How Much to Tip? The Global Tipping Guide + Free Tip Calculator
Tipping is one of the most confusing social rituals in the world. In the United States 20% is normal; in Japan leaving a tip can confuse staff; in many countries a service charge is already on the bill. This guide breaks down tipping customs by region, gives you a simple framework for any situation, and shows how to split group bills without awkward math.
Tipping Norms Around the World
| Region | Typical tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 15–20% | Service staff rely heavily on tips |
| Canada | 15–18% | Similar culture to the US |
| Europe (most) | 5–10% or rounding | Service often included |
| Middle East | 10% or rounding | Service charge sometimes added |
| Japan & Korea | None | Tipping can be seen as rude |
| Australia & NZ | None expected | Round up if service was great |
The Simple Framework: 15 / 18 / 20
- 15% — standard service, group dining, buffet
- 18% — good service or a larger group
- 20% — excellent service, or when you tip generously
- Round up to the nearest whole amount if you prefer simplicity
Enter any percentage in our tip calculator and it instantly shows the tip, the total and the exact share per person.
How to Split a Bill with Friends (Fairly)
The fairest method: add the tip to the total, then divide by the number of people. If someone skipped the appetizers and wine, you can split the food portion only by what each ordered, and split drinks equally — but for most dinners, an equal split keeps friendships intact.
Do You Tip on the Tax or the Pre-Tax Total?
Opinions differ, but many people tip on the pre-tax amount to avoid tipping on government charges. Either way, the difference is small. Our tip calculator lets you enter whatever base amount you prefer.
Tipping Etiquette Beyond Restaurants
- Hotels: $1–2 per bag for porters, $2–5 per night for housekeeping
- Taxis: round up to the nearest dollar or 10%
- Haircuts & spas: 15–20%
- Delivery: $2–5 or 10–15% of the order
- Tour guides: $5–10 per half-day
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Frequently Asked Questions
In the US, 15–20%; elsewhere it ranges from nothing (Japan, Australia) to rounding up. Check local customs before travelling.
Multiply the bill by 0.15. For $80, that is $12 — a total of $92.
Add the tip to the total, then divide by the number of people. The tip calculator does this instantly.
No — tipping is generally not practiced in Japan and can even be considered impolite.