Here are my top tips for budget travel in Las Vegas, because it is possible to visit Vegas solo and on a budget.
It was slightly unusual when I visited Las Vegas solo and on a budget a couple of years ago. It isn’t known as a solo destination, but I nonetheless had an amazing time in Sin City. I still got to see and do everything I wanted. Here are my top tips for those who are also thinking about heading to Las Vegas on a budget.
Budget travel in Las Vegas
1. Go big and buffet
Las Vegas is known for many things, including its incredible buffets. I wanted to try at least one buffet, and after some research, I decided on dining at the Stratosphere. It turned out to be one of the best meals from my time in the United States. There were Mexican dishes, meats, fish, Asian-inspired cuisine, a salad bar and an array of delicious desserts. Prices range from $16 to $22, which is very reasonable and budget-friendly considering the unlimited amount of food on offer. Plus, you won’t be hungry for a while.
2. Check for hotel deals
I stayed at a hostel just off The Strip, but now I wish I had known about the cheap hotel deals in Las Vegas. You can find accommodation in a 4-star resort, like Caesar’s Palace, for under $100 a night. By staying on the Las Vegas Strip, you’ll have easy access to nightlife venues, other hotels, casinos, and shopping centres. Definitely do your research and grab yourself a bargain.
3. Walk the strip
There’s so much to see and do in Las Vegas, and the best way to view it all is by walking. This isn’t just cost-effective; you’ll also see so much more than if you were in a taxi or riding with Uber. My walking highlights include gondola rides at The Venetian, shopping at Fashion Show Mall and the Fountains of Bellagio. Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs at one of the many stores along The Strip.
4. Know where to drink
Although gambling at a casino isn’t good for budget travellers, it’s a great way to save money on drinks. For example, anyone gambling at the Wynn gets free mojitos. You just have to tip your waitress a dollar a drink; otherwise, they might skip you during the next round. I also found beer for sale in stands outside different casinos for about $3 each, which is ridiculous. Remember to check out happy hours too. Red Square at Mandalay Bay does $5 vodka cocktails and Russian-inspired small plates.
5. Get cheap show tickets
Going to Las Vegas and not seeing a performance is like going to New York City and missing Broadway! Fortunately, budget travellers don’t have to miss out. Check out the website Tix4Tonight, which specialises in half-price show tickets. The company has 10 convenient booths located around Las Vegas, so definitely stop by during your trip to grab a great deal.
As long as you control yourself at the casinos, you can easily do Las Vegas on a budget. It’s all about looking for (and scoring) the best travel deals.
P.S. Here’s my Las Vegas solo travel guide and the city’s best tours and day trips.
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