Las Vegas Money Saving Tips
Las Vegas is the city of bright lights, endless entertainment, and indulgence.
However, in a place where you can easily spend hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars on shopping, nightlife, gambling, shows, hotel rooms, limos, and gourmet dining, your budget can disappear quickly if you’re not careful.
The good news is, you don’t need to be a high roller to enjoy everything Vegas has to offer. With a bit of planning and some smart strategies, you can have an unforgettable time in Las Vegas while sticking to a budget.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a seasoned Vegas traveler, these tips will help you make the most of your trip without overspending. Here’s how to experience Las Vegas on a budget, from dining to transportation and everything in between.
Food & Dining: Tasty Meals Without the Price Tag
Dining in Las Vegas can be as extravagant or as budget-friendly as you like. Here’s how to save on meals without sacrificing flavor:
- Eat Buffets at Lunchtime: Las Vegas is known for its legendary buffets, but dinner prices can be steep. Instead, hit the buffets during lunch when prices are lower, but the food selection is often just as varied. You can still enjoy a wide array of delicious dishes for a fraction of the cost.
- Order Wine by the Bottle: If you and your companions enjoy wine, consider ordering a bottle instead of individual glasses. It’s often much cheaper than ordering by the glass, and most restaurants will cork the bottle for you if you don’t finish it.
- Stick to Casino Food Courts and Buffets: Many casino food courts offer great value meals, and their buffets are often less expensive than traditional sit-down restaurants. You can find everything from burgers to international cuisine at a fraction of the cost.
- Skip Soft Drinks and Bottled Water: Beverages in Vegas restaurants can add up quickly, with sodas costing $3 or more per glass. Opt for free ice water instead, and you’ll save a significant amount over the course of your trip.
- Check Restaurant Prices Before Sitting Down: Before entering a restaurant, take a moment to look at the menu and prices. Vegas is filled with both affordable and high-end restaurants, and it’s easy to blow your budget on one meal if you’re not careful. Ask to see a menu before committing to a table, especially in more expensive casinos and hotels.
Getting Around: Travel Smart, Save Big
Transportation costs can sneak up on you in Las Vegas, but there are several ways to save while getting around the city:
- Don’t Get Gas on the Strip: If you’re driving, avoid filling up at gas stations on the Strip. Gas prices in this area are significantly higher than in other parts of the city. Instead, head a few blocks east or west to find cheaper gas stations, particularly between the STRAT and downtown.
- Walk or Use the Las Vegas Monorail: Walking is often the best way to get around the Strip, especially since traffic can make driving slow and frustrating. On hotter days, the Las Vegas Monorail is an affordable and efficient option, allowing you to travel the length of the Strip quickly and comfortably.
- Take the Bus to Downtown: If you’re heading downtown to visit the Fremont Street Experience or to gamble, consider taking the bus. The Deuce is a popular bus that runs along the Strip and into downtown, with passes starting at $6 for two hours or $8 for the day. It’s a cheap and fun way to get around while enjoying some classic Vegas people-watching.
- Avoid Taxi Scams: Some taxi drivers in Las Vegas may try to pull a fast one by claiming they don’t have change when you arrive at your destination. If the fare is $12 and you only have a $20, you could be forced to leave an oversized tip. To avoid this, make sure you have small bills on hand before getting into the cab.
- Share a Taxi: If you’re traveling solo or with a small group, consider sharing a taxi with fellow travelers heading in the same direction. Taxi fares in Vegas are the same whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, so this can be a great way to cut costs.
- Beware of Credit Card Surcharges: If you plan to pay for your taxi fare with a credit card, be aware that many Las Vegas taxis charge an additional $3 fee for credit card transactions. To save, pay with cash when possible.
- Don’t Jaywalk: Crossing the street in Las Vegas can be tricky and dangerous due to heavy traffic. Stick to crosswalks and pedestrian bridges to avoid fines—and to stay safe.
- Watch Out for Hidden Car Rental Fees: If you plan on renting a car, make sure to check for any hidden fees, especially for things like additional drivers, insurance, or GPS. Booking ahead of time online can help you avoid these extra costs.
Las Vegas Shows: See the Best Shows for Less
Las Vegas is home to some of the best live entertainment in the world, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay full price. Here’s how to enjoy world-class shows without spending a fortune:
- Buy Show Tickets Online in Advance: Show tickets are almost always cheaper when purchased online before you arrive in Vegas. Check out discount websites and apps for deals on tickets to some of the top shows.
- Opt for Lesser-Known Shows: While big-name performers like Cher and Celine Dion put on incredible shows, tickets can easily cost hundreds of dollars. Consider seeing a lesser-known performer or a smaller production instead. These shows often cost $35-$40 per person and provide just as much entertainment.
- Use Email Tickets: When buying show tickets online, opt for “Tickets by email and on mobile.” This option is free and allows you to present your ticket on your smartphone at the box office. You’ll avoid shipping fees and the risk of losing physical tickets.
Hotel Deals: Save on Your Stay
Accommodation can be one of the biggest expenses on your Vegas trip, but there are several ways to score a great room without breaking the bank:
- Use Promo Codes and Book Directly: When booking your hotel, search for discount promo codes and book directly through the hotel’s website to access the best deals and added perks like free upgrades or amenities.
- Midweek Stays are Cheaper: Hotel rates in Vegas fluctuate significantly depending on the day of the week. For the best deals, book your stay for midweek, as weekend rates can skyrocket.
- Bundle Flights and Hotels: Many travel websites offer package deals that include flights and hotels at discounted rates. Booking a bundle through sites like Expedia, Priceline, or Orbitz can save you a lot of money compared to booking separately.
- Look for Last-Minute Deals: If your travel dates are flexible, you may be able to snag last-minute hotel deals, especially if the hotel is trying to fill rooms during a slow period.
- Check for Hidden Resort Fees: Many hotels in Las Vegas charge daily resort fees, which can range from $25 to $60. These fees are often not included in the advertised room rate, so be sure to factor them into your budget. Resort fees typically cover things like Wi-Fi, access to the fitness center, and local calls.
- Skip the Fancy Hotel Rooms: You didn’t come to Vegas to spend all your time in your hotel room, so why blow your budget on a luxury suite? Book a more affordable room and save your money for experiences like shows, dining, and gambling.
- Call the Hotel for Price Matching: If you find a lower rate for your hotel on a third-party website, call the hotel directly and ask if they will match it. Many hotels will honor lower prices to keep your business.
- Watch Out for Parking Fees: Most hotels on the Strip now charge for parking, with fees ranging from $10 to $30 per day. Check the hotel’s parking policy before booking, and factor this into your budget if you plan to rent a car.
Drinks and Entertainment: Get the Most for Your Money
- Buy Drinks at Convenience Stores: Drinks, especially alcohol, are notoriously expensive in Las Vegas bars and clubs. Save money by buying your beer, wine, or bottled water at CVS, Walgreens, or 7-Eleven. You can even bring your own drinks into some casinos.
- Free Drinks While Gambling: Many casinos offer free drinks to gamblers, so if you’re planning to hit the tables or slot machines, take advantage of this perk. Just remember to tip your server!
- Drink Water Often: Las Vegas’s desert climate can quickly lead to dehydration, especially if you’re out exploring the Strip all day. Stop by a convenience store to buy bottled water in bulk, and carry some with you to avoid overpriced water at the casinos or hotels.
- Avoid Casino ATMs: ATM fees inside casinos can be as high as $6 per transaction. If you need cash, head to a nearby CVS or Walgreens, make a small purchase, and get cash back at the register.
General Money-Saving Tips: Be Smart and Stretch Your Dollar
- Stick to Your Budget: Before arriving in Vegas, decide how much money you’re willing to spend on gambling, food, shows, and other activities. Stick to that budget to avoid overspending.
- Take Advantage of Free Attractions: Vegas is full of free attractions, from the famous Bellagio Fountains to the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat. Enjoy these experiences without spending a dime.
- Be Cautious with Street Performers: On the Strip and Fremont Street, you’ll encounter many costumed characters who offer to pose for photos. While it may seem fun, remember that these performers expect tips, so be prepared to pay for the interaction.
- Beware of Timeshare Sales Pitches: The Strip is full of aggressive timeshare salespeople offering “free” show tickets or meals in exchange for attending a presentation. These are almost always time-consuming and not worth the hassle, so politely decline.
- Pack for the Weather: Las Vegas can get extremely hot in the summer and chilly in the winter. Check the weather forecast before you pack to ensure you bring the right clothing for your trip.
Final Thoughts
Las Vegas doesn’t have to be an expensive trip. With these money-saving tips, you can experience the best of Sin City without going over budget.
From finding affordable meals to scoring discounted show tickets and hotel rooms, there are countless ways to stretch your dollar while enjoying all that Vegas has to offer.
So plan ahead, be smart, and get ready to have an unforgettable time—without breaking the bank!