Are you thinking of entering a casino for the first time? It might seem a little daunting if so. From the lights to the sounds to the buzzing atmosphere of the crowds of people – the casino is fueled by such an exciting feeling. Newcomers to the gambling scene may not know this sensation yet, but if you’re a gambling pro then you will know only too well that it’s a whole new universe waiting to be explored.
But, what do you do if you have never been on the casino tables before? The casinos are heaps of fun, there’s no denying that – but certain rules need to be followed. And we aren’t talking about rules like you’re in school, but in society, there are certain ‘do’s’ and ‘do not’s’ that should be followed to keep others happy. We’ve got some simple etiquette tips up our sleeves that’ll make you look like the next casino professional, even if you have no idea what you’re doing in reality. And yes, etiquette really does matter…
And before we start, don’t stress about having to learn the rulebook top to bottom; use this article as a simple guide to take you on your journey. Pen and paper at the ready, let’s prepare for our first casino night out.
First things first—the do’s
We’re going to start your journey with all the things that you should follow when heading down to the tables. These simple little tips will help you blend in, while guaranteeing you’re set for a night filled with fun.
Plus, the better you are at casino etiquette, the more likely the players and the dealers will welcome you back with open arms – and we all want that! Good etiquette takes you far in many situations; the casino is no exception.
1. Know the basics
We aren’t saying that you need to be a blackjack professional to sit at the tables, but you do need to know the common basics before you join in. You don’t want to buy into a table and then sit down next to the pros only to keep bugging them about what you’re supposed to be doing. That’s not fun. The best way to learn the basics before heading on down is to jump on the online gambling sites, which allow you to learn on the go. There are ways that you can bet and learn during a game, while having buy-ins set at a super low cost, or even operating in practice mode. Along with this, gambling sites also allow you to access tons of different games, so that you can improve your skills in many different areas, and open up multiple options when you head down to the brick-and-mortar casino. Of course, some physical casinos also have beginners’ tables, so if you can’t learn as much as you’d like online, you can search out the newbie table in real life!
2. Tips are important!
As with restaurants, cafes, and all service places, tips are KEY. Dealers work super hard around the clock to make sure that you have an enjoyable time at the casino, so make sure they feel valued. Tipping is an international way of showing others that you appreciate them, so tipping the dealer at the end of a game is a brilliant way to do this. When tipping, we’d recommend either giving them a chip when you manage to win on your round or giving them some when you’re about to leave the table. A little goes a long way, but it is common courtesy, which you will see everyone else doing.
3. Be gentle
This relates to the way you treat others, but also how you handle the casino property. When you are given chips to play with at a table, make sure to never toss or throw them, as that may make you come across as aggressive. Place your chips gently on the table, and make sure that they are always kept in an orderly manner. Finally, if you’re lucky enough to have a stack of chips during a big win – always stack them up neatly, so it is easy for both you and the dealer to count.
4. Pay attention
Heading to the casino for the first time is extremely exciting, but don’t get too excited and forget your manners. Always keep your eyes on the game that you’re in, to make sure that you know when your turn is coming. There is nothing worse than someone slowing down the gameplay – so do not be that person on your first time. Paying attention is both a respectful and a responsible thing to do for the other players around you.
5. Be courteous and kind
Last but by no means least – always be kind and polite. This relates to the manners that you have when drinking, the way you interact with others, and the way you congratulate others around you. Though sometimes it is high stakes and stressful, make sure to be a team player and be kind about others’ wins. This keeps the atmosphere fun at all times but also helps you build up a rapport in the casino – making people want to interact with you more.
The Don’ts
The do’s are all super easy to follow and should feel like the general manners that you carry with you through everyday life. The ‘do not’s’ are also pretty easy to avoid, as they cover things like not being a ‘backseat player’ by talking through other players’ turns – and not using your phone at the table.
The best advice we could give is to watch what others are doing around you and follow their lead. Nobody will be annoyed if you just show up and want to learn. Get stuck in, have the basics under your belt, and you’ll be all set to have the best time ever in the casino. Here’s to happy betting and a new entrance into the wild world of the casino.
