Manage Your Money When Playing Slots

Casinos and casino games are highly enjoyable, and many people have great fun at both land-based casinos and online.

Playing casino games requires funding an account or purchasing chips. Some casinos accept cash—check which currencies they accept; this information is usually at the cashier. Alternatively, you can play for free on some online casinos. Free play lets you get the feel of the game before wagering real money. One problem players face is their money running out quickly before depositing more, unless they get lucky and win. Many then play their winnings only to lose it all. Whether playing at a land-based casino or online, especially on slot machines, outcomes are controlled by random number generators (RNGs). These RNGs spin randomly, with thousands of computations and combinations creating each spin's result.

Taking and keeping control

With regard to gambling, you may not control the spin or game, but you do control your actions.

Using solid bankroll management strategies and careful planning lets you play longer, keep winnings, maximize entertainment, and limit losses.

Proven Bankroll Management Techniques

Step 1
Calculate seed money: the total you can afford to lose.
Step 2
Divide by number of days you'll play, e.g., 10 days.
Step 3
Stick to daily amount. Quit if you lose it.
Step 4
If you win, secure winnings (hotel safe) and add only next day's allocation.

Step 1
At land-based casinos, leave ATM and credit cards home or at hotel reception.
Step 2
Online, don't fund account again on a losing streak.

Step 1
Decide spins wanted, e.g., 150 with $250 allocation.
Step 2
Bet per spin = allocation / spins, e.g., $1.67.
Step 3
Skip max bet each spin; increase cautiously after wins, don't risk all.

One of the biggest mistakes players make is playing with winnings—a surefire way to leave losing. Losing seed money stings less than also losing profits.