Freebies

Getting freebies (or "comps" - short for complimentaries, as they are known in Las Vegas) works much like frequent flyer points. The more you gamble and the higher the rate you gamble at, the more you will be eligible for.

In order to get comps (which can take the form of free rooms, buffets, shows etc), you will need to join the casino's club. They will give you a card which you should then use each time you gamble at that casino. (In many cases, one club will cover a number of casinos. Eg Park Place Connection Card gets you rated at the casinos in Bally's, Caesars Palace, Flamingo, Las Vegas Hilton and Paris Las Vegas). When you play the slot machines (pokies), put the card in the slot so that they may record the rate at which you are gambling. When you sit at the tables, give the card to the dealer.

The record of your play at both tables and slots will include the amount you buy in with, your rate of play, the total amount wagered, and how much you win or lose. Whether you win or lose makes no difference to the comps you are eligible for - only the total amount wagered is considered.

Even if your rating isn't high enough to get a comp for a free show ticket, you may be able to use it to help get you good seats. You can phone the casino club for bookings.

Once you have established yourself as a casino club member, when you are planning your next trip, call and ask for the casino host and ask if you have qualified for free night(s). If not, you may still be eligible for a special casino rate at the hotel.