Vietnam Tipping Guidelines

The custom of tipping varies widely between countries, but it is usually the standard of service that determines tips. Travelers are often confused about the tipping culture in Southeast Asia. Tipping is a firm and expected element in the tourism industry today and The Southeast Asia Countries are no exception.

Most of the tours, booked by Custom Asia Travel’s customers are private ones. Therefore, tipping for independent travel is not compulsory and is at the customers’ own discretion. However, private guides and drivers do expect a tip where good service has been provided and it is very much appreciated. In other words, tip when you are pleased with the service you received and do not tip if you don’t feel you have been given good service. Never feel obliged to tip - it is always discretionary.

The following is just a guide to gauge an appropriate amount to tip and not all-inclusive:

You can use local currencies, but US dollars are accepted at most places for tips.

SERVICE & TIP AMOUNT

Tour Guide

• FIT < 6 pax - US$  12 - 15 /grp/day (USD 14 for 2 pax)

• Group 7 - 15 persons - US$ 15 - 20 /grp/day

• Group 15 persons up - US$ 20 - 30 /grp/day

Tour Guide - Adventure trip (Trekking, cycling...) 

• FIT < 6 persons - US$ 15 - 20 /grp/day

• Group 7 - 15 persons - US$ 20 - 25 /grp/day

• Group 15 persons up - US$ 25 - 30  /grp/day

• Local way leader/ Cook (trekking tours) - USD $5 - 7 /grp/ day

Vehicles 

• City Transfers - US$ 6 - 10 /day/booking ($8 for a group of 2 pax)

• Upcountry/ Mountain road - US$ 10 /group/ working day

• Incentive  Groups - US$ 10/day/group

• Busboy (helper) - US$4/day

• Cyclo, Tuk - Tuks - US$ 1 - $2 /person

Boat crews 

• Short tour (1 - 2 hour) - US$ 3 - 5/sampan, 5 per couple

• Long tour (half-day) - US$ 6 - 8/ boat, 8 per couple

• Cruise with O/N - US$ 10 / cabin/ night

Hotels 

• Porters - US$ 1 /luggage