This week, Maisie Knowles, a working mother of two with three-year’s experience writing on parenting and partner issues, gives us money-saving Vegas tips for those who want a 5 star experience on a 3 star budget.
Dropping the kids off at Grandma’s and planning a getaway with your spouse? Look no further than a five-star weekend in The Entertainment Capital of the World. That’s right, Las Vegas is the ultimate adult weekend getaway for couples and singletons alike. While it’s easy to be fooled by the glitz and glamour of Sin City, it can still be affordable with these money-saving tips.
1. Save on Lodging
Keep an eye on sites like RueLaLa.com and Jetsetter.com for Las Vegas hotel deals. You’ll find deals on four- and five-star hotels like The Palazzo, The Venetian, and The Cosmopolitan. Snag a deal off one of those sites and you could save up to 70% on your accommodations. Also remember that popular hotels with the hottest night clubs or pool parties will be more expensive. A hotel off the beaten path will be much more affordable.
2. Purchase Deals
Before your getaway, sign up for Las Vegas deals at group buying sites like Groupon and LivingSocial. Keep an eye on your inbox for special offers on activities, experiences and dining that you can purchase to use while you’re away. You can also install the Groupon app on your mobile phone and use Groupon Now! Deals to find discounts on restaurants, shows and spas “today-only.”
3. Relax at a Spa
Start your weekend off on the right foot and go to a spa. Most hotels on the Strip accept SpaFinder gift cards, so before your trip, purchase one of these cards from GiftCardGranny where you can get up to 13% off the face value of the card. Just remember to buy them with enough time to account for shipping.
4. Discount Entertainment
Whether it’s a comedy, musical or Cirque show you’re after, Vegas has a plethora of performances from which to choose. For discount show tickets, visit Tix4Tonight.com to determine what’s available and then visit their box office to get half-price tickets to over 75 top Vegas shows.
5. Travel on Off-peak Days
Flights to Vegas are most expensive for weekend travelers as demand is at its highest. Plan a trip during the week or depart Saturday, returning on Monday or Tuesday to find the cheapest airfare.
6. Beat the House
Everyone enjoys gambling and what’s Vegas without a little Roulette or Black Jack? Before you blow your entire checking balance at the casino, set a firm budget on how much you’re willing to lose and stop once you hit that point, say $100. The same goes with winnings — call it quits before you get greedy and lose it all on the next hand. Get free drinks while gambling or sit at a slot machine to enjoy complimentary cocktails while betting away chump change.
7. Reward Programs
Sign up for a hotel and casino reward program to earn benefits for money spent during your stay. As aTotal Rewards member you can earn and redeem credits at nearly 40 resorts and casinos around the world, including Caesars Palace, Planet Hollywood and more. M Life gives you rewards at 15 destinations including hotels like Aria, Bellagio, MGM Grand and The Mirage.
8. Do as the Locals Do
Get off the Strip and hit the local favorites for cheaper dining, drinks and activities. Visit Fremont Street for a vintage Vegas experience. Head into Henderson to catch a movie or visit one of the two Las Vegas Premium Outlets off the Strip. Finally check out Vegas4Locals.com for a list of free shows and entertainments from a local Vegas insider.
JAUNT MAGAZINE 