Tipping in Australia
How much to tip when you travel in South America? The Frugal Doctor and The Handsome Surfer were asking this question as they traveled through Chile, Galápagos, Bolivia and Argentina on their mini-retirement. Tipping isn’t second nature to Australians as highlighted in The Lonely Planet guide to tipping in Australia. At home we rarely tip, unless the service is exceptional. Why? Wages are generally fair, even in minimum wage jobs. How much should we give as a tip? Became a regular question on our travels.
The Salt Flats and a Lesson in Generosity
We took the Uyuni Salt Flats tour from Tupiza, which lasted four days and three nights. Our driver was incredibly gracious and patient throughout the journey. We shared the four-wheel-drive vehicle with The Diplomat and The French Couple. The Diplomat spoke at least five languages fluently and had traveled extensively across multiple continents. They also had a keen interest in photography. We all waited patiently as they captured photos, and the driver happily accommodated them. Including even selecting locations known for their breathtaking views to ensure spectacular shots.
As our trip neared its end, The Diplomat brought up the topic of tipping. We explained that The Frugal Doctor and The Handsome Surfer planned to give a USD$100 tip – $70 to the driver and $30 to the cook. “Why so much?” The Diplomat asked. “My travel agency recommended $5 a day, so $20 total.” Was $20 for four days reasonable? We all agreed that the food, driving, and accommodation had been exceptional by Bolivian standards. The Diplomat seemed resentful of our generosity. How could we be so generous? We had our reasons. After three failed attempts, The Handsome Surfer finally completed the Salt Flats Tour. An earthquake, civil unrest, and a pandemic had thwarted previous tries. The generous tip was our way of expressing gratitude for helping make that dream a reality.
When Service Falls Short
We had just finished an overpriced meal at an airport restaurant with very poor service. When we sat down, the hostess complained about the surfboard bag taking up space, even after we moved it aside. She then laughed with her colleagues, referring to it as a “coffin,” likely assuming we wouldn’t understand their language. We paid 44,600 Chilean Pesos (AUD $72 / USD $45) for two burgers and two soft drinks. We only ate part of the meal because we were starving after a long journey from San Cristobal to Guayaquil, Lima, Santiago, and finally Calama. The food was bland, and the service was disappointing. When the hostess asked if we wanted to add a tip to the bill, we politely declined. This was the only time we chose not to leave a tip.
Obliging The Luggagge Handler
The Luggage Handler at Salta bus station in Argentina was, to put it mildly, quite aggressive. “Tip, tip, where is my tip? Don’t touch your bag until you give me my tip. Hey, give me my tip!” While I understand they needed to earn a living, we had already paid for our bus ticket, which included baggage handling. It was surprising to be met with such a blatant demand for money. We hurriedly gave them all the Chilean pesos and coins we had. How much should you tip The Luggage Handler? We ended up giving all our spare change and small bills.
Reflections from the Road
Travel broadens perspective. We’re still finding our footing when it comes to tipping etiquette as we enjoy our mini-retirement. In many of the countries we’ve visited, a small gesture can make a big difference to someone’s livelihood. Yet finding balance isn’t always easy. How do you give with generosity and respect: without feeling pressured or taken for granted?
To Tip Or Not To Tip?
What about you? Have you ever tipped reluctantly, given generously, or chosen not to tip at all? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. How do you decide what feels fair when you travel?
