Many players felt the only way to spend less at the casino was to just cut back on the number of visits that they make. This is the probably the most practical alternative but it does not have to be the only one. Here are a few tips to maximize your casino dollars.
Set a Budget
The most important thing to do is to set a budget and stick to it. Before you leave for the casino you need to decide on how much you plan to spend on gambling and set that aside. If you lose that money you are done playing. Do not bring your ATM or charge cards if you think you will be tempted to use them.
Transportation
For most of us the rising price of gasoline has had the greatest impact on the pinch we feel in our wallets. It has certainly added to the cost of going to the casino. One way to save some money is to carpool with friends if possible. Instead of meeting your friends at the casino if possible you should meet at a location close to where you both live and drive together. My friends and I will take turns driving or split the price of the gas. Some casinos offer shuttle busses and you may find it is cheaper in the long run to take the bus. Once you arrive at the casino you can save a few dollars by self parking instead of using the valet. Although many casinos offer free valet parking you still have to tip the attendant.
Playing the Games
We love to win but our main reason for playing the casino games is entertainment and the money we spend gambling is usually our biggest expense. One way you can decrease the amount you spend is to play at lower limits. If you normally play dollar slots drop and play the quarter machines. If you play quarters go down to nickels or penny slots. Unless you play a progressive slot machine you can cut back on the number of coins you play on each spin. Playing one coin per line will stretch your gambling budget. If you play tables games choose the table with the lowest minimum bet.
Dining
Dining at the casino can also be a large expense if you always eat at the higher end restaurants. One way to cut your expenses is to choose dining options that are less expensive. Instead of the steak house try the café or choose the buffet or food court. If you are going to the casino for a day trip you might want to have a big breakfast at home before you go and then you can get through the day with a light lunch. If you are going for the evening it will be less expensive to have your dinner at home before you go.
Be Creative
These are just a few suggestions for stretching your money at home and at the casino. I’m sure if you give it some thought, you will come up some creative ideas of your own that you can use to cut back on your expenses and save some money. There is no rule saying that some of the money you save in one area can’t be used for something else. Cutting out that morning latte may save you enough money for a few extra spins of the slot machine.