If your idea of gambling responsibly is playing the slots or betting on the latest sporting events until you run out of money, you might want to get a better system. Often, when new players start betting on slots or table games, they mistakenly play without a plan and might win a few small and enticing bonuses. However, as their money dwindles, they keep betting, thinking they will suddenly land on the largest jackpot, which might not come!
Below we will explore taking responsibility when you gamble and tips from seasoned gamblers (until you hit that RECORD win!).
Follow a Proven Money Management System.
If you take a walk around a casino, you may notice that people have different management systems. These can help you manage your money in the casinos and online:
Bet with a specific denomination.
Some players only bet with all $5 to pace themselves, while others might only bet $20 at a time before changing machines.
Set a time limit.
Bet for a set number of hours or budget a specific amount and stop when you reach it. You might gamble from 8:00 pm until midnight. Then leave the casino or turn off your online slot games.
Set a denomination limit.
If you set a specific amount, like $100, lower your bets per line to make your money last longer. Only betting .80-cents to $1 per spin will extend your gameplay more than if you bet $10 a spin (do the math!).
Set a Budget and Stick to It (Really!).
Like budgeting money for your bills, avoiding betting until you run out of money, decide how much you want to gamble and when to visit the casino.
Only bet with what you can afford to lose.
It goes without saying. Pay your bills FIRST, and never use your rent or mortgage money, hoping you will land a big cash prize.
Even if you land on a jackpot or win a tournament, accepting responsibility when you play means you will not feel guilty losing because you did not bet over your head.
Have set times to play (and set amounts)
If you want to play every Saturday night but only have an extra $100, bet in smaller increments with casino promotional offers (for extra cash).
Another way to increase your winnings is to take that same $400 and only play once a month. That gives you a lot more cash to wager with!
Anticipate the season
If you are gambling on sports, the same holds true. At the start of the season, factor in that it will be a LONG season, so pace yourself. Maybe bet $20 weekly on games so there’s nothing lost, but save your big bet for the World Series or Super Bowl.
Use Casino Promotion Offers.
Years ago, casinos gave out comps (complimentary hotel stays, casino cash) when the dealer or host wanted to reward your gameplay. Now, they send a signup offer or return player credit.
Access cash match offers and return player promos.
With online casinos thriving, comps now offer signup offers and return player-free spin promotions. Take advantage of these as it is extra money to gamble with.
New member promos can be hundreds or thousands of dollars but read the terms and conditions to ensure you can meet the wager requirements (15x, 25, 30x your bet and bonus, etc.).
Know the RTP and rules.
Some players like to play until they win, but a win does not always come if the RTP is low or they are betting too low.
Check the paytable to know how much you need to bet to activate a bonus on a slot game. It can be confusing to keep spinning only to learn that the Return To Player rate is low or you have not bet the maximum amount to trigger the bonus games.
Playing games with high RTPs (95-99%) means you will get more money back. If you bet $100, and the RTP is 98%, you will eventually win back $98. Hence, look for legit casinos that offer fair play. Small frequent wins can help you avoid chasing losses by staying up!
Use the casino’s money FIRST.
Players might only gamble with a casino offer and then top it off. For example, the casino sends a promotion to you for $50 on your birthday toward new gaming slots. At the casino, you bet with your money FIRST and hope for a jackpot or bonus win before wagering with your own cash.
Similarly, you might start gambling ONLY with the casino’s cash and stop playing. However, this can limit the future offers the promotions department sends you if you are not playing with your own money.
Take Breaks and Know When To Stop.
One of the biggest problems that some gamblers admit to is they start out strong but eventually lose their money and start carelessly betting at higher amounts randomly, hoping to trigger a multiplier or bonus game.
When gambling addictions start, players can become irritable or restless when faced with losses and dwindling finances. That is because gambling triggers the reward center in your brain. It releases dopamine, which makes players feel elated (when they are up!).
Walk away to avoid chasing losses.
A better way to approach this is to step away, take a break, switch machines, or end your session. If you find that you cannot stop or you withdraw cash from the ATM numerous times, end your gameplay.
Some online gamblers playing real cash games will switch to demo mode to continue playing without the cash investment.
Ask the casino for help.
Legitimate gambling operators want players to enjoy their time and come back. Hence, they usually have literature regarding responsible gameplay. Reach out to the casino or find a 12-step program.
FAQ
Is online gambling as addictive as in-person gambling?
Yes. Online games have demo mode and virtual games, which provide more frequent bonuses. Hence, players might bet MORE money than they normally would. They are also likely to play for longer periods.
Does a budget really help with gambling online?
It helps because you focus on a specific amount or time frame to play. It is also a helpful reminder that you can return later for even more opportunities to win big!
Gamble Responsibly AND Have a Great Time!
While setting a casino budget or limiting your time might sound boring, it can be a lot of fun because you are curbing your spending and using MORE of the casino’s cash.
Try the tips above, whether you bet online or play in person, prefer the slots, card games, or betting on NBA finals. If you budget your time or set a limit each week when the new sports season starts, you can still have fun winning (because it is the casino’s extra cash!).
