If you’re used to playing games at gambling sites, your first visit to a brick-and-mortar casino can be daunting. You’re not sitting at home in your underwear while the roulette wheel spins or your blackjack hand is dealt — you’re in a social environment with potentially hundreds of other punters and professional dealers.
That means you’re expected to behave in certain ways, depending on the situation and the game you’re playing. Understanding good gambling etiquette will help you make a positive first impression when you visit a brick-and-mortar casino, and reduce the risk of you being shown the door because of an avoidable mistake.
To help you get your gambling etiquette right, here are eight pointers to keep in mind.
Only Sit at a Table When You Want to Play
As you wander the casino floor soaking up the buzz and excitement, you might be tempted to pull up a chair and watch a nail-biting game unfold. But only do that if you intend to join in. Otherwise, you’ll take a seat from someone who does want to take part and prevent the casino from generating more profits.
If you want to watch a game play out, you’re welcome to do so from a comfortable distance. But when you just want to sit down for a while without playing, maybe move away from the gambling zone altogether until you’re ready to start betting again.
Know How to Play Before You Join a Game
Avoid sitting at a table and asking the dealer or other players how the game works. That’s likely to frustrate your fellow punters, especially those who have years of gambling behind them. It’ll also suggest you’re an easy player to beat in some games.
Watch Your Drinking
You may enjoy a drink or two while you make your way from table to table. But be aware of your tolerance for alcohol before you hit the bar.
If you become a bit more intoxicated than you should, you’re more likely to rush into decisions, and impulsive betting at a casino can lead to higher losses than you expect.
On top of that, overindulging in booze could cause you to demonstrate poor gambling etiquette and behave in an uncouth manner towards other customers and staff. That might see you removed from the premises and possibly banned from going back.
Be Mindful of Your Phone
Casinos may have explicit rules on phone use, so check their website before you visit.
Try to keep your phone use to a minimum regardless, if possible, especially when at a table. Other players could find you sending messages to friends or snapping selfies during a game annoying (to say the least).
And keep your phone on silent. A loud ringtone could disrupt everyone’s concentration and decision-making.
Only Offer Opinions on Other Player’s Decisions When Asked
Are you a seasoned player? You might have some good insights into blackjack or poker strategy, but be wary of offering unsolicited advice.
They might be an experienced player too, and find your attempt to help them a tad patronising. Others may believe you’re trying to push them into a bad decision for your own gain.
If someone asks for your opinion, feel free to share it. Just be aware that what might be intended as an attempt to help could come off as poor gambling etiquette to others.
Check the Dress Code to Avoid a Fashion Faux Pas
Casinos generally have more relaxed dress codes than they did in decades past, but it’s still worth checking their website before you visit. Being dressed too casually may be weak gambling etiquette in more exclusive venues, even if they let you in.
Keep Your Hands Off Your Chips
When you use any of your chips to place a bet, don’t touch them again unless you’re asked to. Good gambling etiquette dictates that you leave your chips where they are once you commit to a bet. Otherwise, dealers and fellow players may suspect you’re sneakily trying to boost your wager.
Don’t Crowd Other Players While Waiting for a Machine
Is someone using that slot machine you really want to play on? Waiting politely for your turn is acceptable, but avoid making them feel crowded. Ask them if you can play it when they’re finished, then give them space to enjoy the rest of their time on it.
But if a player seems intent on hogging a machine for a long while, maybe find another game to entertain you until they’re finally done. Avoid confronting them over it, especially if you’ve both been drinking.
