Tipping norms vary enormously by country, venue type, and service quality — getting it wrong either feels rude (too little in the US) or unnecessary (in Japan, where tipping can actually cause offence). This guide covers how to calculate tips quickly, UK-specific rules on service charges, and what's expected around the world.
How to Calculate a Tip
Tip amount = Bill total × Tip percentage ÷ 100
Total to pay = Bill total × (1 + Tip percentage ÷ 100)
Example: £65 bill, 15% tip: £65 × 0.15 = £9.75 tip → total £74.75
Quick Mental Maths for Tips
- 10%: Move the decimal point one place left. £78 → £7.80
- 15%: Find 10%, then add half again. 10% of £78 = £7.80, half = £3.90, total tip = £11.70
- 20%: Divide by 5. £78 ÷ 5 = £15.60
- 25%: Divide by 4. £78 ÷ 4 = £19.50
UK Tipping Guide by Venue
| Venue / Service | Typical Tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | 10–15% | Check if service charge already added |
| Casual café / coffee shop | Optional / tip jar | Not expected |
| Pub (table service) | Optional, £1–2 | At the bar: not expected |
| Taxi / private hire | 10–15% | Round up or add £1–3 |
| Hairdresser / barber | 10–15% | Common if you're happy with service |
| Hotel porter | £1–2 per bag | Discretionary |
| Food delivery | Optional, £1–3 | App-based — check driver receives it |
| Takeaway (counter) | Not expected |
The Service Charge Trap
Many UK restaurants automatically add a 10–12.5% "discretionary service charge" to your bill. This is legal, but the word "discretionary" is key — you are legally entitled to remove it if you're not happy with the service. Simply ask the server before paying.
Crucially, you do not need to pay an additional tip on top of a service charge — that would mean tipping twice. Check your bill carefully before paying. If a service charge has been added and you were happy with your experience, that covers the tip. If service was excellent and you want to reward staff further, a small additional amount is appropriate.
Where Do Tips Actually Go?
This varies significantly by employer. Some restaurants pool all tips and distribute equally; others use "tronc" systems managed by a third party. Since April 2024, the UK's Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 requires employers to pass 100% of tips to workers without deduction, and to have a written tips policy. Ask your server if you want to know how tips are distributed — they should be able to tell you.
International Tipping Norms
| Country | Restaurant | Taxi | Hotel |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | 18–25% (essential) | 15–20% | $2–5/night housekeeping |
| Canada | 15–20% | 10–15% | As USA |
| France | 5–10% (appreciated) | Round up | €1–2/day |
| Germany | 5–10% | Round up | €1/day |
| Japan | Never tip | Never tip | Never tip |
| Australia | 0–10% (optional) | Round up | Optional |
| UAE (Dubai) | 10–15% | Round up | Appreciated |