The flashing lights and ringing bells of a casino can be incredibly distracting, making it easy to forget the human element of the floor.
Knowing who to tip, when to tip, and exactly how much to tip is a crucial part of proper casino etiquette.
Tipping the Dealers: The Most Important Rule
Unlike standard minimum wage jobs, dealers work in an incredibly high-stress environment, absorbing the anger of losing players all day long.
To place a bet for them in blackjack, put a chip slightly outside your betting circle; if your hand wins, the dealer’s bet also wins.
- A standard rule of thumb is to tip the dealer roughly $5 for every $100 you win during a moderately successful session
- Placing a bet for the dealer is highly preferred by the staff, as it makes them actively root for you to win the hand
- If you are playing for several hours and steadily breaking even, you should still tip the dealer occasionally for their hard work and entertainment
Who Else Should You Tip in a Casino?
You must absolutely tip the waitress at least $1 or $2 per drink; if you do not tip, they will simply ‘forget’ to return to your machine.
When you arrive at the resort, tipping the valet $2 to $5 when they return your car is standard practice.
| Service Provided | Suggested Gratuity | Pro-Tip for Better Service |
|---|---|---|
| Slot Attendant (Hand Pay) | 1% to 2% of the total jackpot | Tip them in cash, not in slot tickets |
| Valet Parking | $2 to $5 upon retrieving the car | Tip $10 upfront if you want the car kept close to the door |
By tipping generously and acting politely, you transform the staff from mere employees into your personal cheering section.