How Much to Tip Abroad: US, Europe, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia

How much to tip in the US and Canada, whether to add to a European service charge, and where tipping is not done. Plus a quick way to avoid double tipping.　About 5 min read · Updated 2026-11-01

No tipping rule works everywhere. The safest habit is to check whether a service charge is already on the bill.

Quick answer

• US and Canada: expected, almost obligatory.
• Europe: depends on the bill; if service is included, you do not need to add much.
• Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore: not expected.
• Southeast Asia: not expected, though small amounts are welcome in hotels and spas.
• UAE and the Middle East: about 10% unless a service charge is already added.

US and Canada

Servers earn low base pay, so tips are a large part of their income. Typical restaurant tips are 15–20%; card machines often suggest 18%, 20% and 25%. $1–2 per drink at a bar is normal. Leaving nothing is read as a strong complaint.

Europe

In France, Spain, Germany, the UK, Czechia and Portugal a service charge is usually included or built into prices. If not, 5–10% or rounding up is plenty.

In Italy, coperto is a cover charge for the table and may not reach your server, so a small cash tip for good service is fine. Scandinavia generally does not expect tips.

Japan and Korea

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can confuse staff or be handed back. In Korea it will not offend, but it is often declined.

Avoid double tipping

1. Look for "service charge", "gratuity" or "coperto" on the bill.
2. If a card machine suggests a tip, check whether service was already added.
3. Ask: "Is service included?" It is never rude.
4. Cash tips usually reach the server more directly.

Our take

If you are going to the US or Canada, budget meals at the menu price plus about 20%. In Europe and Asia just read the bill.

FAQ

Before or after tax?

Many people use the pre-tax amount, but using the total is also fine; the difference is small.

Related guides