Typical amounts (US dollars)
- Housekeeping: $2 to $5 per day, left daily (not just at the end) since staff can change.
- Bartenders: $1 to $2 per round, or $5 to $10 at the start of the day for a bartender you'll see often.
- Buffet servers: $1 to $2 per meal for someone who brings drinks or clears plates.
- À la carte dinners: $5 to $10 per couple.
- Bellhops / porters: $1 to $2 per bag.
- Airport transfer driver: $5 to $10 for a shared shuttle; around 10% for a private car.
- Tour guides: about 10% of the tour price, more for a full day.
Our calculator uses $10 per room per day as a starting point. That covers a modest daily tip for housekeeping, bars and restaurants.
Cash: dollars or local currency?
US dollars are widely accepted as tips in all three destinations. Bring a stack of $1 and $5 bills, since small change is hard to find at the resort. Local currency (Mexican pesos, Dominican pesos or Jamaican dollars) is also welcome and easier for staff to use. Avoid coins from home, which staff can't exchange.
Resorts with a no-tipping policy
A few brands include gratuities in the rate and ask guests not to tip. If your resort does this, respect it. Check the resort's FAQ or ask at check-in.
Tipping well without overspending
- Set a daily tip budget and bring it in small bills.
- Tip earlier in the stay, not only on the last day.
- A good review naming a staff member helps them too.
