Lost in Transition: Top 10 Rookie Mistakes Made by Casino Newbies

Just like that first legal alcoholic beverage in a licensed premises, a trip to a UK casino is often considered a rite of passage for many young adults wishing to explore their new found freedom of making their own choices. For others, it may be an experience that comes along a lot later in life.

Below, we address some of the most common mistakes made by new casino players, and more importantly, some tips on how you can avoid them to enhance your first-time casino experience.

10. Forgetting ID

The UK has some of the strictest gaming laws in the world and if you’re lucky enough to look under 25, you will be asked for ID before even stepping foot inside the door. In some casinos, it is normal practice to identify patrons no matter how old they appear or even sign-up to become a full member.

There are also very strict Anti-Money Laundering regulations and Responsible Gambling policies that mean casinos require identification of their players, as well as a source of wealth check if you pass certain thresholds.

9. Budgeting and Responsible Gambling

By far, this is the most important section you need to absorb.

It’s easy to get carried away gambling - the thrill and excitement of winning, followed by a number of losing bets can lead to ‘chasing losses’ and what is commonly known as ‘Red Mist’. When winning, our brain releases the feel-good chemical dopamine, while when we lose, our brains seek that dopamine rush that can lead to risky behaviour.

Set a budget before you go and ensure you stick to it. Wherever possible, take cash with you and leave your bank cards at home - you can pay for everything you might need using your phone. Alternatively, most banking apps allow you to restrict gambling transactions on your card, which should prevent you from using on-site ATMs.

8. Not Understanding Game Rules

While the majority of online casino games follow similar rules and mechanics as land-based casinos, there can sometimes be a few nuances to consider. As an example, an outside bet on roulette will only lose half when a zero lands, thanks to La Partage.

Another example is when you are playing a poker game against the house, such as Three Card Poker or Caribbean Stud Poker, where it is essential to keep your cards above the table and in full view of the dealer. Failure to do this could result in the hand being declared void and potentially missing out on a nice win.

Try familiarising yourself with the order of the games by watching for a little bit before you claim your seat.

7. Playing Without a Strategy

Sitting down at a blackjack table for the first time doesn’t need to be a daunting experience.

You will be surprised at the number of players who think the objective of the game is to make a hand totalling 21, when in fact, it is simply to make a hand that beats the dealer’s.

Blackjack is one of the few casino games where your actions will have a direct impact on other players’ bets. The cards are shuffled and placed in the blackjack shoe and while the order is set, the delivery of each card to a particular player will be determined by what actions the other players make.

The last box (or betting position) is considered to be the most important as that player has a direct influence over what cards the dealer might receive. This could make or break the whole table.

Take a look at our Blackjack Strategy guide to help you maximise your winning potential.

6. Drinking Too Much

It goes without saying, many of us do stupid things when we have had too much to drink. While enjoying a few drinks can make for an enjoyable evening, too much and it is likely to impair your judgement for making sound decisions - such as losing more than you intended.

Although casinos have a legal obligation to ‘cut you off’ if you are considered too drunk, it is ultimately your own responsibility.

5. Lacking Etiquette

Firstly, remember that casinos are highly regulated businesses and there may be occasions where they appear a little too strict.

The dealers run the games in a very regulated manner, and in some instances, you could be firmly reminded! One such example is if you touch the blackjack cards or place your double down/split bet on top of your existing bet. Another no-no is using your mobile phone while sitting at a table.

While tipping is entirely optional, it should come as little surprise that you will usually receive a much better service if you tip your valet - most seasoned players will also tip the dealer when they receive a decent win, but you should never feel pressure into doing this.

Don’t take it personally if a dealer makes a mistake - we’re all human. Politely point it out and the dealer will raise the issue with their table inspector, who is there to monitor the games and resolve any problems that might arise.

4. Holding Up Games

Another important etiquette point is game speed and ensuring you don't hold up others by agonising over every move you make. Slow gameplay, especially at busier tables, will cause frustration for all players at a table.

3. Attributing Superstitions to Results

While there may be ‘hot streaks’ while playing, this is purely down to variance. Many gamblers are notoriously superstitious and you might well hear the after-timers with shouts of ‘I knew it’ once the result is determined.

But put superstition to one side and don’t ever fall for the gambler’s fallacy of a random event happening because of something else influencing it.

2. Not Signing Up to Rewards Programs

Most land-based casinos in the UK will also have an online offering. It’s always a good idea to seek out casino offers, which could include a free welcome drink, a free bet or a match play voucher.

Signing up to a rewards program costs nothing and will ensure you don’t miss out on any free promotions that might be on offer.

You will receive a player’s card, which you should hand to the dealer when sitting down at any table or place in the electronic gaming terminals, including UK slots machines. This will track your spend for which you will receive rewards points that can be used on food and drink or other promotions where big money prizes can be won, including holidays and cars.

1. Setting a Stop-Win Limit

What would you be happy with winning? For example, if you walked into a casino with £100 and out with £200, would that make for a productive evening?

While very few of us could set - and stick - to such an example, why not consider a limit, which, if achieved, would mean a quick trip to the cash desk to cash out and enjoy the rest of the evening without further risk?

Another way to leave on a high is to set a stop-loss when winning. For example, if you lose 25% back of what you’re winning, then cash out.

Otherwise, how will you decide when to leave…