Tipping isn’t a traditional part of Indonesian culture, but in Bali specifically, years of international tourism have shaped a more developed tipping custom, especially in resort areas, fine dining, and tourist-heavy neighborhoods like Seminyak and Ubud. It remains optional almost everywhere, but it’s genuinely appreciated given the relatively low local wages.
Restaurants
Many restaurants in tourist areas and upscale establishments add a 10% service charge plus 11% government tax to the bill, sometimes shown as “++” similar to other parts of Southeast Asia. Always check your bill first. If a service charge is already included, additional tipping isn’t necessary, though locals commonly add small loose change on top as a kind gesture.
At smaller restaurants or budget villas, the included charge (if any) is often closer to 15% combined, or sometimes not included at all, in which case a 10-15% tip for good service is a thoughtful addition.
Warungs (Local Food Stalls)
Warungs are Bali’s informal local eateries, and tipping here isn’t expected at all. Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount of loose change is a kind gesture, but it’s entirely optional and won’t be expected by staff.
Hotels
For bellboys, IDR 10,000-20,000 per bag is a standard tip for help with luggage. For housekeeping, leaving IDR 20,000-50,000 on the bed or table is a thoughtful way to show appreciation, particularly since service charges on the room bill don’t always reach individual staff directly.
Taxis and Rideshare Apps
For metered taxis (Blue Bird is the most reliable and reputable company), rounding up the fare is standard practice. If the meter reads IDR 43,000, handing over IDR 50,000 and saying “keep the change” is a normal and appreciated gesture.
For app-based rides like Gojek and Grab, both apps include a built-in tipping feature after the ride. An additional IDR 5,000-10,000 is a nice bonus, especially for longer rides or deliveries in bad weather, since these drivers earn less per fare after app commissions.
Tour Guides and Private Drivers
If a driver or guide suggests hidden spots, helps with bags, or generally goes beyond the basics, tipping is a meaningful way to show appreciation. IDR 50,000 (roughly USD $3) is considered a generous tip for many individual services. For a private driver hired for a full day, IDR 50,000-100,000 is a reasonable range depending on the length and quality of service.
Spas and Salons
In tourist-area spas, tipping is common and appreciated. A 10-15% tip, or IDR 20,000-50,000 for a full-body massage, is standard practice and makes a meaningful difference to therapists who often earn modest base wages.
Cultural Notes
Always tip in Indonesian rupiah rather than USD or other foreign currency. Foreign coins and small bills are difficult for local workers to exchange, and high exchange fees mean they often end up effectively worthless, sometimes kept only as souvenirs rather than usable money.
Locals see tipping as a form of kindness rather than an obligation, and in some cases may even politely decline a tip that feels too large. A modest, sincere gesture tends to be better received than an overly generous one.
| Situation | Typical Tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurant (no service charge) | 10–15% |
| Restaurant (service charge included) | Not necessary; loose change optional |
| Warung (local food stall) | Not expected |
| Hotel Bellboy | IDR 10,000–20,000 per bag |
| Hotel Housekeeping | IDR 20,000–50,000 |
| Metered Taxi | Round up fare |
| Grab/Gojek | IDR 5,000–10,000 (in-app) |
| Private Driver (full day) | IDR 50,000–100,000 |
| Spa/Massage | 10–15% or IDR 20,000–50,000 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is tipping expected in Bali?
Not strictly required, but it’s become a common and appreciated custom in tourist areas, especially given relatively low local wages compared to Western standards.
Should I tip at a warung?
No, warungs are informal local food stalls where tipping isn’t part of the culture. Rounding up is a nice optional gesture, nothing more is expected.
Should I tip in USD or Indonesian rupiah?
Always tip in rupiah. Foreign currency, especially coins and small bills, is difficult for local workers to exchange and often comes with high fees.
Do Grab and Gojek drivers expect a tip?
Not required, but both apps have a built-in tip feature after your ride, and a small additional amount is a kind gesture, particularly appreciated for longer trips or bad-weather deliveries.
More Asia Tipping Guides
Traveling elsewhere in Asia? Check out our other tipping guides: