Tipping in the United States confuses many Australians. In 2026 it is still very different from Australia. Restaurants, bars, transport, hotels and even toilets can expect tips. Knowing when and how much to tip saves you money and avoids awkward moments. This guide explains updated tipping percentages and where tipping is expected or optional when you travel to the USA.
Why tipping matters in the United States
In the USA tipping is part of income for many workers. Minimum wages for restaurant staff and service workers can be low, and tips make up a big part of their earnings. When you do not tip where expected, staff can earn less than minimum wage.
This means tipping is not optional in many situations. It is part of local price expectations.
Tipping at restaurants and cafes
In sit-down restaurants tipping is expected.
Typical tips in 2026 are:
15 percent for average service.
18 percent for good service.
20 percent or more for excellent service.
You calculate the tip on the pre-tax bill. Most restaurants add tax after the tip amount.
At casual cafes tipping is often done by rounding up or leaving a few dollars. You can put change in a tip jar at the counter.
At fast-food or take-out places you usually do not tip, unless staff help with table service. The same applies for restaurants where you go to the counter to order, pay, and collect your food.
Tipping for bars and drinks
n bars tipping is common.
Expect to tip around:
1 to 2 dollars per drink.
15 to 20 percent for a full table tab.
Bars often have a tip jar at the counter. If you order multiple drinks at once, calculate 15 percent of the total.
Tipping for taxis and ride-shares
Tipping continues in rides.
For taxis and ride-shares you should tip around:
10 to 15 percent of the fare.
Drivers rely on tips as part of income. Many rideshare apps prompt tipping after the trip.
Tipping for hotels and accommodation services
Tipping at hotels is expected for certain services.
Common tips include:
1 to 2 dollars per bag for bellhops.
2 to 5 dollars per night for housekeeping.
1 to 2 dollars to valet attendants when your car is returned.
You can leave tips in cash daily for housekeeping. Staff change shifts and may not be the same each day.
Tipping at airports
Airport tipping is common for bag handlers and skycaps.
If a porter helps with luggage:
1 to 2 dollars per bag is expected.
Skycaps and curbside staff often help with loading and unloading. Tip around 2 dollars per bag or 5 to 10 dollars minimum.
Airport shuttle drivers and rideshare drivers do not always require a tip. You can tip 1 to 2 dollars per person on a shared shuttle.
Tipping tour guides and experiences
Tour guides and experience leaders often earn a living from tips.
Expect to tip:
10 to 20 percent of tour cost for full-day tours.
A few dollars per person for shorter experiences.
If you have a private guide, 15 to 20 percent is a good rule.
Where tipping is not expected
Tipping is generally not expected in:
Fast-food chains.
Counter service at delis or food courts.
Coffee shops where there is no table service (but leaving change in a tip jar is appreciated).
Self-service facilities.
Tipping for public transport such as buses or trains is not expected.
How tipping can affect your budget
If you do not account for tipping, your daily travel cost can be higher than expected.
A night out for two with dinner and drinks can add up:
Dinner tip (20 percent): 40 to 60 dollars.
Two drinks at a bar: 6 to 8 dollars.
Taxi ride tip: 5 to 10 dollars.
When you budget for tipping, your daily spend is more realistic.
Many tipping payments, rideshare apps, and restaurant receipts are handled digitally. Having reliable mobile data makes it easier to calculate tips, approve charges, and track spending, especially when you arrive. A USA SIM or eSIM for Australians travelling in 2026 that works immediately on landing removes friction.
Tips to make tipping easier
Use your phone calculator before payment.
Take small bills for common tip amounts.
If unsure, ask staff what is customary.
Check your receipt, some places add gratuity automatically.
Final thoughts for Australians visiting the USA in 2026
Tipping is expected in the USA. It is not optional in many service situations. Understanding local norms keeps you polite and your travel smooth.
When you budget for tipping, you avoid surprises and stay in control of your spending.