Whether it is gambling, shopping or shows, there is no shortage of ways to spend money in Las Vegas, and costs can add up quickly. That’s why it’s important to spend money wisely on what bring joy and pleasure. While each traveller has different desires and preferences, here are some of the more questionable purchases, rip-offs and scams visitors will want to avoid during their stay in Las Vegas.
Rip-Off #1: Aggressive Buskers and Mascots
I can see the appeal of having a photo with a mascot or celebrity impersonator. They are part of what makes the Strip and Fremont Street so much fun. These entertainers make their living off tips, so be sure to tip if you want your photo taken or enjoy a performance. But some street entertainers can be aggressive about demanding exorbitant tips, sometimes asking up to $50 or more. This amount of money is unreasonable for a few moments and a handful of pictures.
To avoid a confrontation, discuss price in advance. Offer $10, $20 or whatever you think is reasonable and see what they say. If they say no, simply move on and walk away. Be courteous and respectful to performers as you would to anyone else.
Rip-Off #2: Early Check-in Fees
Most hotels in Las Vegas charge early check-in and late check-out fees. These fees can range from $20 to $50 and more. Remember that normal check-in time is usually between 3 and 4 p.m. and check-out is between 10 a.m. to noon. Avoid these fees by having the bell desk hold your luggage while you enjoy the Strip and hotel amenities. Alternatively, try the $20 trick to see if they will waive the fee by allowing you to check in early. You may even get a complimentary room upgrade.
Rip-Off #3: Uber Driver Taking the Long Route
Beware of the route your taxi or ride share driver takes. Drivers will sometimes take a longer route to or from the airport in order to earn a greater fare.
A simple way to tell if your driver is ripping you off to/from the airport is if they use the tunnel that goes under the airport. There are few if any legitimate reasons for a driver to take a route that involves the airport tunnel.
If you have concerns about the route your driver took, contact Uber or Lyft and request a review. Remember that there are events outside a driver’s control BS There may be legitimate instances when a driver has no choice but to take a longer route.
Rip-Off #4: ATM Fees
ATM machines on the Strip and in hotel lobbies are convenient when you need cash and there are no other choices. However, this convenience comes at a cost. ATM fees on the Strip cost $5 to $10 per transaction. Where possible, withdraw cash off the Strip at a bank, avoid cash and use an alternative form of payment, or plan your spending to minimize the number of ATM withdrawals. If you absolutely must use an ATM, the ATM at the Casino Royal has the lowest rates on the Strip.
Rip-Off #5: No Coins From Ticket Redemption Kiosks
Slot machines print a voucher when a player cashes out which must then be redeemed for cash at either the cashier cage or a ticket redemption kiosk. However, those kiosks do not give coins, only dollar bills. For instance, of you have a voucher for $10.95, the kiosks will only dispense $10. It’s always better to redeem your voucher at the cashier cage to ensure you receive the correct and full payment including any coins you are owed.
Rip-Off #6: Hotel Convenience Stores
Stores within hotels that offer convenience items and snacks charge 50% to 300% more for the same items found in Walgreen’s or CVS on the Strip just minutes. Plan ahead by buying convenience items on the Strip before returning to your hotel room or make the short walk. Most CVS and Walgreens are open 24 hours.
Rip-Off #7: Resort fees
Resort fees average around $50 per room per night at most major hotels and resorts on the Strip and around Fremont Street. This can sometimes be more than the rooim rate itself. Look up your hotel on ResortFeeChecker.com to see how much they charges and what is included in the fee.
Rip-Off #8: Caesars Wifi
According to ResortFeeChecker.com, Caesars Palace charges a resort fee of $52.10 per night (including tax). The resort fee includes internet but guests are limited to a maximum of 2 devices per room. Additional devices cost around $12 per day. One possible way to avoid paying this fee is to ask at checkin if you can have a complimentary additional device and offer a tip for their service. It’s worth giving the $20 trick a try. Note that the 2 device policy applies at all Caesars properties on the Strip including Paris, Bally’s, Flamingo, Planet Hollywood and others.
Rip-Off #9: Poolside Drinks
Poolside drinks aren’t technically a rip-off. They are just really expensive. A single beer will run around $10 and a cocktail will cost $15-25 and up. Outside alcohol is not permitted at most pools, but don’t let that spoil your fun. Treat yourself to poolside drinks if you have the travel budget, or plan simply don’t plan on drinking heavily at the pool. There are plenty of low cost drinking options on the Strip.
Rip-Off #10: Timeshare Presentations
Throughout your time in Las Vegas, you may be approached by timeshare salespeople offering free show tickets in exchange for attending a timeshare presentation. These presentations generally last 2 to 4 hours or longer. Don’t buy property on a whim, especially a timeshare. Make the most of your time in Vegas and simply avoid timeshare presentations.
These are some of the most commonly complained about rip-off and scams by Las Vegas tourists each year. Keep in mind that value is subjective — something perceived as a rip-off by one person might be cherished by another. After all, there is something for everyone in Vegas.
Also, try not to fret too much about rip-offs in Vegas. You will almost certainly make a questionable purchase or two on your stay in Vegas, and that’s ok. Just be on the lookout for scams and remember to spend your money on the things that are most important to you.