Las Vegas is a place where everything feels larger than life, and appearances can be deceiving things that seem close are often much farther than you think. The Las Vegas Strip is 4 miles from end to end. Keep this in mind when are planning for expenses. The most important thing you should do is set two budgets for your trip. The first budget is the one you set for any vacation- how much you are going to need for food, transportation, shopping and entertainment. The second budget is your gambling budget. You need to make this an amount that you are prepared to lose and one you need to really stick to. It is very easy to get caught up in gambling, especially when you are losing and then keep trying to win some back. This never works. Stick to your budget and when the money is gone walk away and explore all the other fabulous things Las Vegas has to offer. To help you make the most of your Las Vegas vacation, here are some key tips to keep in mind.
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Essential tips for visiting Las Vegas
1. Prepare to Walk a Lot
Las Vegas might look compact, but distances can be deceiving. You’ll find yourself walking much more than expected, so bring comfortable shoes and be ready to explore! If the weather is hot when you are visiting, look for the indoor walkways that lead from casino to casino. These are filled with restaurants and shops to keep you busy as you walk. My first time here I got fooled by walking from MGM to the Flamingo and if we hadn’t stopped at a few casinos along the way, I would have had very sore feet! Needless to say, we took a cab back to the MGM.
2. Budget for Transportation
While walking will be part of your trip, don’t underestimate how much you’ll need to rely on transportation. Whether it’s taxis, Ubers, or rideshares, plan for those extra costs in your budget. Renting a car is another option, especially if you plan on exploring off the Strip, but be mindful of parking fees. Unless you plan on doing a lot of exploring outside of Las Vegas, a combination of walking and taxis or rideshares is more affordable.
3. Stock Up on Drinks at CVS or Walgreens
Rather than paying steep prices for drinks at the hotel or casino, grab your beverages from nearby CVS or Walgreens. You’ll save money by stocking up for your room. Even buying a case of water can save lots of money and you’ll have it with you to start your day.
4. Be Cautious of Timeshare Offers
People approaching you on the street or in casinos are often trying to sell timeshares. If you’re not interested, it’s best to avoid them altogether. The same goes for people trying to sell you tickets to shows or other entertainment. It’s best to get them from the box office or the attractions website. Our first time we probably had 5 or more people trying to sell us time shares. Good thing Greg knew what they wanted because I probably would have stopped and listened to their sales pitch, lol.
5. Taking Pictures with Performers
If you want to take photos with performers dressed as showgirls or other iconic characters, be aware that even if they don’t charge for the photo, they expect tips. Have a few dollars ready for a quick pic. These can make some great memories and some laughs, but don’t get too carried away or you will run out of your spending money with all the tips!
6. Free Drinks in Casinos
Yes, you can enjoy free drinks while gambling in casinos, but don’t overdo it. Free doesn’t mean you should go overboard—know your alcohol limit, and drink responsibly. The best tip I got was to order a bottle of water along with your drink and finish them both before you order another drink. Not only do you stay more hydrated, but it helps you to slow your alcohol intake.
7. Cash Out When You Leave
Before leaving any casino, make sure to cash out your winnings or chips. You may not make it back, and it’s better to have your money in hand than to leave it behind. Casino vouchers are good only for the casino you are in. They can’t be used at the other casinos, so don’t get stuck with a voucher instead of your money.
8. Always Carry Your ID
Not only might you be carded when entering certain casinos or bars, but if you’re lucky enough to win a hand pay at a slot machine, you’ll need your ID to claim your winnings.
9. Explore Multiple Casinos
Each casino in Las Vegas offers something unique, from stunning artwork to themed displays. Make it a point to visit several casinos for a full Vegas experience. Check before your trip to see what attractions each casino offers to see what interests you the most and plan to go to those casinos first.
10. Visit Mid-Week for Better Deals
If you can, plan your trip for the middle of the week. Hotels are cheaper, and the crowds are more manageable compared to weekends.
11. Get a Player’s Card at Each Casino
Sign up for a player’s card at every casino group you visit. For example, a player’s card from Flamingo works at all Caesars Entertainment properties. Even if you don’t return to Vegas, these cards are valid at any casino owned by that corporation nationwide. The rewards can add up even if you don’t gamble a lot. A lot of times you will get hotel offers for discounted or free rooms on your next visit.
12. Must-Do Vegas Attractions
There are some iconic attractions that should be on everyone’s Las Vegas bucket list:
Bellagio Fountains
Bellagio Conservatory
The Welcome to Las Vegas Sign
Flamingo Habitat
Fremont Street Experience
The Strip at night
Top of the STRAT Observation Deck
Eiffel Tower Experience at Paris Las Vegas
Gondola rides at The Venetian
Catching a live show
Conclusion
With these tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared to navigate Las Vegas like a pro, enjoying the sights, sounds, and excitement of “Sin City” without any unnecessary stress. Be sure to investigate the attractions you are interested in and plan an itinerary so that you can make the most of your time here!
We love to tell people about our travels and tips we’ve learned along the way to help them prepare and make the most of their vacation. We hope to inspire people to find adventures, even if close to home, and have fun! To see some of our casino play click here.