Introduction
Tipping (propina) is customary in Mexico and an important part of many workers' income. Service industry wages in Mexico are generally low, and tips can make a significant difference. Here is what to expect in different situations.
Restaurants
- Sit-down restaurants -- 10-15% is standard, 20% for excellent service. Check your bill first -- some restaurants add a "servicio" charge automatically (especially for large groups). If included, additional tipping is optional.
- Street food and market stalls -- Tipping is not expected, but rounding up or leaving a few pesos is appreciated
- Coffee shops -- A few pesos in the tip jar is common
- Bars -- 10-15% on your tab, or 10-20 MXN per drink
Hotels
- Porters/bellhops -- 20-50 MXN per bag
- Housekeeping -- 20-50 MXN per day, left on the nightstand or pillow with a note saying "propina"
- Concierge -- 50-200 MXN for special arrangements like restaurant reservations
- All-inclusive resorts -- Tips are technically included but staff appreciate additional cash. 20-50 MXN for bar service, room service, etc.
Transportation
- Taxi drivers -- Not customary to tip, but rounding up the fare is a nice gesture
- Uber/DiDi -- Tipping is optional (can be done through the app). Not expected but appreciated.
- Private drivers -- 10-15% of the fare or 100-200 MXN for a half/full day
- Airport porters -- 20-50 MXN per bag
Tours and Activities
- Tour guides -- 100-200 MXN per person for a half-day tour, 200-400 MXN for a full day. For exceptional guides, more.
- Boat captains/drivers -- 50-100 MXN per person
- Snorkel/dive instructors -- 100-200 MXN per person
- Spa therapists -- 10-15% of the treatment cost
Other Situations
- Gas station attendants -- 10-20 MXN (they pump your gas in Mexico)
- Parking lot attendants -- 10-20 MXN
- Grocery baggers -- 5-10 MXN (these are often young people or seniors who work for tips only)
- Bathroom attendants -- 5-10 MXN
- Musicians (mariachi) -- The agreed-upon fee, plus 50-100 MXN tip for a great performance
Tips on Tipping
- Carry small bills -- 20 and 50 MXN notes are ideal for tips
- Tip in pesos -- While US dollars are accepted in tourist areas, pesos are preferred and more useful to workers
- Check your bill -- Ensure the tip is not already included before adding more
- Be generous when you can -- Your tips have real impact on workers' livelihoods
For a broader picture of what to budget, including accommodation, food, and transport, see our Mexico travel costs guide.
