1) Avoid the slot machines

They are hard wired to take your money at god awfully ridiculous rates, period. Besides, how much fun can you actually have watching all those flickering lights and hearing those annoying noises? Slots have they worst odds out of all casino games so do yourself a favor and avoid them at all costs.

2a) Leave your debit and credit cards in your room

The nice thing about setting an amount to gamble with is that no matter what happens you are not going to lose more than you take with you. A lot of people take a bad beats and they think they can win their money back. It's gone, and it ain't coming back either. If you are going to Vegas for four days and plan to gamble with $800 split it up, and only allow yourself $200 a day. That way you can gamble everyday and not feel the temptation to take more money out of your checking or charge account.

2b) Don't charge money to gamble with

3) Avoid large bets

Smaller bets allow you to play longer, and the longer you're in the game the better your chances are of actually hitting something. We've all run across those bafoons that play in poker tournaments and go all in on the first hand. They don't last long and have no shot of winning or placing in the tournament. They are easy money. Think of Vegas in the same light, if you have $200 to spend and you play Black Jack and loose it all on the hand, you're out of the game. However, if you play at tables with lower minimums and place small bets, you will have a better chance at coming home with more than you started with.

4) Ask for comps

It won't improve your odds but it it will save you money. If you're gambling for a while, whether it's at tables or (god forbid) slots, chances are the casino will reward you with tickets to the show that night, a free meal, or even a free room. Just ask. If you can save $100 by getting your room comped one night isn't that like winning $100 playing poker? Most casino's have a players club booth or a general information desk, don't be afraid to go their and ask, you might be suprised at what they give you.

5) Save half of your winnings (or more)

So your lady has a hot hand at the craps table and the two of you are up $1000 after an hour! After another hour you're only up $800, this is the time to stop. Go up to your room and put $400 somewhere in your suitcase and forget about it. This way you've assured that your not going to lose your winnings, and that they remain "winnings." Losing $200 in that second hour might be enough to make you desperate enough to try and win it back by placing a huge bet, remember big bets hurt more than they help.

6) If you don't know the game, walk away

Most table games have odds that are at best 50/50. If you don't know the rules or how to play you might as well cut the dealer a check and be on your way. It's best to stick to 2-3 games that you know very well so you can play with confidence. When I was 21, I made the mistake of trying out an elaborate betting scheme on a roulette table that a gentlemen had explained to me without really having a clue what the hell I was doing. $500 later, I was in the sportsbook watching baseball with a $10 in my pocket. Luckily I turned that $10 into a couple hundred dollars betting on baseball and salvaged my vacation.

A trip to Sin City should be fun and exciting, I hope these tips help you protect your money and give you a shot at hitting something big. The biggest thing that can ruin your trip is losing a lot more than you are comfortable parting ways with. It's always more fun listening to the stories about people losing serious cash playing Texas Hold Em than having to tell that story on a first hand account.

Good Luck and Have Fun!