Tipping in Thailand can be confusing for travelers who come from countries where it’s either standard practice or not common at all. In Thailand, tipping is not a strict rule, but it’s a gesture that’s always appreciated. The culture of tipping here is based more on gratitude than obligation, and knowing when and how much to give can make your interactions smoother and more respectful.
Do Thai People Expect Tips?
Generally, locals don’t expect tips in the same way service workers might in Western countries. Thai people appreciate kindness and politeness more than money, and excessive tipping can sometimes feel out of place in smaller, family-run establishments. That said, a small tip for good service has become increasingly common in tourist areas like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.
It’s not offensive to leave nothing if the service charge is already included, but if someone goes out of their way to help you, a small gesture of thanks is always welcome.
Restaurants and Cafés
In most local eateries, tipping is not expected. You’ll often see locals paying the exact amount or rounding up slightly. However, in mid-range and upscale restaurants, especially those catering to tourists, a 10% tip is a nice way to show appreciation. If a service charge is already included in your bill, you don’t need to add more unless the service was exceptional.
At street food stalls or small noodle shops, rounding up the bill to the nearest 10 baht is more than enough. For example, if your meal costs 45 baht, leaving 50 baht is polite and appreciated.
Hotels and Guesthouses
Hotel staff generally don’t expect tips, but it’s common to give a small amount to those who assist you directly. A bellboy who carries your luggage might receive 20–50 baht, and a cleaner can be left 20–40 baht per day, depending on the hotel. In guesthouses, tipping isn’t necessary, but a small note of thanks or a kind word often goes a long way.
If you stay for several days and build a friendly relationship with the staff, leaving a small envelope with 100–200 baht at the end of your stay is a thoughtful gesture that will be warmly received.
Taxi Drivers and Grab Drivers
Taxi drivers in Thailand don’t expect tips, but rounding up the fare makes things easier and shows appreciation. If your trip costs 182 baht, paying 190 or 200 baht is perfectly fine. With Grab or Bolt, there’s usually an option to add a small digital tip in the app — 10–20 baht is enough for good service or a pleasant driver.
It’s also common to simply say “keep the change” when paying in cash. Drivers will often smile and thank you genuinely for the gesture.
Massage and Spa Services
Massage therapists and spa staff rely heavily on tips as part of their income. For traditional Thai massages or foot massages, it’s polite to leave around 50–100 baht for a one-hour session. If you visit a more upscale spa, 10% of the total price is considered a fair tip.
Handing the tip directly to the therapist in a polite way — usually with both hands — is seen as respectful. Avoid leaving money on the bed or table unless that’s the custom at that particular spa.
Tour Guides and Drivers
For organized tours, guides and drivers appreciate small tips but don’t demand them. A reasonable amount is 100–200 baht per person for a full-day tour, or a little more if the guide was particularly knowledgeable or entertaining. Drivers often receive slightly less, around 50–100 baht per day.
If you’re part of a larger group, it’s common to pool together a collective tip at the end of the tour, which the guide can share among the team.
Hairdressers, Beauty Salons, and Other Services
In beauty salons or barber shops, tipping is not obligatory but is becoming more common. Leaving 20–50 baht is appreciated if you’re happy with the service. For more upscale salons, 10% is a fair amount. As with most places in Thailand, polite words and a smile often mean as much as the money itself.
Places Where You Don’t Need to Tip
At convenience stores, supermarkets, food courts, and public transport, tipping is not done. Cashiers, BTS staff, or bus conductors don’t expect tips, and attempting to give them one might cause confusion. In these settings, kindness and patience are valued more than money.
How to Tip Politely
When tipping in Thailand, it’s best to hand over the money directly and thank the person with a smile. Using both hands when giving or receiving money is a small but respectful gesture. Avoid showing large bills or tipping in foreign currency — always use Thai baht.
Also, try to avoid overtly flashy tipping. Discreet generosity is more appreciated in Thai culture than grand gestures.
Understanding the Thai Perspective
Tipping is a personal choice rather than an expectation in Thailand. Most locals view it as a sign of kindness and respect rather than a payment for service. If you’re polite, patient, and friendly, you’ll often receive excellent service regardless of whether you leave a tip. But leaving a small one, especially in the right context, adds to the positive impression you make as a visitor.
Final Note
When in doubt, remember this: tipping in Thailand is never mandatory, but it’s always appreciated when given thoughtfully. A few coins or a small bill might not mean much to you, but it can brighten someone’s day and leave a lasting impression of warmth and gratitude — values that truly reflect the spirit of Thailand.