Being a hunting consultant, I’m always asked what the proper amount is to tip your guide and outfitter. This can be based on many factors, last of which should be if you get your animal or not. Don’t get me wrong, we all go on hunts to get the animal, or animals, we are after. But the harvest should be the icing on the cake. Some questions to ask yourself…
- Did the outfitter provide the service they promised in the beginning?
- Did they work hard to help me have a good hunt?
- Did they put me in position to be successful?
- Were they fun to be around?
Many guides depend on tips to supplement their income, and most work very long hours and incredibly hard from dark to dark to make sure your hunt is a success. Tips are very much appreciated by the guides and all the staff. Staffs will vary from camp to camp, but don’t forget about the wranglers, packers, cook staff and housekeeping staff.
Tips are normally 10-20% of the total cost of your hunt. Now this is just a guideline, and you can tip less, or more, depending on the service you receive.
Talk with the outfitter beforehand, to see how they want you to hand out the tips. Some outfitters want you to just pay the staff directly, while others collect it and divide it amongst the staff.
Most outfitters, whether they are in the USA or abroad, like USD for tips.
You can also take gear for your guides, trackers, skinners, etc. Gifts like optics, knives, hats and gloves are always needed, so these are always welcomed.
Remember, tips are not mandatory, but very much appreciated. And they go a long way if you plan on hunting with this outfitter for years to come.
