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DeutschTipping in Vancouver: How Much & When (+ Tip Calculator)
Published 2026-07-12 · FanVancouver Local Desk
Tipping in Vancouver (and Canada generally) works like the US: it is expected, it is not included in the menu price, and servers are paid below a living wage on the assumption you tip. Here is exactly how much, where — and a calculator that handles the 5% GST + liquor tax math for you.
🧮 Tip calculator
💵 How much to tip, by situation
| Situation | Standard tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurant (table service) | 18-20% of pre-tax bill |
| Bar (per drink) | $1-2 per drink or 15-18% on a tab |
| Coffee shop / counter service | Optional — $1 or skip the screen prompt guilt-free |
| Taxi / rideshare | 10-15% |
| Hair salon / spa | 15-20% |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2-5 per night, left daily |
| Hotel bellhop | $2-5 per bag |
| Tour guide | 10-15% or $5-10 per person |
| Food delivery | 10-15%, minimum $3-4 |
⚠️ Things visitors get wrong
- Tip on the pre-tax amount. Menu says $25 → 5% GST makes it $26.25 → tip 18% of $25 ($4.50), not of the taxed total. Nobody will object if you tip on the total, but you don't have to.
- The payment terminal will suggest 18/20/25% — and often calculates them on the after-tax total. You can always press "custom amount." It is not rude.
- Counter-service tip screens are optional. Locals routinely press "no tip" for a takeaway coffee. Table service is where tipping is genuinely expected.
- No cash needed — tips go on card everywhere. Cash tips are appreciated at hotels (housekeeping) where there's no terminal.
- Tipping is not expected at grocery stores, food trucks with no service, or retail — anywhere you're not being served.
Rule of thumb if you remember one thing: 18% at restaurants, $1 a drink at bars, ignore the screen at coffee counters.