurants are the obvious place to start. In the UK, a 10‑12% tip on the bill (before tax) is standard if service isn’t already included. If you’re happy with the food and the waitstaff, round up to the nearest whole pound or add a few extra pounds.

For cafés and coffee shops, a small tip is still nice. You can leave spare change in the tip jar or add a pound or two on the card‑pay screen. The goal isn’t a big percentage – it’s just a friendly nod.

Taxis follow a simple rule: round the fare up to the nearest whole pound or add about 10%. If the driver helped with luggage or navigated heavy traffic, a couple of extra pounds shows extra appreciation.

Delivery drivers love a tip too. A 10% tip works, but if the order is large, consider a flat £3‑£5. When you’re ordering food late at night, a little extra can make a big difference.

Special Situations and Cultural Tips

Hotels have several tipping points. For housekeeping, leave £2‑£5 per night in an envelope with your name. If a bellhop carries luggage, a £1‑£2 tip per bag is courteous. When you use the concierge, a tip isn’t required, but a £5‑£10 thank‑you for a special reservation feels right.

Bars can be tricky. If you’re at a pub and order drinks at the bar, you don’t have to tip. If you sit at a table and a server brings your drinks, a £1‑£2 tip per round, or rounding up the bill, works well.

Traveling abroad? Tipping customs vary. In the US, 15‑20% is the norm in restaurants. In many European countries, service is included, but leaving a few euros for good service is still polite. In Japan, tipping can be seen as rude, so skip it there.

When paying by card, most payment terminals let you add a tip before finalising. If you’re not sure how to do it, ask the server – they’ll guide you.

One last tip: if you’re ever in doubt, watch what locals do. A quick glance at the tip jar or a quick question to the staff can save you from an awkward moment.

With these simple rules, you’ll never have to wonder whether you tipped enough. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, catching a cab, or staying at a hotel, a small, thoughtful tip goes a long way. Keep these guidelines in mind, and you’ll always leave on the right foot.