You're new to Canada and just finished a great meal.
The server hands you a payment machine...and it asks for a tip.
15%? 18%? 20%? What does it mean?!
Let's quickly break down tipping in Canada so you're not caught off guard.
Why do Canadians tip?
Unlike in some countries where tipping is optional, many service workers in Canada rely on tips to supplement their wages.
Tipping is part of the culture. It's not just about the service but about supporting the person who provides it.
The TikTok video below shows how Canadians feel about tipping:
Tipping is a way to show appreciation, not just a rule. Even a small tip can make someone's day!
Who do you tip in Canada?
You're generally expected to tip in these situations:
Restaurant: Servers usually expect 15-20% of your total bill before taxes.
Bar: Tip about $1 to $2 per drink served.
Food delivery service: A tip of 10%-15% is standard. However, if you encounter extreme weather such as snow or heavy rain, you may want to leave a larger tip.
Taxi/Ride-sharing service (Uber, Lyft, etc): A tip of around 10-20% is a great idea.
Hairdressers/Barbers: Around 10%, depending on the service.
Tipping for takeout or coffee?
Coffee shops: Not required, but dropping some coins or rounding up is a nice gesture.
Takeout: Optional, though some people tip 5-10% if the order is large or handled with care.
Quiz
Which of these situation would usually NOT required a tip in Canada?
How do you calculate your tip easily?
Look at your pre-tax bill total.
Multiply by 0.15 (15%) for average service and add it to your final payment.
For excellent service, consider 18% or 20%.
Good to know: Many payment machines in restaurants offer tip options (e.g., 15%, 18%, 20%), making it super easy!
Take Action
Next time you're out and about in Canada, tip with confidence.
Think of it as a small “thank you” that goes a long way.
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