Casino Budget Tips

Casinos are among the finest entertainment kingdoms in the world. World-class casinos such as the Palace of the Lost City, Atlantis, the Bellagio, Mirage or the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino are home to a dazzling array of gaming, restaurants, extravaganzas and more. And with so much to enjoy, it makes sense to try and get the most bang for one’s buck as possible.

There are a myriad of ideas detailing the best ways to stretch a casino budget. Chief among them begins even before the sojourn to your favorite land-based casino has even begun. Lots of research will lessen the burden that often accompanies patrons when they are surprised by the many attractions at casinos.

How to plan your casino trip well?

• Where are you staying? Budget, mid-range or upper-end hotels/motels or guest houses?
• How are you getting there? Flying, driving, car-pooling or taking public transportation?
• When and how long are you going for?
• How many people in your party?
• What is the purpose of your trip?

First off, where you’re staying is everything in terms of setting a casino budget. As realtors say – ‘It’s all about location, location, location!’ And the truth is that it really is all about where you’re staying. Posh hotels will cost you an arm and a leg – regardless of what specials they’re running. To each his own, and budgets are not necessarily synonymous with cheap – they simply mean affordable to a particular individual’s personal finances.

How you’re getting there is another factor to consider. If you’re planning to get there on the cheap, then flying may be best. But then you’re dependent on taxis and public transportation once you get there. Perhaps a rental car and a flight are best for you – it all depends on your budget and personal expectations. Many seniors pack into casino buses and reach their gaming destinations that way. There are many options in this regard.

When calculating a budget, it’s wise to know what time of year you’re planning a casino-style vacation and more importantly how long you’re going for. Many hotels offer 3-day minimum stays while others will give preferential rates for longer stays. And how many people you bring with you can also help with the bills. Remember that in most cases hotels charge for the rooms based on pps. So if you have 4 or 5 folks, you’re still only paying for 2.

If you’re going to gamble, then set a limit. Go with a preset budget and take only an emergency stash of cash for things like extended stays,  medical, travel costs and the like. Be realistic and try to set a daily budget for your gaming expenses. Slots are cheap and tables generally require bigger bankrolls. Remember too that food and drink can get pricey, so shop around.