Casino Etiquette 101: Dos and Don'ts for a Great Gambling Experience

So, you get all dressed up and plan a night on the town at the casino. With so many people sharing the same idea, you might find it hard to believe you're not being watched, but that's exactly the case. You see, successful gambling doesn't always involve gambling skills, but there is a social aspect to sophisticated gambling.

Dress the Part

While most casinos don't have a dress code, your attire does speak volumes when at the casino. When you first enter, why not look around to survey the landscape about what others are wearing? Chances are many of your fellow gamblers are dressed in fine or professional attire, but are you? If you don't want others to stare at you and question whether or not you belong, we recommend slightly over-dressing to avoid this problem. If you feel like a million bucks, maybe you'll win a million bucks with the proper attire.

While you don't have to dress in a formal evening gown or an Armani suit per se, you won't want to come in with slippers, either. You might not also want to wear ball caps either.

Conducting Yourself at the Gambling Table

Assume that everyone playing at the table is a seasoned pro. Also, assume that the others pay heavily to join the table game for stiff competition. While everyone wants to win, there's no thrill if the competition can't hold a candle to you. So, brush up on the game rules before you decide to sit down at the table to avoid looking like a fool. Word travels very quickly in casino towns.

Also, be on your Ps and Qs at the game table. We recommend letting the dealer give you permission to join the table if a spot opens. Waiting for the dealer to seat you shows respect for others who have been there before you. And when you do get to the table, pay attention to the dealer or croupier. Understanding how they conduct the game and benefit you in your strategy because you can bet that the other players are doing the same thing.

Mind Your Chips

If Roulette is your thing, there is a reason why the croupier gives all the members different color chips. Controlling your chips prevents finds about who won or who lost. It is important that you handle and deal with only your chips to avoid fights, misunderstandings, and delays. Win or lose, knowing how to handle chips will earn you respect among your piers and fiercest rivals.

Know the Cues

For Blackjack players, there are visual cues that you need to master. The Blackjack dealer is trained to respond to signals like holding and folding, depending on whether your cards are facing up or down. Regardless of your bet, the general rule is to have your money on the table, especially with Blackjack and poker. Knowing how much your opponent has influences wagering hands, and it clears the air that you're not cheating them.

Know How to Lose

Should you lose, know when to walk away gracefully. Nobody likes a sore loser. Also, walking away and accepting defeat graciously helps to set the stage for future games. When you play enough table games, it is understood that you are going to win some and lose some. It comes with the territory.

Win in Silence

And when you win, handle it in stride without advertising it. Nobody likes to lose money, so it doesn't help to remind them of the money they lost by over smiling and bragging about it.