Should I Tip in Mexico?
· 2 min read
The short answer is: Yes.
Gratuities for helpful, quality service is absolutely expected. Tips make up a good portion of service worker's overall salary, and they work to earn those tips.
In what Currency should I tip?
US dollars are king. You could tip the equivalent in Mexican Pesos and maybe save them some hassle on the conversion, but up to you.
How much should I tip?
- Taxi & Shuttle Drivers
- Taxis set their rates by zone, and don't expect a tip for the driving.
- Taxi drivers can be great tour guides, give recommendations, and help with your luggage. These are worth tipping in proportion. For just luggage? Round up your fare.
- Maid Service
- Maids are on a rotating schedule, so tipping a small amount US$5 to US$10 per day is preferred. If you wait until the end of the trip and leave a lump sum, it may not be as equitable (albeit better than nothing).
- Scuba Diving
- The typical tipping rate for diving in Cozumel is US$5 to US$10 per tank (per person, of course).
- Snorkeling
- If going out on the offshore snorkeling, a fiver is a nice tip for guides that keep you safe and point out rare fish and features.
- On Resort Restaurants & Bars
- Again, no one will shame you or reduce service for not tipping in the resort's restaurants and bars, but staff do remember you from day to day, and spreading a few dollars around gets you attention and, frankly, stiffer drinks.
- Off Resort Restaurants & Bars
- 15% is most common, and 20% is considered generous.
- Grocery Stores
- Given the opportunity to visit a grocery here, you may encounter a "bagger" bagging up your groceries. Unlike in the U.S. where the "bagger" is another staff member of the store, in Mexico they are volunteers, often older, and sometimes differently-abled. Their tips in the grocery store are often their only source of income. US$0.50 to US$1 is an appropriate amount.