Short answer: create a tip page in an app such as TipIns, print the QR code and put it on a card in your bib pocket. Customers scan it with their phone camera and tip by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. They do not need an app or an account.
Visiting golfers, and overseas visitors above all, reach the 18th green without the right cash in the right currency. The handshake tip is a tradition, and for you it increasingly ends in an apology.
How a QR code tip jar works
You create a tip page once and get a personal QR code and link. A customer points their phone camera at the code, a secure payment page opens in their browser, and they pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. The tip shows in your balance straight away and is paid out to your bank account.
Where golf caddies put the code
- On a card in your bib pocket.
- On the scorecard holder or yardage book.
- At the caddie master's desk.
- On the bag tag you return at the end of the round.
Size the code for the distance: a phone reads one from about ten times its width. The measurements are in how to make a tip jar QR code sign.
What to write on the sign
Enjoyed your round? Scan to tip your caddie. All cards accepted.
Put your own name where the brackets are. You can export a print-ready design from the app in business card, A5, A4 or A3 size.
How to mention it
On the 18th, as you shake hands: "Great playing with you. If cash is a problem, my card has a code on it."
Your own code or a shared one
A personal code. Check with the caddie master first: clubs have their own rules about gratuities.
What customers usually tip a golf caddie
Clubs often publish a recommended gratuity, so ask the caddie master first. Where nothing is posted, $40 to $60 per bag for a caddie and $20 to $30 per player for a forecaddie are common, on top of the caddie fee.
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| Forecaddie for the group | $20 to $30 per player |
| Caddie carrying your bag | $40 to $60, more at resort courses |
| Bag drop and cart staff | $2 to $5 |
| Excellent reads and a found ball or two | Go higher |
Customers looking for the etiquette can read how to tip a golf caddie without cash.
What it costs
TipIns is free to download and has no monthly fee. Each tip carries a 10% platform fee plus a small card processing fee, and by default the person tipping covers both, so you receive the amount they chose. Weekly payouts to your bank are free. The details are in the FAQ.
Common questions
Where should a golf caddie put a tip QR code?
On a card in your bib pocket. On the scorecard holder or yardage book.
What should a golf caddie's tip sign say?
Try: "Enjoyed your round? Scan to tip your caddie. All cards accepted." Give a reason, show a large code and include your name.
Should I use a personal code or a team code?
A personal code. Check with the caddie master first: clubs have their own rules about gratuities.