Tipping in the USA: Why You Need Dollars in Cash

Tipping is a bigger part of daily life in the USA than many UK visitors expect, and cash makes it easier. Buying US dollars before you travel from a commission-free provider such as Travel FX means you can buy US dollars in small denominations ready for tipping from the moment you arrive.

Who to tip

Restaurant and bar staff, taxi drivers, hotel housekeeping and porters, and tour guides all commonly receive tips. Having small notes to hand keeps it simple and avoids awkwardness.

Why cash beats card for tips

Cash tips are quick, clear and always welcome, even where card tipping is available. Arriving with a stock of small dollar notes saves hunting for change.

Sorting the cash

Travel FX has over 18 years of trading, more than 60 currencies and a 5-star Trustpilot score from around 32,800 reviews, with online ordering and delivery or collection.

Order your dollars ahead and you will be ready to tip from the airport onwards.