Tipping in golf can be confusing. Should you tip the caddie, and how much? What about the person who loads your bag onto a cart or cleans your clubs? Customs vary enormously between countries and clubs: in some places tipping is expected and generous; in others it's unusual or not allowed. Here's a guide to help you get it right.
Caddies
Caddies work hard: carrying your bag, giving yardages, reading greens and keeping you company. In many countries, a caddie fee is paid to the club or the caddie, and a tip is added for good service.
- Ask the club or pro shop about the standard fee and customary tip.
- Pay the caddie directly at the end of the round.
- Tip more for excellent service or difficult conditions.
Read our golf caddie guide.
Other golf staff
| Staff | Tipping custom (varies) |
|---|---|
| Bag drop and cart staff | Common in the USA |
| Club cleaning | Common in the USA |
| Locker room attendants | Common in the USA and at some private clubs |
| Forecaddies | Often tipped where used |
| Beverage cart staff | Common in the USA |
| Restaurant and bar staff | Follow local restaurant customs |
Customs by region
- USA: tipping is common for caddies, bag staff, locker room attendants and beverage staff.
- UK and Ireland: tipping caddies is customary; tipping other golf staff is less common.
- Continental Europe: tipping is less widespread; round up or follow local guidance.
- Asia: caddie tips are customary in many countries. Read golf in Thailand and Southeast Asia and golf in Japan and South Korea.
- Africa and the Middle East: caddie tips are common at many courses. Read golf in Morocco and golf in South Africa.
No-tipping clubs
Some private clubs have a no-tipping policy, often covering service through membership fees. Respect it, and thank staff instead. Read playing as a guest at a private club.
Tips for travellers
- Ask before you travel: tour operators and hotels know local customs. Read golf tour operators.
- Carry small notes in the local currency.
- Budget for tips on golf trips.
Frequently asked questions
Should I tip my caddie?
In most places, yes. Ask the club about the customary amount.
Do you tip bag drop staff?
It's common in the USA; less so elsewhere.
Is tipping expected at private clubs?
It depends. Some clubs have no-tipping policies; others expect tips for caddies and certain staff.
How do I know how much to tip?
Ask the pro shop, your host or your tour operator.
The bottom line
Tipping customs in golf vary widely. Tip caddies in most places, follow local customs for other staff, respect no-tipping policies and ask when unsure. A thank-you and a fair tip go a long way. For more on golf customs, read golf traditions and customs.