World Cup followers travelling to US warned over ‘impolite’ rule that would add big further prices
Leaving a tip in America is not regarded as optional and could cause England fans’ costs to rocket during their trip to the States for the upcoming World Cup
The World Cup will go to the United States, Mexico and Canada this summer(Image: Getty Images)
World Cup costs could reach tipping point for England fans after experts warned travel, hotel and grub prices will rocket due to compulsory US gratuities.
Supporters have been warned that tipping in the US is not viewed as optional but part of the bill. And it is set to add a huge wedge to fans’ World Cup costs.
Experts at the Football Ground Guide have warned fans they should expect to tip ‘almost everywhere’.
The advice website said: “Supporters heading to host cities such as New York, Los Angeles and Miami will be expected to tip taxi and ride-share drivers, hotel staff, bartenders and restaurant servers.
“Taxi drivers expect at least 15%, while 20% is standard for friendly service. Uber and Lyft apps often suggest up to 50%.”
At hotels, bellhops expect 75p per bag. If staff escort a guest to their room or help with luggage, a £3.70 tip is expected.
Hotel housekeepers will leave notes encouraging guests to leave a few dollars per day. In restaurants, 18% tips are the minimum and 20% the norm – often on top of a local sales tax, which is 8.875% in New York.
A £58 meal could end up costing at least £75. Even coffee carries a tip. Many cafes turn payment screens towards customers with options for 18%, 20% or 25% gratuities.
Bars and pubs command tips of at least 75p per drink – more for cocktails. The website said the tipping culture could add vast extra cost to fans’ stays.
It said: “Fans travelling to the United States for the 2026 World Cup may be prepared for high hotel prices and expensive match tickets but America’s tipping culture will still catch many off guard this summer.
“Unlike in most countries, tipping in the US is not viewed as an optional reward for excellent service. In restaurants, bars, taxis and hotels, it is often treated as a standard part of the bill.
“World Cup visitors should expect to tip almost everywhere. The biggest shock for many visitors comes when eating out.
“A decade ago, 15% was considered acceptable in a restaurant, but today 18% is widely seen as the minimum, with many restaurants pushing diners towards 20% or more.
“American diners are expected to tip generously because restaurant workers in many states can legally be paid below the standard minimum wage.
“In New York City employers can pay food-service staff as little as $10-an-hour (£7.43) provided tips bring their earnings up to the $15 (£11.14) minimum wage.
“For 2026 World Cup visitors refusing to tip in a full-service restaurant is likely to be viewed as rude.”
