Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its efficiency, cleanliness, and diverse food culture, has a unique approach to tipping. Unlike many Western countries where tipping is expected, Singapore follows a service-inclusive model in most industries. Understanding when and how much to tip in Singapore helps you navigate local customs with ease while showing appreciation when appropriate.

This guide provides an overview of tipping etiquette in Singapore for various services, including restaurants, hotels, taxis, and more.

Understanding Tipping Culture in Singapore

Tipping is not a common practice in Singapore, largely due to the inclusion of a 10% service charge in most restaurants and hotels. Additionally, Singapore’s government has established fair wages for service workers, reducing reliance on gratuities. However, while tipping is not expected, it is still appreciated in some situations as a gesture of goodwill.

Unlike in many countries where tips are expected in cash, most tipping in Singapore is done through rounding up bills or leaving small gratuities when service has been exceptional.

Where and How Much to Tip in Singapore

1. Restaurants and Cafés

Tipping in restaurants is generally unnecessary since most establishments include a 10% service charge on the bill. However, if you receive outstanding service and wish to leave extra, here’s what you should know:

• Fine dining restaurants: A 5–10% additional tip is appreciated but not required.
• Casual eateries and cafés: Rounding up the bill or leaving loose change is a nice gesture.
• Hawker centers and food courts: No tipping is expected at these self-service food stalls.
• Service charge: Always check the bill; if a service charge is included, there’s no need to tip extra.
• Cash tips: If you wish to tip, hand cash directly to the server to ensure they receive it.

2. Hotels and Accommodation

Hotels in Singapore operate with a no-tipping policy since a service charge is usually included. However, for exceptional service, small tips may be appropriate:

• Bellboys/Porters: S$2–S$5 per bag for outstanding service.
• Housekeeping: S$2–S$5 per night, though not expected.
• Concierge: S$10–S$20 for arranging difficult reservations or special assistance.
• Room service: If no service charge is included, rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated.
• Hotel bartenders: No tipping is expected, but rounding up is a kind gesture.

3. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

Tipping taxi drivers is uncommon in Singapore, but small gestures of appreciation are welcomed.

• Traditional taxis: No tip is required, but rounding up the fare is a courteous gesture.
• Ride-sharing services (Grab, Gojek, etc.): Tips can be given via the app or in cash but are not expected.
• Luggage assistance: If a driver helps with heavy luggage, S$2–S$5 is a nice way to show gratitude.

4. Tour Guides and Excursions

Tour guides often rely on tips, especially for private or personalized tours.

• Private tour guides: S$10–S$20 per person for a full-day tour.
• Group tour guides: S$5–S$10 per person.
• Drivers on excursions: S$2–S$5 per person if they provide exceptional service.

5. Spas and Wellness Services

Tipping at spas and salons is not expected but is appreciated for exceptional service.

• Massage therapists: Rounding up or leaving 5–10% is a kind gesture.
• Hairdressers and beauty treatments: No tip is required, but rounding up or leaving S$2–S$5 for excellent service is thoughtful.

6. Food Delivery and Other Services

Most delivery services do not expect tips, but it is becoming more common to tip for good service.

• Food delivery drivers: S$2–S$5 for large orders or deliveries in bad weather.
• Grocery or package delivery: No tip is required, though rounding up is a nice gesture.
• Gas station attendants: No tipping is expected, as service is included in fuel prices.

7. Public Restrooms and Attendants

Public restrooms in Singapore are typically well-maintained, and attendants are paid regular wages.

• Restroom attendants: No tipping is expected, though some upscale establishments may have a tipping box where a small contribution (S$1–S$2) is appreciated.

Key Tipping Etiquette in Singapore

• Check for service charges: Many restaurants and hotels include a 10% service charge, eliminating the need for extra tipping.
• Tipping is not expected but welcomed: Small gratuities for exceptional service are appreciated but not mandatory.
• Use cash for tips: If you choose to tip, giving cash directly ensures the recipient receives it.
• Rounding up is common: Instead of giving a percentage, rounding up the bill is a polite way to tip.
• Know where tipping is unnecessary: In hawker centers, taxis, and many service industries, tipping is uncommon.

Final Thoughts

Tipping in Singapore is a personal choice rather than a strict expectation. With service charges included in most establishments, extra tipping is rarely necessary. However, rounding up bills, offering small gratuities for excellent service, and showing appreciation to hardworking staff are always welcome gestures. By following these guidelines, you can navigate Singapore’s tipping culture with confidence while respecting local customs.