There are many nuances involved in tipping in hotels around the world. Customs may vary by country and culture. Traditional practices differ so widely that what is favored in one country may be offensive in another. That said, certain standards are widely accepted, especially in international chain hotels.

The following guide outlines common gratuity amounts and tipping practices, categorized by hotel personnel and general etiquette advice.

Table of Contents

Hotel Staff to Tip

  • Housekeeping: Tip $5–$8 per night. Tip daily rather than at the end, as different staff may clean your room each day.
  • Bellhop: Tip $2 per bag. Heavier luggage or additional services (like bag storage before check-in) may merit more.
  • Doorman: Often a “thank you” suffices. For helping with bags or hailing a cab, tip $1–$4.
  • Concierge: Tip only for special services such as hard-to-get bookings. Amount varies by request but is generally appreciated.
  • Shuttle Driver: Around $2 is standard, especially if they assist with luggage.
  • Valet: Tip $2–$5 when your car is returned. Consider higher amounts in bad weather.
  • Coat Check Attendant: Tip $1–$2 per coat.
  • Room Service: If no service charge is included, tip 15%–20% of the total bill.

General Guidelines

  • Always tip unless specifically told not to, or when tipping is considered offensive (e.g., in Japan).
  • Tip in cash, and hand it directly to the staff when possible. Credit card tips often go to the establishment, not the employee.
  • Use local currency to avoid burdening staff with exchange fees.
  • Avoid overtipping. Even when service is excellent, do not exceed the highest typical amount for a given role—it may be perceived as culturally inappropriate.
  • Be discreet and polite when tipping. In some cultures, it's customary to tip quietly or with euphemisms instead of overt handoffs.
  • If you forget to tip or didn’t get a chance, you can call the hotel and ask the concierge to pass along your gratuity.
  • While tipping may not be mandatory, it is considered a basic courtesy in many places. It helps supplement wages and supports workers in providing high-quality service.
  • Always research a country’s tipping culture before your trip to avoid any misunderstandings or awkward moments.

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