Lai see etiquette: How to give and receive red packets

How much to give, who to give it to and why

/in /by

Chinese New Year is upon us, so we’ll soon start seeing red packets exchanging hands. If you haven’t grown up with this tradition, lai see etiquette can be rather confusing. Fear not; we’ve got you covered; here’s a quick summary of how to give and receive lai see in Hong Kong. 

What does lai see mean?

‘Lai see’ is the Cantonese name given to the little red envelopes containing cash exchanged during Chinese New Year. The packets are called ‘Hong Bao’ in Mandarin. 

Who gives them?

Generally, lai see is given by those who are married and of higher authority to those who are younger and single. For example, parents give to children, employers may give as a gift to their employees, married couples to their younger and single relatives, grandparents to grandchildren and so on. 

When to give lai see?

There is a 15-day window during which it is acceptable to exchange lai see. This period runs from the first day of Chinese New Year until the Lantern Festival, which marks the end of the celebrations. In 2024, the Chinese New Year begins on February 10 and ends on February 24. Lai see should ideally be given the first time you see the receiver during this period. 

What do you say when handing over the lai see? 

It is a longstanding tradition to exchange auspicious greetings during Chinese New Year. “Kung Hei Fat Choy” means Happy New Year in Cantonese, and “Sun Tai Kin Hong” expresses wishes for good health.

How much to give?

The amount of cash given is less significant than what the envelope symbolises, which is a wish for luck for the recipient. However, it is essential that the notes are new and crisp and that the amount doesn’t contain the number four as this number is considered unlucky, so avoid giving $40 or $400.

As a general rule of thumb, the below amounts are considered acceptable: 

  • $20 for an acquaintance you see regularly but don’t know well, i.e. a doorman. $20 is also acceptable for young children. 
  • $50-$100 for service staff, i.e. barista who makes your coffee every day and for those you know well, such as tutors and your hairstylist, etc.  
  • $100-300 for helpers. 
  • $100-$1,000 for employees, your children and grandchildren. 

Lead photo by Angela Roma via Pexels.