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Tipping in Laos

LAKLast reviewed · Feb 2026

Tipping is not expected in Laos. A service charge is sometimes on the bill at hotels and upscale restaurants; round up or leave small cash (LAK preferred) for good service if you wish.

Tipping not expected

Most common situations

Restaurant
Standard:Service included
Exceptional:5-10%
Show details
+No service charge: about 10% or round up. Local eateries and street food round up only.
Bar
Standard:Round up
Taxi
Standard:Round up
How to tip in Laos
•Check the bill for service charge
•Round up or leave small cash if you wish
•Cash (LAK) preferred when tipping
Quick tips
Service charge sometimes on bill at hotels and upscale restaurants (check the bill)
LAK preferred for recipients
Optional extra for good service
Other situations
DeliveryRound up
Hairdresser / BarberRound up
Spa & Massage10000-20000 LAK
Hotel Staff10000-20000 LAK
Tour guides50000-100000 LAK
Valet ParkingRound up
Airport ServicesRound up
Car Services / UberRound up

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Tipping Terms Glossary

Service charge
A mandatory fee added to the bill by the establishment, separate from optional tips.
Round up
To increase the total bill amount to the nearest convenient whole number or denomination.
Exceptional service
Service that exceeds standard expectations, often warranting a higher tip percentage or amount.
Cash preferred
A preference for cash tips over card tips, often because card tips may not reach staff directly.