Las Vegas Tips For First Timers – What You Need To Know

Whether it’s your first venture into Sin City, or you’re a seasoned Vegas traveler, everyone could use a few tips on how to make your trip successful and stress-free. Nobody wants to go on a vacation and make rookie mistakes, so I created this list of Las Vegas tips for first timers to help your trip to this city go as smoothly as possible.

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Las Vegas Tips #1 – Check The Weather

So, you’re gearing up for your first Vegas adventure! Well, buckle up, because the desert weather is a bit of a wild ride, and I’ve got some Las Vegas tips to ensure you’re not caught off guard.

First off, Las Vegas might be in the desert, but don’t let that fool you – the weather loves to keep you on your toes.

Summer turns up the heat with temperatures soaring over 100°F, making the Strip feel like an oven. But winter in Vegas is surprisingly cool. Highs in the 50s, and the nights can flirt with freezing.

I vividly remember packing my bags for a late November trip with visions of poolside cocktails in my mind. Only, I found myself layering up because, yes, the desert can get chilly.

So, the tip here is simple: check the forecast. Don’t be like me, sweltering in the summer or shivering in winter. Consult the weather gods (or your favorite weather app) before packing your suitcase.

This is one of those Las Vegas tips for first timers that tends to surprise people, but trust me; your comfort will thank you.

Here’s a helpful little chart to guide you through the seasonal moods of the desert. Plan accordingly, and you’ll be strutting down the Strip like a seasoned pro.

Las Vegas Tips #2 – Book In Advance (And Remember The Resort Fees)

Now, let’s talk about mastering the art of booking in Vegas, and believe me, there’s more to it than meets the eye. You have to deal with navigating fluctuating prices and the notorious resort fees.

Hotels

When it comes to Vegas hotels, book early – prices soar as your date approaches. There are many hacks to find cheap hotels but when it comes to Vegas, timing is everything.

To dodge the budget squeeze, my golden rule is to book Las Vegas accommodations as far in advance as possible.

Weekdays are your best choice for lower prices, offering more wallet-friendly rates compared to the extravagant weekends. So, if your schedule permits, opt for a midweek escape for additional savings.

Summer prices also tend to be cheaper than other times of year, as people are less excited about visiting the desert during the height of the heat.

Las Vegas hotels have this somewhat sneaky little added charge they call a “resort fee”. While hotels acknowledge them on their sites, they conveniently exclude them from their rates.

Instead, you will be charged this fee upon check-in, and depending on your hotel, it can range anywhere from $20 per night, up to over $45 per night. So be sure to factor in your daily resort fee when calculating your costs and setting your budget.

Activities

In the realm of Las Vegas tips, proactive planning also extends beyond accommodation.

For unforgettable experiences like catching a spectacular Vegas show or experiencing any tours, seize the moment and book in advance. Trust me; the last thing you want is to miss out on a mind-blowing performance because you procrastinated.

Also, if you’re planning on getting dinner with a group, (or a date!), be sure to make advanced reservations for that.

Utilize the very helpful articles below for your activity inspiration!

• Best Extreme Activities In Las Vegas
• Top Must-See Shows In Las Vegas
• Best Mind-Blowing Helicopter Tours In Vegas
• Best Las Vegas ATV Tours
• Best Tours From Vegas To The Hoover Dam
• Is A Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Really Worth It?
• Complete Review of Cirque du Soleil Mystere

Las Vegas Tips #3 – Pack What You Need

Let’s talk about the art of packing smart – because trust me, there are a few essentials you won’t want to leave behind. With Las Vegas being on the pricier side, the last thing you need is to spend precious vacation time scrambling to replace forgotten items.

But, you also don’t want to be that person lugging around a suitcase big enough to house a small family, just for a weekend getaway. Finding that balance is key.

To make your life easier, I’ve crafted a comprehensive Las Vegas Packing List with all the must-haves. Consider it your cheat sheet to an effortless and prepared Vegas experience.

The Essentials

The specifics are going to change depending on the time of year you’re going. (Remember Tip #1?) But, these are the basics you’ll need.

• Casual outfits
• Dressy outfits (and shoes)
• Jacket or sweater
• Swimwear and coverup
• Walking shoes
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Earplugs and sleep mask
• Toiletries and makeup
• First aid supplies and medications
• ID and money
• Liquid IV – believe me, you want to bring this.

Before you zip up that suitcase, check and double-check. Factor in any tours or activities you have planned. Trust me; this extra ounce of preparation will pay off in spades. Your stress-free Vegas adventure starts with a well-packed bag.

Las Vegas Tips #4 – Don’t Over Plan…

One of the most important Las Vegas tips, in my opinion, is finding a balance between planning and overplanning. Striking that right balance is the key to a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

Sure, plans are essential – knowing where you’re staying, your arrival and departure details, and how you’ll navigate the city are crucial components. Mapping out a few tours, shows, and must-see activities? Absolutely. But here’s the catch – resist the temptation to overdo it.

Why the caution against overplanning? Well, as a seasoned traveler I can tell you that micromanaging every minute can lead to unnecessary stress. Leave ample room in your schedule for relaxation, travel time, and those unforeseen surprises that make every trip memorable.

Las Vegas is a city of opportunities, and you might stumble upon experiences you hadn’t even considered. Case in point – during one of our trips, we spontaneously took a helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon, and it was nothing short of breathtaking.

From helicopter tours to adventurous ATV escapades and excursions to the Hoover Dam, Las Vegas offers a plethora of options. And if you micromanage every second of your trip you may miss out on some truly amazing experiences.

Expert Las Vegas Tip: Make a list of all the things you’d like to see or do, then prioritize. Select a couple of top priorities (or just one, depending on your stay’s length) and leave the rest of your time open for exploration.

Remember, you’re on vacation – it’s meant to be enjoyable and spontaneous. So, plan wisely, be flexible, and savor the unexpected delights Sin City has to offer!

Las Vegas Tips #5 – … But Don’t Under Plan Either

The delicate dance of travel planning continues, and now we’re talking about avoiding the pitfalls of under planning when it comes to your Vegas adventure. Here’s why striking the right balance is essential.

Picture this: you arrive in Las Vegas with a carefree spirit, ready to embrace spontaneity. Sounds great, right? Well, yes, but here’s the catch – if you’re too lax on the planning, you might find yourself in a tight spot. Shows sell out, restaurants get fully booked, and those coveted tours can become unavailable.

Spontaneity is great, but having a general game plan is your ticket to avoiding unnecessary stress and ensuring you don’t miss out on amazing experiences. If there’s a show that’s on your must-see list or a tour that you’re eager to take, my advice is to go ahead and book it.

Now, the beauty of Vegas is that there are plenty of free and wallet-friendly things to do if your initial plans hit a roadblock. Take, for instance, the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign – it’s a must-visit and won’t cost you a dime.

Here’s the bottom line: find the sweet spot between spontaneity and a strategic game plan. You’ll have the flexibility to go with the flow while ensuring you snag those experiences you’ve been dreaming of.

Las Vegas Tips #6 – Set A Budget (And Stick With It!)

This tip might not be the most exciting, but it’s for sure one of the most important in the grand scheme of things.

Let’s be real, it is extremely easy to get sucked up into the glitz and glamour and allure of Las Vegas. You absolutely do not want to bite off more than you can chew, so to speak, by overspending while you’re here.

So, here’s the game plan: set a reasonable total trip budget, and then break it down into categories. Allocate specific amounts for gambling, dining, shows, tours, and other activities. For an added layer of control, break these categories down into daily allowances.

Consider this to be your financial roadmap through the city, ensuring you enjoy the extravagance without spiraling into overspending chaos. Trust me; your future self will thank you for this disciplined approach. Even if your present self groans at the thought.

Expert Las Vegas Tip: Leave your credit/debit cards in your hotel room for the night. Inhibitions disappear easily in Vegas and you don’t want to find yourself in a big financial hole at the end of your trip. Give yourself a set amount of cash for the night, and leave the plastic behind!

In the grand scheme of things, mastering your Vegas budget is key for a memorable and stress-free experience. So, set those financial boundaries, stick to them, and relish the city’s offerings without the looming shadow of overspending.

Las Vegas Tips #7 – Be Prepared to WALK

I’m going to give you a Las Vegas reality check – be prepared to walk, and then walk some more. This might sound like a no-brainer, but trust me, it’s one of those Las Vegas tips for first-timers that hits you with a surprising revelation once you’re actually there.

Nobody seems to really believe this one until they get there. But everything is WAY further away than you think it is. The flatness of the strip and the size of the buildings creates this crazy optical illusion that makes it seem like everything is just down the road.

It’s not even close.

To navigate this walking reality, I urge you to bring along comfortable shoes. The last thing you want is to to find yourself in essentially a walking marathon in towering high heels or pinchy dress shoes. The glamour of the Vegas lights won’t make up for this level of sore feet.

Las Vegas Tip #10 – Learn The Art Of Tipping

Tipping culture in the USA is different from many places around the world. And tipping in Las Vegas has its own set of rules.

In a city where service is king, knowing how to tip graciously can elevate your stay from great to absolutely unforgettable. There are many people you’ll encounter in Las Vegas who may deserve a tip. Here are a few rules to know.

First stop, restaurants: It’s the golden rule – tip your server. A standard range is 15% to 20% of the bill, depending on the quality of service.

Next up, hotels: Housekeeping deserves a daily tip of at least $5 per person, and a few dollars for the bell staff can ensure your luggage arrives with the same flair as a Vegas show entrance.

Rolling into town with style? Around 15% to 20% for your taxi or rideshare driver is the sweet spot, ensuring a smooth ride and a satisfied chauffeur.

For those trying their luck at the casinos: It’s customary to tip your dealer after a winning hand. It’s a way to spread the joy and keep the positive vibes flowing at the table.

There are many more folks who you might want to tip – tour guides, valets, bartenders, etc. Be sure to bring enough cash with you to cover the cost of your tips.

Embrace the art of tipping, spread some good vibes, and let the generosity flow. It’s a small investment that pays off in smiles, excellent service, and a little extra magic in the city of lights.

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And there you have it! As you explore the glitz and wonder of Sin City, armed with these tips for first-timers, remember this: Vegas is not just a city; it’s a playground of endless possibilities waiting for you to explore.

I am confident that by following these Las Vegas tips, your trip to Vegas will be significantly less stressful. Enjoy your time, and don’t forget to subscribe!