Tipping in Mexico, Nuevo Vallarta, NAY

Tipping in Mexico is a common practice across the country. Employees typically earn a very modest wage and rely on tipping in Mexico to supplement their income.

It’s a good idea to always keep change handy for those unexpected moments when you might need a few pesos to pass along to someone who has been helpful. Make sure to get coins when you arrive in Mexico. Base your tips on the service you receive, and you will do well.

Some Mexico all-inclusive resorts have a no-tipping policy, but it never hurts to give those who go above-and-beyond to make your stay special a few extra pesos. If you are tipping in Mexico using U.S. dollars, only use bills, because coins are not exchangeable for pesos.

There is no set-in-stone rule for tipping in Mexico with regard to when or how much to tip. It is solely up to you what to give. These are simply suggestions based on what is considered standard practices for different services.

Taxis: Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but feel free to tip 10 pesos if they help you with your luggage.

Airport Shuttle: It is not necessary to tip your driver, but it is considerate to give 10 pesos per bag if they help with your luggage.

Bellhop: It is customary to tip 25 to 50 pesos when shown to your room and helped with your luggage. In a luxury resort the tip is generally one US dollar per bag.

Restaurant Servers: Service is not included in all restaurants (though this may vary by location or for a larger group), so it is customary to tip 10 to 20 percent of the total bill.

Bartender: It’s acceptable to tip 10 to 20 pesos per drink or 10 to 15 percent of the total bill.

Grocery Store Bagger: Though this may be unconventional where you live, it’s common that these people work solely for tips. Give them 1 to 2 pesos per bag, and 10 to 20 pesos if they help you to your car.

Housecleaning: Tip 25 and 50 pesos per day for those who keep your temporary living space in order. Make sure to tip each day, as it may not be the same person on the final day of your stay. We generally tip one to two dollars per day.

Nightly turndown service: Tip 10 to 15 pesos per day especially if they refresh towels and take out the trash. Make sure to tip each day, as it may not be the same person on the final day of your stay.

Concierge: If you are happy with the help you received, tipping 50 to 150 pesos is a considerate way to show it.

Hair Stylist: If you love your new look, tip 15 percent of the total cost.

Spa Service Provider: Add 15 to 20 percent on the cost of a spa treatment to feel even better.