Tipping Insights at an All-Inclusive Resort

Should We Tip at an All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico, the Caribbean, or Costa Rica?

Tipping at an all-inclusive resort is totally a personal choice, but it’s something I always do when I travel—and I’ve noticed my drinks tend to stay full when I do! If you’re thinking about tipping, here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind as you budget for your trip.

While resort staff are happy to accept US Dollars, I recommend exchanging some money for Pesos, especially when traveling in Mexico. Here’s why:

• Many locals shop for groceries every few days because buying a whole week’s worth at once isn’t affordable.
• If staff have to stop and exchange money before shopping, it cuts into their family time.
• Banks often charge high exchange fees, so staff end up with less than you intended.

You can order currency ahead or find ATMs at the airport. Just a heads up—when using an ATM, always say no if it asks you to “Accept Conversion Rate.” Your bank usually gives you a better deal, and ATM rates often come with high fees.

Some resort ATMs still dispense USD, but hopefully that will change for easier tipping in the future!

While using the local currency is the best way to ensure the staff get the most out of your tip, if you don’t have Pesos in advance, don’t stress—US Dollars are widely accepted too. Just be sure to have small bills like $1s, $5s, and $10s handy for tipping to make it easier for everyone.

Tipping Guidelines for All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Costa Rica:

• Baggage Handler at Airport: $1-2 per bag (20 to 40 Pesos)
• Transport Driver (round trip, resort about an hour from airport): $5 (100 Pesos)
• Resort Porter (helps with luggage and shows you to your room): $2 (40 Pesos)
• Breakfast/Lunch Dining: $2 - $5 (40 to 100 Pesos)
• A La Carte Dining: $5 - $20 (100 to 400 Pesos)
• Housekeeper (daily, leave a note in Spanish if possible): $3-5 (60 to 100 Pesos)
• Fridge Restocking (if used): $2-5 (40 to 100 Pesos)
• Every Round of Drinks: $1-2 (20 to 40 Pesos)—feel free to give a little extra if you’re hanging out and want those drinks flowing!
• Spa Treatments: $5-20 or a percentage of the cost (100 to 400 Pesos)
• Butler Service: $30 to $50+ per night, depending on the experience. Tip discreetly at checkout or leave a thank-you note. (600 to 1,000+ Pesos)

Tipping really is about showing appreciation for the great service that makes your vacation smooth and enjoyable.

Sometimes you’ll meet staff who go above and beyond—like the guy who clears seaweed off the beach on tough days—and a little extra tip goes a long way.

Some resorts include gratuities in the price, but I usually tip on top because I know the staff don’t always see that full amount.

For a one-week stay, I suggest budgeting around $150 to $200 USD (or 3,000 to 4,000 Pesos) for tipping. That breaks down to about $20 to $25 USD (400 to 500 Pesos) per day and covers all the people who make your trip special.

At the end of the day, tipping is your choice—do what feels right to you and enjoy every moment of your trip!

Heads up: Sandals & Beaches Resorts have a strict no-tipping policy, except for butlers and Red Lane Spa spa attendants.

When we’re planning your trip to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Costa Rica, I’ll provide helpful guidance to ensure you feel fully prepared for your all-inclusive resort experience.