How much to tip?
A recent study by Travelex has shown that British holidaymakers are so confused about how much to tip when on holiday that many are leaving too much!
Travelex asked 2,000 Brits about their tipping etiquette and the results showed that on average 65% did not know how much to leave as a tip when on foreign shores with at least 26% tipping far too much.
The research has brought to light just how much Brits are over-spending when it comes to leaving tips, for example, on a basic 7 night holiday to Spain, families were unnecessarily spending £40 in tips. This figure rises dramatically to £65 for British families when on holiday in Croatia.
British families (at least 54%) are also not thinking about how much change they carry with them in order to pay the correct amount when tipping, meaning they overspend. It is advisable, before travelling, to research how much is the standard amount to tip – at least 70% of those surveyed already do this.
With regards to the correct etiquette for tipping:
• In Germany, you should place the tip in the waiter's hand and not leave it on the table
• In Italy, check your bill as the service charge will automatically be added
• In New Zealand and Australia, there is no need to leave a tip unless the service you have received is exceptional
• In Qatar, it is advisable to add a tip of between 15-20% on top of the bill in a restaurant
It's easy to understand how holidaymakers can become so confused when considering tipping in a foreign country as there are so many rules and customs to abide by. Nobody wishes to offend anyone but with budgets so tight these days, it is worth doing some research before travelling so there is no risk of overspending. When on holiday it is advisable to carry small change in a variety of denominations so you have enough for tipping and pay for those bigger items with a pre-paid card.