Winning Strategies for Gambling in Las Vegas
I was anxious about visiting Las Vegas for my sister-in-law’s birthday, particularly concerned about potential expenses. Prior to my trip, I researched and compiled a guide on how to experience Las Vegas affordably.
During my stay, I discovered several effective money-saving techniques, although I encountered some temptations to splurge. Below is a recap of my successful strategies, the mistakes I made, and what I plan to adjust for my next visit to Las Vegas.
Financial Triumphs in Las Vegas
Here’s how I made the most of my Vegas experience without breaking the bank.
Avoiding Shopping Sprees
Las Vegas is renowned for its luxury shopping at high-end stores, which often lure visitors to splurge on their gambling wins. However, we opted to window shop and managed to avoid making any purchases.
Skipping the Buffets
We initially queued for a breakfast buffet priced at $30 per person. Realizing how costly it was, we decided against it and found a more budget-friendly diner nearby.
Walking Instead of Taking Taxis
We took advantage of the affordable Las Vegas city bus for our trips between the strip and Fremont Street. Additionally, we walked extensively on the strip. It’s advisable to wear comfortable footwear, as the distance can be quite significant if you aim to save on transport costs.
Snacking Smartly
Stocking up on inexpensive drinks and snacks for our hotel room helped us steer clear of pricier options on the strip and at the hotel. A CVS store located close by also provided affordable snacks when we needed a top-up.
Collecting Free Mementos
During our visit to Fremont Street, we received a fantastic free souvenir: a photo at Binion’s Gambling Hall next to a mountain of $1 million in cash! Returning after an hour, we collected our complimentary printed photo, and taking pictures at iconic locations on the strip offered additional no-cost keepsakes.
Leaving Children Behind
Since many attractions in Las Vegas aren’t family-friendly, I was grateful we left our teenage kids at home. This not only saved on airfare and meals but also meant the kids could watch the dogs, which helped us avoid boarding fees.
Discovering Free Attractions
Though we did splurge on one pricey show featuring music and acrobatics, we also explored numerous free attractions on the strip. Highlights included the volcano show at the Mirage, the fountain display at the Bellagio, pool lounging, and strolling around the strip both day and night.
Experiencing Fremont Street
After spending time on the strip, we sought a change of pace and took a 20-minute bus ride to Fremont Street, known for its massive overhead LED light shows, lively music, and various street performers. I snagged the most affordable dinner of our trip in that area.
Financial Lessons from Las Vegas
Having navigated Las Vegas, I’ve identified some common money traps and know how to avoid them next time.
Booking Cheaper Flights
We opted for an earlier flight on Thursday, which ended up costing more. In hindsight, a later flight would have been more economical, as there’s no shortage of time to explore in Las Vegas, even into the evening. (See also: 8 Common Flight Booking Mistakes to Avoid)
Practicing Smarter Gambling
Since I didn’t have time to prepare beforehand, I engaged in video blackjack, video poker, and even placed a bet on a college football game for my first gambling experience. I ended up losing $50, but considered it just part of the entertainment.
Next time, I’d like to enhance my skills—practicing beforehand and possibly taking blackjack lessons at a casino would be wise moves. I hope to recoup my losses!
Opting for Off-Strip Accommodations
In the future, I might choose to stay in the Fremont Street area instead of on the strip. The casinos there tend to offer better odds, such as low-bet blackjack tables that pay 3:2, unlike the usual 6:5 found on the strip. Additionally, accommodations and dining options are frequently more affordable off the strip.
Exploring Unique Dining Options
We ended up dining out for dinner each evening, which can be challenging to avoid when you’re hungry and walking around the strip at night. The proximity of pricier eateries often leads to impulsive decisions rather than seeking cheaper alternatives. Some of the dining experiences were underwhelming, resembling chain restaurants available elsewhere.
Next time, I’m keen to explore distinctive local spots. I’ve heard great things about Battista’s Hole in the Wall, known for its affordable specials and complimentary house wine, as well as the Ellis Island Cafe, which is also on my must-visit list for affordable dining.
