Tipping in Mexico: Who to Tip & How Much

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When it comes to tipping in Mexico, there’s a lot to consider. Who is expecting a tip when I’m being served by workers? Am I to tip at all-inclusives resorts?, or is that included in the How much should you give? Tipping in Mexico is crucial. It’s essential to understand the local customs surrounding tipping in Mexico. Which currency should you use to tip? Tip is known as “Propina”, in Spanish.

These are questions that come up all the time. I’ll cover as much as I can.

Understanding the nuances of tipping in Mexico can enhance your travel experience. Tipping in Mexico shows appreciation for good service and helps support local workers.

When considering tipping in Mexico, remember that local customs may vary by region and type of service. Tipping in Mexico is often expected in restaurants, hotels, and for various service providers.

Below, I’ll go over who and how much to tip in Mexico.

I’ve done my best to include everyone I’ve encountered in Mexico who is expecting a tip, a few people you might feel inclined to tip but shouldn’t, and guidelines for figuring out how much to give them.

Everyone has their own tipping philosophy. Do what feels right to you. I tip in line with what my local friends tell me is standard because that feels good to me. I wrote this guide based on my experience of Mexico’s tipping culture.

With those basics out of the way, let’s talk about who to tip and how much!

For those traveling to Mexico, being informed about tipping in Mexico will improve your interactions and ensure you’re following local etiquette.

When dining out, tipping in Mexico usually ranges from 10-20%. Adjusting your tip according to the service you receive is a common practice, and it reflects your satisfaction with the service provided.

Be aware that tipping in Mexico can differ significantly between tourist areas and local establishments. In tourist hotspots, tipping in Mexico is often higher, but in local spots, it might be lower.

When using your credit card, remember to ask about tipping in Mexico. Some establishments provide options to add tips directly to your bill, while others may not allow for this convenience.

In bars, tipping in Mexico is appreciated, especially when the bartender has provided excellent service throughout the night. Regular tips encourage better service in the future.

Tipping Food Service Providers

Tipping in Restaurants

It’s customary to tip 10-20% in restaurants in Mexico. Servers in Mexico are typically paid a low wage with the expectation that it will be supplemented with tips. 

With this in mind, I like to tip closer to the top of this range when I have great service (which, honestly, is most of the time).

If you are paying your bill with a card the logistics of leaving a tip are slightly different than back home. 

The server will ask if you want the bill closed: cuenta cerrada. If you plan to leave a cash tip and pay with your card, say Si, cuenta cerrada, and leave your desired tip in cash on the table.

When paying with your credit card, it’s essential that the merchant brings you the credit card terminal to your table. Under no circumstances should you allow anyone to disappear with your credit card. Again, this is good general habits to follow in the any country regardless of visiting or in the country you’re living in.

If you wish to tip with your card, tell the server the tip percentage you wish to leave. For example, if you wish to leave 15%, say quince por ciento de propina.

The server will usually then confirm the amount of the tip  (in pesos), and then the total of the final bill.

Occasionally, a server will add the gratuity to the bill for you, so always check your bill before you pay. Another general good habit to follow is when paying cash, if you have change owed to you, make sure to count the change just in case. That is a great habit no matter where you are or which country you’re visiting.

This shouldn’t happen… but in some touristy areas, servers will seize the opportunity to skim a few extra pesos in tips off of their tables. 

This attitude sucks, but remember, the wages are very low, and people have families to support. So, be sure to check your bill. If a gratuity has been added, don’t leave an additional tip.

Street Food Stands

It’s not standard to tip street food vendors, though some of them will have a tip jar. If there happens to be a jar I tend to toss a few pesos in, but if not I generally don’t tip.

Finally, remember that every effort you make helps support the local economy when tipping in Mexico.

Tipping in Mexico is not mandatory for taxi drivers, but it is customary to tip when they go above and beyond, such as assisting with luggage.

Bartenders

Plan to tip bartenders a few pesos initially and then a few more periodically throughout the night, say 10 to 20 pesos.

If you’re at a sit-down style bar, just add the tip to your bill at the end of the night as you would in a restaurant.

Tipping Transportation Providers

Taxi Drivers

For Uber drivers, while tipping in Mexico isn’t typical, it is becoming more common to tip if the driver provides exceptional service or assistance.

At all-inclusive resorts, tipping in Mexico plays an important role in staff motivation and service quality.

It’s not standard to tip taxi drivers in Mexico. But, if they help me with my luggage or do something extra other than simply driving from point A to point B, I will tip them. 

In shuttles, tipping in Mexico is generally expected, with amounts varying based on service, typically between 10 to 50 pesos.

I always recommend asking how much the driver will charge for the ride before you agree to get in the taxi. If you don’t, some taxi drivers will try to bump up the price because they know they can probably get away with it.

For instance, I once caught a taxi during rush hour without agreeing on a price in advance. I got in and expressed my gratitude to the driver for stopping because I’d been waiting for so long (foolish).

Then when I asked how much he’d charge to get to my destination, he gouged me for ⅓ above the usual price because he knew I wouldn’t want to take my chances waiting for another taxi. Don’t be like me!

On the flip side, there are tons of super helpful taxi drivers. Like the one who drove me and a few friends home from a boozy night on the town.

After dropping us off he noticed a group of men approaching and rolled the window down and told us to get in again. We did, and he drove us around the block until they were gone and we could safely unlock our door and go inside.

Uber Drivers

Since tipping taxi drivers isn’t customary in Mexico, I don’t tend to tip Uber drivers either unless they go out of their way to help me with something. However, the functionality is built into the app, so you can tip easily if you want to! 

Shuttle Drivers

It’s standard to tip shuttle drivers in Mexico. The amount should depend on the level of service they provide, but 10 to 50 pesos is reasonable, with 50 being quite generous.

If your driver helps you with your bags definitely be sure to tip him toward the higher end of the scale.

Taxi Stand Attendants

If you catch taxis from taxi stands on the street or in shopping malls, there is usually an attendant of some sort there who will help you find a taxi and load your bags into it.

It’s customary to tip these people a few pesos for their trouble. I usually give 5 to 10 pesos.

Sometimes the attendants will go out of their way to help you. They might run around and track down a taxi for you, or help you load a ton of luggage or shopping bags into the car.

Other times they just point to a taxi for you.

I tend not to tip in the latter situation, but if they do anything more, it’s definitely good to tip them.

When engaging with tour guides, tipping in Mexico is seen as a reward for good service, enhancing your overall experience.

Tipping Hospitality Workers in Mexico

Hotel porters 

Plan to tip hotel porters who help you with your bags. I suggest 10 to 50 pesos total depending on the distance they have to walk and the number of bags you have, etc. 

From hotel staff to tour guides, understanding the expectations for tipping in Mexico will help you navigate your trip smoothly.

In addition to the services mentioned, tipping in Mexico extends to many areas of your travel experience, enhancing service quality.

If you don’t happen to have change on you at the time (it happens!) try to make a point of slipping a tip to the person who helped you after you’ve tracked some down.

Concierge

It’s normal to tip concierge staff if they’re helping you make the most of your trip. The amount you tip them is totally up to you, and it’s not mandatory or even expected, but it’s always appreciated. Tip based on the level of service you are receiving. 

Housekeeping staff

Tipping housekeeping staff is a nice gesture. I like to leave the equivalent of about 50 pesos per day at the end of my trip. If you’re a particularly low-maintenance guest, you may wish to leave less. Anything is appreciated! 

Tour Guides

Tipping tour guides in Mexico is customary if you’re happy with the service. The amount will vary depending on the price of your tour.

A good rule of thumb is to tip 10% of the cost of the tour. I like to tip more if the guide is particularly helpful or engaging. Best place to find a reasonable guide is on GetYourGuide.com and the basic reason is due to the transparency of pricing including the tipping. No guessing, no awkwardness, and all completely taken care of prior to the reserved event that you’ve chosen based off of reviews.

Don’t forget to pack some coins and small bills to tip servers and other people who may help out along the tour.

While the cost of meals or drinks may be covered, it’s nice to have some cash to tip servers, bartenders, or drivers.

Tipping at All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

Tipping is crucial at all-inclusive resorts (unless you happen to be staying at a no-tipping resort).

Many different hotel employees are sure to help you out throughout the day, so be sure to have some small bills on hand.

Tipping bar staff 100 to 200 pesos at the beginning of each day is a good rule of thumb, as they’ll look after you all day.

They’ll do everything from finding you the best loungers, checking on your drink status consistently, and serving you generous pours. 

You should also plan to tip your servers at restaurants in all-inclusive resorts. I recommend 20 to 50 pesos per meal, or more if you’re in a big group since they’ll have to make more trips to run the food and drinks. 

Other People To Tip in Mexico

Grocery Store Baggers

The baggers in grocery stores in Mexico aren’t employees of the store and don’t receive a wage. They work solely for tips, so don’t overlook them. I usually tip them 5 to 10 pesos, or more if I have a lot of groceries. 

If you don’t have any coins the cashier will usually help you break down a larger bill so you can tip the baggers.

Gas Station Attendants

Gas stations in Mexico are full-service and the attendants will expect a tip. Plan to tip 5 to 10 pesos, or more if they go above and beyond for you. 

Don’t be afraid to ask them to check your oil levels, wash your windshield, or check your tire pressure. If the attendant does all of those things you can tip them even more, but about 20 pesos is quite normal in my experience and through my observations as a passenger.

Parking Lot Attendants

In some places, you may encounter parking lot attendants who help you find a free space or help you navigate into a parking space.

These people generally aren’t employed by anyone, they just perform the service in hopes of earning tips.

Not everyone tips them, but you can if you find them helpful. About 5 pesos is pretty standard which is worth the fact that they do watch the vehicles and deter crime generally speaking.

Windshield Washers

You may notice that at some stoplights, there are people who will run out and wash car windshields during red lights.

They will expect tips. If you don’t want to tip them or don’t have any change, just wave your hand letting them know that you’re not interested. Sometimes they will insist and wash your windshield anyway. 

If you have a dirty windshield, this service can come in handy! If you opt for it, it’s standard to tip 5 to 10 pesos.

Street Performers

You’re also likely to encounter street performers at intersections. I’ve seen everything from clowns and mimes to people juggling knives, blowing fire, and walking on stilts.

These people are working hard to entertain you in the hopes of earning tips. It’s standard to give 5 or 10 pesos, but if you don’t have any change, don’t feel bad.

Bathroom Attendants

A lot of public restrooms in Mexico have a fee — usually 3 to 5 pesos. In some cases, the fee is “suggested,” and other times it’s required. 

Sometimes there is no fee, but you will encounter women in the restroom handing out toilet paper and paper towels and performing light cleaning. It’s customary to tip these women a few pesos. I usually give them 5-10 pesos.

If you happen to need a bathroom but don’t have change handy, I’ve found that the attendants are pretty forgiving about waiving the fee if you ask nicely.

I’ve also found that other women in the bathroom line are happy to spot me in these instances, so don’t be afraid to ask.  

Hair stylists

Just like back home, tipping in Mexico is very similar to tipping hair stylists in the US or in Canada. I usually tip 10-20% of the service cost, but of course, it’s up to your discretion.

Tipping in spas

Tipping in spas is also standard and tipping in Mexico for Spa services are similar the the US and Canada as well. If you go for a manicure, a massage, etc., a 10-20% tip is standard. 

Tipping bar bands and performers

Bar performers usually earn a small nightly stipend, but they really rely on tips to augment their wages. If you’re at a bar or restaurant and happen to enjoy the tunes, make a point of handing a tip to the musicians. Musicians work to create music, and tipping in mexico, the Musicians will appreciate it much more than you’d realize.

A rule of thumb I use for tipping musicians is if I’m at a bar and watch or dance their live music, then I’ll tip 20 to 50 pesos. The musicians will come by your table and they’ll come around with a cup and ask for tips, but don’t hesitate to approach them if they don’t. I’d tip a bar performer at least $50 pesos for the set, but give more if you want to!

Another type of performer you’ll encounter is street performers who wander into restaurants and play songs on request in exchange for tips.

These performers can be hit or miss in terms of quality, but they’re hard workers. I typically give them a minimum of 10 pesos. Again, feel free to give more if you want to!

Notes on handling money in Mexico

Currency in Mexico

The national currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso, denoted with a dollar sign ($). This undoubtedly leads to a brief moment of panic the first time you withdraw cash in Mexico. Rest assured, the amount you see on the screen is in pesos, not dollars.

There are a lot of opinions out there on the internet about whether it’s better to carry US dollars or pesos in Mexico. As far as I’m concerned, the official currency is pesos, so it makes sense to carry pesos.

There are a lot of opinions out there on the internet about whether it’s better to carry US dollars or pesos in Mexico. As far as I’m concerned, the official currency is pesos, so it makes sense to carry pesos.

It’s easy to withdraw money at ATMs throughout Mexico. Just be sure to use ATMs that are associated with a bank and located in a bank or a supermarket. This way they are monitored and unlikely to have been tampered with.

The word for ATM in Spanish is cajero. If you need to ask where an ATM is, say: Dónde está un cajero?

The word for ATM in Spanish is cajero. If you need to ask where an ATM is, say: Dónde está un cajero?

As you’re about to learn, there are a lot of people in Mexico who will be expecting tips from you. Be sure to carry small bills and change at all times.

Seriously. I know it’s annoying to have a bag of change in your purse all the time but trust me, you’ll be glad to have it when the time comes.

Related Reading: Money in Mexico: Tips for Using ATMs, Exchanging Money, and More!

Best way to carry money in Mexico

When it comes to carrying money in Mexico, I recommend using an anti-theft purse. Unfortunately, pickpocketing does happen here, especially in large cities and touristy areas. 

While it’s not super likely, it will give you peace of mind to take precautions against pickpockets. 

With features like protection from RFID scanners, slash-proof fabric, and locking zippers, anti-theft bags are the perfect way to keep your money and valuables safe and sound.

Intrigued? Check out my list of anti-theft purses that are perfect for Mexico. 

If you’d rather use something you already have, opt for a crossbody bag with a zipper that you can keep close to your body. A zipper makes it harder for thieves to access your bag without you noticing.

Since you’ll need to have change on hand all the time, bring along a separate change purse for quick and easy access. I use this one, which I picked up on Amazon.

Mexico tipping FAQs

I hope you find this advice about tipping in Mexico helpful. I always find it handy to have a point of reference for tipping so I don’t accidentally offend anyone! 

Please comment and ask me any questions below and I’ll respond to your questions and comments.

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🏨 What’s the best way to find accommodation in Mexico?

Expedia.com is wonderful specifically for reserving high-end luxury hotels and resorts and is by far the best for reserving flights. Booking.com is awesome for affordable hotels in Mexico. VRBO specializes in apartment and house rentals, making it a wonderful place to find long-term stays.

✈️ What’s the best way to find affordable flights?

In my experience traveling to and within Mexico, I LOVE Expedia.com because they simplify rate comparisons between different airlines. I’ve always come back to Expedia.com because of how wide the selection is of airlines to choose from that go to Mexico. Great pricing is another reason, too!

💸 How should I exchange money in Mexico?

Have you ever heard of the company named WISE? WISE is an app that offers the best solutions for individuals and businesses traveling internationally, providing the fastest and most cost-effective way to convert money into a foreign country’s local currency. It is the least expensive and fastest way to transfer money from your home country’s bank to one in a foreign country.

🚖 How do I find a safe airport transfer?

I recommend GetYourGuide.com for airport transfers anywhere in Mexico. It’s almost as excellent and simple to use as Uber, in my humble opinion. I’ve used them LOTS.

🚗 What’s the best way to find rental cars in Mexico?

I recommend Booking.com. What I’ve found is that their price comparison tool is updated multiple times daily, making it easy to find and prepare to snag the best deal possible because of the inclusion of fire sale types of discounts.

Other companies don’t include these short-lived discounts in their price comparison because they sync once a day (typically overnight) with each rental car company. The Booking.com tool for comparing rental car prices is what I use for car rentals in Mexico. I’ve yet to have complaints about them.

🚐 How do I book bus tickets online in Mexico?

Book your tickets with Busbud—the site is in English and takes foreign credit cards.

🤿 How do I find cool activities and tours in Mexico?

TripAdvisor is the usual website and service I use for finding fun things to do; it has great options and it’s much faster to book with them since they organize their personalized recommendations for you if you’re signed in.

🇲🇽 How can I experience Mexico like a local?

Travelers can hire a local guide through GetyourGuide.com. You’ll be able to tailor tours based on your interests—it’s basically like experiencing a destination with a local bestie!

🧳 What’s the best luggage for Mexico?

Unless you’re staying at a resort, a travel pack is recommended. I’ve used travel backpack from Osprey for the last 8+ years. 

👯‍♀️ How do I connect with fellow travelers in Mexico?

Join my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook group, a supportive community of fellow Mexico travel enthusiasts, where you can find answers to all your travel questions!

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BigScoots.com is who I use for managing my WordPress website (which they help you make changes to and teach you as part of their service).

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I absolutely LOVE BigScoots. The support team at BigScoots is always available to help me with the free WordPress site they set up for me and even assisted in setting up my email! It’s the best website hosting provider with the best prices.

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Join my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook group, a supportive community of fellow Mexico travel enthusiasts, where you can find answers to all your travel questions!