Room service: If the hotel hasn't already added a gratuity, tip this person the same way you would a server or bartender in the restaurant downstairs: 15% to 20%.

Tipping for room service has become a bit more complex in 2026 due to the "service fees" often found on hotel bills. When your food arrives, first check the receipt for a "Gratuity" or "Service Charge" line. If a 15–20% gratuity is already included, an additional tip is not required, though a small cash tip of $2–$5 is still appreciated by the person who physically pushed the heavy cart to your room. If no gratuity is included, you should tip 15–20% of the total bill, just as you would in a restaurant. Many hotels also charge a "Delivery Fee" (e.g., $5.00); notably, this fee usually goes to the hotel’s overhead, not to the server, so it should not be considered part of the tip. In luxury hotels, it is standard to tip slightly more for complex setups (like a full white-linen dinner). In countries like Japan, tipping is not expected and may be refused, whereas in Europe, rounding up the bill or leaving a few Euros is common practice.

Tipping room service depends on the level of service and the location, but here are some general guidelines:

1. Standard Tip: 15-20% of the total bill is typical for room service. Some hotels include a service charge automatically, so check your bill first. If a service charge is already included, an additional tip may not be necessary unless the service was exceptional.

2. Flat Rate: If the bill is small or doesn’t specify a percentage, consider tipping $2-$5 per delivery.

3. Luxury Hotels: At higher-end hotels, guests often tip more generously, potentially 20% or higher, especially for personalized or exceptional service.

4. Cash Tips: It’s best to tip in cash if possible, as this ensures the tip goes directly to the staff member who delivered your order.

Always consider the quality of service and local customs when deciding how much to tip.