Are you experiencing ‘tip guilt,’ ‘tip fatigue,’ or ‘tipflation’ in your travels? While tipping is a significant part of dining culture in some places, like the United States, it’s not universal.
In fact, in some countries, it’s not customary, or can even be seen as rude. Drawing on data from Visual Capitalist’s 2023 map of restaurant staff tipping percentages, here are 18 countries where tipping isn’t the norm.
1: Australia
Tipping is not expected in Australia. Unlike certain other countries where tipping is viewed as rude and disrespectful, in Australia, if you do so, servers will likely appreciate it versus feel offended by it.
This makes Australia a destination where you don’t need to budget for tips as it isn’t expected, but you can still show appreciation if you wish, and it will likely be well-received.
2: Japan
In Japan, tipping is considered borderline rude. The cultural practice is to simply pay the bill amount as presented.
Attempting to leave extra money can cause discomfort or even be seen as an insult to the staff. Therefore, it is strongly advised to refrain from tipping altogether.
Instead of leaving a tip, consider spending your spare change on enjoying more local food or experiences during your trip.
3: New Zealand
Tipping in New Zealand is totally optional. It is not a standard part of the culture or an expected practice when receiving services like dining. Whether or not you choose to leave a tip is a personal decision.
You can feel comfortable knowing that simply paying the bill is sufficient and respectful of local customs. There is no obligation or pressure to add extra gratuity.
4: Laos
Tipping is viewed as a nice gesture in Laos. It can be a way to show extra appreciation for good service. However, it is explicitly stated that tipping is not a cultural expectation that customers do so.
This means you should not feel obligated to tip. It remains a voluntary act of kindness rather than a required part of the transaction.
5: Cambodia
Tipping isn’t standard or expected throughout Cambodia. The general culture does not include gratuities as a norm for services.
However, there is a notable exception in touristy areas. In these locations, locals who work in the service industry have become a bit more accustomed to the practice of receiving tips from international visitors. Still, it is not universally required.
6: Samoa
In Samoa, you absolutely do not need to worry about tipping. There won’t be any hard feelings whatsoever if you choose not to leave a tip.
Tipping is not a part of the local culture or an expectation when receiving services like dining. This allows visitors to enjoy their experience without the added consideration or pressure of leaving extra money.
7: China
Gratuities are simply not a part of Chinese culture. Tipping is not a standard practice in daily transactions.
However, if you find yourself in a particularly super touristy area, leaving behind a small tip can be considered a nice gesture.
This suggests a slight influence from international practices in tourist hotspots, but it is not the norm nationwide.
8: Fiji
Tipping is generally not common practice in Fiji. The culture does not typically include leaving gratuities for service.
However, this differs slightly in very touristy areas. In these locations, service staff have become relatively more accustomed to receiving tips. But overall, outside of specific tourist zones, tipping is not expected or widespread.
9: South Korea
When visiting South Korea, it is best practice not to leave a tip. Tipping is often perceived negatively and can be seen as offensive to service staff.
If you try to insist that a restaurant worker takes a tip, it will only deepen the cultural ‘no-no’ and cause further awkwardness. Respect the local custom by simply paying the exact bill amount.
10: Singapore
Tipping is simply not a “thing” at all in Singapore. A key reason for this is that restaurants frequently already include a service charge as part of the bill.
This charge covers the service aspect, removing the need for additional tipping. Importantly, even if a service charge is not included, tipping is still not expected from customers. Just pay the listed price.
11: Costa Rica
Tipping is not considered a standard part of Costa Rican culture. You won’t find it to be a widespread expectation in most local establishments.
However, there is a distinction when it comes to restaurants operating specifically in touristy areas.
In these locations, tips are welcomed. So, while generally not the norm, be aware that tourist zones may differ.
12: Nigeria
Tipping is not a customary practice in Nigeria. It is not an expected part of receiving service. While it is not a common cultural norm, it isn’t totally unheard of or frowned upon if one chooses to do so.
This suggests that while not standard, offering a tip out of personal generosity would likely not cause offense.
13: Djibouti
Tipping in the traditional sense is not required in Djibouti. This is because a service charge is commonly included as part of the bill.
This included charge functions as the gratuity. Therefore, once you have paid your bill, there is no need to leave any additional money on the table for service staff. The cost is already covered.
14: Tajikistan
In Tajikistan, tipping is not customary, particularly when you are visiting smaller cities or staying at moderate to budget accommodation.
The expectation shifts, however, if you are in larger cities and at upscale hotels. In these more urban or high-end settings, tipping may become more common. Be mindful of your location and accommodation type.
15: Vanuatu
Tipping is pretty much considered a “no-no” in Vanuatu. It is strongly advised against as a general practice. There are some limited exceptions, mostly confined to touristy areas.
However, even in these specific locations, leaving a tip is still not considered mandatory. The cultural norm leans heavily against gratuities. Stick to paying the listed price.
16: Taiwan
You will easily fit right in with Taiwanese culture by choosing not to tip. Not tipping is the standard and expected practice.
If you personally want to leave a tip, it is likely to be well-received. It won’t cause offense. So, while not necessary, a tip can still be accepted positively if you choose to offer one.
17: Denmark
In Denmark, you can rest assured that no one will expect you to tip them. This is a clear cultural norm. Moreover, Danish law supports this practice.
If a company intends for gratuities for service to be included, they are legally required to build this cost into the price of the item or service itself. The price is inclusive.
18: Kosovo
Among Kosovar locals, tipping another local is unusual and would likely be met with strange stares. As a foreigner visiting Kosovo, you have flexibility.
You can choose whether or not to tip, as neither option is strictly required or forbidden. However, if you do decide to leave a tip, it is appreciated. This highlights a difference in expectations for visitors versus locals.
Alicia Richards