Tipping in Mexico is a common practice across the country. Employees typically earn a very modest wage and rely on tips to supplement their income.
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Tipping in Mexico
It’s a good idea to keep change handy at all times for those unexpected moments when you might need a few pesos to pass along to someone who has been helpful. Make sure to get coins when you arrive in Mexico. Base your tips on the service you receive, and you will do well.
Some Mexico all-inclusive resorts have a no-tipping policy, but it never hurts to give a few extra pesos to those who go above and beyond to make your stay special. If you are tipping in Mexico using U.S. dollars, only use bills, because coins are not exchangeable for pesos.
There is no set-in-stone rule for tipping in Mexico with regard to when or how much to tip. It is solely up to you what to give. These are simply suggestions based on what is considered standard practices for different services.
Richard Zarkin, PR Manager for the Riviera Nayarit Visitors & Convention Bureau, says, “Some upscale properties such as the W, St. Regis, Four Seasons, and Imanta will add 10 percent to the room for service, and of course, guests are always welcome to leave an additional 5 to 10 percent in bars or restaurants or for massage therapists, hairstylists, [bellhops], etc. if they are particularly impressed by the service.”
Mexico Tipping Guide
Restaurant Servers: Service is not included in all restaurants (though this may vary by location or for a larger group), so it is customary to tip 10 to 20 percent of the total bill.
Bartender: It’s acceptable to tip 10 to 20 pesos per drink or 10 to 15 percent of the total bill.
Grocery Store Bagger: Though this may be unconventional where you live, it’s common that baggers work solely for tips. Give them 1 to 2 pesos per bag, and 10 to 20 pesos if they help you to your car.
Taxis: Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but feel free to tip 10 pesos if they help you with your luggage.
Airport Shuttle: It is not necessary to tip your driver, but it is considerate to give 10 pesos per bag if they help with your luggage.
Tour Guide Operator: If taking a day tour, tip your guide 10 to 20 percent of the total cost for their time.
Bellhop: It is customary to tip 25 to 50 pesos when shown to your room and helped with your luggage.
Housecleaning: Tip 25 to 50 pesos per day for those who keep your temporary living space in order. Make sure to tip each day, as it may not be the same person on the final day of your stay.
Concierge: If you are happy with the help you received, tipping 50 to 150 pesos is a considerate way to show it.
Hair Stylist: If you love your new look, tip 15 percent of the total cost.
Spa Service Provider: Add 15 to 20 percent on the cost of a spa treatment to feel even better.
More from SmarterTravel:
- How Much to Tip Hotel Housekeeping
- A Guide to Tipping Across the Globe, in One Map
- The 13 Safest Places in Mexico for Travelers
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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.
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