I’ve Been To Vegas And Learned The Hard Way 13 Things To Avoid And 6 Tips That Made Everything Easier

Packing for Las Vegas? Buckle up it’s a city that dazzles, drains, and teaches you fast. I learned the hard way that beneath the glitz and glam are a few traps waiting to trip you up.

But I also picked up smart hacks that made my trip smoother, cheaper, and way more fun.

From rookie missteps to game-changing tips, here are 12 things to avoid—and 6 insider tricks that’ll make your Vegas experience shine for all the right reasons.

1. Falling for Free Drink Promises

Did you ever chase the idea of endless free drinks in Vegas? That was me, learning that casinos lure you with the promise of freebies, but actually, you’ll spend more on tips and slow service than you’ll ever get for free.

If you’re sitting at a slot machine, waiting for a server, it’s easy to lose track of your money and time. I found myself more frustrated than refreshed.

How casino drinks work is simple: the longer you play, the more they want you to spend. Grab a drink elsewhere or set a strict budget—your wallet will thank you.

2. Paying Resort Fees Unexpectedly

If bills with surprise charges make your stomach drop, Vegas hotels might shock you. Resort fees often aren’t included in your booking price, and they add up fast.

I once checked out, thinking I’d managed my budget, only to get hit with a hefty fee for pool towels and Wi-Fi I barely used. That small print hides a lot.

Wherever you book, double-check the total cost before confirming. Hotels thrive on these add-ons, so calling ahead or reading reviews can save you an unwanted expense and an early morning headache.

3. Walking The Strip Without Water

How hot can a city get? Vegas heat is relentless, especially on The Strip. I thought I could handle it, but a midday stroll without enough water left me exhausted and sunburned.

Are tourists often caught off guard? Absolutely hydration is critical here. There’s little shade and plenty of distractions.

This wasn’t just about comfort. Dehydration made sightseeing miserable and gave me a pounding headache. I now carry a refillable bottle everywhere. Buy water in advance or fill up at your hotel, and you’ll thank yourself every step you take.

4. Ignoring The Dress Codes

When packing for Vegas, I never thought twice about my clothes. Did you know clubs here enforce strict dress codes? One night, I was turned away from a rooftop bar for wearing sneakers.

This mix-up meant missing out on a big part of the nightlife experience. I saw others in line, also surprised and annoyed, realizing they’d wasted time and cab fare.

Next time, I pack at least one dressy outfit. Where you’re going matters—check the venue’s rules ahead of time. A little preparation spares you the embarrassment and lets you enjoy those glamorous spots.

5. Relying On Taxis During Peak Hours

Where crowds gather, taxis disappear—especially after shows or during events. One evening, I waited nearly an hour for a ride, watching cabs fill up instantly at every hotel entrance.

If you think taxis are always available, think again. Surge prices and long lines are more common than you’d expect.

How do locals get around? Rideshare apps or even walking often beat waiting. Planning an alternate route or leaving early can save you from wasting precious Vegas time standing in line with a thousand other tired tourists.

6. Gambling Without Setting Limits

With every spin, I thought luck would turn, but gambling without a strict limit was my biggest Vegas blunder. Those machines and tables pull you in fast.

If you don’t set a firm budget beforehand, the excitement quickly turns to regret. I learned that a little discipline goes a long way.

How do you prevent overspending? Withdraw your gambling cash for the night and leave everything else locked up. That way, when it’s gone, the fun stops without wrecking your trip—or your wallet.

7. Forgetting Sunscreen, Even At Night

Though it sounds strange, sunburn isn’t just a daytime problem in Vegas. Evening pool parties and outdoor events still hit you with UV rays.

When I joined a sunset pool bash, I came home as red as a lobster. Friends laughed, but my skin didn’t forgive me for days.

If you want to avoid the classic tourist look, keep sunscreen handy—day and night. Vegas sun shows no mercy, and you’ll appreciate the extra layer, especially if you plan to party until dawn.

8. Accepting Street Promoters’ Flyers

How often do street promoters catch your eye? In Vegas, they hand out flyers at every corner, promising VIP deals, free shows, and wild parties.

I grabbed a stack my first day, only to realize most were for tourist traps or overpriced events. My pockets filled with useless paper, and my plans got sidetracked.

If you want real deals, ask hotel staff or check official channels. Flyers are rarely worth the hassle and, more often than not, leave you disappointed or out a few bucks for a subpar show.

9. Overpacking For A Short Trip

Are you guilty of packing more than you need? That was my rookie mistake, dragging a giant suitcase through crowded sidewalks and tight hotel elevators.

Vegas trips move quickly, and I wore the same two outfits most days. The extra shoes and jackets just got in the way.

Where smart packing matters most is in Vegas—travel light and save yourself sore arms and the embarrassment of wrangling a suitcase in front of a crowd. Trust me, a carry-on and a few essentials do the trick for nearly every occasion.

10. Trusting Buffet Lines At Face Value

This city loves its buffets, but those lines can be brutal. One morning, I skipped breakfast expecting a quick brunch, then waited over an hour behind dozens of families.

If your stomach’s rumbling, don’t fall for the hype. Popular buffet times mean endless lines, and the food isn’t always worth the wait.

How to beat the rush? Try early or late dining hours, or reserve ahead if possible. A little planning keeps hunger at bay and lets you explore more of what Vegas offers beyond the buffet.

11. Skipping Out On Off-Strip Adventures

If you think Vegas is all neon and noise, you’re missing half the story. My favorite memories happened far from the Strip—like sunrise hikes in Red Rock Canyon or quirky art in downtown Las Vegas.

The city’s surroundings offer stunning scenery, local eats, and a break from the crowds. I nearly skipped these for casinos, but I’m glad I explored.

Wherever your interests lie, take a day to venture out. These off-Strip gems give you a refreshing perspective and stories you won’t find at a card table or slot machine.

12. Letting FOMO Wreck Your Sleep

How late can you stay awake in Vegas? I tried to do it all—shows, parties, gaming—and wound up utterly wrecked by day three.

If you sacrifice sleep for fear of missing out, the city’s magic turns to misery fast. My energy plummeted and every neon light started looking less glamorous.

This taught me to embrace rest when I needed it. Even Vegas can wait for a refreshed, ready traveler. Where sleep fits in, your whole trip improves—trust me, you’ll remember more and enjoy every minute.

13. Using Hotel ATMs For Quick Cash

This lesson hit my wallet hard. Hotel ATMs in Vegas charge some of the steepest fees I’ve ever seen—sometimes over $10 for a single withdrawal.

Are you tempted by convenience during a night out? That quick cash costs more than you think, and the fees add up if you visit often.

How to avoid this trap? Plan ahead and withdraw money from a regular bank ATM outside the hotel area. Saving a few bucks here means more cash for fun, not for banks.

14. Booking Last-Minute Show Tickets

When I arrived, I thought show tickets would be easy to grab at the last minute. That mistake left me peering through windows at sold-out performances more than once.

Vegas shows sell quickly, especially headliners. If you want to guarantee a seat, book early and check reputable ticket sites.

This change made my trip way more fun—I got to see acts up close instead of missing out or paying a fortune to resellers. Planning ahead means you catch the best Vegas has to offer, no stress attached.

15. Carrying Too Much Cash

If you believe cash is king in Vegas, think again. I once carried way too much, always worried about pickpockets or accidentally dropping bills on the floor.

Are digital payments accepted? Almost everywhere these days. A card or phone wallet keeps you safer and lightens your load.

Wherever you go, keep just enough cash for tips or emergencies. Less stress, less risk, and you’ll blend in better with the crowd by leaving the bulging wallet at home.

16. Missing Out On Free Attractions

With endless paid entertainment, you might forget how many free attractions Vegas offers. My best moments weren’t always expensive—they were watching the Bellagio Fountains or strolling Fremont Street.

Where you spend your time matters more than your dollars. These free sights add magic and memories while saving your budget for other splurges.

If you’ve got downtime, seek out the city’s iconic shows and displays. They’re unforgettable and cost nothing but your attention. Sometimes, the best of Vegas is right out in the open for everyone to enjoy.

17. Wearing New Shoes On The Strip

How painful can new shoes really get? I learned the hard way after a single night walking The Strip. Blisters and sore feet made me limp through the rest of my trip.

If you plan to walk, break in your shoes before arriving. Vegas demands serious footwork, and even the shortest strolls feel endless in fresh footwear.

Where comfort counts, choose your most reliable pair. Trust your feet to carry you through the fun, not to slow you down with pain. Save fashion statements for photos, not city walks.

18. Bringing Earplugs For Peaceful Sleep

If city noise keeps you tossing and turning, earplugs are a total game-changer in Vegas. My hotel faced a busy street, and I didn’t sleep a wink the first night.

Are you sensitive to sound? Vegas never truly sleeps, and neither did I—until I found my secret weapon. Earplugs made every night restful no matter where I stayed.

Wherever you book, pack a pair. This tiny item turned my nights from restless to restorative, and I woke up ready to tackle anything the city threw my way.

19. Carrying A Portable Charger Everywhere

How fast can your phone die in Vegas? With all the photos, maps, and rideshare apps, my battery never lasted. I once got lost looking for my hotel, phone dead and no charger in sight.

If staying connected matters, a portable charger is your best friend. It rescued me from awkward situations and helped me share every moment.

Wherever you’re headed, a backup battery guarantees you don’t miss a thing. No more hunting for outlets—just pure Vegas adventure, captured from start to finish.