Tipping is a common practice in many parts of the world, especially in the United States and Canada, where service workers often rely on gratuities to supplement their income. In these places, leaving a tip is seen as an essential part of dining out or receiving a service.
However, in other parts of the world, tipping is either not customary, completely unnecessary, or sometimes even considered rude.
In some countries, the cost of labor is already built into the prices, or workers receive decent wages through government regulations or strong unions.
In others, a different cultural perspective exists where excellent service is considered part of one’s job, not something that requires extra reward.
If you’re planning international travel and want to avoid uncomfortable or awkward tipping situations, it’s worth knowing where gratuity is not expected.
Here’s a list of nine countries where tipping isn’t the norm and in some cases, actively discouraged.
1. Japan
Japan is perhaps the most well-known country for its strong anti-tipping culture. In Japanese society, good service is seen as a basic expectation rather than something extraordinary.
Offering a tip can be seen as confusing or even disrespectful, as it implies that the worker requires additional compensation to perform their duties well.
Waiters, hotel staff, taxi drivers, and other service professionals take pride in their roles and expect no extra payment beyond the actual cost of service.
In fact, many will politely refuse a tip if offered. In upscale restaurants and hotels, it is sometimes acceptable to place money in a sealed envelope as a gesture of appreciation but even this is rare and not expected.
2. South Korea
South Korea, much like Japan, doesn’t have a tipping culture. In fact, tipping can occasionally be seen as insulting, as it may be interpreted to mean that the person receiving the tip is in financial need or that you’re attempting to buy better service.
In restaurants, cafes, and taxis, tipping is virtually nonexistent. Prices already include all service charges, and workers are trained to provide quality service regardless of the potential for extra reward.
Some high-end hotels catering to foreign tourists may allow tipping, but even then, it’s not a requirement.
When in doubt in South Korea, it’s better to keep your change in your wallet. Offering a tip might result in confusion or discomfort for both parties.
3. Brazil
In Brazil, tipping is not obligatory, but there are nuances worth noting. Many restaurants automatically include a 10% service charge on the bill, often labeled as “serviço” or “taxa de serviço.” While this fee is technically optional, it’s commonly accepted and rarely disputed.
Outside of restaurants, tipping is generally unnecessary. For example, taxi drivers don’t expect tips, though rounding up the fare is a courteous gesture.
Hotel staff, such as bellhops or housekeeping, might appreciate a small tip if they go out of their way for you, but it’s not expected.
If you’re especially impressed by someone’s service, a small tip will certainly be appreciated but no one will raise an eyebrow if you choose not to give one.
4. China
Tipping in China is a complex and often region-dependent issue. In most local settings, tipping is not required and can be viewed as inappropriate.
Historically, tipping was seen as a remnant of capitalist behavior and discouraged during Communist times, and that sentiment still lingers in some places.
However, due to the growing tourism industry, tipping is becoming more common in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, particularly in hotels and tour services catering to foreign visitors.
In rural or traditional areas, though, a tip may be refused or even cause offense. As a general rule, tipping is not expected in taxis, restaurants, or small shops.
If you’re in a tourist-heavy area, check with your guide or concierge to see if tipping is appropriate in specific situations.
5. Denmark
Denmark’s approach to service is shaped by a strong welfare system and high minimum wages. Employees in the hospitality and service industries are typically well-paid, with average wages around $18 an hour or more.
As a result, tipping is unnecessary and not expected. Most Danes view tipping as an American practice that doesn’t apply in their country.
The bill you receive at a restaurant or hotel already includes the full cost of service, so there’s no pressure to leave anything extra.
That said, if you choose to round up your bill or leave a few coins behind for exceptional service, it will be appreciated—but certainly not required.
6. Belgium
In Belgium, tipping is very low-key. Most restaurants include a service charge in the final bill, and there’s no expectation of adding anything on top. Workers are generally paid fair wages, and like in Denmark, tipping is not seen as essential.
In upscale restaurants or luxury hotels, you may find that locals leave a small token tip perhaps 5% or rounding up the bill.
But this is more of a polite gesture than a social obligation. Taxi drivers, hairdressers, and bartenders also don’t expect tips.
Visitors can relax knowing that service charges are already baked into prices, and no one will judge you for skipping the tip altogether.
7. Australia
Tipping culture in Australia is somewhat debated and varies depending on who you ask. However, it’s safe to say that tipping is not expected in the majority of situations.
Australian service workers are generally paid a liveable wage, and customers don’t feel pressure to supplement that with gratuity.
That said, many Australians do leave a small tip usually around 10% at restaurants for excellent service. In bars, cafés, and taxis, tipping is uncommon, but rounding up or saying “keep the change” is considered polite.
If you’re from a country where tipping is mandatory, Australia can be a pleasant relief. There’s no awkward math at the end of the meal, and no one will scowl if you walk out without leaving a tip.
8. New Zealand
In New Zealand, tipping is not a part of everyday culture. Like its neighbor Australia, New Zealand has minimum wage laws that ensure service workers earn decent salaries. Most locals don’t tip unless they receive outstanding service.
Restaurants, taxis, and bars do not expect any gratuity, though travelers are welcome to offer a tip as a personal choice.
If you’re pleased with your experience, rounding up the bill or leaving some change behind is acceptable but there’s no societal expectation to do so.
Tipping may be slightly more common in high-end restaurants or in areas with a heavy international tourism presence, but it’s never required.
9. Estonia
Estonia is a lesser-known European destination that also happens to be free from the pressure of tipping. While not completely unheard of, tipping is not part of the everyday routine in Estonian culture.
Most restaurants already include service charges in the bill, and customers aren’t expected to leave additional money.
If the service is exceptional, leaving a 5-10% tip is appreciated but certainly not necessary. In casual settings like cafés or fast food joints, no one tips.
If you do choose to tip, your gesture won’t be frowned upon but unlike in some countries, no one will make you feel guilty for skipping it.
Alicia Richards