Expert Las Vegas Tips: 11 Ways to Save Money and Win Big
Las Vegas reigns as the epitome of excitement, attracting over 21 million visitors in a single year. From spontaneous weddings to world-class dining, the city’s appeal is undeniable. Yet, many are surprised to find that beneath its glitzy surface lies one of the costliest vacation spots in America. With an average of 3.3 million tourists each month, saving money in Sin City can be as valuable as hitting a jackpot. To help you make the most of every dollar, we turned to two trusted Las Vegas insiders ready to reveal their hard-earned secrets.
Meet the Vegas Pros Behind These Savings Strategies
We contacted two leading Las Vegas authorities for their best advice:
– Scott Roeben, founder of “Vital Vegas,” a recognized voice in local news, casino updates, and entertainment tips. With over 20 years immersed in the scene and hundreds of thousands of followers, Scott is a premier source for behind-the-scenes intel.
– Kevin Lentz, a veteran casino management expert with three decades of hands-on experience managing every aspect of casino gaming, from table games to sportsbooks both in Reno and Las Vegas.
Their expert insights can help you make your Las Vegas experience unforgettable—and affordable.
Drink for Less: Where to Find Budget Cocktails
Las Vegas is notorious for pricey beverages, with cocktail prices easily reaching $15–$30 before tips. But Scott Roeben recommends a clever workaround: Venture further inside the resort, especially into retail areas, and you’ll often find the same drinks at substantial discounts. For example, a drink sold outside Paris Las Vegas could be $24, whereas the same beverage deep inside the property might cost just $12. Simply put, the more you explore, the less you may spend on drinks.
Satisfy Your Appetite Without Busting Your Budget
Las Vegas is globally recognized as a culinary hotspot, drawing both chefs and food lovers. However, flashy buffets can be expensive and underwhelming. Instead:
– Follow the locals to popular food trucks, like Antidote LV for Hawaiian fare or Endless Pastabilities for creative pasta—think spaghetti and meatballs in a cone!
– For affordable sit-down options, visit Ellis Island Casino’s Village Pub & Cafe for the famed $9.99 steak and eggs special, or Jerry’s Nugget’s Coffee Shop for an acclaimed prime rib dinner at $22.99—a fraction of the price at high-end steakhouses.
These alternatives keep your taste buds happy and your wallet intact.
Essential Supplies: Shop Smart to Dodge Markups
Forgetting a toiletry is common when traveling, but Las Vegas can turn that oversight into a costly mistake. Roeben warns that casino gift shops often don’t display prices and use surge pricing tactics. Walk a short distance to a nearby pharmacy like CVS or Walgreens, where you’ll pay about half the price for travel essentials, snacks, and more.
Smart Gaming: Maximize Your Casino Experience
Avoid Common Craps Betting Pitfalls
Craps attracts both casual players and seasoned gamblers, but not all bets are created equal. According to Roeben, bets advertised in the largest print—like “big 6/8″—are among the least profitable. Instead, place your bet directly with the dealer for better returns on the same numbers.
Find Friendly Table Minimums Off the Strip
Table game minimums on the Las Vegas Strip tend to be high, often starting at $25. Going just a few blocks away can lead to far more affordable options. Consider casinos such as Oyo (offering $1 blackjack), Ellis Island (featuring $5 blackjack and craps), or Station Casinos like Palace Station and Sunset Station for additional $5 games. This simple move lets you stretch your gaming budget without sacrificing fun.
Roulette Chip Tips: Don’t Lose Value When Leaving the Table
Unlike regular casino chips, roulette chips are only valuable at the table where they were issued. Before walking away, always ask to “color up”—that is, exchange your low-value chips for standard denominations—so you aren’t stuck with nonredeemable pieces.
Practice Proper Casino Etiquette and Maximize Your Rewards
How to Exchange Cash for Chips Correctly
One essential rule for casino newcomers: Never hand money directly to a dealer. Always place your cash on the table, allowing the dealer to spread it for the surveillance cameras. This ensures transparency for both you and the casino, and is strictly enforced throughout Las Vegas.
Leveraging Loyalty Cards for Big Perks
Don’t overlook casino loyalty or “players” cards. Even on a brief trip, these cards are your gateway to discounts, complimentary rooms, and sometimes even free flights, cruises, or suite upgrades unavailable to regular guests. Both experts stress that signing up immediately upon arrival could unlock rewards ranging from free slot play to dining credits—without any extra out-of-pocket expense.
For instance, when registering as a new player, casinos frequently offer free-play credits, which can be converted to real winnings after gameplay.
Boost Rewards by Comparing Casino and Online Offers
Kevin Lentz suggests comparing in-person casino comps with online casino perks to score the best possible deals. Many players’ clubs, like BetMGM, track your presence in Las Vegas and could offer exclusive rewards or free play. Be sure to check and combine your offers for the greatest value.
Use Upfront Tipping to Unlock VIP Treatment
The power of tipping in Las Vegas should not be underestimated. Scott Roeben emphasizes that a generous tip upfront—rather than after service—can immediately elevate your experience, from better seating to faster service and extra care from casino staff.
Get Complimentary Drinks at Casino Bars Using the Green Light Trick
For those gambling at a bar, watch for machines with a red/green light system. By playing steadily, you’ll trigger the green light, signaling eligibility for a complimentary drink (sometimes valued at $25–$30). Just keep playing—if you pause too long, the light resets and you’ll need to start again.
Insider Summary: Your Game Plan for Vegas Savings
Armed with expert guidance from Scott Roeben and Kevin Lentz, you’re set to see Las Vegas through a local’s lens. From scoring bargain beverages to mastering the art of casino rewards, these strategies ensure every dollar goes farther—letting you enjoy more of what the city has to offer. Ready to try your luck? Consider putting these tips into practice at some of the luckiest casinos in Vegas for an even better shot at winning big.
Meet the Experts: About Scott Roeben and Kevin Lentz
Scott Roeben is the creative mind behind the widely-read Vital Vegas blog. With over two decades embedded in the Las Vegas hospitality and gaming scenes, he brings insider news and tips to travelers and locals alike. His trusted insights have made him one of the city’s most influential voices.
Kevin Lentz began as a competitive player and advanced into leadership roles across Nevada’s top casinos. Over more than 30 years, he’s managed everything from poker rooms to slot departments, and now shares his expertise on blackjack, casino operations, and game protection with audiences nationwide.
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