Tipping Etiquette Guide: How Much to Tip in UK, US & Abroad
UK Tipping Guide
Tipping in the UK is appreciated but not mandatory. Standard tips:
- Restaurants: 10-12.5%. Check if service charge is already added
- Taxis: Round up to the nearest pound, or 10%
- Hairdressers: £2-5 or 10%
- Hotel porters: £1-2 per bag
- Delivery drivers: £1-2 (optional)
- Bars/pubs: Not expected. Offer to "buy one for yourself"
US Tipping Guide
Tipping in the US is essentially mandatory as servers earn below minimum wage:
- Restaurants: 18-20% (minimum 15%)
- Bars: $1-2 per drink
- Taxis/Uber: 15-20%
- Hotel housekeeping: $2-5/day
- Valet: $2-5
- Hair/beauty: 15-20%
European Tipping
Most European countries include service in the bill price. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is common. In France, Italy, and Spain, rounding up is sufficient. In Germany and Austria, 5-10% is standard.
Service Charge vs Tip
In the UK, many restaurants add a discretionary 12.5% service charge. You can ask for it to be removed if service was poor. If service charge is included, no additional tip is needed. Check your bill carefully before tipping.
Digital Tipping
Card machines often prompt for tips of 10%, 12.5%, or 15%. You are not obligated to select one — choose "no tip" or "custom amount" if you prefer.
Related Calculators
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to tip in the UK?
No, tipping in the UK is not mandatory. 10-12.5% is standard in restaurants if service is good. Check if a service charge is already included on your bill before adding a tip.
Why is tipping so high in the US?
US servers often earn below minimum wage ($2.13/hour federally for tipped workers) and rely on tips for most of their income. 18-20% is the expected norm for table service.