The plans are set. You and your friends are hitting the casino this weekend, and you’re excited for the chance to win. But with no guarantees, how do you make sure you leave feeling you’ve got your money’s worth? Sticking to these 6 smart play tips can help.
1. Set a play budget
The first step is simple: decide on a play budget and stick to it. Bring an amount that you’re comfortable spending and if you’re tempted to take out more, ask yourself if it’s worth being short for other expenses.
2. Set a win limit
It’s no fun to be winning and then lose it all. Decide on a win limit– the point at which you plan to walk away, even if you’re up. Some players set this at double their play budget.
A win limit isn’t a goal you have to hit to leave, just a clever way to ensure if you do have some winnings, you leave with them.
3. Keep your play budget and winnings separate.
To stick to your play budget and win limits, keep your budget and winnings separate, like in two different pockets, or sections in your wallet.
You’ll know it’s time to pack it in when one of two things happen:
- You play through your play budget
- You hit your win limit
By keeping them separate, you’ll avoid the temptation to add your winnings back into your play budget, which is a recipe for losing back those winnings to the house and spending more than you originally planned.
4. Set a play session limit
Another way to keep your budget in check is to know when to call it quits for the day. Having a set time period for your play session helps you keep track of time – as well as how much you’re spending. Some players plan a get together with friends or family for after the casino, to remind them it’s time to go!
5. Take a break!
It’s surprising how walking away from the floor for 5 or 10 minutes can give you some perspective. Whether you’re up or down, taking occasional breaks is a smart play. Grab a bite, get some fresh air, or go for a walk to explore the venue—all great ways to wind down after playing.
6. Only play if it’s fun
Above all else, gambling is meant to be fun. Gambling odds mean that every player has a chance to win, but on average is more likely to lose in the long run. That’s why it’s meant as entertainment; something to play for the sake of playing, not as a guaranteed win. If you do win, it’s a bonus!
Only play when it’s fun and take a break when it’s not. And if you’re having a hard time taking a break, we can help.
Playing at the casino can be a blast – the sights, the sounds – there’s a buzz to being on the floor. As a player it’s easy to get caught up in the action and start playing for the win, but if you stick to these 6 smart play tips, you’ll walk out of any casino feeling like a winner, no matter the outcome.
Prefer gambling from home? Get our top 5 tips for playing online.
