Tipping Customs by Country: How Much Should You Tip Abroad?
October 21, 2026
Tipping norms vary widely: a 20% tip is customary at a US restaurant, while in Japan tipping can confuse or even offend staff. As a general rule, tip according to local custom, check whether a service charge is already included in the bill, and avoid applying US habits automatically everywhere you travel.
Skip the math and get your answer instantly:
Open the Tip Calculator →Typical Restaurant Norms
These ranges are common guidelines and not rules, and they change over time, so check a current local source for your destination.
In the United States and Canada, 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill is typical for table service, with 18% to 20% the common standard. In the UK and Ireland, 10% to 12.5% is usual and is often added as a service charge, which you should check before adding more.
| Region | Typical restaurant tip | Note |
|---|---|---|
| United States / Canada | 15% to 20% | Tip on the pre-tax bill; servers rely on tips |
| United Kingdom | 10% to 12.5% | Often added as service charge |
| Most of Europe | Round up or 5% to 10% | Service often included |
| Japan | None | Tipping is not customary |
| Australia / New Zealand | Optional, 10% for great service | Wages are higher |
Check for Service Charges First
In many countries, a service charge is included in the bill, shown as service compris in France or servizio in Italy. When it is included, an additional tip is optional and a small round-up is plenty.
Also look at how a service charge is described on the receipt. A mandatory fee is not necessarily a tip for staff, so ask if you care how it is distributed.
Calculating Tips Quickly
For 10%, move the decimal one place left. For 20%, double that. For 15%, add 10% and half of 10%. A $64 bill gives $6.40 for 10%, $12.80 for 20%, and $9.60 for 15%.
Splitting a bill among several people? Calculate the tip on the total first, then divide the total including tip, so no one under-tips by rounding their own share.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you tip in Japan?
Generally no. Good service is expected and tipping is not part of the culture, so leaving money can cause confusion. Politely declining a tip is common.
Is tip calculated before or after tax?
In the US, etiquette guides generally suggest tipping on the pre-tax amount, though many people tip on the total for simplicity.
Should I tip if a service charge is included?
Usually not. If the service charge is included in the bill, extra tipping is optional and a small round-up is enough.
How much should I tip for takeout?
There is no firm rule. Many people leave 0% to 10% for takeout, more for large or complicated orders.