Like any other social setting, every casino, whether online or land-based, has rules and norms that all players must abide by. The dealer may explain the casino’s rules if you’re a beginner, but there is some expected casino etiquette that, even without saying, every gambler must know.
Knowing these unspoken rules/social cues is your ticket to navigating the casino floor or playing online at, say, a spin city slots lobby with confidence and grace. Well, while the rules may vary depending on the casino, there are some that you can bet your lucky dollar have stood the test of time and aren’t about to change any time soon. Here they are:
Know Your Game’s Rules
Always be prepared in advance, whether online or in real-life casino gaming. Take the time to learn the rules of the specific game by first researching online or observing other experienced gamblers playing. Besides avoiding the heartache of making the wrong moves that lead to losses, understanding gameplay rules will save fellow players lots of frustration and the dealer’s time explaining everything to you.
Forget the Phone
The only time smartphones and gambling go hand-in-hand is when playing in an online casino via a mobile app. As unnatural as it may seem in today’s digital era, once you walk into a brick-and-mortar casino, your mobile should be placed firmly in your pocket. Chit-chatting on your phone during a game is a no due to the following ways:
- It is disrespectful to other serious players
- Slows the flow of play
- Distracts other players
- Lowers your chances of leaving the table a winner.
Keep Your Cool
Tempers can quickly flare in the heat of the gambling competition, but that doesn’t mean you should let your emotions overcome you. If you feel your mood dipping, take a quick timeout break. Before you start the blame game, remember, calm minds think clearly–it’ll keep you in the casino’s good graces, and you’ll likely make better decisions.
Look and Think Sharply
Imagine something small like a poor choice of clothing killing the excitement you could have while at a casino. So, checking the dress code for the potential land-based casino before leaving the house is vital. The reality of the casino rules is if you dress inappropriately, you may be turned away. Boom! Night’s over. If you want to be comfortable in your sweatpants and sneakers, online casino games are always an option.
Don’t Overdo the Drinking
Yes, venturing out to a land-based casino means you’re in an adult environment where you can let go and win big. Drinking is all good until you overdo it and start having anti-social behavior while at the table. Letting the booze get the best of you may lead to:
- Spilling a drink on the game table
- Reckless spending like betting your whole bankroll
- Alienating yourself from the other gamblers
- Being sent away from the casino
So let the drinking be moderate. Don’t let these misfortunes be your story, especially if it’s your first time at the casino.
Know the Rules of Buying Chips
When it comes to handling chips, here are the p’s and q’s:
- Don’t assume that the minimum and maximum bets of different tables are the same. Find out for each.
- Timing is everything. If you sit down with a hand in play, wait until the hand is over to buy the chips
- When exchanging your money for casino chips, always lay your cash down on the table. It prevents any shady dealings.
- Don’t count your big wins in full view of everyone. It leaves a bitter taste in those who have lost their money.
Tip Your Dealer/Waitstaff
There’s no hard and fast rule to tipping, but it’s an unsaid expectation of table game etiquette. Besides forming a significant portion of a dealer’s earnings, it motivates the wait staff to keep their spirits high and ensure a memorable night for you for all the right reasons. A tip can go a long way, so remember to spare a coin or two for the dealer and show a little gratuity when you leave the table.
Avoid Cursing or Swearing as Much as Possible
Although a casino is an adult environment, it doesn’t mean everyone is ready to hear profane language, swearing, and cursing. Though they may not be vocal about it, many people can feel uncomfortable around such strong words. Be considerate and do your best to refrain from swearing.
Don’t Advice Unless Asked
Avoid offering unsolicited advice. And it’s not a matter of questioning your knowledge. It’s just that it can be frustrating. So, keep your opinions, criticisms, and advice to yourself. Speak when spoken to.
Manage Your Bankroll
This is probably a no-brainer core unsaid casino rule but one that many gamblers tend to ignore. Don’t wager what you can’t afford to lose or borrow money for more gambling.
Master These Unspoken Casino Rules to Avoid Blunders
Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a newcomer, knowing how to conduct yourself in a casino is crucial. And since there’s a certain way all casino goers are expected to behave, they may not be written anywhere. Bookmark these insightful tips to ensure you are at the pinnacle of politeness and gamble like a pro the next time you visit a casino.