Tipping in Vietnam is very much a western import. In certain places, however, it’s becoming an important supplementary form of income. You might find a difference between the North and South of the country: Saigon’s exposure to US culture has made tipping more of a thing although, to be honest, exposure to the tourist industry has meant the practice is now countrywide.
However, all ETG holidays are ‘Tip-Inclusive’ so the total holiday cost includes all tips for your guides, drivers, and other in-country experience providers. This is all taken care of before you set off, in just one simple upfront cost. There is no stress around whether, when, and how much to tip; no more awkward fumbling for notes, or that feeling that you’ve under-tipped and offended your guide. The only people in an ETG holiday you might feel the need to tip are hotel or boat staff, at restaurants, and in taxis, but that is entirely at your discretion.
For those not travelling with ETG you can find our guidelines tipping guidelines for Vietnam below.
ETG traveller John and his guide in Hue, Vietnam
Per group which includes a couple or family travelling –
How much should I tip guides in Vietnam?
If you’re happy with the service of your guide, $7-10 (200,000 dong) per day is the appropriate amount for a good job. You can always give more or less depending on what you thought of your experience. We try to make sure that when you stay in a particular place for a few days you’ll have the same guide for each of your excursions; you can tip at the end of each day or on the day of your departure as you wish.
Drivers:
When tipping your driver it depends how much time he’s spent looking after you. For a day’s work, driving you to 3-4 stops along the way, you might give them $3-4 (10,000 dong). It’s up to you; if they’ve only provided transfers to and from an airport, don’t feel obliged to tip.
Hotels:
Tips aren’t really expected in hotels. If you want to say a thank you to a porter or cleaner, a tip of $1 (20,000 dong) is about right.
Restaurants:
High-end restaurants usually expect a tip for good service; others you shouldn’t worry about.
Taxis/ tuk tuks:
Do not require tipping unless for exceptional service.
If you wanted to talk to an expert about planning your Vietnam trip, do call 020 7924 7133 or email us with your questions here. To see an example of the kind of trip you could have, do take a look at our example holiday itineraries. They’re just a starting point, all our holidays are tailor-made so we can tweak all elements to suit your exact interests. Alternatively – download our free travel guide for more insider tips and insights:
