How much should I tip the front desk for an upgrade? A $20 tip is the norm, but some of our users prefer to live large. Take a look at our 'best of' section to see what our users say to get some idea of what works at which hotels.

Tipping for a hotel upgrade—often called the "Front Desk Sandwich" (slipping a bill between your ID and credit card)—is a nuanced art in 2026. If you are asking for a "complimentary" upgrade at a mid-range to luxury hotel in the U.S., a tip of $20 to $50 is the standard range. For a shorter 1–2 night stay, $20 is usually sufficient to show appreciation if they find you a better view or a larger room. For a week-long stay or at a high-end resort in a city like Las Vegas or Miami, a $50 or $100 bill is more likely to secure a significant jump, such as moving from a standard room to a junior suite. It is important to be discreet and polite; ask something like, "Is there any chance for an upgrade today? I've included a little something for your help." If they cannot provide an upgrade due to the hotel being full, they will almost always return the money to you. Keep in mind that in many international locations (like Japan or parts of Europe), this practice is not customary and may even be seen as awkward or offensive, so always research local etiquette before attempting a "front desk tip."