Gambling on a Great Vacation – 5 Tips for Doing Las Vegas Cheap!

Times are tough and money’s tight—but that’s even more reason to schedule a vacation getaway from the stress and struggles of daily living.  While many of us will be relegated to just a "day-cation" or maybe a “stay-cation,” there is a still travel destination where you can still get a really big bang for your buck.

Las Vegas.

Once upon a time Las Vegas was known as "Sin City"--famous for its casinos and show girls.  But today's Vegas has much more to offer:  shows, shopping and plenty of family-friendly activities as well.  And you don't need to be a high-roller to enjoy what Las Vegas has to offer; a Las Vegas vacation can be done on the cheap!

So put away the inflatable pool and pack your bags--here's a list of tips for saving money in Las Vegas:

1. Look for Las Vegas Travel Deals

Las Vegas is a popular place for tourists so travel sites such as Orbitz, Travelocity and Expedia often feature Las Vegas package deals.  I've seen Las Vegas hotel deals for as little as $70 per night for luxury accommodations.  You can find information about these packages--and make them even more affordable with Las Vegas coupons--at sites that specialize in deals like Savings.com.

2.  Plan in advance

Check out the Las Vegas Official Tourism Web Site for ideas on where to stay and what to see in Las Vegas.  Booking in advance can get you the best rates and making reservations for off-season or mid-week dates rather than for weekends or during holidays can save you a bundle of cash.  Also, make sure to research what shows will be in town when scheduling your vacation to help you avoid being stuck with tickets to Wayne Newton when you're jonesing to see Bon Jovi.

3.  Don't Gamble

...or at least set a limit and stick to it.  I know gambling has a powerful appeal to many people, although I've never understood the thrill of it.  Personally if I'm dropping a wad of cash, I want there to be something leather in my closet to show for it.  There are plenty of things to do in Las Vegas other than gamble--no need to spend all your time in a Las Vegas casino!

4.  Free Admission

While it will cost you a chunk of change to see Cirque de Soleil or the Blue Man Group perform, there's a veritable wealth of amazing things to see in Las Vegas for free.  The spectacular Bellagio Fountains, the talking statues at Caesars Palace and the Shark Tank at the Mirage cost nothing and make for some great entertainment.  Maybe not quite as enchanting as Cirque de Soleil, but definitely more amusing than a Carrot Top stand-up show.  

For other cost-free forms of Las Vegas entertainment, you can have fun people-watching and window shopping--or check out this more comprehensive list of free Las Vegas attractions on About.com

5.  Deals on Meals

If you fill up at one of Las Vegas' many all-you-can-eat buffets, you can cut down on your food costs.  One meal big meal vs. three moderate ones can save you some real money.  You can also buy deeply discounted gift certificates in advance for Las Vegas restaurants at restaurant.com.  

And, while there is no such thing as a free lunch, there are free drinks at the Las Vegas casinos--if you're gambling.  So you can sit yourself down at a nickel slot machine and if you tip the waitress well, she'll keep the drinks coming.  The logic behind this largess, however, is that an inebriated customer will gamble longer and lose more money.  So know your limits--for your body as well as your budget!

A Las Vegas vacation has something for everyone--from wedding chapels to art museums, shows and shopping, golfing and gambling.  By doing some research for Las Vegas packages, Las Vegas travel deals or Las Vegas coupons, you can make that Las Vegas vacation extremely affordable.  So the secret to a “winning” Las Vegas getaway is:  plan in advance, stick to your budget and never double down when the dealer has a ten or an ace!