When you’re traveling in Mexico you’ll notice that tipping is part of everyday service. Knowing the right amount saves you from feeling awkward and makes sure the people who helped you get a fair reward. Below is a quick rundown of what locals expect.
In most sit‑down restaurants a tip of 10‑15 % of the bill is standard. If the service is especially friendly, you can push it toward 20 %. Check the receipt – many places add a 10 % service charge for larger groups; if it’s already there, you don’t need to leave extra cash.
Restaurants and cafés: 10‑15 % for table service, 5‑10 % at cafés or fast‑food counters where you order at the counter.
Bars: Round up the bill or leave about 10 % of the total. If you’re ordering a single drink, a few pesos is enough.
Hotels: Porters usually get 20‑50 pesos per bag. Housekeeping staff appreciate 20‑40 pesos per night left in an envelope. Bellhops and concierge staff can be tipped 30‑70 pesos for special requests.
Taxis: Round the fare up to the nearest 10 or 20 pesos. For short rides, adding a few extra pesos is polite; for longer trips, a 10 % tip is common.
Tour guides: If you join a group tour, 50‑100 pesos per person for a half‑day tour is fair. Private guides deserve a higher amount – around 150‑300 pesos per day, depending on the experience.
Street vendors and market stalls: Tipping isn’t expected, but you can leave a small change if the vendor goes out of their way or offers a discount.
Use Mexican pesos for tips whenever possible. If you only have dollars, the exchange rate is usually less favorable and locals may have to make change, which can be inconvenient.
Carry a stack of small‑denomination pesos in a secure pocket. You’ll need them for taxis, hotel staff and casual dining. A few 10‑peso and 20‑peso bills cover most situations.
When you get the bill, glance at the bottom for a line that says “propina” (tip) or “servicio incluido.” If it’s marked, you don’t need to add more unless you want to.
If you’re unsure about the amount, ask the server politely: “¿Cuánto es la propina?” Most staff will tell you the local norm.
Don’t feel pressured to tip for poor service. A small amount is better than nothing, but you can always speak to a manager if the experience was truly unsatisfactory.
Finally, be respectful when you hand over cash. Place the tip in the hand of the person you’re rewarding, or leave it on the table with a note if you’re checking out of a hotel.
With these basics you’ll feel confident navigating Mexican tipping culture, and you’ll help keep the service you enjoy running smoothly.
Mexico's all-inclusive resorts offer a hassle-free vacation, but figuring out tipping can be tricky. Understanding the right amount to tip enhances your experience and shows gratitude to the staff. This guide covers typical tipping customs, and practical tips, and even clears common misconceptions, ensuring you're prepared for your trip. Feel confident knowing who to tip and how much, balancing gratitude with budget.