First Time in Las Vegas? Don’t Make These 17 Mistakes
Las Vegas dazzles first-timers with its neon lights, world-class entertainment, and non-stop action.
But Sin City can quickly overwhelm the unprepared visitor. From budget-busting blunders to rookie mistakes that waste precious vacation time, knowing what to avoid can make your Vegas debut smooth and memorable.
Here’s your guide to sidestepping common Vegas pitfalls!
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1. Underestimating How Much Walking You’ll Do
Vegas requires serious walking – the Strip stretches over four miles, and those massive casino floors add countless steps to your day.
Those “just across the street” destinations are deceptively far, and blisters can ruin your entire trip.
Wear comfortable shoes and consider using the bus, monorail, or rideshares for longer distances.
2. Being Inconsiderate When Taking Photos
Everyone wants that perfect Vegas selfie, but don’t be that person blocking traffic on the Strip or disrupting casino games for your Instagram moment.
Many tourists halt suddenly in crowded walkways or stand in the middle of busy casino floors for photos.
Instead, find a less congested spot or visit popular photo locations during off-peak hours for better shots without annoying locals and fellow tourists.
3. Wandering Down Dark Side Streets
The glittering Strip might feel safe, but Las Vegas has areas where tourists shouldn’t roam, especially after dark. Stick to well-lit, populated areas.
If you’re heading off the beaten path, use rideshare services rather than walking unfamiliar streets.
Stay alert, particularly late at night when scammers often target visitors who appear lost or intoxicated.
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4. Forgetting to Stay Hydrated
Las Vegas sits in the middle of the Mojave Desert, and the dry heat can sneak up on you. Dehydration happens quickly, especially when you’re enjoying alcoholic drinks.
Smart visitors carry water bottles everywhere and drink consistently throughout the day.
Buy cases of water from CVS, Walgreens, or ABC stores instead of paying premium prices at hotel gift shops.
5. Overdoing It on Your First Day
Vegas tempts you to go all-out immediately – gambling all night, club-hopping until dawn, and starting again at breakfast. Resist this urge!
Pace yourself to avoid burning out by day two. Plan your most important activities for day two or three when you’re acclimated to the time zone and environment.
Balance high-energy activities with relaxing ones like enjoying the Bellagio Conservatory’s beautiful displays.
6. Not Bringing Enough Cash
While credit cards work almost everywhere in Vegas, cash remains king for certain situations. Tipping valets, housekeeping, bartenders, and dealers flows more smoothly with cash.
Some smaller venues have minimum purchase requirements for cards, and ATM fees in casinos can be shockingly high.
Bring more cash than you think you’ll need, but keep it secure. Separate your money into daily budgets to avoid blowing through it all at once.
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7. Choosing the Cheapest Hotel
Bargain hotels might seem like a smart way to save cash, but they can spoil your Vegas trip fast.
Those $30/night rooms often hide hefty resort fees, poor locations far from attractions, and dated facilities.
Splurging a bit on accommodation means less time and money spent on transportation and more comfort after long days exploring the city.
8. Staying Too Long
Las Vegas packs a punch, but most visitors find 3-4 days hits the sweet spot. The sensory overload of lights, sounds, and 24/7 activity can wear you down quickly.
Plan a shorter trip with carefully selected activities rather than an extended stay where you’ll end up exhausted and overspending.
9. Not Securing Your Hotel Room Door
Hotel thieves love Las Vegas, where distracted tourists often leave valuables unprotected. Always use all security features on your door, including deadbolts and security latches.
Never prop doors open, even briefly, and be wary of “hotel staff” knocking unexpectedly. Use the room safe for passports, extra cash, and electronics when you’re out.
10. Spending All Your Time on the Strip
The Strip dazzles, but limiting yourself to this four-mile stretch means missing Las Vegas’s other amazing spots.
Downtown’s Fremont Street offers vintage Vegas vibes with cheaper gambling, fun light shows, and great people-watching.
Venture to Red Rock Canyon for stunning desert landscapes just 30 minutes away.
The Arts District serves up local culture, cool bars, and unique shops without the Strip’s inflated prices.
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11. Improper Tipping of Cocktail Waitresses
Those “free” drinks while gambling aren’t actually free – they’re subsidized by tips! Cocktail waitresses hustle hard, carrying heavy trays through crowded casinos, and proper tipping ensures good service.
The standard is $1-2 per drink, even for non-alcoholic beverages. Stiff the waitress, and you might wait ages for your next round.
Generous tippers often receive stronger pours and more frequent service. Keep dollar bills handy specifically for drink tips.
12. Skipping the Room Upgrade Request
A simple “Is there any chance of a complimentary upgrade?” at check-in can work magic in Vegas.
Hotels constantly juggle room assignments, and asking politely (especially mid-week or during slower periods) might land you a better view, higher floor, or even a suite.
Mentioning special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries helps too. The worst they can say is no, but many front desk agents have surprising flexibility to enhance your stay with a better room.
13. Forgetting a Light Jacket
Vegas might be in the desert, but don’t let that fool you – casinos crank their AC to arctic levels! Even when it’s blazing hot outside, you’ll freeze inside without a layer.
The temperature swing between the sunny 100-degree Strip and the 60-degree casino floor can shock your system.
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14. Engaging with Costumed Characters Without Cash
Those fun photo ops with Hello Kitty, Batman, or Mickey Mouse on the Strip aren’t free! These costumed characters work for tips, and they expect payment after posing with you.
Many tourists snap pictures without realizing they should tip, leading to awkward confrontations.
Some performers can make $100-250 on good days, so they take their hustle seriously.
15. Not Allowing Extra Time for Taxis
Thinking you’ll “just grab a quick Uber” to dinner? Think again! Vegas transportation can be wildly unpredictable, especially during busy times.
Wait times for rideshares fluctuate dramatically, with prices sometimes tripling during peak hours.
What’s normally a $14 ride might suddenly cost $42 when everyone’s heading to dinner or shows.
Plan ahead by scheduling rides 30 minutes before you actually need to leave, or consider walking if your destination is nearby.
16. Dining During Peak Hours
Hungry at noon? So is everyone else in Vegas! Restaurants fill up fast during prime lunch hours (12-2pm), leading to long waits and rushed service.
Smart visitors eat early (11am) or late (3-5pm) to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed meal.
Booking ahead is crucial if you must eat during peak times, and always check for lunch specials that many restaurants offer to early or late diners.
17. Falling for Street Scams
Vegas sidewalks are full of hustlers looking to separate you from your money. CD “promoters” hand you a “free” album then demand $20, and long-hauling taxi drivers take the scenic route to run up your fare.
Stay alert and know the common tricks before you go. If someone approaches you aggressively on the Strip, keep walking.
