While it might take a little more than what’s jangling around in your pocket, a trip to Las Vegas doesn’t have to be expensive. Just like David Copperfield, you can pull some tricks out of your sleeve that will have you rollin’ the dice in Sin City in no time.
We’ve all heard tales about free flights, hotels and meals in Vegas if you drop some coin at the gaming tables. Times have changed, however, and Vegas is smart, so don’t expect them to roll out the red carpet for you if they’ve never seen you before. If you gamble, you might be rewarded. Maybe not with winnings at the table, but with free drinks and perhaps a nice little feast. Leaving a good tip, even if the tab was zip, will ensure continued good will from your server, especially if you’ll be around all week. Using your smartphone with a Foursquare check-in will get you a free glass of champagne at the Wynn nightclub, Blush. Other clubs offer 2-for-1 deals and additional discounts on food, beverages and events via the Foursquare check-in app.
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Lodging can be a big expense on a Las Vegas trip, but choosing to stay at a nice hotel like the MGM Grand, Luxor, Bally’s or the Golden Nugget, while visiting the much pricier Bellagio, the Venetian, Wynn and Mandalay Bay to have a look around, perhaps a cocktail or a bite to eat, will save a bundle. Also check online coupon codes for discounts and specials on specific hotels. While they don’t always work, or aren’t always published, they may save you a Benjamin or two. Last-minute-type hotel apps on your smartphone can be helpful here, finding you an unsold room in a high-end hotel for a bargain. The best ones are on your phone, not your computer. It’s a gamble, but hey — you’re in Vegas baby! Risk it if you will, and you could win a nice price on the room of your dreams.
If you’re headed to see the shows, check online to watch for drops in price. Should a show not fill the seats as expected, you’ll see a special price pop up in an attempt to ensure a full house. There is a company that sells same-day unsold tickets for Las Vegas shows through several booths throughout the city, often releasing tickets at half the posted price. Demand has expanded the service to include dinner options as well. You can also find locals with tickets they received as comps, posting them for sale on eBay. Just make sure you do a face-to-face transaction to ensure you get what you’ve paid for.
Booking a package is another way to save. Purchasing flights, hotels and a car in one package can significantly reduce the total cost of an individually priced trip. As with any travel plans, make sure to read the fine print so you understand the terms, especially if payment is non-refundable and your plans may change.
If your travel dates are flexible, check the Las Vegas Conventions calendar to ensure you won’t be arriving in the midst of a large trade show. Tables, rooms and services will be in high demand, and your hopes for a deal will diminish accordingly. There is not much of an off-season in Vegas, but particularly high traffic occurs during New Year’s Eve, Fourth of July and most three-day public holidays, with weekends pricier than weekdays, so plan accordingly and have a blast in Sin City!
Travelocity Editors
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