Buzz
Tipping may seem like a simple act, but it can actually feel a bit daunting. We all know it's customary to show appreciation to the staff who help improve our travel experiences, but how much should you really give? Should your tip for the bellhop match the one for the housekeeper, and what about the concierge? And do all-inclusive resorts mean tipping isn't necessary?
These are valid concerns, but fortunately, the process isn't as tricky as it might seem. As long as you're offering a tip, you're likely on the right track. Here are a few general guidelines to follow.
United States
In the U.S., tipping $1-$5 per bag for the porter is typical, with the amount depending on the weight of your bags. For the housekeeper, $1-$5 per day is standard (some suggest $3 to $5 per day), and for the concierge, $5-$10 is recommended, as per the American Hotel & Lodging Association.
A helpful tip when it comes to tipping: It's advisable to leave a small tip for housekeepers each day. This is because a different person may clean your room daily. As Elle Decor suggests, leaving one large sum either in the room or at the front desk at the end of your stay can cause confusion. If you happen to miss a day, simply ask the front desk to pass your tip along to the housekeeping director or staff manager, ensuring it reaches the right person.
International Travel
Tipping becomes a bit more complex when traveling outside the U.S. Condé Nast Traveler offers a detailed guide outlining the typical tipping amounts for various countries, as well as whether or not tipping with American dollars is acceptable, along with cultural tips for each destination. For example, when visiting Morocco, it's recommended to be discreet when handing out tips.
All-Inclusive Resorts
Another tipping situation that can be tricky arises when staying at an all-inclusive resort.
In many instances, gratuity is included—after all, it’s part of the package. But you can always double-check the resort’s website to see if gratuity is incorporated into the price. As The Points Guy notes, 'The rate you see online should clearly indicate if there’s a daily service charge.' If it isn’t clear, it’s wise to confirm with the resort before making your reservation.
If gratuity isn't included, the usual standard is around $1 per bag and $5 per day for the housekeeper.
When you're going on a guided tour, tips are likely not included in the price. Be sure to review the tipping customs in the country you’re visiting and make sure to tip your guide—typically around $4 per day, according to TPG. You can usually find the recommended tip amount in your tour documentation.
Cruises
TPG reports that gratuity is typically included in the bill for major cruise lines. You can modify it, but most people choose to leave it as is. 'It can be a bit of a hassle to visit the purser’s desk—especially if there’s a long line—to make changes,' TPG writes. 'You are welcome to give a little extra cash to your favorite waiter or bartender at the end of the cruise, though it’s not mandatory.'
As always, if you want to ensure better service pretty much everywhere—except for some all-inclusive resorts where employees may face consequences for accepting tips, and a few countries—it’s a smart idea to tip a bit more. Consider doing this at the start of your stay to guarantee good service throughout.
