Last Updated on February 26, 2026
Do you need to tip at an airport lounge? This is a common question for first time lounge goers, and it’s understandable why. In the US tipping culture is everywhere. While there has been some discontent with it reaching some nontraditional areas, tipping for food or drink service has long been the norm. So when some goes to the lounge for the first time and they take a seat at the bar or a server comes by their table to take their drink order, it’s only natural to wonder what the etiquette is.
Is Tipping Required at an Airport Lounge?
Short answer; no, tipping is not required. The cost of your visit including service is included in the annual fee or membership you pay. In fact, American Express, who operates the ubiquitous Centurion Lounge, has stated before that tipping is not required nor expected.
There are many other lounges that are operated by airlines or hospitality groups and I have yet to find one where tipping is expected. Especially, as some lounges are self service it would be silly to tip for serving yourself.
The Case for Tipping at the Airport Lounge
Now just because you aren’t required to doesn’t mean you aren’t allowed to or shouldn’t. Personally, I think you should try to leave a small tip if you received service in the lounge. Nothing crazy, a dollar per drink is fine, and no more than five dollars.
Now this is only if you received true service. Think cocktails from a bartender, or someone who took your drink order and regularly checked in on you; not an employee restocking the food bar or the front desk staff.
I also think the case for this is bigger if it’s a lounge you frequent often. The lounge at your home airport, or if you travel frequently through the same airport for business. Over time, the will likely begin to recognize and it never hurts to have a bartender know what drink to make you when they see you walking in. If you’re at an airport you will visit only once or infrequently, then I think tipping is less important.
What If I Don’t Have Cash?
If you find yourself wanting to leave tip but have no cash, or only larger bills, there are a few options.
If you need small bills to tip you can politely ask the bartender if they are able to change bills. Usually they are able to for $10 and $20 bills. Then simply leave your desired tip.
If you have no cash at all what I like to do is shout the employee. Usually there is a satisfaction survey sent out after your visit. In the comments you can highlight the employee/s you felt gave you great service.
Takeaway
Short answer: No, you don’t need to tip at the lounge. I still think it’s good thing to do though if you receive true service. That being said if you forget cash or just plain don’t want to, don’t sweat it. It’s neither required nor expected as it’s part of your annual fee.