Date: January 1, 2025, 07:55 AM
Last updated on: December 31, 2024, 03:32 AM
Remember when you could explore Las Vegas without breaking the bank?
While you can’t go back to the days of affordable buffets, free parking, and complimentary hotel stays for gambling $100, there are some money-saving tips that many tourists are unaware of – and that most resorts prefer to keep hidden.
Reserve the most affordable room at a luxury resort.
Book directly through the hotel’s website, and check the “deals & offers” section for discounts and potential food and beverage credits. Make your reservation well in advance to secure the best price.
Upon arrival at the resort, politely ask the check-in agent if there is an option to pay for an upgrade. The cost quoted for an upgrade on the spot will be significantly lower than booking a nicer room in advance.
This hack may not work on extremely busy weekends, which leads us to…
Avoid peak travel times.
Check for major events like the National Finals Rodeo or conventions. Competing with over 115,000 CES attendees for the same 150,000 hotel rooms on the Strip in January puts you at a disadvantage.
Buy your own water, snacks, and alcohol.
Shopping at nearby Walgreens or CVS stores on the Strip can save you a significant amount compared to purchasing items at resort gift shops.
Avoid storing purchased items in your room’s mini-bar fridge as some resorts now charge for this service. Instead, utilize the ice bucket down the hall for storage.
If you need additional storage, consider requesting a separate fridge at check-in. Claiming it is for medical purposes like insulin storage may prevent additional charges.
Bring a single-cup Keurig coffeemaker and K-Cups.
For travelers checking bags, bringing your own coffeemaker and pods can save money, as many Vegas resorts now only offer them in premium rooms.
Limit Wi-Fi connections to two devices for free, but most smartphones offer personal hotspots for extra devices to connect.
Use the Deuce bus for transportation.
The Deuce bus offers convenient and affordable transportation along the Strip and downtown Vegas, providing a cheaper alternative to Uber during surge pricing. All-day passes are available for $8 per person or $20 for three days.
Take advantage of happy hours for food and drinks.
Happy hour deals can provide significant savings compared to regular prices at bars and restaurants. Look for discounted items during specific times to maximize your budget.
Explore Yelp for bar and restaurant check-in specials.
Many establishments offer free items or discounts for customers who check-in on Yelp, providing additional savings during your visit.
Watch out for and question CNF fees.
Some establishments may add a deceptive fee labeled “CNF” to your bill. Politely ask to have it removed, as it is often a discretionary charge that can be contested.
Purchase entertainment tickets last minute.
Check ticket resale platforms like Stubhub shortly before a show or concert starts for discounted tickets. Sellers may lower prices close to showtime, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy entertainment.
Experience the Wynn’s “Lake of Dreams” for free.
Witness one of the Strip’s top water shows without dining at expensive Wynn restaurants by heading to the North Terrace on the second floor. Shows run every half hour nightly at 7 pm.
Inquire about player discounts.
If you gambled during your stay, speak with a casino host on your last night to inquire about potential discounts or fee waivers based on your gaming activity.