Football fans heading to the World Cup are being warned to prepare for penalties – not for fouls, but for tipping. Nearly three quarters of Brits admit they are baffled by tipping culture across the Atlantic. As thousands of England and Scotland supporters descend on the United States, one expert has cautioned that they should expect to tip “almost everywhere,” adding a significant amount to already steep costs for match tickets and accommodation.
Expert Advice on Tipping Etiquette
Travel money expert Ban Mahsoub stated: “Tipping abroad can feel surprisingly awkward, especially when you’re navigating different customs, unfamiliar currency or a card machine asking for a tip on the spot.”
Expected Tips in Various Settings
In restaurants, 18% tips are the minimum expected, with around 20% being the norm. A tip of 15% is considered low, while excellent service should be rewarded with a 25% tip. Bars typically expect $1–2 per drink or around 20% on a tab, with cocktails costing more. Even buying a coffee is not tip-free, as many card machines offer options for 18%, 20%, or 25% gratuities.
At hotels, porters expect $1 per bag, and guests are advised to leave $2–5 per day for housekeeping. In Canada, 15–20% is standard for restaurants, with anything above 20% reserved for excellent service. In Mexico, 10–15% is standard for good food service.
Survey Reveals Brits' Struggles
A study by Tesco Travel Money found that 65% of Brits say US tipping culture forces them to take more money abroad. Additionally, three in ten admit they have over-tipped on holiday to avoid embarrassment.
Ban, a partnerships director at the firm, advised: “Our advice is to do a little prep before you travel: check local tipping etiquette, sort your travel money in advance, and carry a mix of card and cash for taxis, tips, markets, small purchases and places where cards may not be accepted.”
Regional Variations
For those travelling to the host countries of this summer’s football tournament, tipping culture varies: from around 18–20% in US restaurants, to 15–20% in Canada, and often 10–15% in Mexico. It is worth checking before you go.
Top Tips for Travellers
- Check local tipping customs before you travel
- Carry smaller notes and coins
- Check whether a service charge is already included
Taking smaller notes can also help avoid awkward moments when you want to tip or pay locally. A little planning goes a long way, leaving travellers free to focus on the holiday, not the maths at the table.
