If you’re heading to Indonesia from the U.S., tipping might feel like unfamiliar territory. You’re probably used to that 15–20% standard in American restaurants, cab rides, and salons — but in Indonesia, things work a little differently.

This guide answers the exact question most travelers ask: “How much should I tip in Indonesia?”

Whether you’re dining in a restaurant in Bali, staying in a hotel in Jakarta, or hopping in a Gojek ride across Yogyakarta — here’s everything American tourists need to know. We’ll break it down, keep it real, and make sure you’re never awkwardly reaching for your wallet without knowing what’s fair.

Tipping in Indonesia vs the United States: What’s Different?

Let’s be honest — tipping culture in the U.S. is a thing. It’s expected. Waitstaff often depend on tips to survive.

In Indonesia, that’s not the case. Tipping isn’t mandatory — it’s appreciated, sure, but not assumed. You won’t offend anyone by not tipping. But if you do tip, it’ll be seen as a kind gesture — especially in touristy areas where service workers interact with international guests more often.

Here’s a quick contrast:

How Much to Tip in Indonesia: Service-by-Service Guide

Let’s go scenario by scenario and get you confident about when and how much to tip.

Restaurants and Cafés

Quick Answer:
Tip 5–10% if there’s no service charge. Otherwise, tipping is optional.

In Detail:
Many mid-range and upscale places in Bali, Jakarta, or Lombok add a service charge (5–10%) to your bill. You’ll see this listed near the tax line. If you spot it? No tip required.

But if you’re in a casual eatery or warung (local eatery), especially in less touristy towns, you might not see a service charge. In that case, tipping in Indonesia looks like this:

• IDR 10,000–30,000 (about $0.65–$2 USD) for good service
• More if the staff goes above and beyond (e.g., gives you local food recommendations, brings out custom dishes)

Tipping etiquette in Bali restaurants leans more Western due to tourism — in those cases, a small tip feels natural and is welcomed.

Hotels (Housekeeping, Porters, Concierge)

Quick Answer:
Tip IDR 10,000–30,000 per day for housekeeping, and IDR 10,000–20,000 per bag for porters.

In Detail:
Luxury hotels and resorts in Bali or Jakarta may include a service charge — but the staff often still earns modest base pay. That’s where you can step in with a bit of kindness.

• For housekeeping, leave a tip daily instead of at the end. Staff might rotate.
• Porters helping with luggage? A tip of IDR 10,000–20,000 (around $0.65–$1.30 USD) per bag is appreciated.
• If the concierge hooks you up with hard-to-find reservations or plans a custom day trip? IDR 50,000–100,000 is generous (around $3–$6.50 USD).

In short — when someone really personalizes your experience, that’s exceptional service worth a little extra.

Taxis, Rideshares (Gojek, Grab), Private Drivers

Quick Answer:
For taxis or Gojek rides, round up or tip IDR 5,000–10,000. For private drivers, IDR 50,000–100,000/day.

In Detail:
Apps like Gojek and Grab are super common, especially in cities. There’s no in-app tipping like Uber, but drivers definitely appreciate a small cash tip.

• Short ride? Round up or hand over IDR 5,000–10,000 ($0.30–$0.65 USD).
• All-day drivers who wait and take you around? That deserves IDR 50,000–100,000 per day. More if they help with bags, translate, or give solid local insights.

Should I tip Gojek drivers in Indonesia? Yes, especially if they wait for you or navigate traffic calmly — they’re often freelancers working long hours.

Tour Guides and Excursions

Quick Answer:
IDR 50,000–100,000 per person per day, depending on the length and quality of the tour.

In Detail:
Guides are usually paid a base salary by the tour company, but most rely on tips. If your guide is energetic, shares insider info, and answers all your questions? Go higher.

• Group tour? IDR 50,000–75,000 per person
• Private tour? IDR 100,000+ per person, especially if they customize your day

Spas, Salons, and Massage Therapists

Quick Answer:
IDR 10,000–30,000, or 5–10% of the total bill if no service charge.

In Detail:
Spa staff work long hours and often on commission. If your massage was great or your facial flawless, tipping in Indonesian salons is common in tourist hubs. Just hand over the cash quietly or place it in the tip box, if they have one.

Tipping in Local Places and Non-Touristy Areas

Not everywhere expects tips — especially street food vendors, small warungs, or traditional markets.

Should you tip at street food stalls in Bali or Yogyakarta?
Not usually. But if someone helps you pick dishes, offers samples, or speaks great English to assist — rounding up or leaving IDR 5,000–10,000 is a nice touch.

In rural or less touristy areas, tipping might confuse locals. Still, no harm in showing appreciation if someone goes out of their way to help.

Common Questions About Tipping in Indonesia

Is tipping expected in Indonesia?
No, not expected — but definitely appreciated, especially in tourist areas.

What is a service charge in Indonesian restaurants?
Usually 5–10%, automatically added to your bill in mid-to-upscale restaurants. If it’s there, no tip is needed unless service was amazing.

Should I tip street food vendors in Bali?
Generally not necessary. But rounding up is fine if service is friendly or helpful.

Can I tip in U.S. dollars or other foreign currency?
It’s best to tip in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Many locals don’t have a way to exchange small amounts of foreign cash. Plus, it shows respect for the local economy.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Right Thing To Do?

Tipping in Indonesia isn’t black and white — and it doesn’t have to be awkward. Here’s the simple rule:

If someone made your day easier, happier, or more enjoyable — a small tip goes a long way.

To quickly recap:

• IDR 10,000–30,000 = ~$0.65–$2 USD (good for cafes, housekeeping, drivers)
• IDR 50,000–100,000 = ~$3–$6.50 USD (great for full-day guides, standout concierge service)

Even small tips carry weight in Indonesia’s service economy. So be generous if you can — just don’t feel pressured.