Should You Tip at an All-Inclusive Resort?
While tipping is not required at most all-inclusive resorts, it is certainly encouraged. Keep in mind that you don’t need to tip every time, and usually the people you’ll tip are those providing a personal service, like wait staff, bartenders, room attendants, tour guides, etc.
It’s that personal service they provide that transforms your stay into a luxurious experience—from cleaning and cooking to artistically folding your towels and bringing refreshments at just the right time. Tipping lets your resort staff know you appreciate their extra effort and encourages hospitality staff to take your service to the next level.
A tip for beach/pool service, restaurant service, along with spa/special occasion experiences would be expected. Certainly though, you don't need to tip after each meal or every time you get a drink! Always tip your transfer drivers.
As the minimum wage in Mexico is around $7 per day, tipping goes a long way and can really make a difference in a staff member’s life. Tips are a vital source of income for many hospitality workers in Mexico and the Caribbean. A few dollars here and there might not seem like much, but it adds up quickly when you’re dealing with hundreds or thousands of guests in a season. That little contribution from you can make a big difference in the quality of service during your stay.
Consider bringing at least $150-$300 USD in small bills for tipping ($1’s, $5’s, $10’s). We recommend tipping for good service while on your vacation. US dollars are usually accepted and appreciated for tips!
Note, while the majority of resorts do encourage tipping, some resorts do not allow tipping. Beaches and Sandals Resorts do have a no tipping policy, but you can tip for spa services or your butler. Always check your resort’s tipping policy.
Recommended tipping amounts:
DINING
Buffet meals: $1-$2/table
Buffet station chefs: $1
A la carte meals: $5/couple
Bartenders: $1-$2/group drink order
Insider Tip: Keep using (and tipping) the same bartender throughout the week and you’ll get excellent service.
SERVICE
Concierge: $5-$10 depending on your usage
Room service: $5-$10 depending on the complexity of the order and time of day
Housekeeping staff: $2/day (leave it on your pillow so they know it’s for them)
Insider Tip: If you want extra beer or bottled water instead of soda in your mini fridge, leave $2-$5 with a note indicating your preference.
TRANSPORTATION
Bag attendants: $1/bag or $1 for every few trips to and from the room
Private transfer driver: $5-$10 per person depending on distance
Tour guide: $5/couple
Bus driver: $1-$2/couple
We hope these travel “tips” were helpful and that you have an incredible stay at your all-inclusive resort!!
Cheers to all things travel!