A Guide to Tipping in Mexico
One of the challenges many travelers face when visiting foreign countries is navigating local tipping customs. Every country has its own approach to tipping, and it can be a very controversial subject, with the potential to cause serious offense if done incorrectly. For this reason it is always best to research ahead of time what is expected and what is not acceptable in your host country.
The practice of tipping has a long history in Mexico, dating back to the beginnings of the nation’s tourist industry, with European visitors introducing the concept. Initially tipping followed the European model, with monetary tips given only in recognition of exceptional service, primarily in the service industries. Over time, however, the influence of the United States’ strong tipping culture has resulted in an evolution towards a reliance on tipping by service workers to supplement relatively low salaries. The Spanish word for tip is propina. Tipping has become widespread, particularly in hotels, restaurants and other tourism based establishments. There is considerable variation in tipping expectations between different types of business and indeed between different parts of the country.
It is important to tip in Mexican pesos rather than US dollars or another currency, as most money changers require passports or other documents as proof of ID and sometimes service workers do not have these documents, leaving them at the mercy of unregulated money changers offering very bad rates. Conversely, in some regions with a tourism driven economy, such as the Riviera Maya, where dollars are more common, locals may be more than happy to receive dollars. If in doubt, you can always ask.
Tipping In Restaurants
Tipping in restaurants is not an absolute requirement, and failing to do so will cause less problems than it would do in the United States. It has, however, become customary to tip when possible, with the amount varying depending where you are in the country. In tourist areas such as Cancún, Puerto Vallarta or Playa del Carmen, it has become normal to tip between 15 and 20 percent, relatively in-line with the US standard. You will find similar expectations in the more touristy areas of Mexico City. It is always worth checking your receipt before tipping as some establishments, especially the more formal or high end restaurants, will already include a service charge, using the same word as for tip (propina) or will include a sugerencia, which is a suggested tip.
Away from tourist areas, tipping varies but has slowly become customary in restaurants with most people giving around 10 percent. Whether fair or not, some places will have a higher expectation that foreign tourists tip than locals. Tipping tends to be less common the more rural the area, however we would still suggest tipping at least 10 percent bearing in mind that many restaurant service workers work long hours in difficult conditions for low pay. Knowing this, a little extra is always appreciated.
Tipping In Hotels
When staying at hotels in Mexico, tipping is common and expected for various services, especially in hotels geared towards foreign tourists. The amount depends largely on the service rendered.
Bellhops/Porters: It is customary to tip around 20-50 pesos per bag when the porter assists you with your luggage.
Housekeeping: Leaving a small tip (around 20-50 pesos per day) for the housekeeping staff is appreciated, especially if they provide excellent service. Some hotels will have cards or envelopes in the rooms politely soliciting tips.
Concierge: If the concierge assists you with special arrangements, such as booking tours or securing reservations, it is customary to tip around 50-100 pesos, depending on the complexity of the request.
As with restaurants, many hotel workers have long shifts with low pay and some travel long distances to work each day due to being priced out of the area in which they work. For many tips make up a vital part of their income.
Tipping Taxis
Tipping taxi drivers in Mexico is not as common as in other service industries. In general, most people do not tip taxi drivers. If exceptional service is given you can give a tip, but as prices for taxi services are often set by the local cooperative, the fare is usually a reasonable rate and does not need an added tip.
Ride sharing services such as Uber have become increasingly popular in the areas of Mexico where they are permitted, and many drivers are accustomed to receiving tips through the apps. There have been issues with drivers attempting to solicit tips directly from riders, however we recommend following the suggested procedure of the application you are using.
Tipping in Bars
Tipping in bars is similar to tipping in restaurants, however it has become customary to tip 15 percent for alcoholic drinks. Normally you will pay your bill/cheque before leaving the bar and add your tip at this point, rather than paying for each drink individually, although this may vary depending on the establishment you are visiting.
Other Times to Tip
There are a few other occasions where tipping is either common or customary. These include:
Tour guides - Many tour guides rely on tips to make a living, especially those offering ‘free’ tours.
Gas Station Operators - Most gas stations are staffed and while it is not necessary to tip, a small tip of 5 or 10 pesos is appreciated. It is common to give more if additional services such as windscreen cleaning or air added to your tires are rendered. Many locals will only tip if such services are provided.
Hairdressers/Barbers - This will vary depending on where you are in the country, but tipping 10 percent for a haircut is common in more touristy areas.
Supermarkets - In some supermarkets there may be a person, usually retired, helping to pack your groceries. It is customary to give a small tip of 10-20 pesos, and we would strongly suggest doing so as they are not paid a salary.
When Not to Tip
Offering a tip will rarely offend in Mexico, as such there is no time that you must never offer a tip. That said there is no expectation to tip those serving you in shops or fast food outlets. Furthermore, people providing services such as plumbing, car repairs or similar will not expect a tip. You should also bear in mind that it is illegal to demand a tip or to charge a higher percentage tip than the customer has agreed.
Final Thoughts
Tipping in Mexico is a custom that shows appreciation and gratitude for good service which has more in common with the practice in the United States than those in other parts of the world. Many people rely on receiving decent tips to supplement their incomes. Despite the economic growth Mexico has enjoyed, many service workers are still below the poverty line, and amounts of money that may seem small to foreign tourists can make a substantial difference in their ability to support themselves and their families. In addition, tips directly support local communities and the development of local economies. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure you have a positive travel experience and also make a positive impact on the community you are visiting.
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