Short answer: Tip 15 to 20% on room service in the US, unless the bill already includes a service charge or gratuity. With no cash on you, the options are: write it on the bill, say it when you order, add it in the hotel app, or ask the server.
How much to tip room service
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| Bill with "service charge" or "gratuity" included | Nothing more is needed; $2 to $5 extra is a kindness |
| Bill with only a "delivery fee" | 15 to 20%: a delivery fee usually goes to the hotel |
| $40 breakfast, nothing added | $6 to $8 |
These are customary amounts in the United States, in US dollars. They are a guide, not a rule: tip more for exceptional service.
Do you have to tip room service?
Read the bill first. Most US hotels add 18 to 22% automatically. A "delivery fee" or "tray charge" is different and is not normally paid to the server.
Can you tip room service by card?
Yes. Room service is the easiest hotel tip to give without cash, because there is a bill to sign.
4 ways to tip room service without cash
- Write it on the bill. There is a gratuity line, and it goes on your room.
- Say it when you order. "Please add 18% for the server" works by phone or in the app.
- Add it in the hotel app. Ordering apps and in-room tablets include a tip step.
- Ask the server. If the bill is already closed, some servers have a tip link or QR code.
What a tip QR code does
If room service shows you a QR code, point your phone camera at it. A payment page opens in your browser, you choose an amount, and you pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. You do not install anything or create an account, and it works with cards from other countries.
If you cannot tip on the day
Call the front desk and ask them to add a gratuity to your folio for the room service order, giving the time it arrived.
Outside the United States
In the UK and Europe a tray charge is usual and a further tip is optional. In Australia it is not expected.
Common questions
How much should I tip room service?
Tip 15 to 20% on room service in the US, unless the bill already includes a service charge or gratuity.
Do I have to tip room service?
Read the bill first. Most US hotels add 18 to 22% automatically. A "delivery fee" or "tray charge" is different and is not normally paid to the server.
Can I tip room service with a card or Apple Pay?
Yes. Room service is the easiest hotel tip to give without cash, because there is a bill to sign.
What if I have no cash to tip room service?
Call the front desk and ask them to add a gratuity to your folio for the room service order, giving the time it arrived.