Tipping Etiquette in Vietnam: How Much to Tip and When

Tipping is a common practice in many countries around the world, but not so much in Vietnam. In fact, many travelers may wonder if they should tip at all when visiting this beautiful Southeast Asian country. The answer is not simple, as tipping etiquette in Vietnam varies depending on the situation and the service provider. Stick with us. We have brought you everything you need to know.

Why tipping is not common in Vietnam?

Tipping is not a common thing in Vietnam, and there are a few reasons behind it. Firstly, it’s not a part of the traditional culture here. In Vietnam, people don’t really expect to receive tips because they believe it’s their responsibility to provide great service to customers.

Many service providers in Vietnam already include a service charge or value-added tax (VAT) in their bills. This means that customers don’t need to give additional tips since the charges already cover the service.

Another factor contributing to the rarity of tipping in Vietnam is the relatively low average income level compared to other countries. Given this, Vietnamese individuals might feel uneasy or embarrassed when receiving tips, especially if they are too big or too small. There’s also the concern of potentially offending coworkers or superiors by accepting tips without sharing them.

Who and When to Tip?

Restaurant Staff:

Tipping them is a gesture of recognition for their hard work and dedication. While there’s no fixed rule, leaving a gratuity of 5-10% of the bill is considered generous and demonstrates your appreciation for their service.

It’s important to remember that the amount you tip should be in proportion to the quality of service you received. If the service was exceptional, don’t hesitate to be more generous with your gratuity.

What about Street Food? Usually, you won’t tip for street food. In fact, if you try to tip, the vendor might think you made an error and return the money to you. But if you genuinely want to show your gratitude, you can give them an additional 10,000 or 20,000 VND and let them know they can keep the change.

Tipping at Hotels

Housekeeping: Leaving a small tip for the housekeeping staff is a thoughtful gesture. A tip of 10,000 to 20,000 VND per day is typical if you are happy with how clean and convenient your lodging is.
Concierge and Bellhops: If they assist you with your luggage or provide guidance, a tip of 20,000 to 50,000 VND is customary. You can either give them the tip after they help you or at the end of your stay.

Pro Tips: Give it directly to your server instead of just leaving it on the table, as there’s a chance they may not receive it.

Transportation and Tour Guides:

For tour guides and drivers, a tip of 50,000 to 100,000 VND per day is a good starting point. However, it’s important to note that the quality of service can vary. If your guide goes above and beyond in providing insights, making your experience more immersive, or customizing the tour to your preferences, don’t hesitate to be more generous with your gratuity.

Your tips not only express your gratitude but also serve as an encouragement for these dedicated individuals to continue delivering exceptional service.

Should You Tip In USD Or VND (Vietnamese Currency)?

You should tip in VND (Vietnamese currency) if possible, as it is more convenient and respectful for the locals. Tipping in USD may cause confusion or inconvenience, as some people may not be familiar with the exchange rate or have difficulty finding a place to change the currency.

Also, tipping in USD may imply that you are showing off your wealth or expecting better service, which may be considered rude or arrogant by some Vietnamese people. Therefore, it is advisable to tip in VND, preferably in small notes, to avoid any misunderstanding.

Right now, one US dollar is approximately equal to 23,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND). In Vietnam, the currency works a little differently. You’ll notice that everything is priced in thousands. So when you buy a cup of tea, you’ll be paying in thousands. When you grab a meal, it’ll be in tens of thousands. And for hotel expenses, you’ll be looking at amounts in millions. Just keep in mind that if you spend more than $45, you’re actually spending over a million Vietnamese Dong.

One Last Tip

Remember that tipping is a personal choice based on your satisfaction and comfort level, and you should not feel pressured or obligated to tip if you do not want to or cannot afford to. The most important thing is to have fun and respect the local culture. I hope you have a wonderful time in Vietnam!