Las Vegas might be the city of excess, but it doesn't have to be a location that blows your budget. With a few key tips and tricks, it is possible to party like a king in Las Vegas without spending like one.
Take Advantage of Happy Hours and Reverse Happy Hours
Part of the appeal of Las Vegas is enjoying a few drinks with friends, but full-priced cocktails in some bars and begin to add up quickly and push you over your budget. If you want to drink, make sure you know about the various happy hours in your hotel or in the surrounding area. Most bars have some kind of happy hour in the afternoon, and they may offer certain beers at half price or a specialty cocktail at a steep discount. A lesser-known tip is to look up reverse happy hours. This is when restaurants and bars provide discounts between 10 pm and midnight, and it can be just as helpful for those who want to save money. If you don't mind dining a little later, many restaurants offer fantastic cuisine for late-night diners at a steep discount.
Travel in the Right Season - and Midweek
There are definitely certain times of the year when Las Vegas is a lot more affordable for travelers. The middle of December, July, and August are all the best times to go for budget travelers. In addition, book your trip for midweek whenever possible. Rooms will be as much as two-thirds cheaper than weekend prices, and crowds are much smaller at most attractions.
Don't Pay Full Price For Show Tickets
Shows in Las Vegas are notoriously expensive, but you can still find a way to afford the price if it is a priority. Ticket booths, specifically the Tix4Tonight booths, provide low-cost tickets to shows that very night. It might take a short wait in line in the morning, but it can save hundreds of dollars for in-demand shows.
Pick Your Hotel Wisely
Not all hotels in Las Vegas are the same. Staying on the Strip will come at a premium, but hotels like the Hooters Casino Hotel, the Riviera Hotel and Casino, and the Quad Resort are all affordable options. Staying off the Strip can be cheaper, but it may make it harder to visit attractions and nightlife. Keep in mind that many hotels charge resort fees of $10 to $30 per night, so ask about that before booking your accommodation.
Use Public Transport Whenever Possible
Cabs are tempting, and rental cars seem convenient, but both should be skipped in favor of public transport. Buses, the monorail system and airport shuttles will all be much cheaper, and there is also no concern about drinking and driving.
Gamble During the Day Rather Than at Night
If you must gamble, remember that many table games have lower minimum bets during the day. This gives you a chance to learn the ropes of blackjack or poker without spending $20 or more per hand.
With these tips in mind, you can make the most of your Las Vegas getaway without spending a fortune while you are there.
