How Much to Tip for Room Service
15–20%
Tip 15–20% of the room service bill, with $5 as a minimum on a small order. But check the bill first: many hotels add an automatic gratuity or "service charge" of around 18–22%, in which case no extra tip is needed.
Tip$9.00
- Total with tip
- $59.00
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
18
Within the 15–20% range for room service.
Round up
How much to tip, situation by situation
| Situation | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| No gratuity on the bill | 15–20% |
| Small order (coffee, one item) | $5 minimum |
| Gratuity already added | Nothing extra needed |
| Only a "delivery charge" listed | Ask, or add $3–5 for the server |
| Late-night or large order | 20% |
Room service tip on common prices
| Price | 15% | 18% | 20% |
|---|---|---|---|
| $25 | $3.75 | $4.50 | $5.00 |
| $50 | $7.50 | $9.00 | $10.00 |
| $75 | $11.25 | $13.50 | $15.00 |
| $100 | $15.00 | $18.00 | $20.00 |
| $150 | $22.50 | $27.00 | $30.00 |
| $200 | $30.00 | $36.00 | $40.00 |
Worth knowing
- Read the bill for "gratuity", "service charge" and "delivery fee". Some hotels keep the delivery fee; a listed gratuity usually goes to staff.
- Hand cash to the server, or write the tip on the check that is charged to your room.
Working it out by hand? See how to calculate a tip. Travelling? Customs differ abroad: tipping by country.
Questions people ask
Do you tip for room service if there is a service charge?
If the charge is called a gratuity, it already covers the tip. If it is called a delivery or service fee, it may not go to the server; ask, or add a few dollars.
How much should I tip for a room service breakfast?
Around 15–20% of the bill, or at least $5 for a small order, unless a gratuity is already on the check.