What should you do if you're really broke in a country where tipping is customary?

10/19/2012 5:24:24 PM

There are two things you absolutely should do:

  • Let your friends know upfront that you won’t be able to tip much due to being at the end of your budget. If they are locals they’ll probably know the best cheap spots to go to. Or maybe they’ll offer to help cover the tip.

  • In the event you decide to go somewhere that you won’t be able to give an appropriate tip let your server know before you order the first thing. This is one instance where it’s better to ask permission than forgiveness. And some places they may be able to comp you a drink or give you a discount which would then allow you to tip appropriately. Or maybe they have on “off-menu” special that is cheap enough so you can tip appropriately after all. Don’t expect special treatment, or even ask for it, but if they offer accept it gracefully.

10/19/2012 8:42:20 PM

Not sure if this is quite the scenario you are outlining, but:

If you’re really really broke, chances are you won’t be eating at restaurants or places that require tipping in the first place 🙂 At least in the US, tipping is not the norm (or is completely optional – eg. tip jar might be present) at fast food (McD, Chipotle), sandwich shops (Subway) or other similar food outlets even in countries where tipping is expected at restaurants. Generally tips are only expected where you have sit-down service; if you’re standing in line at a counter, no tip needed.

At least in the US, the best way to look at tipping in a restaurant is to consider it to be part of the price of the meal. It’s standard for good service. If your budget doesn’t cover the full price (including tax and tip), then choose a more appropriate dining option, otherwise you’re essentially underpaying and stiffing the waitstaff. So the analogous situation is: if you were in a country that didn’t require tips, what would you plan on doing? (Probably not underpaying!)

For going for drinks, check to see if there’s anywhere that has happy hour specials that you can take advantage of, you can often get decently cheap beer ($2 PBRs!) or appetizers depending on the venue and time; or it might be possible to chip in with the others to buy a pitcher of beer so you can still participate without having to over-commit.

Just being upfront with the other folks about being at the end of your budget might be the best strategy; depending on their cultural background, they may well be up for covering you for a drink or so in exchange for your travel stories or as a matter of hospitality – that whole kindness of strangers thing.

10/19/2012 9:02:14 AM

While it may make you feel a bit cheap, sometimes you just can’t tip – so in those situations you might just have to accept it.

You should let the members of your party know before you agree to go, though, as they may be able to pay a bit extra as a tip.

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About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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