Guide to Tipping at All-Inclusive Resorts
All-inclusive resorts make vacation budgeting easy. You can order those unlimited mojitos and the entire appetizer menu without considering the impact it will have on your wallet.
A commonly asked question from travelers new to an “everything is covered” style vacation is “Do I need to tip?”
While tipping is not required, most guests at all-inclusive resorts do, and you will want to be prepared to tip the staff providing you with great service!
The amount you tip will vary based on the level of service and your own budget, but here you can find some information what is typical.
Is Tipping Allowed?
While tipping is allowed and commonplace at most all-inclusive resorts, there are some resorts that strictly prohibit their staff from accepting tips. When this is the case, it’s important to respect these rules to avoid putting the staff in a difficult position.
If you’re unclear about whether or not your resort limits or prohibits tipping, ask your travel agent or contact your resort prior to travel so that you can plan accordingly.
Do I Need Local Currency?
For most destinations, tipping with US dollars is fine. Tipping with local currency in an equivalent amount is also a great option.
I recommend bringing the amount of cash you estimate tipping in mostly $1 bills, with some $5 and $10 bills to easily tip in larger amounts when appropriate. $150/week/person is a good amount to start with for a typical all-inclusive vacation, and you can adjust this based on your budget and the service level of your resort.
It can sometimes be difficult to obtain cash while traveling, so it’s generally better to bring a little bit more than you think you will need and have cash left over than to run out mid-trip.
Who Should I Tip, and How Much?
There are several different staff members to consider when planning how you will tip during your vacation. Here is a breakdown of tipping norms to help you plan and prepare for your all-inclusive getaway!
Dining:
Buffet Meals: $1-$2/table
Buffet Chefs: $1/personal service
Casual A La Carte Meals: $2-$3/couple
Fancy A La Carte Meals: $5-$10/couple
Bartenders: $1-$2/order depending on order size/complexity (Tip: I like to try a few different bars early on to find my favorite bartender(s), then make regular visits back and tip better less frequently! This makes for better drinks and easier cash handling)
Service:
Housekeeping: $2-5/night, left on your pillow (you might want to consider more if you have a particularly messy day or extra large accommodations)
Room Service: $2-$5/order
Mini Fridge Service: Place a few dollars with a note in your fridge to make a special request (e.g., you would like more water or beer in place of pop)
Transportation:
Shuttle/Bus Drivers: $1-$2/couple
Private Driver: $5-$10/couple (consider distance and the level of service when choosing how much to tip)
Bag Attendants: $1-$3/trip
Miscellaneous:
Spa: Tip based on the price and the quality of the service you received. 10%-20% is common.
Butler: If you have butler service, you will want to tip your butler well. This is a great question for your travel agent, as the typical amount will vary based on butler usage and resort. If you are staying at a “no tips” resort, your butler is likely an exception to this rule.
Kids Club and Entertainment Staff: Staff members that provide children’s activities and resort entertainment often go overlooked when it comes to tipping. Tipping those that go above and beyond is a great way to show your appreciation for the care provided to your children or the joy brought to your vacation!