This guide will give you the exact percentages and cash amounts you need for restaurants, bars, taxis, hotels, and more — so you never get caught off guard.

For Americans, the good news is that tipping in Canada is pretty similar to what you’re used to back home. But there’s a few small differences you gotta know before you pull out your wallet.

Let’s make sure you’re ready to tip like a pro, without second-guessing yourself at every turn.

Quick Tipping Guide for US Travelers 🇺🇸 ➔ 🇨🇦

(Save this handy chart for your trip!)

Is Tipping Expected in Canada?

Yes, tipping is expected — and appreciated.

Just like in the States, service workers in Canada often rely on tips to boost their wages. Especially in places like Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, the minimum wage for service jobs assumes workers are getting tips.

While Canadians are super polite and won’t usually say anything if you forget, skipping the tip is seen as rude or cheap.

Why It’s Even More Important Than You Think

Imagine you’re at a cozy cafe in Vancouver. The server is smiling, attentive, keeps your coffee hot, and checks in without hovering. Behind the scenes? They’re likely earning a wage that’s lower than the “general” minimum wage.
That extra few dollars you leave really matters to their livelihood.

How Much to Tip in Different Places (With Real Examples)

Here’s where we get real specific — so you feel totally confident, whatever the situation.

Restaurants 🍽️

• Tip 15% to 20% of the pre-tax total.
• Some tourist-heavy spots in cities like Toronto or Montreal expect closer to 18%-20%.
• If service was amazing? Go ahead and tip 20% or more.

Real life example:
You have lunch at a bistro in Ottawa. Your bill before tax is $50 CAD.
✅ Good tip = $7.50 CAD (15%)
✅ Excellent tip = $10 CAD (20%)

Tip Smart: Some bills might suggest “tip options” on the card reader — double-check if they calculate it on the total after tax (a sneaky upsell).

Bars 🍻

• Standard is $1–$2 CAD per drink.
• If you’re running a tab, tipping 15%-20% of the total at the end is fine too.

Real life example:
You order 2 beers and a shot = $21 CAD total.
✅ Throw down a $3-$4 CAD tip.

Taxis and Rideshares 🚖

• Tip 10% to 15% of the fare.
• For short rides, round up to the nearest dollar.

Real life example:
Your Uber from Calgary Airport to downtown is $40 CAD.
✅ Good tip = $4–$6 CAD.

Friendly advice: Tipping cash is king, but Uber/Lyft apps now let you add tips directly too.

Hotels 🛎️

Bellhops

• $2–$5 CAD per bag depending on weight/effort.

Housekeeping

• Leave $3–$5 CAD per night on the pillow or a visible spot.

Concierge

• Help booking restaurants or shows? A nice $10–$20 CAD tip for excellent help.

Salons, Spas, and Beauty Services 💇‍♀️

• 15%-20% of the service cost is the norm.
• If multiple people worked on you (stylist, shampoo tech, etc.), you can split tips individually.

Delivery Drivers 🚗

• Tip $3–$5 CAD minimum, or 10% of the order value for bigger deliveries.

Food delivery apps like SkipTheDishes and DoorDash have tipping prompts — but drivers still prefer cash if possible.

Extra Tips for Tipping in Canada 🇨🇦✨

• Cash is appreciated: Even if you pay with your credit card, a few coins or bills handed over directly feels more personal.
• Service included? Rare in Canada, but check your bill, especially in large groups. Some restaurants automatically add a 15%-18% service charge.
• Public washrooms? Sometimes, attendants in fancy places appreciate $1–$2 CAD tips.
• Currency Note: $1 CAD coins are called “loonies,” and $2 coins are called “toonies.” Bring some for easy tipping!

Final Thoughts: Tipping in Canada as an American

When in doubt? Tip like you would at home — or slightly better.

Tipping is part of the hospitality culture here. By following these simple rules, you’ll not only avoid awkward moments, but you’ll also be warmly appreciated by every server, driver, bellhop, and bartender you meet.

Remember: a generous tip is one of the easiest ways to leave a great impression when traveling abroad.