Tipping Etiquette in Thailand: A Traveler’s Guide
Suggestions from our Founder, Laura Stegeman (December, 2024)
When visiting Thailand, you’ll quickly notice the country’s warm hospitality and excellent service. While tipping isn’t as deeply ingrained in Thai culture as in Western countries, it has become more common in tourist-heavy areas. Knowing when, where, and how much to tip can make your trip smoother and show your appreciation without overstepping cultural norms.
Here’s your guide to tipping etiquette in Thailand.
+ Restaurants and Cafes
When to Tip:
• At local street food stalls or casual eateries, tipping isn’t expected.
• In sit-down restaurants, especially those catering to tourists or upscale establishments, leaving a tip is appreciated but not mandatory.
How Much to Tip:
• Round up the bill by a few baht (e.g., leave ฿100 if the bill is ฿90).
• For exceptional service in a mid-range or fine dining restaurant, leave 5-10% of the bill.
Pro Tip:
Check the bill for a service charge (often 10%)—if included, additional tipping isn’t necessary.
+ Hotels
When to Tip:
Tipping hotel staff is not required but is a nice gesture, especially if the service is exceptional.
Who to Tip and How Much:
• Bellboys/Porters: ฿20-฿50 per bag
• Housekeeping: ฿20-฿50 per day, left in an envelope or on the bedside table.
• Concierge: ฿50-฿100 if they assist with special requests, like booking tours or making restaurant reservations.
Pro Tip:
If staying at a luxury hotel, tipping is more customary. At smaller boutique hotels or guesthouses, tipping is less common but always appreciated.
If staying at a luxury hotel, tipping is more customary. At smaller boutique hotels or guesthouses, tipping is less common but always appreciated.
+ Taxis and Tuk-Tuks
When to Tip:
Tipping taxi and tuk-tuk drivers is not expected but is welcomed for good service, such as helping with luggage or navigating traffic efficiently.
How Much to Tip:
• Round up the fare to the nearest ฿10 or ฿20.
• For long rides or exceptional service, consider adding ฿20-฿50.
Pro Tip:
Always agree on a fare before getting into a tuk-tuk to avoid misunderstandings, as these rides are not metered.
+ Spas and Massage Parlors
When to Tip:
Tipping is common and appreciated in spas and massage parlors, especially for traditional Thai massages, which require skill and effort.
How Much to Tip:
• ฿50-฿100 per hour of service. For a 2-hour massage, ฿100-฿200 is standard.
• In luxury spas, leaving 10% of the total bill is appropriate if no service charge is included.
Pro Tip:
Hand the tip directly to the therapist for a more personal touch.
+ Tour Guides/Leaders and Drivers
When to Tip:
Tipping is customary for tour guides and drivers, as they often go above and beyond to ensure a great experience.
How Much to Tip:
• Tour Guide: ฿300-฿550 per day, depending on the group size and the quality of service.
• Driver: ฿100-฿300 per day.
Pro Tip:
If traveling in a group, pool the tip among participants to give a collective token of appreciation. (on Group Trips run by Get Out There Tours+Travel, a “Kitty” will be maintained throughout the tip to distribute group tips)
+ Street Vendors and Markets
When to Tip:
Tipping is not expected at street food stalls or in markets. These transactions are typically straightforward.
What to Do Instead:
Show gratitude by smiling and saying, “Khop khun krub/kha” (thank you), and consider frequenting the same vendor if you’re in the area for a few days.
General Tips for Tipping in Thailand
• Use Local Currency: Always tip in Thai baht, as foreign currencies can be difficult for locals to exchange.• Small Bills Are Key: Carry small denominations (฿20 and ฿50 notes) to maketipping easier.
• Smile and Show Respect: A sincere thank-you and a smile go a long way in Thailand’s hospitality-driven culture.
When Tipping Isn’t Necessary
• At temples or with monks: Instead of tipping, make a donation or contribute to the temple donation box.
• Public transportation (buses, trains, etc.): Tipping is not part of the culture here.
Tipping in Thailand is less about strict rules and more about showing gratitude for excellent service. While locals don’t expect tips in many situations, a small gesture can brighten someone’s day and make your interactions even warmer. Remember to observe local customs, and when in doubt, a smile and a few extra baht can go a long way!
What has been your experience with tipping in Thailand? Share your stories in the comments!