13 Places You Should Never Leave a Tip – It Could Cost You More Than You Think!
Would it be wrong not to leave a tip? Tipping might be a nice gesture to show appreciation, but it can do more harm than good in some places.
Some tipping practices can lead to consequences, from hidden fees to accidental cultural offenses. To protect your wallet and reputation, you must learn about keystone signs where the gratuity can backfire.
Find out the 13 places you won’t be asked for a tip – and why. Become a more informed, more intelligent, and (hopefully) less mistake-prone traveler!
All-Inclusive Resorts
Service charges are part of the price model in many all-inclusive resorts. Firstly, if you’re paying for convenience, why tip? Most even forbid staff from accepting tips to keep things fair.
If unsure, scan your bill for a “service charge” line or ask the resort about their policy upfront. With this included tip, there is no reason to aggravate staff or breach hotel rules.
Counter Service Restaurants
Some tip jars are on the counter at other establishments, but tipping isn’t always expected here. Many of these workers are paid hourly wages that exceed the minimum to compensate for tipping.
No more tipping blindly; only top service. Dining experiences where tipping is part of the staff’s income—save money on such occasions.
Self-Service Buffets
Full-service restaurants are not the same as buffets. In these, servers have minimal contact with guests, like clearing plates or refilling drinks. Tips aren’t required here, and many countries outright ban them.
Notice the style of service. A small tip is okay if the service goes above and beyond. Otherwise, you don’t have to tip for basic tasks.
Cultural No-Tip Zones
Not all countries tip. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Japan’s culture does not encourage tipping services at bars, cafes, restaurants, taxis, or hotels.
Service is considered high quality without a reward of money. Do some research before traveling to South Korea and China to learn about tipping customs. South Korea’s and China’s tipping etiquette is unique and might surprise you.
Charity Fundraisers
Don’t tip if you buy a meal or service at an event where this is the reason for the purchase. The money is generally sent directly to the cause you donated to, and if you add a tip, it’s confusing to organizers.
Your generosity should center on the actual purpose of the event. This ensures that your contribution will have the impact you want it to have.
Healthcare Services
Most hospitals, clinics, and wellness centers don’t allow healthcare providers to be tipped. Those working in regulated environments are already well paid for their work.
A simple thank you card is a more appropriate way to thank someone. It shows appreciation without breaking hospital policy or causing the caregiver distress.
Supermarkets
You don’t tip checkout clerks or baggers. Employees at grocery stores tend to make wages that don’t need tipping. If you’d like to thank the staff, let them know or go through their manager. Cash isn’t always the most valuable positive feedback.
Takeout Orders
Orders for takeout or delivery tend to include service fees baked into the final price. That’s why tipping on top of these fees could drive up your cost more than you’d need to pay.
Check how your order is processed. Delivery people, however, need tips if they go above and beyond, say, if they weather the storm to bring you your food.
Taxi Apps and Rideshares
Uber or Lyft already charge service fees. Here, tipping is a very divisive affair. Some drivers expect gratuities, but the apps’ models indicate that you don’t need to tip.
Leave positive driver reviews instead. This will also improve their performance metrics while sparing them from having to worry about tipping.
Casinos
Tips are typical for gambling establishments, and they are usually in service chips or some other mechanism. Generally, employees abide by regulations that govern their dealings with gratuities. Instead of tipping directly, follow casino etiquette.
Fast Food Chains
Employees do not expect customer generosity and are paid a pre‐established wage. Keep the tipping budget for services where you can see the extra effort and value.
Street Performers
Most street performers depend on crowds for voluntary contributions but don’t anticipate receiving a specific tip.
Tipping is more about your contribution to supporting the craft than tipping for a service. It is based on the spirit of street performances.
Automatic Gratuity in High-End Restaurants
Fancy restaurants often include an automatic gratuity of 18% or 20% on the bill. If the service doesn’t deserve an additional tip, it becomes redundant.
Ask to see an itemized receipt before you add anything else. This way, you tip when needed and won’t unknowingly double the payment.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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